Lactase Market Summary
As per MRFR Analysis, the Global Lactase Market is projected to grow significantly, driven by rising lactose intolerance awareness and demand for lactose-free products. The market was valued at 1.16 USD Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach 2.5 USD Billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 6.59% from 2025 to 2035. Key trends include increased health consciousness, technological advancements in lactase production, and a growing preference for natural and organic products.
Key Market Trends & Highlights
The Global Lactase Market is witnessing transformative trends that are shaping its growth trajectory.
- Rising lactose intolerance prevalence affects around 65% of the global population, increasing demand for lactase supplements.
- The lactose-free dairy alternative market is expected to grow at a rate of 8% annually, boosting lactase enzyme demand.
- Technological advancements have improved lactase production efficiency by up to 30%, enhancing product availability.
- The Food and Beverage sector is projected to dominate the market, reaching 1.2 USD Billion by 2035.
Market Size & Forecast
2023 Market Size: USD 1.16 Billion
2024 Market Size: USD 1.24 Billion
2035 Market Size: USD 2.5 Billion
CAGR (2025-2035): 6.59%
Largest Regional Market Share in 2024: North America.
Major Players
Key players in the Lactase Market include DuPont, Novozymes, Lactogen, Advanced Enzymes Technologies, and Carbery Group.
Key Lactase Market Trends Highlighted
The Lactase Market is witnessing a notable shift in consumer preferences towards lactose-free products, driven by an increasing awareness of lactose intolerance and its associated digestive issues. As more individuals, including a significant proportion of adults, are diagnosed with lactose intolerance, the demand for lactase supplements and lactose-free dairy products is growing.
This trend is further supported by the rising health awareness among consumers looking for nutritious options that include dairy without the discomfort of lactose, making lactase a key ingredient in many food formulations.
There is also a unique opportunity in the adoption of lactase in non-dairy alternatives, such as plant-based milk and other dairy substitutes, tapping into the vegan and vegetarian markets.
The rise of clean-label products is pushing manufacturers to look for natural sources of lactase from fungi or yeast. This fits with the worldwide trend toward eating more sustainably and healthily. Countries in places like North America and Europe are at the forefront of this movement.
The market is growing because of government support for safe and new food products. The growth of e-commerce platforms has had an effect on the Lactase Market in recent years. These platforms make lactase products easier for people in different parts of the world to find and buy.
This change in distribution makes it possible to reach more people, especially in places where lactose intolerance is common but access to specialized products has been limited.
Overall, the confluence of these trends suggests a dynamic and evolving landscape in the lactase sector, with significant potential for growth and diversification.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Lactase Market Drivers
Rising Incidence of Lactose Intolerance
The prevalence of lactose intolerance is a major driver for the Lactase Market. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), approximately 68 percent of the global population has some degree of lactose intolerance.
This indicates an increasing demand for lactose-free products, which are facilitated by the use of lactase enzymes. The Lactase Market is expected to benefit greatly from this trend because individuals with lactose intolerance are seeking alternatives to dairy products, thereby increasing the use of lactase-based solutions in various food and beverage applications, especially in regions with high lactose intolerance rates, such as Southeast Asia and Africa.
Additionally, organizations like the International Dairy Federation (IDF) are promoting awareness about lactose intolerance, further driving demand for lactase products.
As more consumers look for lactose-free options, this could potentially lead to significant growth in the lactase market, with a direct correlation to increased product offerings by major dairy and health food manufacturers.
Growing Health Consciousness Among Consumers
There is a significant trend toward health and wellness that drives the growth of the Lactase Market. Recent findings from the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasize that health-conscious diets, which often include lactose-free products, are becoming increasingly popular.
This has led to a forecasted annual growth rate of 6.58 percent in health-conscious product demand. With more consumers focusing on gut health and digestive wellness, the acceptance of lactase enzyme supplements and lactose-free dairy products is on the rise.
Brands like Danone and Lactalis are expanding their product lines to include lactase-enhanced dairy options, thereby catering to this health-focused demographic and fueling market growth.
The systematic rise in the consumption of functional foods reflects a broader trend in consumer behavior that aligns with increased investments by food manufacturers into Research and Development of lactose-free products.
