The global yogurt market, valued at over USD 103.59 Billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a 6.57% CAGR from 2025–2030, fueled by an increasing focus on health-conscious eating.
Yogurt, one of the oldest dairy products, has been consumed for thousands of years, with origins dating back to ancient civilizations in the Middle East and Central Asia. The product itself is believed to have been discovered by accident, when milk fermented naturally due to the presence of bacteria in the environment, leading to the thickened, tart substance we recognize as yogurt today. Over centuries, yogurt evolved from a simple, traditional food item into a modern, industrialized product that is now a staple in households worldwide. The invention of probiotic yogurt by researchers like Dr. Elie Metchnikoff in the early 1900s, who linked the consumption of fermented dairy products to longevity, gave yogurt a health-conscious appeal. This paved the way for the yogurt industry to position itself as a product that not only satisfied hunger but also contributed to digestive health and overall well-being. The demand for yogurt has seen a significant surge in recent years, fueled by an increasing awareness of health and wellness. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, seeking products that offer functional benefits such as probiotics, which are known to support gut health. In addition, the growing popularity of plant-based diets has resulted in the rise of dairy-free yogurts made from coconut, almond, and soy, expanding the market even further. Yogurt’s role in the global market is not just limited to its consumer base but also includes its position in the food service industry, with yogurt being a key ingredient in smoothies, desserts, and even savory dishes in various cuisines around the world. Moreover, the rise of e-commerce and digital marketing has allowed yogurt manufacturers to reach an even broader audience, driving sales across borders and creating opportunities for small and local brands to enter international markets. According to the research report, "Global Yogurt Market Research Report, 2030," published by Actual Market Research, the Global Yogurt market was valued at more than USD 103.59 Billion in 2024, with the CAGR of 6.57% from 2025-2030. With a rising focus on wellness, more consumers are opting for foods that promote digestive health, immunity, and overall well-being. Yogurt, particularly varieties containing probiotics, has gained prominence as a functional food that supports gut health and helps regulate digestion. The scientific backing of probiotics in yogurt has further bolstered its appeal among health-conscious individuals. Yogurt consumption has skyrocketed in recent years due to a growing middle class, changing dietary patterns, and the increasing influence of Western food trends. While traditionally not a dominant dairy product in many Asian countries. The growing awareness of yogurt's health benefits, combined with the rise of urbanization and consumer spending power, has led to an expanding yogurt market in this region. Brands have introduced local flavors, such as lychee and mango, to cater to the tastes of Asian consumers, while the introduction of plant-based yogurts has appealed to those seeking dairy alternatives. Additionally, significant developments have taken place within the yogurt industry, particularly in production methods, packaging, and distribution. The rise of online shopping and digital marketing has enabled yogurt brands to reach broader audiences, breaking through geographic barriers. Companies are also focusing on more sustainable practices, such as environmentally friendly packaging and sourcing ingredients responsibly, to appeal to the growing base of eco-conscious consumers. The booming interest in personalized nutrition has prompted companies to offer yogurt products with targeted health benefits, such as yogurts fortified with vitamins, minerals, and even adaptogens like ashwagandha for stress relief. The trend of "functional foods" has driven many yogurt manufacturers to explore unique formulations, such as yogurts that aid in immune support, enhance digestion, or promote skin health, which has further boosted demand and market growth.
