Global Sour Milk Drink Market - 2024-2031

Report Overview

The Global Sour Milk Drink Market reached US$ 5.23 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 7.31 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.27% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Consumers increasingly demand transparency and sustainability in food production; the sour milk drink market is no exception. With growing awareness of gut health and digestive benefits, consumers are increasingly turning to fermented beverages like sour milk drinks, which are rich in probiotics. This trend is firm in regions where consumers are seeking natural and functional beverages that promote health and wellness.

Companies in the sour milk drink market are introducing new flavors and variants, such as those incorporating fruits, herbs and spices. This diversification helps appeal to a wider consumer base, including younger consumers looking for unique taste experiences and health-conscious individuals seeking beverages with added functional benefits, driving the global sour milk drink market.

For instance, in January 2024, Straus Family Creamery introduced a new line of organic low-fat kefirs, further diversifying its premium organic dairy offerings. These kefirs are crafted through a slow fermentation process using whole and nonfat milk, combined with live cultures to deliver a tangy taste and smooth, creamy texture. Versatile in use, they can be enjoyed as a standalone drink, incorporated into marinades or served with granola.

Market Dynamics

Rising Awareness of Probiotics

Rising awareness of probiotics is playing a significant role in driving the global sour milk drink market. As consumers become more knowledgeable about the benefits of probiotics for digestive health, immunity and overall well-being, sour milk drinks are increasingly seen as natural, functional beverages that provide these health advantages. This awareness has led to a surge in demand for probiotic-rich products, positioning sour milk drinks as a key player in the functional food and beverage market.

In response, manufacturers in the sour milk drink market are leveraging this trend by promoting the probiotic content of their products. Marketing strategies often focus on the health-enhancing properties of probiotics, targeting health-conscious consumers who prioritize gut health and immune support. The inclusion of probiotics not only adds value to sour milk drinks but also differentiates them in the competitive market of functional beverages.

For instance, Yakult launched its newest fermented milk drink, Yakult Plus Peach on September 1, 2024. Each bottle contains billions of L. casei Shirota bacteria, which are scientifically proven to reach the gut and promote a healthy microbiome. Yakult Plus Peach is fortified with vitamin C to support immunity and reduce fatigue, along with fiber to nourish gut bacteria, offering a comprehensive boost to digestive health.

Shift Toward Natural and Functional Beverages

As consumers increasingly seek out healthier alternatives to sugary soft drinks and artificial beverages, there is a growing demand for natural products that offer functional health benefits. Sour milk drinks, often perceived as clean-label and naturally fermented products, align perfectly with this consumer preference, positioning them at the forefront of the functional beverage market.

Sour milk drinks are made through fermentation with minimal additives, making them more appealing to health-conscious individuals. The market is seeing a rising interest in beverages that deliver more than refreshments, with sour milk drinks offering probiotics, vitamins and other essential nutrients that support digestive health, immunity and overall well-being.

Additionally, the trend toward natural and functional beverages is leading to product innovation within the sour milk drink market. Brands are introducing fortified versions of sour milk drinks with added ingredients like plant-based extracts, superfoods and even adaptogens, appealing to a wider audience seeking beverages that serve multiple health purposes. The diversification is helping brands tap into niche segments of the market, further boosting demand.

For instance, on April 21, 2023, A Latvian startup introduced a new line of creamy, plant-based fermented drinks aimed at promoting physical, mental and environmental well-being within the competitive functional beverage market. While kefir is traditionally known as a fermented milk drink made from kefir grains, plant-based kefir beverages are still a rarity in the market, making Fermentful's offering a novel addition to the space.

Consumer Aversion to Sour Taste

Consumer aversion to sour taste is expected to act as a significant restraint on the growth of the global sour milk drink market. While sour milk drinks offer various health benefits, the naturally tart or sour flavor profile can deter a large segment of consumers, particularly in regions where sweetened or milder-tasting beverages dominate the market. This consumer preference for less tart flavors limits the acceptance and appeal of sour milk drinks, thereby slowing down market expansion.

In markets where taste preferences lean towards sweet, manufacturers face challenges in promoting these products, as the sour flavor does not align with mainstream demand. As a result, the market struggles to achieve broader penetration, especially in regions unfamiliar with or averse to sour-tasting beverages. Consumer reluctance to embrace sour flavors could push manufacturers to explore flavor masking or blending strategies, the aversion still hampers overall market growth potential.

Market Segment Analysis

The global sour milk drink market is segmented based on type, flavor, source, distribution channel and region.

