The global Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market is poised for remarkable growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing awareness of the health benefits of breast milk and the rising demand for infant nutrition products. HMOs, naturally occurring carbohydrates found in human breast milk, play a vital role in enhancing gut health, boosting immunity, and supporting brain development. With an increasing focus on the nutritional needs of infants, as well as rising investments in HMO research and production, the HMO market is projected to reach substantial figures by 2034.

The global human milk oligosaccharides market size was valued at USD 255.86 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 292.09 million in 2025 to USD 1,821.29 million by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 22.60% during 2025–2034.

Market Overview

The Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market has emerged as a key component of the global infant nutrition and functional food sectors. HMOs are recognized for their essential role in shaping the gut microbiome of infants, promoting the development of healthy immune systems, and reducing the risk of infections. These complex sugars are now being included in infant formula and functional foods, as well as in the development of medical treatments and dietary supplements.

Recent advances in biotechnology and the growing interest in understanding the human microbiome have accelerated the production and commercialization of HMOs. These factors, coupled with a growing number of strategic partnerships between biotechnology companies and global infant formula producers, are expected to drive the market's growth.

The market for HMOs is being shaped by rising consumer demand for infant nutrition products that mimic the benefits of breastfeeding. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of preterm births, along with an aging population and the rise of health-conscious consumers, further supports the demand for HMO-enriched products.

Market Segmentation

The Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market is segmented based on the following factors:

1. By Product Type

• 2'-Fucosyllactose (2'-FL)
• Lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT)
• 3'-Fucosyllactose (3'-FL)
• Disialyllactose (DSL)
• Others (LNT, DFL, and more)

Among these, 2'-Fucosyllactose (2'-FL) is expected to hold the largest share in the HMO market. This HMO is the most abundant in human milk and has demonstrated multiple health benefits, including promoting gut health, enhancing immune function, and supporting brain development. As a result, it is increasingly being used in infant formulas and dietary supplements.

2. By Application

• Infant Formula
• Functional Foods and Beverages
• Dietary Supplements
• Pharmaceuticals

The infant formula segment is anticipated to dominate the market due to the increasing demand for infant nutrition products that support healthy growth and development. HMOs are now being incorporated into infant formulas to mimic the beneficial properties of breast milk, which has become a significant trend among manufacturers.

3. By Source

• Bovine Milk
• Synthetic HMOs (via fermentation technology)
• Others (including plant-based sources)

The synthetic HMO segment is expected to grow rapidly as manufacturers develop cost-effective and scalable methods to produce HMOs through fermentation. Companies are leveraging advanced biotechnological techniques to produce HMOs on a large scale, reducing production costs and making these functional ingredients more accessible to a global market.

4. By Formulation

• Powdered
• Liquid
• Others

Powdered HMOs are likely to dominate the market due to their easy incorporation into infant formula, dietary supplements, and other nutritional products. Their long shelf life and ease of storage make them an attractive choice for manufacturers.

𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞 @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/human-milk-oligosaccharides-hmo-market

Regional Analysis

The Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market is growing across various regions, with North America and Europe leading in terms of market share. However, other regions like Asia-Pacific are seeing significant growth due to rising awareness of infant nutrition and healthcare improvements.

1. North America
   North America holds the largest share of the HMO market, driven by advanced healthcare systems, high levels of awareness regarding infant nutrition, and the presence of key market players. The United States, in particular, has witnessed the rapid adoption of HMOs in infant formula products. Regulatory agencies such as the U.S. FDA are also ensuring that HMO-enriched products meet safety standards, which further enhances the market's growth prospects.
2. Europe
   Europe is also a key player in the global HMO market. European countries, including Germany, France, and the UK, are focusing on advanced healthcare and infant nutrition, with an increasing number of companies incorporating HMOs into infant formulas and functional foods. European consumers are becoming more health-conscious, which is further driving the demand for HMO-based products.
3. Asia-Pacific
   The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is expected to experience the highest growth rate in the HMO market due to rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing awareness about infant health. The increasing number of working mothers and the rise in the number of preterm births are driving the demand for infant formulas enriched with HMOs. Moreover, key economies such as China, India, and Japan are embracing HMO-based nutritional products.
4. Latin America and Middle East & Africa
   Both Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets for HMOs. While the market size is relatively small compared to North America and Europe, the demand for high-quality infant nutrition products is rising steadily. Increased healthcare awareness and improvements in healthcare infrastructure in countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia are contributing to this growth.

Key Companies Operating in the HMO Market

Several key players are actively driving the growth of the HMO market, focusing on innovation, research and development, and strategic partnerships. Some of the prominent companies in this market include:

1. Nestlé S.A.
   As one of the leading players in the global food and beverage industry, Nestlé has made significant investments in the development of HMO-based infant formulas. Their strategic partnerships with biotech companies have helped them incorporate HMOs into their product offerings, positioning them as a major player in the market.
2. Danone S.A.
   Danone, a global leader in dairy and infant nutrition, has expanded its portfolio to include HMO-enriched products. The company's commitment to sustainability and health has fueled the adoption of HMOs in its infant formula products.
3. BASF SE
   BASF, a global chemical and nutrition company, is actively investing in the research and production of HMOs through its advanced biotechnological processes. The company aims to offer sustainable, high-quality HMOs to infant nutrition manufacturers.
4. Dupont de Nemours, Inc.
   DuPont is another key player in the HMO market, with a focus on the development of synthetic HMOs. The company's innovation in fermentation-based production techniques allows them to produce HMOs at scale, lowering production costs while maintaining quality.
5. Jennewein Biotechnologie GmbH
   A leader in the production of HMOs, Jennewein Biotechnologie focuses on providing high-quality, naturally derived HMOs for use in infant nutrition, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals. Their expertise in fermentation technology has positioned them as a market leader.
6. Abbott Laboratories
   Abbott has been at the forefront of developing HMO-enriched infant formula products. The company's investment in research and development, combined with its global reach, positions it as one of the leading players in the infant nutrition sector.

Conclusion

The Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market is experiencing strong growth, driven by a combination of increasing demand for infant nutrition products, growing consumer awareness about the health benefits of HMOs, and technological advancements in HMO production. With the market's expansion fueled by the rise in demand for functional foods, dietary supplements, and pharmaceutical applications, companies are investing in research, development, and strategic partnerships to capitalize on the growing consumer base.

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