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Asia-Pacific dominates the market and is the largest and fastest-growing market in the animal growth promoters industry globally
Download SampleMarket Drivers • Health and Wellness Focus: One of the most significant global drivers of the yogurt industry is the increasing focus on health and wellness. Consumers worldwide are becoming more aware of the health benefits of yogurt, especially probiotic-rich varieties. Yogurt, known for its digestive health benefits, is increasingly seen as a functional food that supports immunity, gut health, and overall well-being. With rising concerns over lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and digestive issues, many people are turning to yogurt as a healthier, nutrient-dense alternative to sugary snacks or processed foods. • Growing Demand for Convenience: The global rise in urbanization and busy lifestyles is another key driver behind the growth of the yogurt industry. Consumers are increasingly looking for quick, convenient, and portable food options that fit into their fast-paced routines. Yogurt, especially in single-serve cups, drinkable formats, and snack-sized portions, offers a convenient and healthy snack or meal replacement. The rise of on-the-go consumption, particularly among working professionals, students, and parents, is pushing the demand for ready-to-eat and easy-to-carry yogurt products. Additionally, yogurt's appeal as a breakfast food, an afternoon snack, or a post-workout option is enhancing its position as a go-to convenience food. Market Challenges • Raw Material Sourcing and Price Fluctuations: One of the biggest challenges facing the global yogurt industry is the fluctuation in raw material prices, particularly milk and other dairy ingredients. Dairy farming can be affected by various factors such as climate change, feed costs, and geopolitical issues, all of which can lead to price volatility in the global milk market. The cost of milk, a primary ingredient for yogurt production, directly impacts the overall cost of production. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, including shortages or delays in raw material procurement, can impact yogurt manufacturers' ability to maintain consistent product availability and price stability. • Regulatory and Health Standards: Another significant challenge for yogurt producers globally is the increasing number of health-related regulations and food safety standards that vary by region. Governments and health organizations are tightening the rules around labeling, sugar content, artificial additives, and health claims, which can complicate product formulation and marketing. For example, in many countries, yogurt producers are facing stricter regulations on sugar content in dairy products, which is pushing them to reformulate existing products to meet new guidelines. Additionally, probiotics and functional ingredients need to meet specific standards to be marketed with health claims. Market Trends • Clean Label and Transparency: The clean label movement, which prioritizes natural, simple, and transparent ingredient lists, is a major trend shaping the global yogurt market. Consumers today are increasingly skeptical of artificial ingredients, preservatives, and additives in food products, driving a demand for clean label options. Yogurt brands are responding by using fewer ingredients, ensuring that their products are free from artificial sweeteners, colors, and preservatives. The trend towards clean labels also emphasizes sustainability, as consumers seek products that are both healthy and responsibly produced. • Functional and Fortified Yogurt Products: As the demand for health and wellness products continues to grow, functional yogurts that offer additional health benefits are becoming more popular. These include yogurts fortified with vitamins, minerals, probiotics, prebiotics, and other beneficial ingredients. Probiotic yogurts, which promote gut health, are a significant segment of this trend, with many brands incorporating specific strains of live bacteria known to offer health benefits. There is also increasing demand for yogurts with added protein, fiber, or other nutrients aimed at supporting immune function, mental well-being, or weight management. Functional yogurts are particularly appealing to consumers seeking convenience and a quick health boost, such as those in sports, fitness, or weight management sectors.
By Product Type | Traditional Yogurt | |
Greek Yogurt | ||
Plant-Based Yogurt | ||
Others (Frozen yogurt, Set yogurt,High Protein, Vegan, probiotic-rich specialty yogurts) | ||
By Fat Content | Full-Fat Yogurt | |
Low-Fat Yogurt | ||
Fat-Free Yogurt | ||
By Form | Eatable | |
Drinkable Yogurt | ||
By Flavor | Flavored | |
Non Flavored | ||
By Distribution Channel | Supermarkets/Hypermarkets | |
Convenience Stores | ||
Online Retail | ||
Others (vending machines, dairy farms, direct-to-consumer sales) | ||
Geography | North America | United States |
Canada | ||
Mexico | ||
Europe | Germany | |
United Kingdom | ||
France | ||
Italy | ||
Spain | ||
Russia | ||
Asia-Pacific | China | |
Japan | ||
India | ||
Australia | ||
South Korea | ||
South America | Brazil | |
Argentina | ||
Colombia | ||
MEA | United Arab Emirates | |
Saudi Arabia | ||
South Africa |
