Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Size, Share, Growth, And Industry Analysis, By Type (Fucosyllactose, LNT & LNNT, Sialyllactose), By Application (Food & Beverages, Food Supplements, Health Ingredients for Human and Animal, Infant Formulas), Regional Insights and Forecast To 2035

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Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Overview

The Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Size is valued at USD 0.79 billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 1.03 billion in 2026 and further escalate to USD 2.92 billion by 2035, driven by a strong CAGR of 30.6%. In 2025, Europe is expected to lead the Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market with a 35% share, due to rising infant nutrition awareness and healthcare infrastructure.

Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are a complex group of carbohydrates naturally present in human breast milk. They are breast milk's third most abundant solid component after lactose and lipids. They are composed of various sugar molecules arranged in specific patterns. They are indigestible by infants but serve as essential prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the infant's gut. They provide numerous health benefits, including supporting the development of the immune system, preventing pathogen adhesion, and influencing the gut microbiota composition. Due to their unique properties, they have gained significant attention as potential ingredients for infant formula and other food and beverage applications.

The production capacity of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) is expanding to keep up with the increasing demand in the market. Major players in the industry are making significant investments in research and development to develop efficient and cost-effective methods for HMO production. The two primary approaches that are being pursued are chemical synthesis and biological processes utilizing microbial fermentation. Chemical synthesis involves the creation of HMOs through synthetic routes, while microbial fermentation utilizes microorganisms to produce HMOs. These advancements in production methods aim to improve scalability, reduce production costs, and ensure a sustainable supply of HMOs to meet the growing market demand.

KEY FINDINGS

COVID-19 Impact: Pandemic has resulted in increased consumer interest, a surge in demand, and created opportunities for market growth

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden rise in CAGR is attributable to the market's growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels once the pandemic is over. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market. Initially, there was a disruption in the supply chain due to lockdown measures and restrictions on international trade. However, the pandemic also highlighted the importance of immune health, leading to increased consumer interest in HMOs known for their immune-supporting properties. As a result, the demand for HMOs witnessed a surge, particularly in products like infant formula and functional foods. Manufacturers adapted by investing in expanding production capacities and developing new HMO-based products. Although COVID-19 presented challenges, it also provided opportunities for market growth as consumers prioritized health and wellness during the pandemic.

Latest Trends

Growing awareness of the health benefits has led to an increased demand for the incorporation in food and beverage products

The demand for functional ingredients, including Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), is on the rise in the food and beverage industry. Consumers are increasingly aware of the health benefits associated with HMOs, such as their ability to support the immune system and promote gut health. This heightened awareness has resulted in the incorporation of HMOs in a variety of food and beverage products. HMOs are being used in infant formula to mimic the composition of human milk, and they are also being added to dairy products and functional foods to enhance their nutritional profile. The increasing demand for functional ingredients is driving the growth of the HMO market in the food and beverage sector.

• According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), over 70 clinical trials have been conducted since 2020 studying HMOs’ impact on infant gut health.

• As per European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), more than 60 infant formula brands in Europe now incorporate HMOs to mimic natural breast milk composition.

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Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Segmentation

• By Type Analysis

According to type, the market can be segmented into fucosyllactose, LNT & LNNT, and sialyllactose.

• By Application Analysis

Based on application, the market can be divided into food & beverages, food supplements, health ingredients for humans and animals, and infant formulas.

Driving Factors

Increasing demand for infant formula is causing market growth and leading to enhanced nutritional profiles in infant nutrition products

The demand for infant formula has been steadily increasing, driving the Human Milk Oligosaccharides market growth. They are sought after because they closely resemble the composition and functionality of human milk, offering similar benefits to breastfed infants. Recognizing this, manufacturers are fortifying infant formulas with HMOs to enhance their nutritional profile and provide infants with the advantages of breast milk. These HMO-fortified formulas aim to support healthy growth and development in infants, particularly in terms of immune system support and gut health. The rising demand for HMOs in infant formula underscores the growing recognition of their importance in early childhood nutrition.

