Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Market to Reach US$565.6 Million by 2030

The global market for Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) estimated at US$266.1 Million in the year 2024, is expected to reach US$565.6 Million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 13.4% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Infant Formula, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 13.0% CAGR and reach US$444.0 Million by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Functional Food & Beverage segment is estimated at 17.2% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$67.9 Million While China is Forecast to Grow at 17.3% CAGR

The Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market in the U.S. is estimated at US$67.9 Million in the year 2024. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$137.6 Million by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 17.3% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% and 11.1% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 10.2% CAGR.

Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Market - Key Trends and Drivers Summarized

Why Are Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Essential for Infant Nutrition?

Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex carbohydrates found in human breast milk that play a crucial role in infant health and development. HMOs serve as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which supports the infant`s immune system and overall digestive health. Although HMOs are not digestible by infants, they provide a range of benefits, including protecting against pathogens and reducing the risk of infections. In recent years, the infant formula industry has recognized the importance of HMOs in mimicking the benefits of breast milk, leading to the incorporation of synthetic HMOs in formula products to support the growth and development of formula-fed infants.

How Are Technological Advancements Shaping the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market?

The market for Human Milk Oligosaccharides has grown significantly due to advancements in biotechnology that allow for the large-scale production of synthetic HMOs. Using microbial fermentation techniques, manufacturers can produce HMOs identical to those found in human milk, making it possible to add these compounds to infant formula. This development has been transformative, as it enables formula-fed infants to receive some of the immune-boosting and digestive benefits previously only available through breastfeeding. Furthermore, ongoing research into the diverse types of HMOs—over 200 variations—has opened new opportunities for creating targeted infant nutrition products that support specific health outcomes, such as improved gut health or enhanced immune function.

How Do Market Segments Define the Growth of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market?

Types of HMOs include 2’-Fucosyllactose (2’-FL), Lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT), and other complex oligosaccharides, with 2’-FL being the most commonly used in infant formula due to its proven health benefits and ease of production. Applications of HMOs are primarily found in infant nutrition, but they are also being explored for adult nutrition and dietary supplements due to their potential benefits in gut health and immune function. Distribution channels include supermarkets, pharmacies, and online platforms, with online sales seeing rapid growth as e-commerce expands in the infant nutrition sector. The market is also expanding geographically, with North America and Europe leading, while Asia-Pacific is experiencing significant growth due to rising awareness of infant nutrition.

What Factors Are Driving the Growth in the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market?

The growth in the Human Milk Oligosaccharides market is driven by several factors, including increasing awareness of the health benefits of HMOs, advancements in biotechnology for large-scale production, and rising demand for premium infant nutrition products. As parents become more informed about the importance of gut health and immune support in early development, demand for HMO-enriched formula has surged. Technological innovations in microbial fermentation have made the production of HMOs more cost-effective, allowing manufacturers to include these compounds in a wider range of products. Additionally, the growing middle-class population in emerging markets, coupled with rising disposable income, has boosted demand for high-quality, science-backed infant nutrition products, further fueling the expansion of the HMO market.