The growth of plant-based yogurt in the global yogurt industry is driven by increasing consumer demand for healthier, more sustainable, and inclusive alternatives to traditional dairy products. The rising popularity of plant-based yogurt can be attributed to several key factors, primarily the increasing awareness of health and wellness, environmental concerns, and dietary inclusivity. In recent years, more consumers are actively seeking dairy-free options due to lactose intolerance, veganism, or a desire to reduce their environmental footprint. This shift in consumer behavior is especially evident as awareness grows regarding the health risks associated with excessive dairy consumption, such as increased cholesterol levels, heart disease, and gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, plant-based yogurts offer an appealing alternative for those with specific dietary restrictions, such as lactose intolerance, which affects a significant portion of the global population. For many individuals, dairy alternatives are no longer just a niche market but a mainstream dietary preference. Conventional dairy farming is resource-intensive, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water scarcity. In contrast, plant-based alternatives, made from ingredients like almonds, coconuts, oats, and soy, generally have a smaller carbon footprint and require fewer natural resources. This environmental appeal aligns with the broader global movement towards sustainability and eco-consciousness, which is influencing consumer purchasing decisions across various food and beverage categories. Moreover, the plant-based yogurt market is evolving rapidly, with manufacturers constantly innovating to improve taste, texture, and nutritional content to appeal to a wider audience. For example, advancements in plant-based fermentation techniques have allowed brands to offer more yogurt-like qualities in terms of taste and consistency. Drinkable yogurt is the fastest-growing segment in the global yogurt industry due to its convenience, portability, and alignment with the modern consumer's fast-paced lifestyle and increasing demand for functional, on-the-go snacks. Drinkable yogurt has rapidly emerged as one of the most dynamic segments in the global yogurt market, driven primarily by the increasing demand for convenience and portability in food products. In today's fast-paced world, consumers are seeking healthier snack options that fit seamlessly into their busy lifestyles, and drinkable yogurt provides the perfect solution. Its easy-to-consume liquid form makes it ideal for on-the-go consumption, catering to consumers who are looking for a quick and nutritious snack, whether it’s during their commute, at the gym, or as part of a packed lunch. This convenient packaging has expanded the appeal of yogurt, especially among younger, active demographics who value both practicality and nutrition. Moreover, the increasing focus on health and wellness among consumers worldwide has contributed to the rise of drinkable yogurt, which often comes enriched with additional health benefits. Many drinkable yogurt products are formulated with probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health, as well as added protein, vitamins, and minerals. This has attracted health-conscious consumers who are looking for functional foods that provide more than just basic nutrition. The versatility of drinkable yogurt also makes it an attractive option, as it can be consumed as a standalone drink, blended into smoothies, or even used in various culinary applications. The growth of the drinkable yogurt segment can also be attributed to innovation within the category. Manufacturers are continuously introducing new flavors, ingredients, and formulations to appeal to a broad consumer base, ranging from low-sugar, organic, and dairy-free versions to more exotic flavors and combinations. Flavored yogurt is the fastest-growing segment in the global yogurt industry due to its ability to cater to diverse consumer preferences, offering both indulgence and variety, while also aligning with the increasing demand for enjoyable, personalized, and innovative dairy products. Flavored yogurt has become the fastest-growing segment in the global yogurt industry, largely driven by its wide appeal across a range of consumer demographics and its ability to combine taste, convenience, and nutritional benefits. As consumers seek more exciting and personalized food experiences, flavored yogurt offers a solution that allows brands to cater to a diverse array of preferences, from fruity and sweet to savory or even exotic flavors. The growing variety of flavor options has significantly broadened the consumer base, attracting both traditional yogurt consumers as well as those who may not typically choose plain yogurt. Flavors such as strawberry, blueberry, vanilla, and exotic combinations like mango-passionfruit or acai have proven to be popular choices, with some brands also introducing limited-edition or seasonal flavors to keep the market fresh and enticing. The global demand for flavored yogurt has been fueled by an increasing desire for indulgence without compromising on health. Many flavored yogurt products combine the appeal of dessert-like flavors with the nutritional benefits of yogurt, such as probiotics, calcium, and protein. This creates a perfect balance for consumers who want a healthier alternative to traditional sweet snacks, while still enjoying the taste of indulgent flavors. Additionally, the growth of the yogurt category in many markets has paralleled the rising demand for functional and fortified foods, with flavored yogurt products often enriched with vitamins, fiber, and other health-enhancing ingredients to appeal to the health-conscious consumer. Innovation has also played a critical role in the rapid rise of flavored yogurt. Manufacturers are constantly exploring new ways to blend flavors, textures, and ingredients to create unique yogurt experiences. From dairy-based