Advancements in Enzyme Technology
Technological advancements in enzyme production and formulation are pivotal for the growth of the Lactase Market. Innovations such as improved fermentation techniques and synthetic biology are allowing manufacturers to produce lactase more efficiently and sustainably.
According to the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), advancements in enzyme technologies are projected to enhance enzyme stability and efficacy. This could potentially lead to a rise in product quality and consumer trust.
Major companies in the enzyme space, like Novozymes and DuPont, are investing heavily in Research and Development, resulting in superior lactase formulations that meet consumer demands for better taste and texture in lactose-free products.
The integration of these advanced technologies not only improves production efficiency but also opens up new market opportunities by enabling manufacturers to explore unique formulations and applications in various dietary contexts.
Lactase Market Segment Insights
Lactase Market Application Insights
The Lactase Market segmentation within the Application domain reveals substantial growth and diverse opportunities across various sectors.
By 2024, the market is set to achieve a valuation of approximately 1.24 USD billion, driven predominantly by the Food and Beverage sector, which holds a significant majority with a value of 0.5 USD billion and is projected to reach 1.0 USD billion by 2035.
This segment is critical as it supports a growing consumer preference for lactose-free products, catering to the increasing number of lactose-intolerant individuals globally.
Meanwhile, the Dietary Supplements segment has been valued at 0.25 USD billion in 2024, with expectations to double to 0.5 USD billion by 2035. This growth is propelled by the rising health consciousness among consumers seeking digestive health solutions, thus underscoring the segment's relevance in promoting overall well-being.
In the Pharmaceuticals domain, the market is valued at 0.2 USD Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach 0.4 USD billion by 2035. The growing awareness of health issues associated with lactose intolerance enhances the importance of lactase supplements in medication development to support digestive health.
Lastly, the Animal Feed segment, valued at 0.29 USD Billion in 2024 and expected to reach 0.6 USD Billion by 2035, highlights the livestock sector's need for quality feed options that include lactase to aid digestion in dairy animals, thus ensuring higher production efficiency.
Together, these segments represent essential components of the Lactase Market, paving the way for ongoing market growth driven by health trends and consumer demand for lactose-free options in food, supplements, pharmaceuticals, and animal nutrition.
The Lactase Market statistics clearly outline a dynamic landscape where each application contributes significantly to the overall market growth trajectory and resonates with emerging consumer preferences.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Lactase Market Source Insights
The Source segment of the Lactase Market is pivotal in shaping the industry landscape, which was valued at 1.24 billion USD in 2024. This segment encompasses three primary categories: Microbial, Plant, and Animal sources, each contributing uniquely to the overall market dynamics.
Microbial sources are particularly significant, as they offer a high yield of lactase enzymes, making them a popular choice in various applications, including dairy products and dietary supplements. Plant-based lactase is gaining traction due to the increasing consumer preference for vegan and vegetarian products, aligning with global trends towards sustainable consumption.
Meanwhile, Animal sources also maintain a substantial presence in the market, particularly in regions where traditional dairy processing methods are prevalent. The Lactase Market segmentation showcases the diverse applications and growing acceptance of different lactase sources across various demographic groups.
Key growth drivers include rising lactose intolerance awareness and increasing demand for dairy alternatives, presenting substantial opportunities for stakeholders within the sector. However, challenges such as raw material sourcing and potential regulatory hurdles highlight the complexities of navigating this market landscape.
The insights and statistics surrounding the Lactase Market reveal a robust and evolving sector, ready to meet the changing needs of the global consumer.
Lactase Market Form Insights
The Lactase Market, particularly in the Form segment, is experiencing significant growth. By 2024, the market is expected to be valued at 1.24 USD billion, reflecting a robust demand for lactase products. Within this segment, the forms of lactase are categorized into Liquid, Powder, and Granules, each playing a pivotal role in meeting diverse consumer needs.
Liquid forms are increasingly popular due to their ease of use in various food applications, enabling seamless integration into beverages. Powder forms offer convenience for food manufacturers while ensuring longer shelf life, thus catering to a range of industries, including dairy and dietary supplements.
