Market Trends of middle east dairy alternatives Industry
The increase in consumption of dairy alternative products in the Middle East can be attributed to the growing vegan population, improved animal welfare awareness, and government initiatives
- The consumption of different types of dairy alternative products in the Middle East has been on the rise for the past few years due to the growing vegan population. For example, in 2022, more than 8% of the UAE population was vegan. There are even vegan exhibitions/trade shows and music festivals being conducted in different countries to promote vegan lifestyles. In addition, improved animal welfare and increasing government initiatives to strengthen this awareness are among the other key factors boosting the consumption of dairy alternatives.
- The growing prevalence of lactose intolerance is another reason consumers switch to dairy alternatives. For example, in Saudi Arabia, more than 30% of the population is facing lactose intolerance issues. One out of each three people in Saudi Arabia is knowledgeable regarding lactose intolerance disorder and its related factors and relieving factors.
- Consumers in the region are becoming increasingly aware of their nutritional choices, and owing to their busy lifestyles, their purchasing decision is dependent on the nutritional value of the product, which is driving the demand for plant-based milk in the region. Further, consumers, especially those who are allergic to milk, are keen to consume plant-based milk products. Among the different plant-based milk products, soy milk and almond milk held the majority of share across the region in 2022.
- The per capita consumption of non-dairy butter is expected to increase by 3.56% in 2023-2024. The key motivations for the consumers to adopt non-dairy butter are a concern for animals or sustainability followed by the change in dietary habits. However, other dairy alternative product categories like yogurt, cheese, and ice cream are still at a very nascent stage.
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OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- Ground nut production has emerged to be a significant source for the production of dairy alternatives, leading to innovations in the region's dairy alternative industry
