Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Overview
As per MRFR analysis, the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Size was estimated at 0.51 (USD Billion) in 2023. The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Industry is expected to grow from 0.58(USD Billion) in 2024 to 2.5 (USD Billion) by 2035. The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 14.17% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Key Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Trends Highlighted
The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market is currently influenced by several key market drivers, particularly the rising awareness of the health benefits associated with human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are essential for immune support and gut health in infants. The growing trend of natural and organic baby products, along with the increasing preference for breast milk alternatives, further propels the demand for HMOs. In many regions, governments and health organizations are promoting breastfeeding, which underscores the significance of HMOs in infant nutrition, thus driving market growth.
Opportunities to be explored in the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market include the development of innovative products that incorporate HMOs for adults and elderly populations, recognizing their potential benefits beyond infancy.The rise in health-consciousness among parents is leading firms to add HMO-enriched formulas and supplements to their product lines. Tapping into this market could be achieved through collaboration with research institutions that offer new applications for HMOs.
Recently, there has been an investment boom regarding the research and development of human milk oligosaccharides. Both consumers and manufacturers are demanding more studies to be done due to the advantages of their benefits. Aside from that, there is a market shift towards targeted nutrition, where the consumer's specific health needs are taken into account, and demand for such products is increasing, thus further highlighting the importance of HMOs.
The successful integration of HMOs into various food and beverage products also aligns with the global trend toward functional foods, indicating a vibrant growth trajectory in the ongoing transformation of the marketplace.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Drivers
Increasing Awareness of Health Benefits of Human Milk Oligosaccharides
The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Industry is experiencing significant growth due to increasing awareness about the health benefits associated with human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). Research indicates that HMO consumption can improve gut health and enhance immune response in infants, leading to a higher demand among health-conscious families. According to the World Health Organization, exclusive breastfeeding rates are projected to increase globally, with an aim for a 10% rise in breastfeeding practices by 2025.This trend directly correlates with the increasing incorporation of HMOs in infant formula. The rising concerns regarding infant health and development are further supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics, which endorses the use of HMOs in infant nutrition, suggesting there is a high likelihood of market expansion as more parents seek products that include these beneficial components.
Advancements in Research and Development
The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Industry is being propelled by advancements in Research and Development (R) focused on oligosaccharides extraction and application. Increased investment in R has been observed, with organizations such as the International Society for Research in Human Milk and Lactation promoting studies that highlight innovations in HMO production. Furthermore, government initiatives, supported by funds allocated for biotechnology innovations, are expected to enhance the extraction and application methods, resulting in a projected growth rate of up to 14% annually through the next decade.The collaboration between academia and the food industry to leverage HMOs is likely to further stimulate market growth.
Rising Demand for Infant Formula with Enhanced Nutritional Profile
There is a rising demand for infant formula products that offer enhanced nutritional profiles, including the addition of Human Milk Oligosaccharides. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, the global infant formula market is projected to grow at a steady rate due to increasing birth rates and shifting consumer preferences towards premium products. As more consumers recognize the importance of nutritional content in infant formulas, manufacturers are responding by enriching their products with HMOs.This trend is underscored by the recording of substantial sales of HMO-containing infant formulas in developed markets, directly influencing the growth of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Industry.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Segment Insights
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Application Insights
The Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market, focusing on the Application segment, reached a market value of 0.58 USD Billion in 2024, reflecting significant growth potential in the coming years. Among the applications, Infant Formula stood out as a major contributor to the market, with a valuation of 0.25 USD Billion in 2024, anticipated to rise considerably to 1.1 USD Billion by 2035. This substantial increase underscores the critical role of human milk oligosaccharides in nutrition, particularly in infant development, as they closely mimic the natural components found in breast milk.
Furthermore, the Functional Foods application grew from 0.18 USD Billion in 2024 to 0.8 USD Billion by 2035, demonstrating a rising consumer awareness of health benefits associated with functional food products. This growing trend is driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers, paving the way for innovations in food formulations fortified with oligosaccharides. Lastly, Dietary Supplements were valued at 0.15 USD Billion in 2024 and are expected to reach 0.6 USD Billion in 2035.
These products are gaining traction for their potential to promote gut health and support immune functions, appealing to a demographic that prioritizes holistic health and preventive care.Overall, the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market segmentation indicates that the Infant Formula segment holds the majority, suggesting its significant importance in catering to infant nutrition, whereas Functional Foods and Dietary Supplements are rapidly emerging segments driven by health-oriented consumer trends and innovations in food science. Highlighting these segments is essential as they reflect the evolving landscape of nutritional products designed to enhance individual health outcomes on a global scale, validating the market's dynamic expansion and necessitating further innovations to meet changing consumer needs.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Source Insights
The Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market, particularly focusing on the Source segment, reveals a robust growth trajectory as the market was valued at 0.58 billion USD in 2024, with projections to reach 2.5 billion USD by 2035. Within the Source segment, various avenues such as Human Milk, Synthetic Production, and Animal Milk play pivotal roles. Human Milk inherently remains a crucial source, providing bioactive compounds that support gut health and immunity in infants, making it highly sought after. On the other hand, Synthetic Production is gaining traction due to advancements in technology aimed at replicating the beneficial effects of oligosaccharides in human milk, offering a viable alternative for those who cannot access breast milk.