Granules, though less common, serve specialized applications and can be tailored for specific uses, contributing to the market's diversity. The demand for lactose-free and low-lactose products is driving market growth, with consumers seeking alternatives due to health considerations.
Overall, the Lactase Market data shows a healthy growth trend, supported by rising awareness and an increasing consumer base looking for lactose-free options, creating substantial opportunities within this segment.
Lactase Market End User Insights
The Lactase Market demonstrates significant growth and segmentation based on its End Users, reflecting the increasing demand for lactose-free products across various industries.
By 2024, the market is expected to reach a valuation of USD 1.24 billion, with Food Manufacturers being a key driver due to the rising prevalence of lactose intolerance and consumer preference for lactose-free dairy options.
This segment is essential as it caters to the growing consumer base seeking healthier alternatives, bolstering market growth. Furthermore, Pharmaceutical Companies leverage lactase enzymes in medications, emphasizing their critical role in the health and wellness sector.
Retail Chains witness a robust demand for lactase products, as they offer diverse options to meet customer needs while enhancing shelf appeal and increasing sales volume.
Research Institutions contribute to the Lactase Market by focusing on innovative solutions and advancements in lactase applications, thereby supporting the industryโs progress.
As the market evolves, trends such as increasing health awareness and advancements in food processing technology will likely foster significant opportunities across all End User segments, reinforcing their impact on the overall market dynamics.
Lactase Market Regional Insights
The Lactase Market exhibited significant regional segmentation in 2024, showcasing diverse valuations across various regions. North America led the market with a valuation of 0.45 USD billion in 2024, which is expected to grow to 0.95 USD billion by 2035, highlighting its majority holding in the industry.
Europe followed closely with a value of 0.35 USD billion in 2024, anticipated to rise to 0.75 USD billion, reflecting the growing awareness of lactose intolerance and a demand for lactase supplements.
South America, although smaller, showed substantial growth potential, transitioning from 0.1 USD Billion to 0.2 USD Billion within the same period, emphasizing increasing lactose-free product trends.
Asia Pacific is projected to achieve a rise from 0.25 USD billion to 0.55 USD billion, driven by a rising population and changing dietary habits. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa, valued at 0.09 USD Billion in 2024 and expected to reach 0.15 USD Billion by 2035, indicate emerging opportunities as healthcare awareness improves.
This structured breakdown of the Lactase Market revenue underscores the importance of regional trends, where North America and Europe capture a significant share, driven by consumer health consciousness and increased lactase product availability.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Lactase Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The Lactase Market has witnessed significant growth as consumer demand for lactose-free products rises due to the increasing prevalence of lactose intolerance globally. In this competitive landscape, various companies are vying for market share, presenting different strengths and unique selling propositions that distinguish them from one another.
The market is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging companies, each leveraging advancements in technology and research to meet consumer preferences effectively.
Market players are focusing on product innovations driven by health consciousness, the rise of veganism, and the demand for enriched dairy products. Furthermore, strategic partnerships, collaborations, and acquisitions are common as companies look to enhance their product portfolios and expand their global footprint, indicating a dynamic and evolving environment within the lactase sector.
Lactalis Ingredients stands as a robust player in the Lactase Market, backed by a strong reputation and extensive distribution networks. The company's strength lies in its ability to capitalize on its established brand presence and experience in the dairy industry.
Lactalis Ingredients offers a diverse range of lactase products designed for various applications, positioning itself as a key solution provider for lactose intolerance issues. Its focus on innovation ensures that it meets the evolving needs of consumers seeking healthy and lactose-free alternatives.
By continually increasing its research and development efforts, Lactalis Ingredients enhances its product offerings, solidifying its competitive advantage in the market. Additionally, the company's strategic approach of forging partnerships with food manufacturers and retailers amplifies its market presence, allowing for wider consumer reach and brand loyalty.
Aumgene Biosciences is another noteworthy entity in the Lactase Market, distinguished by its commitment to biotechnological advancements and high-quality lactose-free solutions.
The company specializes in offering a range of lactase enzymes that cater to the needs of both pharmaceutical and food sectors, highlighting its versatility and adaptability in diverse applications.
Aumgene Biosciences is recognized for its innovative product development, which is reflected in its continued emphasis on research and technological investment.
