The global kefir market size is expected to reach USD 1.46 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.0% over the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Consumers across the globe have been including items in their diet that are conducive to a healthier lifestyle. This has created opportunity for kefir products as they are known for their beneficial properties. Rapid adoption of kefir as fermented milk products among the consumers has propelled manufacturers to innovate and launch new products in order to increase visibility and market penetration.

For instance, in August 2019, COYO Pty Ltd., an Australia-based company, launched non-dairy kefir drinks. The product is a probiotic coconut milk and is available in four flavors, including natural, vanilla, mango, and strawberry. The product is available across U.S. and countries of Europe. It is available in bottles of 28 ounce, 200mL, and 500mL.The price ranges between GBP 2.95 and GBP 4.35. These products are certified for organic, dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, sugar-free, and vegan.

Similarly, in August 2019, Astro, a subsidiary of Parmalat Canada Inc., launched kefir probiotic yoghurt and drinkable yoghurt. These products are available in three flavors, including plain, vanilla, strawberry or blueberry pomegranate. They contain various ingredients, including skim milk and milk powder, cream, active bacterial cultures, and natural flavor. The 500-gram yoghurt tub is available for USD 3.69 and an 8x100g multipack is available for USD 6.99.

Moreover, in March 2018, Biotiful Dairy Ltd. introduced Kefir Cheese that offers a healthier alternative to cottage cheese and cream cheese. The product is known to have a light and creamy taste and can be used to compliment a salad, crackers, and crunchy vegetables. The product is filling, nutritious, gut-friendly, protein rich, and low in fat. It is available in three flavors, including herbs and garlic, original, and red pepper and cumin.

In June 2019, BioZen launched sugar free fruit kefir in Brazil. The product includes blackberry and white grape with lemongrass. 95% of the consumer base comprises women and health-conscious individuals. The company is also trying to reach the men segment.

Further Key findings from the study suggest:

  • Plant-based products are expected to expand at the fastest CAGR of 5.4% from 2020 to 2027 owing to growing adoption of veganism and increasing preference for these products among people who are allergic to milk
  • Online distribution channel is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR of 6.4% from 2020 to 2027. This channel is expected to remain one of the key shopping channels as it offers high level of convenience to the buyers
  • Europe dominated the kefir market with a share of more than 45% in 2019. The growth is attributed to high penetration of kefir in the households of Eastern Europe and Scandinavian countries
  • Key market participants include LIFEWAY FOODS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES, Maple Hill Creamery, LLC., Green Valley Creamery, Redwood Hill Farm & Creamery, Danone North America Public Benefit Corporation, Evolve Kefir, NANCY’S, The Icelandic Milk and Skyr Corporation, Forager Project, and KeVita.com. New product launch is expected to remain a key success factor for the market players in the near future.