Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Size, Share and Future Trends Analysis Report By Type (2’FL, 3’FL, 3’SL, 6’SL, LNT, LNnT, DFL), By Concentration (Neutral, Acidic), By Application (Infant Formula, Food and Beverages, Dietary Supplements, Pharmaceuticals, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1455.7 Billion by 2034, from USD 282.9 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 17.8% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex carbohydrates found abundantly in human breast milk, ranking as the third most prevalent solid component after lactose and lipids. These bioactive molecules play a crucial role in infant health by fostering the growth of beneficial gut microbiota, enhancing immune function, and protecting against pathogens. Given their significant health benefits, there is a growing interest in incorporating human milk oligosaccharides into infant formulas and functional foods to replicate the advantages of breastfeeding.

The Human Milk Oligosaccharides has evolved rapidly, with advancements in biotechnology enabling the large-scale production of specific oligosaccharides. For instance, in November 2022, Kirin Holdings completed a dedicated human milk oligosaccharides production facility in Thailand through its subsidiary, THAI KYOWA BIOTECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD., marking a significant step in meeting the growing demand for these compounds. Such developments underscore the industry’s commitment to integrating human milk oligosaccharides into various nutritional applications.

Government initiatives and regulatory approvals have also played a pivotal role in the industry’s growth. For instance, in 2022, Royal DSM’s human milk oligosaccharides product, GlyCare 2′-FL, received regulatory approval in Canada for use in infant and toddler formulas. Such endorsements not only validate the safety and efficacy of human milk oligosaccharides but also facilitate their incorporation into a broader range of nutritional products.

Key Takeaways

• Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1455.7 Billion by 2034, from USD 282.9 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 17.8%.
• 2’FL held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 43.4% share.
• Neutral held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 78.9% share of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market by concentration.
• Infant Formula held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 64.2% share.
• North America held a dominant position in the global Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market, capturing 42.9% of the market share, equivalent to approximately USD 121.3 million.

By Type

2’FL dominates with 43.4% due to its essential role in infant nutrition and high demand.

In 2024, 2’FL held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 43.4% share of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market. This segment’s significant share is driven by the growing awareness of the nutritional benefits of 2’FL in infant formula and its ability to mimic human breast milk. The increasing prevalence of breastfeeding challenges, along with the rising adoption of infant formula as a substitute, further supports the demand for 2’FL.

Its role in promoting gut health and immune system development has made it a preferred choice for manufacturers, resulting in its widespread inclusion in infant nutritional products. With projected market growth, the demand for 2’FL is expected to continue to rise in 2025, consolidating its position as a leading component in the HMO market.

By Concentration

Neutral dominates with 78.9% due to its high stability and versatility in formulations.

In 2024, Neutral held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 78.9% share of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market by concentration. This segment’s strong market presence is driven by the superior stability and versatile properties of Neutral HMOs, which are widely used in infant formula and other nutritional products.

Neutral HMOs are particularly valued for their ability to enhance gut health, immune function, and overall infant development. Their compatibility with various processing methods and the consistent demand for safe, effective ingredients further solidify their position. In 2025, the dominance of Neutral in the market is expected to persist, as more manufacturers continue to adopt these oligosaccharides due to their proven benefits and ease of incorporation into nutritional products.

By Application

Infant Formula dominates with 64.2% due to its high demand and nutritional benefits.

In 2024, Infant Formula held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 64.2% share of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market by application. The substantial share of this segment can be attributed to the growing demand for infant formula as a reliable nutritional option, particularly for infants who cannot be breastfed.

HMOs, especially those like 2’FL, are recognized for their ability to mimic the benefits of breast milk, promoting better immune health and gut development. As parents and caregivers increasingly seek formula options that provide optimal nutrition, the demand for HMOs in infant formula continues to rise. In 2025, the dominance of Infant Formula is expected to remain strong, with increasing consumer preference for scientifically backed, nutrient-rich infant formulas.