This commitment also positions the company favorably during mergers and acquisitions, as its expertise makes it an attractive partner or acquisition target for larger firms seeking to expand their capabilities in the lactase domain.
Through its focused growth strategies and dedication to high-quality solutions, Aumgene Biosciences is ensuring a firm foothold in the global arena, promoting increased awareness and accessibility of lactose-free products to consumers worldwide.
Key Companies in the Lactase Market Include
- Lactalis Ingredients
- Aumgene Biosciences
- DuPont
- Abcam
- Thermo Fisher Scientific
- Enzyme Development Corp
- Novozymes
- Kemin Industries
- Hansen
- DSM
Lactase Market Developments
The Lactase Market has seen some big changes in the last few months. This is because more people are looking for lactose-free products and more people are becoming lactose intolerant around the world. DuPont (now part of IFF's Health & Biosciences division) and Novozymes are two companies that have continued to improve their ability to make enzymes, which has led to new ideas in the dairy processing industry.
In September 2023, Chr. Hansen said it would be expanding its fermentation and enzyme production facility in Denmark. This facility makes enzymes that can be used in applications like lactase.
Meanwhile, DSM has stayed active in the enzyme market. Even though it hasn't bought Enzyme Development Corp yet, it has made enzyme-related partnerships and investments, especially in 2022 and 2023, to improve its food and nutrition portfolio.
Kemin Industries and Thermo Fisher Scientific are also working on research and development to make enzymes work better, make formulations more stable, and make processing easier for dairy and dietary supplement uses. These changes show how important lactase is becoming in both the food and nutraceutical industries, and they suggest that the market will keep growing through 2025.
Lactase Market Segmentation Insights
-
Lactase Market Application Outlook
- Food and Beverage
- Dietary Supplements
- Pharmaceuticals
- Animal Feed
-
Lactase Market Source Outlook
-
Lactase Market Form Outlook
-
Lactase Market End User Outlook
- Food Manufacturers
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Retail Chains
- Research Institutions
-
Lactase Market Regional Outlook
- North America
- Europe
- South America
- Asia Pacific
- Middle East and Africa
Report Attribute/Metric
|
Details
|
Market Size 2023
|
1.16 (USD Billion)
|
Market Size 2024
|
1.24 (USD Billion)
|
Market Size 2035
|
2.5 (USD Billion)
|
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)
|
6.58% (2025 - 2035)
|
Report Coverage
|
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
|
Base Year
|
2024
|
Market Forecast Period
|
2025 - 2035
|
Historical Data
|
2019 - 2024
|
Market Forecast Units
|
USD Billion
|
Key Companies Profiled
|
Lactalis Ingredients, Aumgene Biosciences, DuPont, Abcam, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Enzyme Development Corp, Novozymes, Kemin Industries, Chr. Hansen, DSM
|
Segments Covered
|
Application, Source, Form, End User, Regional
|
Key Market Opportunities
|
Growing vegan and lactose-free trends, Rising demand for digestive health products, Expansion in dietary supplements market, Increasing lactose intolerance awareness, Innovation in lactase enzyme applications
|
Key Market Dynamics
|
Increasing lactose intolerance prevalence, Growing demand for dairy alternatives, Rising health consciousness among consumers, Technological advancements in enzyme production, Expanding applications in the food industry
|
Countries Covered
|
North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA
|
Lactase Market Highlights:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The Lactase Market is expected to be valued at 1.24 billion USD by 2024.
By 2035, the Lactase Market is anticipated to reach a value of 2.5 billion USD.
The Lactase Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.58% from 2025 to 2035.
North America is anticipated to dominate the Lactase Market with a valuation of 0.45 billion USD in 2024.
The Food and Beverage application segment is projected to be valued at 1.0 billion USD by 2035.
The Dietary Supplements segment is expected to reach a valuation of 0.5 billion USD in 2035.
Key players in the Lactase Market include Lactalis Ingredients, DuPont, BASF, and Novozymes.
The Animal Feed segment of the Lactase Market is expected to be valued at 0.6 billion USD by 2035.
The Middle East and Africa region is valued at 0.09 billion USD in 2024.
Challenges may include regulatory hurdles and competition among key players that could impact market growth.