Skim Milk Powder Market Size:
Skim Milk Powder Market size is growing with a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period (2025-2032), and the market is projected to be valued at USD 51.60 Billion by 2032 from USD 32.86 Billion in 2024. Additionally, the market value for the 2025 attributes to USD 34.66 Billion.
Skim Milk Powder Market Scope & Overview:
Skim milk powder (SMP), also known as skimmed milk powder, is a dried product of milk. It is a product obtained by removing water from pasteurized skim milk. Skim milk is cow's milk from which the fat has been removed. It retains all the important nutrients found in fresh skim milk such as carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and protein. This powder contains minimal fat content. It is widely used in bakery products (bread, cakes, and others), confectionery (chocolates, candies, and others), dairy products (yogurt, ice cream, cheese, and others), infant formula, dietary supplements, and animal feed among others. It is sold through multiple sales channels such as direct, retail, and online.
Skim Milk Powder Market Dynamics - (DRO) :
Key Drivers:
Increasing Demand for Dairy Products is Accelerating Skim Milk Powder Market Expansion.
Skim milk powder is a versatile dairy ingredient used in multiple dairy products such as yogurt, ice cream, and condensed milk among others. It increases protein content and improves texture. It allows for reduced fat content in the final product. Moreover, it is used in low-fat and semi-soft cheeses to improve texture and stability. Additionally, it helps in achieving the desired thickness and sweetness. Population growth has led to increased food needs, driving the production of dairy products as well, thus requiring this milk powder.
For instance,
- According to HART Design, American cheese production rose to 5.57 billion pounds, in 2021, which is an increase of 4.3% compared to the previous year, thus positively impacting skim milk powder market trends.
Overall, the increasing need for dairy products is significantly boosting the skim milk powder market expansion.
Rising Infant Formula Manufacturing is Driving the Market.
Skim milk powder is commonly used in infant formulas due to its beneficial composition. It is used as a base ingredient. It has a lower fat content. This means it is easier for babies with sensitive stomachs to digest than whole milk formulas. Moreover, it provides protein, including casein, which is a good source of protein for infants. The need for infant formula is rising due to growing birth rates, more working mothers, and increased awareness of infant nutrition. Consequently, manufacturers are expanding production to meet this growing need, thus requiring this milk powder.
For instance,
- In 2024, Bobbie, a women-led infant formula producer, opened a new 90,000-square-foot infant formula manufacturing facility in Ohio, U.S., thus positively impacting the skim milk powder market trends.
Thus, the rising infant formula manufacturing is accelerating the global skim milk powder market growth.
Key Restraints:
Growing Commercialization of Other Dairy Ingredients is Hampering the Skim Milk Powder Market Demand.
The market faces competition from other dairy ingredients available in the market. Whole milk powder directly competes, as it provides a complete dairy solid source. Moreover, whey powders are increasingly used in nutrition and functional food segments, as they provide high protein content and specific amino acid profiles. Additionally, whey protein concentrates and isolates are another strong competitor due to their strong nutritional profile. Furthermore, dairy blends, which are customized mixtures of various dairy components such as whey permeate, lactose, and caseinate are increasingly gaining importance. This is due to the manufacturers getting cheaper alternatives to achieve desired dairy solid levels. Hence, the growing commercialization of other dairy ingredients is hampering the skim milk powder market demand.
Future Opportunities :
Expanding Bakery & Confectionery is Expected to Increase Skim Milk Powder Market Opportunities.
Skim milk powder is a valuable ingredient in both bakery and confectionery. It adds a creamy texture and richer flavor to products such as cakes, cookies, pastries, chocolates, candies, and bread. Moreover, it helps to improve the shelf life by enhancing water binding capacity. Additionally, it adds protein, calcium, and other nutrients without adding extra fat. Changing lifestyles and a higher need for ready-to-eat snacks are driving the bakery & confectionery sector, thus requiring this powder for multipurpose.
For instance,
- According to Indusfood, the Indian bakery market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.8% from 2023 to 2032. This creates the potential for the market.
Overall, expanding the bakery & confectionery sector is expected to increase the skim milk powder market opportunities.
