Global Baby Food Market - 2024-2031

Report Overview

Global Baby Foods Market reached US$ 81.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 124.4 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 5.48% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

The global baby foods market is witnessing robust growth, driven by increasing awareness of infant nutrition, rising disposable incomes and evolving parental lifestyles. There is a heightened demand for organic and natural products as health-conscious parents prioritize nutritious options for their children. Convenience plays a crucial role, with ready-to-eat and on-the-go baby food gaining traction among busy families seeking quick and nutritious meals.

Additionally, the growing participation of women in the workforce, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum's report of an increase in women's labor-force participation from 63% to 64% between 2022 and 2023, is further propelling market growth. As women balance work and family life, the demand for convenient baby food options intensifies, enhancing purchasing power and encouraging investment in premium organic products.

Asia-Pacific is set for significant growth in the global baby foods market, fueled by rising female labor force participation. In India, the female labor force participation rate for those aged 15 and above increased to 32.8% in 2021-22, while Australia, China and New Zealand report maternal employment rates exceeding 71%. As more women enter the workforce, the demand for convenient, nutritious baby food options rises in the region.

Market Dynamics

Rising Birth Rates Drive Growth

Increased birth rates in various regions drive the global baby foods market. According to the United Nations' World Population Prospects, the birth rate in 2023 was 17.464 births per 1,000 people, with approximately 132.11 million births recorded in 2022. This figure is projected to rise to around 133.26 million by 2030. As the number of infants increases, the demand for baby food products increases, fueling market growth as parents seek nutritious options for their children.

The rise in births not only expands the population of new parents but also leads to greater consumer spending on quality nutrition, including organic and premium products. New parents are often willing to invest in quality nutrition for their children, leading to higher spending on baby food, including organic and premium options. Rising birth rates foster sustained demand for baby food, driving growth in the market.

New Product Developments

New products are driving market growth as brands diversify their offerings to cater to various cultural preferences and dietary needs. With parents increasingly prioritizing reliable nutrition, there are significant opportunities for brands to foster loyalty and encourage repeat purchases. This focus on innovation enables companies to serve a wide range of consumers while enhancing their market presence.

For instance, in May 2022, Danone launched a new Dairy & Plants Blend baby formula to meet the rising demand for plant-based feeding options. This formula is suitable for vegetarian, flexitarian and plant-based diets, ensuring infants receive essential nutrition. Similarly, in March 2022, Beech-Nut Nutrition Company launched four innovative products, including Mini-Waffles with Hidden Veggies. With 14 new varieties, the brand meets parents' demand for nutritious snacks.

Health Concerns Related to Baby Food Products

Growing awareness of additives and preservatives in processed baby food is leading some parents to avoid commercial options in favor of organic or homemade alternatives. Additionally, research shows that heavy metals like arsenic, lead, mercury and cadmium routinely taint baby food. At high levels, these neurotoxins can delay and impair brain development in young children, raising significant alarm among parents.

The concern poses a substantial restraint on the global baby food market, as consumers increasingly seek safer, healthier products for their infants. Furthermore, the rise of personalized feeding approaches, such as baby-led weaning, impacts traditional baby food sales, as parents look for more tailored solutions to meet their children's nutritional needs.

Market Segment Analysis

The global baby foods market is segmented based on type, age group, category, packaging, distribution channel and region.

Preference of Milk Formula by Mothers

Milk formula dominates the global baby food market in the type segment, largely due to the challenges many mothers face with breastfeeding. Human milk insufficiency is a significant barrier to effective breastfeeding, affecting 60-90% of mothers in low- and middle-income countries, as highlighted by the International Breastfeeding Journal in February 2022.

The widespread concern drives many parents to seek alternatives like milk formula, which provides essential nutrition for infants who cannot be exclusively breastfed. The convenience of milk formula makes it an attractive option for busy families, offering a ready-to-use solution that saves time compared to preparing homemade food. Furthermore, the availability of specialized formulas for infants with specific dietary needs enhances consumer preference.

Market Geographical Share

High Population in Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific, particularly India and China, is emerging as a dominant force in the global baby food market. As of 2023, India's population stands at approximately 1.42 billion, with a significantly higher birth rate of 23 million in 2022 compared to China's 10 million. This demographic trend indicates substantial market potential for baby food products.

Economic development and the rise of the middle class in India further enhance demand, as parents increasingly invest in premium, nutritious options. Additionally, urbanization drives the preference for convenient, ready-to-eat baby food, while growing health awareness encourages a shift toward organic and fortified products. The expansion of e-commerce platforms facilitates access to diverse baby food options, fueling market growth.

Market Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include Abbott Laboratories, Bellamy Organics, Danone S.A., FrieslandCampina, Hain Celestial Group, Hero AG, Mead Johnson & Company, LLC, Nestle S.A, Perrigo Company Plc. and DANA DAIRY GROUP.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact

The Russia-Ukraine war has significantly impacted the global baby foods market by disrupting supply chains and increasing ingredient costs. Shortages of key ingredients, coupled with rising transportation expenses, have led to higher product prices, pushing consumers toward more budget-friendly options. Additionally, there's a growing emphasis on local sourcing and health-focused products, as parents seek quality and safety amid uncertainty.

By Type

Milk Formula

Dried Baby Food

Prepared Baby Food

Other Baby Food

By Age Group

Newborn (0-6 months)

Infants (6-12 months)

Toddlers (1-3 years)

By Category

Organic

Conventional

By Packaging

Jars

Pouches

Boxes

Cans

By Distribution Channel

Supermarkets and Hypermarkets

Pharmacies

Convenience Stores

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 February 2024, Baby formula brand Bobbie expanded into pediatric nutrition with the launch of two new supplements: a vitamin D supplement and a probiotic supplement, both in drop form for mixing into the formula. This is Bobbie's first foray beyond infant formula.

In May 2023, Biomilq, a North Carolina startup, aims to revolutionize infant nutrition by creating lab-grown breast milk. Its innovation gained traction during the recent infant formula shortage.

In November 2020, Abbott launched Similac Pro-Advance in Canada, the first infant formula containing 2'-Fucosyllactose Oligosaccharide. This ingredient mimics a key component in breast milk, which is known for its immune-supporting properties and digestive health benefits.

Why Purchase the Report?

To visualize the global baby foods market segmentation based on type, age group, category, packaging, 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 baby foods 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 baby foods market report would provide approximately 81 tables, 75 figures and 223 pages.

Target Audience 2024

Manufacturers/ Buyers

Industry Investors/Investment Bankers

Research Professionals

Emerging Companies