Furthermore, Animal Milk serves as an essential source, often being adapted to enhance the nutritional profile of both infants and adults. These dynamics within the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market segmentation highlight the diverse sources and the associated growth potential, driven by trends in health awareness and nutritional innovations.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Form Insights
The Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market, with a notable focus on the Form segment, reflects a dynamic and evolving landscape with considerable growth potential. As of 2024, the overall market was valued at 0.58 Billion USD and is expected to experience significant expansion over the coming years, reaching 2.5 Billion USD by 2035. The segment is further classified into diverse formats, including Powder, Liquid, and Capsules, each playing a crucial role in catering to various consumer preferences and applications in infant nutrition and health products.The Powder form is particularly significant as it offers convenience and extended shelf life, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers and consumers alike.
Similarly, the Liquid format is gaining traction due to its ready-to-use nature, enhancing its appeal in the market. The Capsules segment, although less predominant, is noteworthy for its targeted delivery approach of human milk oligosaccharides, particularly appealing to adult health supplements. Key drivers of growth in this market include increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with human milk oligosaccharides, rising demand for infant formula products, and a growing focus on dietary supplements.However, challenges such as regulatory complexities and sourcing difficulties may impact market dynamics.
Overall, the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market segmentation reveals significant opportunities for stakeholders to leverage emerging trends in consumer preferences and product innovations.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market End Use Insights
The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market is positioned for significant growth, reaching a valuation of 0.58 billion USD by 2024, with an emphasis on diverse end use segments, including Healthcare, Food and Beverages, and Nutraceuticals. The Healthcare segment has become crucial due to the increasing consumer awareness regarding the health benefits of prebiotics present in human milk oligosaccharides, which support infant gut health and immune functions. In the Food and Beverages sector, there is a rising trend towards the incorporation of natural ingredients, prompting manufacturers to leverage human milk oligosaccharides to enhance nutritional profiles and appeal to health-conscious consumers.
Meanwhile, the Nutraceuticals category is witnessing an upward trajectory, driven by a growing demand for dietary supplements that promote health and wellness. The blend of these segments contributes significantly to the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market industry, with market growth propelled by shifts toward clean-label products and a strong emphasis on preventive healthcare. As the market expands, opportunities lie in innovating sustainable sources and building consumer trust in product efficacy, all while ensuring the compliance and safety standards laid out by global health authorities.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Regional Insights
The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market demonstrated significant potential, particularly across regional markets, with an overall valuation of 0.58 USD Billion in 2024, projected to rise to 2.5 USD Billion by 2035. Within this landscape, North America led with a valuation of 0.25 USD Billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow to 1.05 USD Billion by 2035, largely due to the increasing adoption of advanced infant nutrition solutions. Europe followed closely with a valuation of 0.15 USD Billion in 2024, which is expected to expand to 0.65 USD Billion by 2035, reflecting a strong emphasis on Research and Development in pediatric nutrition.
The APAC region is also emerging and had a growth from 0.1 USD Billion in 2024 to 0.7 USD Billion by 2035, driven by rising disposable incomes and changing dietary habits. South America and the Middle East and Africa (MEA) are smaller markets, that started at 0.05 and 0.03 USD Billion in 2024, respectively, but show substantial growth potential, reaching 0.3 USD Billion each by 2035. The regional dynamics of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market are influenced by varying consumer preferences and regulatory environments, presenting both challenges and opportunities for stakeholders in this evolving industry.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market is gaining considerable traction due to its increasing recognition of the vital role these sugars play in infant nutrition and overall gut health. The market landscape is characterized by a diverse array of companies striving for competitive advantage by offering specialized products and innovative solutions. As demand rises for natural, bioactive ingredients in infant formula and functional food products, companies are focusing on research and development to enhance their product offerings. This growing focus on health and well-being, along with an expanding consumer base eager to invest in nutritional solutions, sets the foundation for a vibrant competitive market. Furthermore, strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and collaborations are becoming prevalent as companies aim to strengthen their market presence and expand their reach across different regions globally.
