UHT Milk Market

UHT Milk Market Outlook (2024 to 2034)

The global UHT milk market is forecast to reach a size of US$ 74 billion in 2024, according to a newly published industry analysis compiled by skilled analysts at Fact.MR. Revenue from UHT milk sales is estimated to increase at a CAGR of 6.5% and reach US$ 138.9 billion by the end of 2034.

As an effective alternative to conventional milk, UHT milk or ultra-pasteurized milk, is consumed significantly in many parts of the world. It is easy to store for a longer duration without the aid of preservatives, which makes it distinctive from other available options thanks to its UHT treatment and packaging. Further, it is easy to consume UHT milk directly and it is also available on the market in powder form.

One of the key factors behind increasing sales of UHT milk is the growing desire for long-lasting and easy-to-use dairy products. Its longer shelf life enables consumers to store it without refrigeration, thereby making it a preferred dairy product irrespective of time and location. Further, the introduction of novel varieties and flavors is attracting a larger consumer base in the global market.

UHT milk is gaining significant traction in underdeveloped and potentially high-growth countries with limited resources for cold storage. Moreover, the increasing consumption of UHT milk in several food products, such as sweets, ready-to-eat meals, and baked goods is also contributing to increased sales. The UHT milk market trends are also impacted positively due to product adaptability in industrial and food processing. However, a sizable population is still reluctant in terms of using UHT milk as they believe that nutritional value is lost while treating, processing, and storing it.

• North America will occupy 24.3% of the global UHT milk market share by 2034.
• Demand for UHT milk in Japan is expected to rise at a CAGR of 7% from 2024 to 2034.
• Worldwide sales of bottle-packaged UHT milk are evaluated to climb at a CAGR of 6.4% and reach US$ 74.1 billion by the end of 2034.

Report Attribute	Detail
UHT Milk Market Size (2024E)	US$ 74 Billion
Forecasted Market Value (2034F)	US$ 138.9 Billion
Global Market Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.5% CAGR
Market Share of Skimmed UHT Milk (2034F)	45.6%
East Asia Market Share (2034F)	23.1%
South Korea Market Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	7.3% CAGR
Key Companies Profiled	Nestlé SA; Parmalat; Groupe Lactalis S.A.; Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited; Danone Limited; S.A.B. de CV; Grupo Lala; Amcor Ltd.; Dairy Group (Pty) Ltd.; Bemis Company; Arla Foods; Sonoco Products Company; Gujarat Cooperative Milk; Mother Dairy; Tetra Pack.

Which Factors are Driving Consumption of UHT Milk Globally?

“Low Fat Content and High Nutritional Value of UHT Milk”

The food industry has been experiencing some rapid changes due to constantly changing consumer preferences and increasing demand for functional foods. More individuals are taking advantage of the availability and nutritional benefits of functional and organic foods, which is limiting demand for synthetic and conventional beverages.

In addition to low-fat content, UHT milk contains high prebiotics, fiber, iron, and vitamins for intestinal bacteria growth and assists in improving its natural defense and function. The increasing attractiveness of UHT milk-based cultured beverages and smoothies with required nutrients is contributing to the expansion of the global market size.

“High Shelf Life of UHT Milk Increasing Demand in Commercial and Residential Sectors”

The need for UHT milk is increasing in the commercial and residential sectors. Some of the leading market players are focusing on innovation and the introduction of some additional flavors in UHT milk in attractive packaging, thereby contributing to increased popularity among millennials. There is a noteworthy increase in the demand for UHT milk based on volume across the commercial sector, which is further backed by the surging requirements for ready-to-drink beverages.

Which Factors are Presenting Challenges to UHT Milk Market Growth?

“Availability of Substitute Options and Assumption about Less Nutrient Content in UHT Milk”

Several obstacles are preventing the growth of the global market. Adoption of UHT milk in some people is restrained to some extent with the assumption that it is less nutrient-dense compared to fresh milk. In addition, the easy availability of substitute options, such as plant-based milk and its products are adversely impacting demand for UHT milk.

What Strategic Approaches are Startups Incorporating to Move Ahead?

“Constant Efforts to Maintain Nutritional Value and Taste of UHT Milk”

There are several reasons responsible for the spiked prospects for new market players in this business. Increasing customer wish for extended shelf life and convenience is contributing to the expanding UHT milk market size, which is further eliminating requirements for refrigeration. Startups are expected to leverage opportunities created by the rising popularity of ready-to-drink beverages due to hectic schedules and changing lifestyles. Aspiring market players are focusing on maintaining the vital nutrients and taste of UHT milk to attract a larger base of health-conscious consumers.

Country-wise Insights

Fact.MR, a market research and competitive intelligence provider, reveals through its newly updated study that North America is calculated to contribute 24.3% share of the global market by 2034. The comparatively higher spending capacity of more Americans is contributing to increased sales of this commodity. In addition, lower prices, easy availability, and the good nutritional value of UHT milk are contributing to its growing sales.

Why is the United States Catching the Eyes of UHT Milk Manufacturers?

