Rising demand for lactose-freee and low-cholesterol products: 75.5% growth in dairy alternatibes market by 2027

Its largely unorganized market offers significant growth opportunities for both domestic and international dairy alternative manufacturers. There is a notable surge in demand for dairy-free products that are low in calories and cholesterol, driven by busy lifestyles and increasing rates of metabolic syndromes among consumers. Koita Foods, a leader in dairy and plant-based drinks, reported a staggering 350% rise in online sales in 2020, attributed to shifting consumer preferences toward e-commerce and healthier diets.

In the Asia Pacific region, rising disposable incomes and busy lifestyles are driving demand for fortified nutritional products. The adoption of soymilk as a cost-effective dairy alternative is expected to grow rapidly, with major players like Sanitarium Health & Wellbeing and Vitasoy International leading the market. Despite economic challenges, including the impacts of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and China’s zero-COVID policy, the region is expected to see a growth rate of 4% in 2023, outperforming Europe and the US.

As reported by MarketsandMarkets, in China, the demand for dairy alternatives continues to rise, with a growing preference for plant-based ingredients in traditional dishes like soy sauce and tofu. As more consumers link healthier lifestyles with quality, the market for dairy substitutes is expected to expand significantly. Tmall reported an 800% increase in plant-based beverage sales in 2020, reflecting a strong shift toward lactose-free options. The diverse needs of consumers are driving the development of a wide range of dairy alternatives, presenting substantial opportunities for brands in this evolving landscape.