Key Market Segments

By Type

• 2’FL
• 3’FL
• 3’SL
• 6’SL
• LNT
• LNnT
• DFL

By Concentration

• Neutral
• Acidic

By Application

• Infant Formula
• Food & Beverages
• Dietary Supplements
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others

Drivers

Rising Demand for Infant Nutrition Products Driven by Health Benefits

One major driving factor for the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market is the increasing demand for infant nutrition products, particularly infant formulas enriched with HMOs like 2’FL. The growing recognition of the health benefits associated with HMOs, such as immune system support and enhanced gut health, is fueling this demand.

As more parents opt for formula feeding due to various personal or medical reasons, the need for products that closely replicate the nutritional properties of breast milk has surged. According to a report from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 50% of infants globally are fed formula at some point during their first year of life, underscoring the need for high-quality, nutritionally rich products.

In the United States, a leading market for infant nutrition, it is estimated that the infant formula market is projected to reach US$ 13 billion by 2027, growing at a steady rate of 5% annually. This growth is being propelled by the increasing awareness among parents about the health benefits of incorporating HMOs into infant formula.

In addition, government initiatives like the “Breastfeeding Awareness Week” in many countries have indirectly boosted the awareness of the importance of infant nutrition, which includes the use of HMOs in formula products. These initiatives aim to provide support to parents who may not be able to breastfeed, emphasizing the need for formula alternatives that mimic the benefits of breast milk.

The rise in health-conscious consumers, coupled with ongoing advancements in HMO extraction and incorporation into infant formula, will continue to drive the market for HMOs in the coming years. With government-backed initiatives and ongoing improvements in HMO technology, the market is likely to see sustained growth.

Restraints

High Production Costs Hinder Widespread Adoption of Human Milk Oligosaccharides

A significant challenge facing the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market is the high cost of production. Traditional methods of HMO extraction from human breast milk are labor-intensive and yield limited quantities, making them expensive and not scalable for mass production. For instance, the concentration of HMOs in breast milk is relatively low, generally between 0.5–1.5 grams per liter, necessitating the processing of large volumes to obtain sufficient amounts for commercial use. This process involves complex extraction and purification steps, such as centrifugation and ultrafiltration, which further escalate costs .

To address these challenges, the industry is exploring alternative production methods, including microbial fermentation and enzymatic synthesis. While these technologies offer a more scalable and cost-effective approach, they still require significant investment in research and development. For example, advancements in fermentation technology have shown promise in producing HMOs at a larger scale, but the initial setup costs and ongoing operational expenses remain high .

The high production costs not only limit the availability of HMO-enriched products but also pose a barrier to entry for smaller manufacturers and startups aiming to innovate in the infant nutrition sector. As a result, the market is predominantly dominated by a few large players with the necessary resources to invest in advanced production technologies.

Opportunity

Advancements in Microbial Fermentation and Plant-Based Production Open New Avenues for HMOs

A significant growth opportunity for the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market lies in the ongoing advancements in microbial fermentation and plant-based production methods. These innovative approaches aim to overcome the high production costs associated with traditional HMO extraction from human milk, thereby facilitating broader accessibility and affordability.

Microbial fermentation, particularly using engineered strains of Escherichia coli, has shown promise in producing HMOs at a larger scale. Recent studies highlight that with the right metabolic engineering, these microbial systems can efficiently synthesize complex HMOs, including 2′-fucosyllactose and lacto-N-tetraose, which are crucial for infant nutrition. However, challenges remain in optimizing yields and scaling up production to meet global demand.

In parallel, plant-based production methods are emerging as a viable alternative. Researchers have successfully engineered plants, such as Nicotiana benthamiana, to produce a range of HMOs. This approach offers several advantages, including the ability to produce multiple HMOs simultaneously and potentially lower production costs. For instance, a study demonstrated that engineered plants could produce 11 different HMOs, including complex structures like LNFP1, which are challenging to synthesize via microbial fermentation.

These advancements align with global initiatives aimed at improving infant nutrition. For example, the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare plans to incorporate HMOs into its national nutrition program by 2026. In response, FrieslandCampina launched an HMO-enhanced infant formula line in India in September 2024, projecting a 25% market share in the premium segment within the first year of launch.

