MFGM Ingredients Market

MFGM Ingredients Market Outlook (2025 to 2035)

The global MFGM ingredients market is expected to reach USD 345 million by 2035, up from USD 118.5 million in 2024. During the forecast period 2025 to 2035, the industry is projected to expand at a CAGR of 10.2%, driven by surging demand for premium infant formulas, growing clinical validation of cognitive and immune health benefits, and increasing adoption across functional dairy.

Manufacturers have adopted advanced extraction technologies, while regulatory frameworks have progressed to support innovation. Collectively, these dynamics have positioned MFGM as a strategic asset in high-value nutrition portfolios.

What has driven the increasing demand for MFGM ingredients in global functional nutrition markets?

The key growth factors in the MFGM ingredients market include increasing health awareness, a surge in demand for functional and fortified foods, and a greater focus on nutrition at an early age. The structural similarity of MFGM with constituents present in human breast milk has significantly contributed to its use in infant milk supplements.

Growing consumer interest in brain health, immune support, and digestive wellness has influenced manufacturers to reformulate their offerings. To meet these shifting health demands, companies are increasingly incorporating milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) into a wider range of products.

Development in food processing and biotechnology has enhanced the extraction and utilization process for making MFGM, making it even more commercially feasible. Also, heightened visibility through clinical studies has increased consumer confidence and supported broader market adoption.

What key trends have shaped the growth of the MFGM Ingredients Market in recent years?

Several emerging trends have been experienced in the market, including a shift toward personalized nutrition and a growing preference for clean-label products that focus on natural ingredients and avoid processed components. There has been an increased interest in functional foods among consumers seeking holistic well-being, which has contributed to the use of MFGM in dairy drinks, as well as in yogurts, as health supplements.

Advances in encapsulation and formulation technology have enabled the better preservation of the bioactive properties of MFGM. Collaborations between research institutions and food companies have played a key role in advancing scientific understanding and exploration of MFGM. Recently, the use of MFGM in adult nutrition, particularly in health attributes such as cognitive support and muscle recovery, has also received increased attention.

What have been the major restraints limiting growth in the global MFGM Ingredients Market recently?

Despite the promising outlook, the MFGM ingredients market encounters a few challenges. The cost of production involving extraction and purification limits availability and volume. High cost and specialized technology create entry barriers for smaller manufacturers.

Along with inconsistencies in milk supply and variability in raw milk quality, product reliability can be compromised. The differing regulations across global markets present an obstacle to standardization and broader commercialization.

Consumer awareness in certain regions, along with skepticism of functional ingredients, may also hinder adoption. Addressing these issues will require investment in cost-effective technologies, the establishment of clear labels, and continued efforts to educate consumers about the benefits of MFGM.

Which regions have driven the strongest growth in the MFGM Ingredients Market since 2020 and why?

The North America market has recorded a considerable growth in MFGM ingredients supported by extensive dairy industry and significant demand for infant nutrition and functional foods. The regulatory approvals and consumer education have encouraged the product development whereas the mature R&D facility has facilitated innovation and commercialization of MFGM based products in the region.

East Asia has recorded growth in recent years in terms of MFGM ingredients, driven by increases in disposable incomes, urbanization, and greater focus on mindful eating among both children and adults. There has been a high demand for premium dairy and health products among consumers. The region has also seen increased investment, local production, and product development.

Western Europe continues to drive steady demand for MFGM ingredients, aided by its emphasis on premium nutrition, a well-established dairy processing sector, and a health-aware consumer base. This sustained interest reflects the region's commitment to functional food innovation and quality-driven dietary preferences.

Regulatory settings have favored functional ingredients, and food producers have introduced MFGM-enriched foodstuffs in both infant nutrition and the functional dairy sector to keep pace with developments in wellness.

Country-wise Outlook

Health-Conscious Consumers and Functional Ingredients Boost U.S. MFGM Ingredients Market

The U.S. market of MFGM ingredients has experienced continuous growth, and this has been fueled by the shift in preferences of the consumers to nutrient-enriched and functional foods. The growing demand of wellness and clean-label ingredients has made large-scale food producers invest in natural food preservatives such as MFGM ingredients.