Kerry Group has established a formidable presence in the Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market, emphasizing its commitment to nutrition and health solutions. The company prides itself on its strong research and development capabilities, complemented by a robust supply chain that enables efficient delivery of high-quality products. Their focus on innovation allows Kerry Group to consistently introduce new and enhanced formulations, meeting the evolving needs of consumers and manufacturers alike. The company’s strengths lie in its comprehensive understanding of food science and nutrition, which is pivotal in developing satisfying and functional products that resonate with market demands. With an established reputation in the food ingredients sector, Kerry Group is well-positioned to leverage its expertise, contribute to market growth, and maintain competitiveness amid increasing interest in human milk oligosaccharides among parents and healthcare professionals.
Provital Group is another prominent player in the Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market, recognized for its commitment to advancing infant nutrition and gut health through high-quality ingredients. The company's portfolio includes innovative offerings that are carefully developed to resonate with the specific needs of the market. They focus on providing essential solutions that foster early cognitive and immune system development in infants, thereby meeting the increasing demand for products that are not only nutritious but also scientifically backed. Provital Group has strengthened its market position through strategic mergers and acquisitions that allow it to expand its capabilities and enhance its product offerings, ensuring a wider reach in the global arena.
By actively engaging with research communities and tapping into the latest scientific advancements, Provital Group continues to build on its strengths, contributing to a more robust market for human milk oligosaccharides.
Key Companies in the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Include:
- Kerry Group
- Provital Group
- Danone
- Ginkgo BioWorks
- Synlogic
- Bifidobacterium
- Nestle
- Groupe Lactalis
- Nutritional Essentials
- Evolva
- Egenics
- Fonterra
- FrieslandCampina
- GalactoBio
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Industry Developments
Recent developments in the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market have highlighted its growing significance in infant nutrition and gut health. As of October 2023, companies such as Kerry Group, Danone, and Nestle are advancing their Research and Development efforts to expand their product offerings, focusing on the health benefits associated with human milk oligosaccharides. In September 2022, Danone announced a strategic partnership with Ginkgo BioWorks to enhance the fermentation processes for producing oligosaccharides, indicating a trend toward collaboration in biotechnology.
On the acquisition front, in August 2023, FrieslandCampina announced its acquisition of Nutritional Essentials, aiming to broaden its portfolio of functional ingredients, further demonstrating consolidation in this sector. The market is also witnessing an increase in investments from firms like Synlogic and Evolva, reflecting a robust growth outlook fueled by rising consumer demand for infant formula enriched with oligosaccharides.
Over the last two to three years, market valuation has seen impactful growth from companies like GalactoBio, aligning with a notable shift in consumer awareness related to digestive health and overall well-being in infants.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Segmentation Insights
-
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Application Outlook
- Infant Formula
- Functional Foods
- Dietary Supplements
-
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Source Outlook
- Human Milk
- Synthetic Production
- Animal Milk
-
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Form Outlook
-
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market End Use Outlook
- Healthcare
- Food and Beverages
- Nutraceuticals
-
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Regional Outlook
- North America
- Europe
- South America
- Asia Pacific
- Middle East and Africa
Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
Details |
MARKET SIZE 2023 |
0.51(USD Billion) |
MARKET SIZE 2024 |
0.58(USD Billion) |
MARKET SIZE 2035 |
2.5(USD Billion) |
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) |
14.17% (2025 - 2035) |
REPORT COVERAGE |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
BASE YEAR |
2024 |
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD |
2025 - 2035 |
HISTORICAL DATA |
2019 - 2024 |
MARKET FORECAST UNITS |
USD Billion |
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED |
Kerry Group, Provital Group, Danone, Ginkgo BioWorks, Synlogic, Bifidobacterium, Nestle, Groupe Lactalis, Nutritional Essentials, Evolva, Egenics, Fonterra, FrieslandCampina, GalactoBio |
SEGMENTS COVERED |
Application, Source, Form, End Use, Regional |
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Rising demand for infant nutrition, Growing awareness of gut health, Expanding applications inadult nutrition, Increasing research on health benefits, Innovations in production technologies |
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
rising infant nutrition demand, growing health awareness, technological advancements in production, increased investment in research, expanding applications in food industry |
COUNTRIES COVERED |
North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA |
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Highlights:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market is expected to be valued at 0.58 USD Billion in 2024.
By 2035, the Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market is expected to reach a value of 2.5 USD Billion.
The estimated CAGR for the Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market from 2025 to 2035 is 14.17%.
In 2024, the Infant Formula segment is expected to hold the largest market share, valued at 0.25 USD Billion.
The Functional Foods segment of the Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market is projected to be valued at 0.8 USD Billion in 2035.
North America is expected to dominate the Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market in 2035, with a value of 1.05 USD Billion.
The APAC region is expected to be valued at 0.1 USD Billion in the Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market in 2024.
Key players in the market include Kerry Group, Danone, Ginkgo BioWorks, and Nestle, among others.
The Dietary Supplements segment is projected to reach a market size of 0.6 USD Billion by 2035.
The South America region is expected to grow to a market size of 0.3 USD Billion by 2035.