Trends

Government Initiatives and Regulatory Approvals Accelerate HMO Market Growth

A significant trend shaping the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market is the increasing support from government initiatives and regulatory bodies worldwide. These efforts are facilitating the integration of HMOs into infant nutrition products, thereby expanding their availability and adoption.

In Canada, the regulatory landscape has evolved to accommodate the inclusion of HMOs in infant formulas. In November 2022, Royal DSM’s human milk oligosaccharide GlyCare 2’-fucosyllactose (2FL) received regulatory approval for use in infant and toddler formula. This approval marks a significant milestone in the acceptance of HMOs in North American markets .

Similarly, in Europe, the regulatory environment is supportive of HMO incorporation into infant nutrition. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has recognized the benefits of HMOs, leading to their inclusion in various infant formula products. This regulatory backing is crucial for manufacturers aiming to introduce HMO-enriched products to European consumers.

These government initiatives and regulatory approvals not only enhance consumer confidence but also encourage manufacturers to invest in HMO research and development. As a result, the HMO market is experiencing accelerated growth, with projections indicating a substantial increase in market size in the coming years.

Regional Analysis

North America Leads with 42.9% Share in Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market

In 2024, North America held a dominant position in the global Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market, capturing 42.9% of the market share, equivalent to approximately USD 121.3 million. This leadership is primarily driven by the United States, which is at the forefront of HMO research, development, and application in infant nutrition.

This growth is fueled by increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits associated with HMOs, such as enhanced gut health and immune system support in infants. Additionally, advancements in fermentation technology have made HMO production more cost-effective, further driving market expansion.

Canada also contributes significantly to the North American market, with a focus on incorporating HMOs into dietary supplements and functional foods. The Canadian government’s support for research and development in the field of infant nutrition has facilitated the integration of HMOs into various products. For instance, in November 2022, Royal DSM’s human milk oligosaccharide GlyCare 2’-fucosyllactose (2FL) received regulatory approval for use in infant and toddler formula in Canada. This approval marks a significant milestone in the acceptance of HMOs in North American markets.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Abbott Laboratories is a global leader in healthcare, including the infant nutrition sector, where it incorporates Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) into its formulas. Abbott’s commitment to advancing infant nutrition is evident through its research and development of innovative HMO-based products. The company’s strong market presence, backed by its extensive distribution network, allows it to provide high-quality, HMO-enriched nutritional solutions, ensuring optimal health benefits for infants worldwide.

BASF SE is a key player in the Human Milk Oligosaccharides market, specializing in the production and supply of high-quality HMOs. Through its commitment to science and sustainability, BASF offers advanced solutions for infant nutrition, incorporating HMOs that replicate the benefits of breast milk. The company’s expertise in biotechnology and strong focus on innovation enables BASF to meet the growing demand for HMO-enriched products, particularly in the infant formula and health supplements markets.

Biosynth Carbosynth is a leading provider of Human Milk Oligosaccharides, specializing in the production of complex carbohydrates. The company’s focus is on delivering high-quality HMOs for the infant nutrition industry, with products designed to support infant health by mimicking the benefits of breast milk. With a strong commitment to quality and innovation, Biosynth Carbosynth supplies manufacturers with key ingredients that enhance the nutritional value and functional benefits of infant formula and supplements.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Abbott Laboratories
• BASF SE
• Biosynth Carbosynth
• Chr. Hansen Holding A/S
• Dextra Laboratories Limited
• DSM
• DUPONT
• Elicityl S.A
• FrieslandCampina Ingredients
• Glycom A/S
• Gnubiotics Sciences S.A
• Inbiose N.V
• Kyowa Hakko Europe GmbH
• Nestle
• RAJVI ENTERPRISE
• ZuChem Inc.

Recent Developments

In 2024, BASF’s HMO product line, branded as PREBILAC®, was introduced to support digestive health across various life stages, including infant nutrition and adult dietary supplements .

Report Scope