Skim Milk Powder Market Segmental Analysis :
By Application:
Based on application, the market is categorized into dairy products, bakery & confectionery, infant formula, dietary supplements, animal feed, and others.
Trends in Application:
- The market is seeing a trend towards organic infant formulas. For this, manufacturers are producing high-quality, low-heat skimmed milk powder to meet nutritional standards.
- The growing trend of using SMP in ready-to-drink protein beverages, protein bars, and other convenient supplement formats to cater to active lifestyles.
The dairy products segment accounted for the largest market share of 34.18% in 2024.
- In dairy products, skimmed milk powder adds protein and improves their texture. It also enhances flavor without adding extra fat.
- It enhances the nutritional value of fermented products. Moreover, it is used in products such as yogurt, ice cream, cheese, condensed milk, and desserts among others.
- Rising production of dairy products globally is driving the need for this skimmed milk powder.
- For instance, according to the European Commission,the European Union's ice cream production reached 3.2 billion liters in 2022, a 5% increase compared to 2021.
- Overall, as per the market analysis, the growing dairy output is driving a segment in the skim milk powder market growth.
The bakery & confectionery segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period.
- In bakery and confectionery, skimmed milk powder is used in products such as bread, candies, cookies, pastries, and cakes.
- It improves dough handling and enhances crust browning in baked goods. Moreover, it adds a creamier flavor to products.
- Additionally, it is also convenient and easy to store compared to fresh milk. Furthermore, it enhances the nutrient content and extends shelf life.
- Growing busy lifestyles are raising the need for convenient and affordable food options, leading to increased production of processed snacks such as bread, thus driving the need for this milk powder.
- According to skim milk powder market analysis, busy lifestyles requiring processed snacks are driving the segmental share for the upcoming years.
By Sales Channel:
Based on sales channel, the market is categorized into direct sales, retail sales, and online sales.
Trends in the Sales Channel
- Online platforms are expanding rapidly. This offers greater convenience and accessibility for both B2B and B2C customers.
- There is a growing trend of manufacturers exploring direct sales to food and beverage companies. This cuts out intermediaries for better margins and control.
The direct sales segment accounted for the largest market share in 2024.
- Direct sales is a type of distribution major producers sell SMP directly to large industrial customers. This does not involve any kind of intermediaries.
- This channel fosters closer and long-term relationships. It helps in better understanding of customer needs.
- Moreover, manufacturers are able to maintain greater control over pricing, delivery, and customer service.
- Additionally, eliminating intermediaries leads to higher profit margins. Also, direct engagement allows for easier customization of SMP products to meet specific client requirements.
- Overall, as per the market analysis, direct sales foster strong relationships, higher profits, and efficient control are driving the segment in the skim milk powder industry.
The online sales segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period.
- Online sales refer to the distribution of SMP through e-commerce platforms, company websites, and digital marketplaces.
- It offers global reach, by enabling manufacturers and distributors to access a wider customer base beyond traditional geographic limitations.
- Moreover, this channel provides 24/7 accessibility. This allows buyers to place orders at their convenience.
- Increasing busy lifestyles and hectic working are requiring an online shopping experience.
- For instance, the International Trade Administration published an article stating that the U.S. e-commerce sector is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.4% by 2027, creating the potential for the segment.
- Thus, according to market analysis, the expanding e-commerce industry is driving segmental growth for the forecasted years.
Regional Analysis:
The regional segment includes North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.
In 2024, North America accounted for the highest skim milk powder market share at 39.05% and was valued at USD 12.83 Billion and is expected to reach USD 18.58 Billion in 2032. In North America, the U.S. accounted for the skim milk powder market share of 71.93% during the base year of 2024. There is an increase in the manufacturing of dairy products across the region. This includes yogurt, different types of cheese, and ice cream among others.
For instance,
- According to IFT, U.S. dairy yogurt sales increased by 6.8% in 2024, when compared to the previous year.
Skim milk powder is used in dairy products to enhance protein content. It also adds rich flavor to these products and improves textural attributes. It is also added due to it is a rich source of calcium, which is crucial for bone health. Overall, the increasing manufacturing of dairy products is driving the market in the region.
