Lactase Market by Product Type (Enzymes, Supplements); By Application (Food and Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals); By End-User (Households, Food Manufacturers, Healthcare Providers); By Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, LAMEA), Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030.

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Lactase Market is positioned to experience substantial growth in the coming years, with an anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% from 2024 to 2030 , expected to reach a market size of USD 1.8 billion by 2030 , up from USD 1.2 billion in 2024 , confirms Strategic Market Research. Lactase, an enzyme used to break down lactose in dairy products, has seen a rise in demand, driven by the growing prevalence of lactose intolerance, increased awareness of digestive health, and the expanding availability of lactose-free dairy products.

 

Several macroeconomic forces are driving this market, including a significant rise in the global incidence of lactose intolerance, especially in regions such as Asia and Africa. Additionally, the dairy industry has undergone significant innovation, with lactose-free alternatives increasingly becoming a staple in the consumer market. Health-conscious consumers are actively seeking lactose-free options, contributing to increased product demand.

 

The key stakeholders involved in the lactase market include:

• Enzyme Manufacturers : Developing new and improved lactase enzymes for better efficiency and consumer preference.

• Food and Beverage Producers : Adapting products to cater to lactose-intolerant populations.

• Healthcare Providers : Educating and advising on the use of lactase supplements for digestive health.

• Governments and Regulatory Bodies : Mandating food safety and ensuring the quality and consistency of lactase products used in food and dietary supplements.

With the continued rise in lactose intolerance diagnoses and the growing global preference for lactose-free products, the lactase market is expected to expand dynamically over the next decade.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The lactase market can be segmented along several dimensions to reflect diverse consumer needs, technological advancements, and regional preferences. Here's a breakdown of key segments:

By Product Type

• Lactase Enzymes : These products are typically sold in both liquid and powder forms, catering to both the food industry and supplement markets. They are the core of the market, with enzymes enabling the conversion of lactose in dairy products.

• Lactase Supplements : Widely used by individuals who suffer from lactose intolerance, supplements come in both capsule and tablet forms and are expected to grow as more consumers adopt lactose-free diets.

In 2024 , enzyme-based products represent 65% of market revenue , while supplements are showing an increasing market share due to rising consumer demand.

 

By Application

• Food and Beverages : The primary application of lactase enzymes is within the dairy and dairy alternatives industry. This includes products like lactose-free milk, yogurt, ice cream, and other dairy substitutes, where lactase helps reduce the lactose content.

• Pharmaceutical and Nutraceuticals : Lactase is also commonly used in over-the-counter supplements to help individuals with lactose intolerance digest dairy products.

In 2024 , the food and beverage segment accounts for 58% of the market revenue, with the nutraceutical sector expanding rapidly as more people turn to dietary supplements for managing lactose intolerance.

 

By End User

• Households : The largest consumer base of lactase supplements and lactose-free dairy products, driven by the growing awareness of lactose intolerance and digestive health.

• Food Manufacturers : Companies producing lactose-free dairy products or incorporating lactase into various processed foods represent a substantial portion of the market.

• Healthcare Providers : Hospitals and clinics also use lactase supplements for patients with lactose intolerance and digestive issues.

 

By Region

• North America : The region is expected to hold the largest market share, with significant demand for lactose-free products due to a high prevalence of lactose intolerance, especially among adults.

• Asia Pacific : Anticipated to be the fastest-growing region, driven by increasing lactose intolerance rates and greater acceptance of lactose-free diets in countries like China and India.

The North American market is forecast to dominate in 2024 , representing 45% of the total revenue, while Asia Pacific is expected to witness the highest CAGR at 9.3% from 2024 to 2030.

As consumer awareness around digestive health increases and lactose intolerance becomes a more recognized condition, market growth in Asia-Pacific and other emerging economies is expected to rise considerably.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

The lactase market is riding several trends that are reshaping the food and healthcare industries. These trends include:

Increasing Prevalence of Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is becoming more common, particularly in non-Western countries, and has directly contributed to the rise in demand for lactose-free products. Growing consumer awareness and health concerns regarding digestive issues are fueling market growth.

 

Advancements in Lactase Production and Efficiency

Technological advancements in enzyme production are improving the efficiency of lactase enzymes. The development of high-performance enzymes, which require smaller amounts of active ingredient to be effective, is lowering production costs and improving the overall consumer experience.

 

Integration of Lactase in Plant-Based Alternatives

With the rise of vegan and plant-based diets, lactase is increasingly being used to cater to the growing plant-based milk sector. This includes the use of lactase in almond milk, oat milk, and soy-based beverages, addressing the demand for dairy alternatives.

 

Personalized Health and Supplementation

The nutraceutical sector is also innovating by focusing on personalized dietary solutions. Lactase supplements tailored to individual digestive needs are becoming more popular, with research suggesting the potential for custom lactase supplements based on genetic testing and digestive enzyme profiling.