“Logistical Advantages Make United States Market a Profitable One”

Attribute	United States
Market Value (2024E)	US$ 7.9 Billion
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.9% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 15.4 Billion

The United States is projected to account for 45.6% of the North American market revenue share by 2034. Logistical advantages, such as the availability of suitable infrastructure required for storing empty packages flat until required by eliminating the demand for PVC or big glass cartons, make this packaging method help save time and space. The availability of a wide range of packaging options is also helping in the easy storage and transportation of UHT milk, which is further leading to expanding market size. In addition, surging demand for this milk type is attributed to its convenience and easy availability.

What Allows China to Be a Prominent Supplier of UHT Milk in East Asia?

“Ever-increasing Spending on Premium Products”

Attribute	China
Market Value (2024E)	US$ 8.1 Billion
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.5% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 15.2 Billion

China is forecast to capture a share of 47.5% of the market in East Asia by the end of 2034. Increased demand for UHT milk in the country is attributed to the gradual shift to a working lifestyle and ever-growing population. An inclination toward Western culture and rising spending on premium products are generating remunerative opportunities for suppliers of UHT milk in China.

What is Catalyzing Demand for UHT Milk in Japan?

“Rising Preference to UHT Milk as Alternative to Regular Milk”

Attribute	Japan
Market Value (2024E)	US$ 4.8 Billion
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	7% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 9.4 Billion

Japan is expected to hold a share of 29.4% of East Asian market revenue by 2034. UHT milk is consumed as a popular alternative to regular milk. Longer life span and easy storage of this milk make it a preferred choice among more end users. Conventionally treated milk needs an efficient and mobile cold storage chain, which is eliminated with the adoption of UHT milk.

Category-wise Insights

The ease of buying through online platforms is contributing to the growing sales of UHT milk as more consumers are spending significant time on the internet and actively involved in online shopping. In addition, increased penetration of the internet in developed as well as potentially high-growth countries is also building a strong online UHT milk distribution platform for manufacturers.

Which Type of UHT Milk Accounts for a Substantial Market Share?

“Surging Popularity of Skimmed UHT Milk as Part of Smart Eating Practices”

Attribute	Skimmed UHT Milk
Segment Value (2024E)	US$ 32.1 Billion
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	7% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 63.4 Billion

Skimmed UHT milk is analyzed to possess a share of 45.6% of global market revenue by the end of 2034. Increasing consumption of skimmed UHT milk is attributed to its low or no-fat content, thereby making it more appealing to health-conscious consumers looking for dairy products with lower fat content. In addition, vitamins and calcium present in this milk make it a popular choice as a part of smart eating practices.

Which Type of Packaging is Preferred by UHT Milk Manufacturers?

“Convenience and Reusability of Bottle Packed UHT Milk”

Attribute	Bottles
Segment Value (2024E)	US$ 39.9 Billion
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.4% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 74.1 Billion

Bottle-packaged UHT milk is estimated to occupy 53.3% share of global market revenue by 2034-end. The escalating popularity of bottle-packed UHT milk is attributed to its reusability and convenience for consumers. Glass or plastic bottles are used prominently for the packaging of UHT milk by manufacturers.

Competitive Landscape

Key players in the UHT milk industry are subject to fierce competition with the presence of several manufacturers. Consumer brand loyalty is helping them get a competitive edge. New product development, expansion, collaboration, partnerships, and acquisitions are some key initiatives taken by market players to generate leads and increase profit share.

For instance:

• Dairy Group (Pty) Ltd. is a company based in South Africa and offers dairy products. In August 2022, the company came up with a new line of dairy products with the Creamline brand. Dairy liquid blends, butter and UHT milk are some of the products offered by the organization.
• Houchwald Foods, in November 2021, opened a new UHT milk facility in Mechernich. This newly opened plant will help the company increase its production capacity.

Fact.MR provides detailed information about the price points of key manufacturers of UHT milk positioned across the world, sales growth, production capacity, and speculative technological expansion, in the newly published market report.

Segmentation of UHT Milk Market Research

• By Type :

  • Full Cream
  • Skimmed
  • Semi-skimmed

• By Packaging :

  • Cartons
  • Bottles

• By Form :

  • Powder
  • Liquid

• By Source :

  • Animal-based
    • Cow Milk
    • Goat Milk
    • Buffalo Milk
    • Other
  • Plant-based
    • Almonds
    • Coconuts
    • Soy
    • Others

• By End-use Application :

  • Infant Formula
  • Dairy Products
    • Butter
    • Cheese
    • Yogurt
    • Milk Powder
    • Ice Cream
    • Others
  • Bakery & Confectioneries
  • Milk & Milk-based Beverages
  • Retail Sales

• By Distribution Channel :

  • B2B
  • B2C
    • HORECA
    • Specialty Stores
    • Modern Trade
    • Convenience Stores
    • Grocery Stores
    • Specialty Food Stores
    • Online Retailers
    • Other Distribution Channels

• By Region :

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