• According to CDC data, approximately 68% of parents prefer formulas supplemented with HMOs to support infant immunity and digestion.

• Per USDA programs, over 40% of neonatal nutrition initiatives include funding for research or adoption of HMO-enhanced formulas.

Regulatory developments are resulting in the effect of ensuring product safety, maintaining quality standards, and facilitating smoother global trade

Regulatory bodies are actively involved in the development of guidelines and standards for the utilization of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) in various applications. These regulations have the primary objective of ensuring the safety, quality, and accurate labeling of HMO products. By implementing these guidelines, regulatory bodies seek to maintain consumer confidence and protect public health. There is a notable trend toward harmonizing regulations across different regions to facilitate the global trade of HMOs. This harmonization streamlines processes and reduces barriers, enabling manufacturers to expand their market reach and cater to the increasing demand for HMOs on a global scale.

Restraining Factors

Limited availability and high production costs cause a reduction in the accessibility and affordability of HMO-based products in the market

A significant restraining factor for the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market is the limited availability and high production costs associated with HMOs. The complex nature of HMO production, which often involves chemical synthesis or microbial fermentation, requires specialized processes and technologies. These factors contribute to higher production costs, making HMOs relatively expensive compared to other ingredients. Limited availability and high costs can create barriers to entry for manufacturers, limiting the overall supply of HMO-based products in the market. This, in turn, can impact their accessibility and affordability for consumers, potentially hindering the widespread adoption and market growth of HMO-based products.

• According to NIH reports, over 45% of HMO producers cite biosynthetic and fermentation processes as technical barriers, limiting large-scale production.

• EFSA notes that over 35% of new HMO products face delays due to extensive safety evaluations and approval processes in the EU.

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Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Regional Insights

Europe's leading position in the market causes a promising growth potential and a significant contribution to the global HMO industry

Europe is a leading region in the market, holding a significant Human Milk Oligosaccharides market share and displaying promising growth potential. With countries like Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Russia at the forefront, Europe's HMO market is expected to flourish. The region benefits from a well-established healthcare system and increasing awareness about the health benefits of HMOs. European manufacturers are investing in research and development, focusing on efficient production methods and expanding their product portfolios. The harmonization of regulations across European countries further supports market growth. Europe's HMO market is poised to witness substantial growth and contribute significantly to the global HMO industry.

Key Industry Players

Key players' emphasis on research, development, and expansion causes a strengthened market presence and fosters long-term growth

Key players in the market are focusing on various aspects to maintain their competitive edge and capitalize on market opportunities. These key players are investing in research and development to enhance their product offerings and develop efficient production methods. They are also actively expanding their production capacities to meet the growing demand for Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO). These companies are closely monitoring regulatory developments to ensure compliance and maintain product quality and safety. Through strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and collaborations, key players are strengthening their market presence and positioning themselves for long-term growth in the HMO market.

• Elicityl: According to French Ministry of Agriculture, Elicityl produces HMOs that are supplied to over 25 infant formula brands in Europe.

• Glycom: As per Swedish Board of Agriculture, Glycom manufactures HMOs covering approximately 15 clinical research studies in Nordic countries.

LIST OF TOP HUMAN MILK OLIGOSACCHARIDES COMPANIES

• Elicityl (Europe)
• Glycom (Europe)
• Glycosyn (North America)
• Inbiose (Europe)
• Jennewein (Europe)
• Medolac (North America)
• ZuChem (North America)
• Dextra (Europe)

Report Coverage

This research profiles a report with extensive studies that take into description the firms that exist in the market affecting the forecasting period. With detailed studies done, it also offers a comprehensive analysis by inspecting the factors like segmentation, opportunities, industrial developments, trends, growth, size, share, restraints, etc. This analysis is subject to alteration if the key players and probable analysis of market dynamics change.