This development is based on a wider shift in consumer eating patterns, which are shifting towards health- focused and transparent choices. High quality bread like artisan and organic bread that in many cases contain MFGM ingredients and which are free of additives has become widely accepted.

Besides, the increased popularity of convenience-based products, including frozen dough, revealed the advantages of MFGM ingredients in enhancing the shelf life while preserving the quality, taste, and flavor.

Clean-Label Compliance and Dairy Innovation Propel Germany’s MFGM Ingredients Market

In Germany, MFGM ingredients market has been influenced by high regulatory compliance and increasing consumer demand to buy clean-label products. Growing concerns over food safety in Europe, coupled with consumer preference for additive-free and organic products, have prompted food manufacturers to increasingly adopt natural preservatives.

This shift reflects the industry's effort to align with evolving consumer expectations for clean-label and health-conscious food options. MFGM components have been applied in both dairy and bakery sectors, as it helps preserve the stored food, prevents spoilage and retains the flavor and texture of food.

With the emergence of clean-label regulations, producers have implemented the use of MFGM ingredients into their formulations to maintain product integrity, as well as provide natural and sustainable preservation options to the consumer.

Culinary Heritage and Premiumization Drive France’s MFGM Ingredients Market

MFGM ingredients market in France has been influenced by the country’s established food culture and a shift in consumer preferences toward high-quality, clean-label food and beverages. The demand for naturally derived, minimally processed food ingredients has encouraged the incorporation of MFGM components into traditional dairy and bakery products.

This trend highlights a broader movement toward clean-label formulations and functional nutrition in everyday foods. The French market has been inclining towards health-oriented and transparent consumption patterns, drawing interest from manufacturers keen at integrating MFGM ingredients and building more nutritionally rich products while maintaining authenticity.

This trend of premiumization and the increasing demand in clean labels has made the MFGM ingredients a notable addition to the evolving food landscape in France.

Category-Wise Market Outlook

Cow Milk Holds Strong as a Nutritional Benchmark Backed by Scale and Functional Versatility

Cow milk remains the leading source in the MFGM ingredients market, recognized for its established nutritional profile and functional adaptability. Its broad application among different sections of consumers and global availability have strengthened its position, especially on a large scale in the food and nutrition sectors.

Cow milk is used in both traditional and current formulations, as it contains proteins, calcium and key micronutrients that continue to support its relevance. Cow milk is also more suitable for higher-end processing and enrichment practices as demand increases in clean-label products, fortified cow dairy products and functional wellness products.

Its longstanding association as a reliable, healthy body food or staple attained through the controlled production capabilities of dairy commercial operations has led to its use in infant formulas, clinical nutrition, and general wellness products across multiple markets.

Powdered Format Advances as Shelf Stability and Application Flexibility Dominate

The powdered MFGM has been observed to grow at an accelerated rate, driven by formulation, which is enhanced by extended shelf life, transportation, and incorporation flexibility, in the context of infant formulas, supplements, and clinical foods.

This format has attracted manufacturers keen on an efficient, scalable, and export-ready solution to ingredients. The ease of administration, as well as integration of the formulation, has also contributed to demand in areas where liquid-based formulations face logistical challenges.

The powdered forms are well-suited for supporting online and direct-to-consumer product development initiatives, making them a practical choice in the context of shifting global distribution patterns.

Cognitive Health Gains Traction with Infant Nutrition and Aging Brain Focus

Cognitive health is emerging as a key area of focus within the functional applications of the MFGM ingredients market. This growing interest is fueled by consumer demand for nutrition that supports brain function across various age groups.

This trend is linked to emerging scientific evidence highlighting the role of MFGM in brain development in infants and preserving cognitive functions in older people. Creativity in early-life nutrition, particularly formula products that aim to reflect the cognitive advantages of breast milk, has played a critical catalytic role in demand.

Simultaneously, the trend toward cognitive-benefiting supplements to older cohorts in North America, Europe, and East Asia has increased the scope of this functionality, making MFGM the pillar of a neuro-supportive diet.

Competitive Analysis

Competitive Outlook: MFGM Ingredients Market

The market of MFGM (milk fat globule membrane) ingredients has been shaped by dairy co-operatives and global nutrition food companies that have specialized in early-life and functional food applications. The NZMP brand of Fonterra has placed a priority on science-based dairy ingredients specifically designed to support infant nutrition in markets such as China.