 

Green Chemistry and Sustainability

Sustainability is playing an increasing role in enzyme production. Companies are focusing on developing lactase products using environmentally friendly production processes, minimizing waste, and improving product sustainability.

These innovations will continue to fuel market growth, particularly as demand for dairy alternatives and sustainable food solutions rises.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

In the lactase market , the competition is relatively concentrated, with a few key players dominating the market. Here's a snapshot of some of the major companies involved:

DSM

A global leader in enzyme manufacturing, DSM is leveraging its long-standing expertise in enzyme technology. The company focuses on providing high-quality lactase solutions for both the food industry and individual consumers. DSM’s strategy is centered around offering eco-friendly and efficient enzymes that cater to growing demands in dairy production and the plant-based sector.

 

Chr. Hansen

Chr. Hansen is renowned for its broad range of lactase products used in dairy and nutraceutical applications. The company has invested heavily in R&D to develop enzymes that are both more cost-effective and sustainable, positioning itself as a leader in enzyme technology. Chr. Hansen is expected to maintain a stronghold in the market due to its focus on natural and clean-label ingredients.

 

Novozymes

As a prominent player in the global enzyme market, Novozymes offers a range of lactase products used for lactose-free dairy products. The company's innovative focus on the plant-based dairy market, combined with its robust production capabilities, ensures its market leadership.

 

DuPont

DuPont, through its subsidiary Danisco, provides lactase enzymes that support the growing lactose-free dairy market. DuPont's competitive strategy revolves around its ability to scale enzyme production while offering sustainable solutions to food manufacturers globally.

These companies focus on differentiating themselves through innovation, R&D investments, and sustainability, while also expanding their geographic reach.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The lactase market shows significant variation across regions due to different dietary habits, levels of lactose intolerance awareness, and regulatory environments.

North America

In North America , the prevalence of lactose intolerance among adults and children is high, which drives strong demand for lactose-free dairy products and lactase supplements. The U.S. and Canada remain key markets, with well-established consumer bases for lactose-free foods.

 

Europe

Europe is another mature market for lactase, with steady demand from the food and beverage sector. Regulations on food labeling and health-conscious consumer trends push the adoption of lactose-free products, especially in countries like Germany, the UK, and France.

 

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is witnessing the highest growth rate in the lactase market, with China, India, and Japan being key drivers. The region's growing awareness of lactose intolerance and the rise of plant-based diets are expected to increase demand for lactase enzymes in dairy and plant-based alternatives.

 

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa

Both Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets for lactase. While adoption is currently low, it is anticipated to grow as awareness of lactose intolerance rises and consumers begin seeking alternatives to traditional dairy.

The key takeaway is that North America and Europe will continue to dominate the market, but the highest growth potential lies in Asia Pacific, where increasing lactose intolerance diagnoses and dietary shifts are accelerating demand.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

End users of lactase products are diverse, ranging from individual consumers to large food manufacturers and healthcare providers. Here's a breakdown:

Food and Beverage Manufacturers

This segment represents the largest end user, with dairy producers adding lactase to milk and other dairy products to create lactose-free options. As the trend for plant-based diets grows, the use of lactase is expanding into the production of plant-based milks.

 

Healthcare Providers

Lactase is increasingly recommended by healthcare providers to help manage lactose intolerance symptoms in patients. Lactase supplements, taken before consuming dairy, are common in clinical settings.

 

Individual Consumers

Consumers are the primary end users of lactase supplements. As awareness of lactose intolerance rises, more individuals are choosing to use lactase to prevent digestive discomfort from dairy consumption.

 

Use Case Example

A family in the U.S. uses lactase supplements when consuming dairy products, as their child suffers from lactose intolerance. This allows the child to enjoy dairy without experiencing discomfort, and it highlights the convenience of lactase supplementation in everyday life.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments

• DSM launched a new sustainable lactase enzyme for plant-based dairy, catering to the rising vegan and lactose-free market.

• Novozymes expanded its research into next-generation lactase enzymes that require lower doses and deliver faster results.

• Chr. Hansen collaborated with dairy manufacturers in Europe to create more eco-friendly lactase solutions.

 

Opportunities

• Emerging Markets : Asia-Pacific represents the greatest growth potential for lactase products.

• Personalized Nutrition : Personalized lactase supplements could cater to unique consumer needs based on digestive health profiles.

 

Restraints

• High Costs of Lactase Products : Advanced lactase enzymes and supplements can be costly, potentially limiting market penetration in low-income regions.

• Lack of Awareness : In some regions, consumers may not yet fully understand lactose intolerance or the benefits of lactase supplements.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 1.2 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 1.8 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 7.4% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Product Type, By Application, By End-User, By Geography
By Product Type	Enzymes, Supplements
By Application	Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals
By End-User	Households, Food Manufacturers, Healthcare Providers
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAMEA
Country Scope	U.S., Canada, Germany, China, India, Japan, Brazil, etc.
Market Drivers	Growing demand for lactose-free products, increasing consumer awareness of lactose intolerance, advancements in lactase technology
Customization	Available upon request