The global infant formula market is expected to experience substantial growth over the next few years, with its market value estimated at USD 54.48 million in 2025. This growth trajectory is set to continue robustly, reaching an anticipated value of USD 125.46 million by 2035. The market is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% between 2025 and 2035, indicating strong and consistent demand for infant nutritional products worldwide. This expansion reflects the rising importance parents and caregivers place on specialized nutrition for infants, especially during their crucial first year of development.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry Size (2025E) | USD 54.48 million |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 125.46 million |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 8.7% |
Infant formula is specially designed to meet the nutritional needs of babies under one year of age, serving as an alternative or supplement to breast milk. Due to its critical role in infant health, numerous government agencies and regulatory bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and national authorities like the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), have implemented stringent guidelines to ensure product safety and quality.
These regulations help maintain consumer confidence and promote higher standards in product formulation. For instance, in 2019, the FSSAI introduced new guidelines for special medical infant formulas such as lactose-free and formulas for premature babies, reflecting the growing need for tailored nutritional options that address specific health conditions.
The primary driving factor behind the infant formula market's growth is the increasing global awareness of infant health and nutrition. Modern parents are more informed and concerned about the dietary needs of their children, especially in urban areas where breastfeeding rates may be lower due to lifestyle and work-related constraints.
Additionally, innovations in formula composition that enhance digestion, boost immunity, and support overall infant growth have attracted more consumers. The convenience of infant formula, along with its ability to provide essential nutrients when breastfeeding is not possible or insufficient, further fuels demand.
Combined with rising disposable incomes in developing regions and expanding distribution networks, these factors collectively contribute to the sustained and strong growth of the infant formula market over the coming year.
China is expected to be the fastest-growing market for infant formula, with a projected CAGR of 6.8%. Powdered will dominate the form segment, holding 65% of the market share by 2025. Starting milk will lead the product type segment with a 48% share. The USA and the UK are also expected to experience notable growth, with projected CAGRs of 4.0% and 2.3%, respectively.
| Segment | Value Share (2025) |
|---|---|
| Starting Milk (Product Type) | 48% |
Starting milk formula is the most common product type in the infant formula market. It’s probably going to help reach a 48% market share in 2025. Infants under six months old who are bottle-fed can use the beginning milk formula. It gives breast milk additional nutrients. All of the necessary nutrients for an infant’s early growth and development are provided by the starting milk formula combined with breast milk.
| Segment | Value Share (2025) |
|---|---|
| Powder (Product Form) | 65% |
Due to its convenience and ease of storage powdered infant formula is frequently consumed. The infant formula in powdered form can be made by combining it with either milk or water. This powdered form which preserves all of the products nutrients is made by the freeze-drying process.
In comparison to other baby formulas it is also the most affordable. In addition, the powder form enables parents to measure and regulate the precise amount of baby formula without error for each feeding. As a result, parents favor it above all others.
Increase in Birthis Driving the Market Growth
Some of the key factors driving the growth of the global infant formula market include the rise in the number of working mothers the rise in the birth rate and technological advancements particularly in the area of packaging.
One of the most significant decisions made by working parents worldwide is selecting the best and most appropriate infant formula product. In both developing and developed economies the demand for infant formula has increased as a result of womens increased employment participation.
Tier 1 companies comprises industry leaders acquiring a 70% share in the global business market. These leaders are distinguished by their extensive product portfolio and high production capacity. These industry leaders stand out due to their broad geographic reach, in-depth knowledge of manufacturing and reconditioning across various formats and strong customer base. They offer a variety of services and manufacturing with the newest technology while adhering to legal requirements for the best quality.
Tier 2 companies comprises of mid-size players having a presence in some regions and highly influencing the local commerce and has a market share of 20%. These are distinguished by their robust global presence and solid business acumen. These industry participants may not have cutting-edge technology or a broad global reach but they do have good technology and guarantee regulatory compliance.
Tier 3 companies comprises mostly of small-scale businesses serving niche economies and serving at the local presence having a market share of 10%. Due to their notable focus on meeting local needs these businesses are categorized as belonging to the tier 3 share segment, they are minor players with a constrained geographic scope. As an unorganized ecosystem Tier 3 in this context refers to a sector that in contrast to its organized competitors, lacks extensive structure and formalization.
The following table shows the forecasted growth rates of the significant three geographies revenues. USA, UK and China come under the exhibit of high consumption, recording CAGRs of 4.0%, 2.3% and 6.8%, respectively, through 2035.
| Countries | CAGR, 2025 to 2035 |
|---|---|
| United States | 4.0% |
| UK | 2.3% |
| China | 6.8% |
The United States Infant Formula Market is projected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% through 2035. In the USA a number of physical retail chains including Krogers Co. sell infant formula. as well as Walmarts increasing the client base. In the fiercely competitive USA infant formula market major brands like Gerber Good Start Similac and Enfamil are in the lead. In the USA brand preference and market share are strongly influenced by consumer trust and brand loyalty.
Important guidance on infant feeding practices is given by medical professionals such as pediatricians nurses and lactation consultants. These affect how customers behave in the market for baby formula. Price sensitivity brand reputation safety concerns and nutritional value all have an impact on the infant formula market in China. Emerging trends include clean labeling organic and natural formulations and the growing need for hypoallergenic formulas.
With a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.3% over the forecast period the UK is expected to see substantial future growth in the infant formula market. The market is expanding in the UK due to the popularity of baby formulas with ingredients like no artificial sweeteners and no flavors. . Companies like Hipp Organics sell goods with recyclable packaging composed of sustainable paper and plant-based inks are also crucial.
The infant formula market is moderately consolidated, with major players such as Nestlé, Groupe Danone, Abbott Nutrition, The Kraft Heinz Company, and Mead Johnson Nutrition leading the industry. These companies hold significant market shares by offering a diverse range of high-quality infant nutrition products that meet stringent regulatory standards and cater to various infant dietary needs.
Nestlé, for example, is renowned for its extensive portfolio of infant formulas that emphasize nutrition and safety, while Groupe Danone focuses on innovation and specialized formulations for different age groups. Abbott Nutrition is recognized for its research-driven products targeting infant health and development.
The Kraft Heinz Company and Mead Johnson Nutrition also contribute significantly with trusted brands that emphasize quality and convenience. Other notable companies like Synutra International, Beingmate Baby & Child Food, Friesland Campina, Meiji Holdings, and Pfizer Inc. further strengthen the market by addressing regional demands and specialized nutritional needs, driving growth and competition in the global infant formula sector.
By product type, methods industry has been categorized into Starting Milk, Follow-on-milk, Toddler Milk and Special Milk
By product form, industry has been categorized into Powder, Liquid and Ready-to-feed
The market spans North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, South Asia & Pacific, East Asia, Central Asia, Balkan and Baltic Countries, Russia and Belarus, and The Middle East & Africa.
The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% throughout the forecast period.
By 2035, the sales value is expected to be worth USD 125.46 Million.
Increase in birth is increasing demand for Infant Formula Market.
North America is expected to dominate the global consumption.
Some of the key players in manufacturing include Friesland Campina, Meiji Holdings Co. Ltd., Pfizer Inc. and more.
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Infant Formula Market
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