How big is the Lactose Market | Size and Projections 2025

Code: MTA7263 Publication Date: Aug 2025

What is the size of Lactose Market?

According to 6Wresearch internal database and industry insights, the Global Lactose Market was valued at USD 3.8 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 3.6% during the forecast period of 2025–2031.

The market is witnessing consistent growth owing to rising demand from the food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical sectors. Increased awareness of lactose as a functional ingredient, coupled with its applications in infant nutrition, dietary supplements, and drug formulation, is fuelling market expansion.

Major Growth Factors of the Lactose Market

  • Rising consumption of lactose in the pharmaceutical sector
  • The market is expanding demand for infant formula and baby food
  • The market is growing application in sports and dietary supplements
  • Increasing use of lactose in confectionery and bakery products
  • Surging health-conscious consumer base
  • There has been technological advancements in lactose processing and purification
  • Demand for clean-label and natural ingredients
  • Rising lactose exports from major dairy-producing nations

Lactose Market Trends

The Lactose Market is evolving with a growing preference for high-purity lactose for use in pharmaceutical and nutritional products. Clean-label formulations, allergen-free alternatives, and innovations in lactose derivates are becoming prominent. Manufacturers are focusing on cost-effective processing technologies and regional supply chain optimization to cater to rising global demand.

Emerging Developments in the Lactose Market

The Lactose Market is evolving with the rise in introduction of lactose-free and low-lactose ingredient formulations to cater to intolerant consumers. Additionally, partnerships between dairy producers and pharma companies are strengthening supply chains. Market players are also investing in R&D for developing lactose-based excipients with improved solubility and bioavailability.

List of Leading Companies in the Lactose Market

Below is a comprehensive list of the leading market players driving growth in this sector –

1. Arla Foods Ingredients

Company NameArla Foods Ingredients
Established Year2000
HeadquartersViby, Denmark
Official WebsiteClick Here

Leading global supplier of premium lactose and dairy-based ingredients for nutrition and pharma sectors.

2. Fonterra Co-operative Group

Company NameFonterra Co-operative Group
Established Year2001
HeadquartersAuckland, New Zealand
Official WebsiteClick Here

Global dairy leader producing lactose for food, pharma, and infant nutrition applications.

3. Kerry Group

Company NameKerry Group
Established Year1972
HeadquartersTralee, Ireland
Official WebsiteClick Here

International food and ingredients company supplying lactose for functional and nutritional uses.

4. MEGGLE Group

Company NameMEGGLE Group
Established Year1887
HeadquartersWasserburg, Germany
Official WebsiteClick Here

Renowned for pharmaceutical-grade lactose, particularly used in inhalation and tablet applications.

5. Lactalis Ingredients

Company NameLactalis Ingredients
Established Year1933
HeadquartersLaval, France
Official WebsiteClick Here

Major dairy ingredient producer offering a wide range of lactose products for global markets.

6. Hilmar Ingredients

Company NameHilmar Ingredients
Established Year2004
HeadquartersCalifornia, United States
Official Website-

Specializes in whey and lactose-based ingredients for food and nutrition sectors.

7. Armor Proteines (Savencia Group)

Company NameArmor Proteines (Savencia Group)
Established Year1908
HeadquartersSaint-Brice-en-Coglès, France
Official WebsiteClick Here

A key supplier of high-quality lactose and dairy derivatives to the food and pharma industries.

8. Dairy Farmers of America (DFA)

Company NameDairy Farmers of America (DFA)
Established Year1998
Headquartersansas City, United States
Official WebsiteClick Here

Large-scale dairy cooperative providing lactose and milk ingredients for commercial use.

How big is the Lactose Market : FAQ's

The Lactose market was expected to be valued at approximately USD 1.34 billion in 2025 and reach around USD 2.01 billion by 2031.
The Lactose market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.96% during the forecast period.
Key trends include the rising adoption of lactose in pharmaceuticals, demand for clean-label lactose products, and innovation in lactose-free or low-lactose solutions.
The Lactose market is driven by the growth of infant nutrition, pharmaceutical formulation needs, and increasing consumption of functional dairy and health foods.
6W monitors the market across 60+ countries Globally, publishing an annual market outlook report that analyses trends, key drivers, Size, Volume, Revenue, opportunities, and market segments. This report offers comprehensive insights, helping businesses understand market dynamics and make informed decisions.
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