Market Trends of Global Lactose-free Infant Formula Industry
This section covers the major market trends shaping the Lactose Free Infant Formula Market according to our research experts:
Rising number of Lactose-Intolerance Infants
- Lactose intolerance (that can be either primary or congenital) is a clinical syndrome that can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, and/or bloating after ingestion of food containing lactose. The underlying physiological problem is lactose malabsorption which is caused by an imbalance between the amount of lactose ingested and the capacity of the enzyme lactase to hydrolyze it. These conditions require treatment with lactose-free infant formula under medical supervision.
- As per the U.S. National Library of Medicine, around 65.0% of the human population is lactose intolerant. This condition is most common in Finland, wherein its affects an estimated 1 in 60,000 newborns and the number is increasing at a significant pace.
- The institute also reported that this condition is the lowest in individuals that have a long history of dependence on unfermented milk products as an important food source. For instance, approximately only 5% of North European Descent suffer through this condition. Moreover, this condition cannot be cured. Therefore, there has been an increase in demand for lactose free infant formula, which is expected to drive the market.
Understand The Key Trends Shaping This Market
Download PDF
Europe to Hold the Major Share in the Global Market
- Europe is expected to witness a double-digit growth, holding the major share in the global market for lactose-free infant formulas owing to the presence of a large lactose intolerant population in the region. About 80% of the base powder for infant formula in Europe is made in Ireland. The milk marketed as 'lactose-free' in the region has the lactose replaced by glucose syrups and milk for special medical purposes which should be used under medical supervision.
- Few of the prominent players in the region include Dana Dairy Group, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc., Danone Nutricia Early Life Nutrition, DANA Sweden AB, and Nestle, among others.
- In the United Kingdom, the lactose-free milk manufacturer Danone brand- Aptamil and Nestle brand- SMA offers lactose-free infant formulas that are both marketed as suitable from birth and are widely available over the counter. SMA lactose-free formula is presented as being suitable not only for infants with congenital lactose intolerance but also for infants who have been diagnosed with lactose intolerance following a bout of gastroenteritis. Aptamil Lactose Free is suggested for use for infants with lactose or sucrose intolerance or those suffering from diarrhoea, bloating or wind caused by temporary lactose intolerance.
Get Analysis on Important Geographic Markets
Download PDF