In Asia Pacific, the skim milk powder market is experiencing the fastest growth with a CAGR of 7.8% over the forecast period. There is a growing utilization of animal feed in the region. SMP is highly valued as a premium ingredient, particularly in calf milk replacers and feed for piglets and poultry. Its advantages include being a highly digestible source of protein and essential nutrients. This is crucial for the rapid growth and health of young livestock. Moreover, to strengthen domestic demand, there is a growing focus on increasing local production, which is also driving the market in the region.
Europe's skim milk powder market analysis indicates that several key trends are contributing to its growth in the region. There is increasing production and evolving demand for infant formulas. European manufacturers are global leaders in producing high-quality infant formula. This is driven by stringent safety standards and a consumer focus on optimal early childhood nutrition. Skimmed milk powder serves as a fundamental building block in these formulas. They provide essential protein and minerals without excessive fat. This ensures a balanced nutritional profile for infants.
The Middle East and Africa (MEA) market analysis indicates that there is an increase in the production of baked goods in the region. Consumers demand convenient and indulgent baked items. Moreover, there is a growing interest in artisanal and fortified options, which further fuels the expansion. Skimmed milk powder is widely utilized in these products for multiple benefits. It enhances dough consistency and improves crust browning. It contributes to a desirable texture and extends shelf life.
Latin America's region creates potential for the market. There is increasing production of dietary supplements in the region. Skimmed milk powder has an essential role within them. It is highly valued for its high-quality protein and rich mineral content. This makes it an ideal ingredient for protein powders, meal replacement shakes, and fortified beverages. Moreover, consumers are increasingly seeking convenient and effective ways to boost their nutrition. This expanding dietary supplement industry in Latin America creates a consistent demand for this milk powder.
Top Key Players and Market Share Insights:
The Skim Milk Powder market is highly competitive with major players providing products to the national and international markets. Key players are adopting several strategies in research and development (R&D) and product innovation to hold a strong position in the global Skim Milk Powder market. Key players in The Skim Milk Powder industry include-
- Nestlé S.A. (Switzerland)
- Agropur Cooperative (Canada)
- Valio (Finland)
- EPI Ingredients (France)
- Dairygold (Ireland)
- Lactalis Ingredients (France)
- Fonterra Co-operative Group (New Zealand)
- California Dairies, Inc. (United States)
- Numidia B.V. (Netherlands)
- Valley Milk LLC (United States)
Recent Industry Developments :
Product Launch:
- In 2023, Valio launched a new infant-grade skimmed milk powder. It is designed for dry blending in infant formula (IMF) production. This ultrapure product is made from fresh Finnish milk in ultraclean facilities. It offers IMF manufacturers a highly flexible ingredient for customizing their products.
Skim Milk Powder Market Report Insights :
| Report Attributes | Report Details |
| Study Timeline | 2019-2032 |
| Market Size in 2032 | USD 51.60 Billion |
| CAGR (2025-2032) | 5.9% |
| By Application |
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| By Sales Channel |
|
| By Region |
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| Key Players |
|
| North America | U.S. Canada Mexico |
| Europe | U.K. Germany France Spain Italy Russia Benelux Rest of Europe |
| APAC | China South Korea Japan India Australia ASEAN Rest of Asia-Pacific |
| Middle East and Africa | GCC Turkey South Africa Rest of MEA |
| LATAM | Brazil Argentina Chile Rest of LATAM |
| Report Coverage |
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Key Questions Answered in the Report
How big is the Skim Milk Powder market? +
In 2024, the Skim Milk Powder market is USD 32.86 Billion.
Which is the fastest-growing region in the Skim Milk Powder market? +
The Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the Skim Milk Powder market.
What specific segmentation details are covered in the Skim Milk Powder market? +
Application and Sales Channel segmentation details are covered in the Skim Milk Powder market.
Who are the major players in the Skim Milk Powder market? +
Nestlé S.A. (Switzerland), Lactalis Ingredients (France), Fonterra Co-operative Group (New Zealand), California Dairies, Inc. (United States), and Numidia B.V. (Netherlands) are some major players in the market.