FrieslandCampina Ingredients increased the supply of MFGM and whey protein isolate to supply global consumers as the demand of special ingredients rises. Arla Foods Ingredients has launched Lacprodan Premium MFGM-10, a dry-blend MFGM ingredient to reduce energy consumption and production costs in formulation manufacturing.

Glanbia Nutritionals has created a new concentrate containing whey protein with MFGM phospholipids called NeoShield which aims at helping in immune and cognitive support in toddler years, children, and maternal health. The Lactalis Ingredients, that is a subsidiary of the Lactalis Group, has used its presence on an international level to be able to offer high-quality dairy ingredients to use in different applications.

Kerry Group has made innovations in the field of taste and nutritional offerings with ingredients that provide value in terms of taste and nutritional categorization to food and beverages. DMK Group has also been supplying various dairy products that cover the food industry requirements such as milk powders and cheeses.

Tatua Co-operative Dairy Company has been developing dairy ingredients of high value, including phospholipid concentrates rich in MFGM elements. Hilmar Cheese Company maintained a presence in cheese production and whey protein supply, whereas Bega Cheese Ltd has marketed a wide array of dairy products, contributing to the overall landscape of the MFGM ingredients market.

Key players in the MFGM Ingredients industry include Fonterra Co-operative Group, FrieslandCampina, Arla Foods Ingredients Group, Glanbia plc, Lactalis Ingredients, Kerry Group, DMK Group, Tatua Co-operative Dairy Company, Hilmar Cheese Company, and Bega Cheese Ltd.

Recent Development

• In April 2025, Arla Foods Ingredients launched the Whey360 campaign, highlighting the benefits of MFGM beyond infant nutrition. The initiative showcases MFGM-enriched products, including squeezable cheese, UHT drinks, and high-protein yogurts, targeting both adults and children. This campaign aligns with the EU's recognition of MFGM as a non-novel food, facilitating its broader application in functional nutrition.
• In January 2024, FrieslandCampina Ingredients received approval from Thailand's FDA for its Vivinal® MFGM ingredient. This approval enables the incorporation of Vivinal® MFGM into premium infant milk formulas in Thailand, a market where 74% of new launches now include bioactive ingredients.

Fact.MR has provided detailed information about the price points of key manufacturers of the MFGM Ingredients Market, positioned across regions, including sales growth, production capacity, and speculative technological expansion, in the recently published report.

Methodology and Industry Tracking Approach

The 2025 global MFGM ingredients market report by Fact.MR presents a new standard in strategic market analysis. It delivers a highly detailed view of the expanding role of MFGM ingredients in modern foodservice, next-generation dairy formulations, and responsible nutrition models.

Based on insights from more than 7,500 respondents across 35 countries, the report incorporates the perspectives of decision-makers, technical experts, and category innovators. Research was conducted from July 2024 to June 2025, capturing shifts in milk origin preferences, as well as advancements in processing technologies such as energy-saving microfiltration, and regulatory developments related to labeling and trade.

Fact.MR has continuously tracked this market since 2018. Supported by over 250 validated sources and advanced modeling techniques, the report equips processors, food strategists, and investors with actionable, forward-focused intelligence.

Segmentation of MFGM Ingredients Market Research

• By Source :

  • Cow Milk
  • Buffalo Milk
  • Goat Milk
  • Camel Milk
  • Yak Milk

• By Formulation Type :

  • Powdered
  • Liquid

• By Functionality :

  • Cognitive Health
  • Immune Support
  • Gut Health
  • Skin Rejuvenation (Cosmetics)
  • Neurodevelopment (Infants)

• By Extraction Method :

  • Membrane Filtration
  • Enzymatic Treatment
  • Ultrafiltration
  • Mechanical Separation
  • Others

• By Application :

  • Infant Nutrition
  • Dairy Products
  • Functional Foods & Beverages
  • Nutritional Supplements
  • Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics

• By End User :

  • Food Industry
  • Healthcare Sector
  • Research Institutions
  • Cosmetic Industry

• By Distribution Channel :

  • Online Retailers
  • Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
  • Specialty Stores
  • Direct Sales

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • East Asia
  • South Asia & Pacific
  • Middle East & Africa