The global market for dairy products was estimated at around USD 947 billion in 2024. Annual growth of 6.12 percent is expected by 2032, bringing the total volume to USD 1,524 billion.
The Asia-Pacific market has developed most dynamically. Rising per capita consumption has been combined with rapidly growing populations and trends towards a Western lifestyle. The boom in high-protein products, which can be sold in the premium segment with a promised added benefit, and the ever-increasing demand for lactose-free products are growth drivers.
The consumer trend towards vegan nutrition is not only a threat to the dairy industry. Rather, it offers the dairy sector the opportunity to tap into additional business areas in the field of plant-based beverages in addition to cow's milk-based products.
This means that the industry, which has focused solely on process technology for animal milk variants (cow's milk, goat's milk), must implement new technologies to offer these products in its portfolio. This portfolio expansion is supported by the fact that it also addresses ‘milk-loving’ consumer groups who want to avoid dairy products of animal origin.
Milk is therefore no longer just milk in the traditional sense. Oat-based drinks, based on pea proteins, almond drinks, etc., will play a greater role here.
Plant-based milk alternatives
Plant-based drinks continue to grow in popularity due to the rising demand for vegan alternatives. The global market for plant-based beverages is expected to grow by 12.3 percent annually until 2030 (source: Allied Market Research), with consumers placing ever-higher demands on the taste and consistency of classic soy, oat, and almond milk.
The drinktec exhibitors offer production equipment and support dairy companies in developing recipes, optimising taste, texture, and nutritional value through advanced heat treatment technologies for milk and vegetable drinks.
Protein-rich beverages and dairy products
Interest in protein-rich beverages and dairy products remains strong and continues to drive growth in the dairy sector. This segment, including protein-enriched milk and dairy products, is expected to grow by 8.5 percent annually until 2030 (source: Mordor Intelligence).
Consumers looking for functional foods to improve their overall well-being drive demand. Dairy companies must have the right production solutions to deliver high product quality using advanced technological processes without compromising taste or stability.
Data-driven Optimisation
Filtration technologies are often cited as a topic area that can improve raw material yields in the dairy industry. Suppliers of membrane technology, particularly polymer or ceramic membranes, are entering into discussions with dairies in this area.
drinktec offers beverage manufacturers and liquid food producers a complete overview of technical solutions for water treatment.
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