Growing Innovations and Popularity of Kefir

The kefir segment holds the largest share of the global sour milk drinks market, driven by increasing consumer demand for functional and probiotic-rich beverages. Kefir, known for its health benefits such as improved digestion, gut health and immune support, appeals to a growing segment of health-conscious consumers. The market for kefir is particularly bolstered by the rising awareness of probiotics and their role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which is leading to higher consumption in regions like North America and Europe.

Kefir's versatility as a drinkable product, combined with its growing popularity in plant-based and dairy-free variants, expands its appeal across various consumer groups, including those with lactose intolerance. The kefir market benefits from innovation, with brands introducing new flavors and formulations to cater to evolving consumer tastes, as well as from its expanding availability in mainstream retail channels. Key market players are also focusing on organic and non-GMO kefir products to align with the clean-label trend, further driving growth.

For instance, on July 4, 2024, Aldi introduced a new health-boosting beverage to its product lineup with the launch of a large kefir drink. Available for just £1.99, shoppers can pick up a 750ml bottle of Beautiful Everyday Kefir at Aldi stores. The kefir comes in two refreshing flavors: natural and mixed berries, offering a delicious and affordable option for those seeking the health benefits of probiotics.

Market Geographical Share

Increased Demand for Functional and Probiotic-Rich Beverages in North America

North America dominates the global sour milk drinks market due to consumer preferences and industry trends. The region witnesses a significant rise in health consciousness among consumers, leading to increased demand for functional and probiotic-rich beverages. Sour milk drinks, known for their numerous health benefits, including improved digestion and gut health, align perfectly with these consumer trends.

The availability of a diverse range of sour milk drink options tailored to various consumer tastes and preferences significantly enhances the market's appeal in North America. Brands are innovating by introducing flavored varieties of organic options and fortified drinks that cater to the demands of health-focused consumers. This innovation, combined with effective marketing strategies, heightens consumer interest and accessibility.

Market Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include Danone S.A., Arla Foods amba, Lifeway Foods, Inc., Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd., Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd., AAK AB, Krasnystaw OSM, MEGGLE Srbija, Nourish Kefir and Haocaitou (China) Co., Ltd.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis

The Russia-Ukraine war has significantly impacted the global sour milk drinks market, introducing a host of challenges and changes that resonate throughout the industry. One of the most immediate effects of the conflict has been the disruption of supply chains, particularly in Europe, where both Russia and Ukraine are major players in the agricultural sector.

The war has led to increased volatility in the supply of raw materials, including dairy products and other essential ingredients used in the production of sour milk drinks. This instability not only raises production costs but also threatens the availability of products in the market, compelling manufacturers to reassess their sourcing strategies and find alternative suppliers, which may not only be time-consuming but also costly.

By Type

Buttermilk

Kefir

Drinking Yoghurt

Others

By Flavor

Flavored

Unflavored

By Source

Animal-based

Plant-based

By Distribution Channel

Hypermarkets/Supermarkets

Convenience Stores

Online Retail

Others

By Region

North America

US

Canada

Mexico

Europe

Germany

UK

France

Italy

Spain

Rest of Europe

South America

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of South America

Asia-Pacific

China

India

Japan

Australia

Rest of Asia-Pacific

Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

In July 2022, Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. revealed plans to invest USD 60 million in establishing a new dairy facility in Rajkot. This strategic investment aims to bolster the company's production capacity and further expand its range of milk, curd and buttermilk products, strengthening its presence in the dairy market and meeting growing consumer demand.

In August 2021, Lifeway Foods Inc., a leading producer of kefir and fermented probiotic products, expanded its presence in the Irish market by securing a distribution deal with Tesco. This move aims to increase the availability of Lifeway's kefir products across Ireland, catering to the growing demand for probiotic-rich beverages.

In July 2021, Lifeway Foods Inc. extended its kefir distribution into the French market by partnering with retailer Costco France. This expansion strengthens Lifeway's international footprint and makes its probiotic-rich kefir products more accessible to French consumers.

Why Purchase the Report?

To visualize the global sour milk drink market segmentation based on type, flavor, source, distribution channel and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.

Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.

Excel spreadsheet containing a comprehensive dataset of the Sour Milk Drink market, covering all levels of segmentation.

PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.

Product mapping available as Excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global sour milk drink market report would provide approximately 70 tables, 62 figures and 202 pages.

Target Audience 2024

Manufacturers/ Buyers

Industry Investors/Investment Bankers

Research Professionals

Emerging Companies