to plant-based versions, the flavored yogurt segment caters to a range of dietary preferences, including vegan, lactose-free, and low-sugar options. This has made flavored yogurt an inclusive product that serves not only those with specific dietary needs but also those who simply enjoy a wide range of flavors. Online retail is the fastest-growing channel in the global yogurt industry due to the increasing consumer preference for convenience, the expansion of e-commerce platforms, and the ability to access a broader range of products from the comfort of home. The rise of online retail has emerged as the fastest-growing sales channel in the global yogurt industry, driven by several interconnected factors that align with modern consumer preferences. As consumers increasingly prioritize convenience and time-saving solutions, online grocery shopping has become the go-to option for many. The ability to browse and purchase a wide variety of yogurt products from different brands and retailers without leaving the house provides unparalleled ease and accessibility. This is especially important for consumers in urban environments with busy lifestyles who may not have the time to visit multiple stores in person to find specific yogurt varieties or specialty items, such as organic, plant-based, or probiotic-rich options. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward online retail, as people became more accustomed to shopping from home and were encouraged to avoid in-person shopping for health reasons. Even as restrictions have eased, many consumers have continued to embrace the convenience of online shopping. This shift is particularly noticeable in the yogurt market, where consumers appreciate the ability to quickly compare prices, read product reviews, and discover new products or brands that they may not have encountered in brick-and-mortar stores. With the expansion of e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and regional online grocery stores, the yogurt industry is benefiting from a broader distribution network that ensures products are more widely accessible. Consumers can also benefit from the availability of subscription services or bulk purchasing options, which allow for cost savings and the convenience of regular deliveries. Moreover, many e-commerce platforms offer targeted recommendations and personalized shopping experiences, making it easier for consumers to discover products that fit their individual tastes, dietary preferences, and health goals.
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The Asia-Pacific region is growing in the global yogurt industry due to its expanding middle class, increasing health consciousness, and rising demand for dairy-based and probiotic-rich products. The Asia-Pacific region is emerging as a key growth driver in the global yogurt industry, primarily due to its rapidly expanding middle class, a surge in health-consciousness among consumers, and a growing appreciation for the nutritional benefits of yogurt, particularly probiotic-rich varieties. As the largest and most populous region in the world, Asia-Pacific boasts a diverse consumer base, with countries like China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asian nations showing increasing interest in dairy products. The region's expanding middle class has been pivotal in this growth. As more people move into urban areas and experience higher disposable incomes, their purchasing power increases, allowing them to afford premium and health-oriented food products like yogurt. This demographic shift has contributed significantly to the rise in demand for convenient, ready-to-eat, and nutritious snack options, with yogurt perfectly fitting the bill as an accessible and versatile food item. Another driving factor is the growing health consciousness among consumers in the Asia-Pacific. As lifestyles become more hectic and sedentary, there is a greater focus on foods that offer functional health benefits. Yogurt, with its digestive health benefits from probiotics, high protein content, and its role as a source of calcium, has gained popularity among those seeking healthier alternatives to traditional snacks. The rising awareness of gut health and the increasing demand for functional foods have made yogurt a prominent choice for consumers who are more knowledgeable about the positive impacts of probiotics on digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. Additionally, the region's demand for plant-based and lactose-free products is fueling growth in the yogurt market. Lactose intolerance is widespread in many parts of Asia, leading to an increased need for dairy-free alternatives. In response, yogurt brands are introducing plant-based variants made from ingredients like soy, almond, coconut, and oats to cater to this need.
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• July 2022: Amul announced an investment of USD 60 million to build a new dairy plant in Rajkot to expand its production capabilities across milk, yogurt, and buttermilk products. • June 2022: Danone North America partnered with White Plains, Boulder, and Colo and launched Activia+ Multi-Benefit Probiotic Yogurt Drinks. • July 2021: Miss Fresh partnered with China Mengniu Dairy to offer the full range of Mengniu's 70 high-quality dairy products to bring more nutritious and healthy choices to the MissFresh app and WeChat Mini Program users. • In 2020: Danone has debuted its dairy-free yogurt drink collection in order to produce a smooth and creamy texture without the use of dairy and to speed up its entry into the dairy-free market.
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