Market Overview
The Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Market was valued US$ 196.5 million in 2022 and is projected to witness lucrative growth by reaching up to US$ 850.5 million by 2030. The market is growing at a CAGR of 20.1% during the forecast period 2023-2030.
HMOs are known to support the immune system, promote gut health, and aid in cognitive development. As awareness spreads among healthcare professionals and consumers, there is a rising demand for HMO-based products across various age groups, including infants, children, and adults.
HMOs are considered prebiotics as they selectively stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. The prebiotic properties of HMOs are gaining attention in the market, with increased research focusing on their impact on gut microbiota and associated health benefits. The understanding of the gut-brain axis and the role of gut health in overall well-being further drive the interest in HMOs as prebiotic ingredients.
Market Dynamics
The Rising Infant Population is Driving the Market Growth of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO)
The global birth rate has been increasing globally. According to the UN 385,000 newborns are born every day. That totals more than 140 million annually. This higher birth rate leads to a larger population of infants requiring proper nutrition. As parents become more conscious of the nutritional needs of their infants, there is a growing demand for infant formula and other infant nutrition products, including those enriched with HMOs.
There has been a shift in infant feeding practices, particularly in regions where breastfeeding rates have historically been low. Factors such as urbanization, changing lifestyles, and the increasing number of working mothers contribute to the rise in alternative feeding methods, including the use of infant formula. As a result, there is an increased demand for formula products that closely resemble the composition and benefits of human breast milk, which includes the incorporation of HMOs.
Awareness of HMO Benefits is Driving Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Market Growth
HMOs are natural components found in human breast milk and have been shown to provide numerous health benefits to infants. They support the development of healthy gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune system development. HMOs are also associated with reduced risks of infections, allergies, and certain diseases. As awareness of these benefits grows, parents and healthcare professionals actively seek out HMO-based products to provide optimal nutrition and support the health of infants.
There is increasing recognition of the importance of healthy gut microbiota in overall well-being. HMOs act as prebiotics, selectively nourishing beneficial gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria. They promote the growth of these beneficial bacteria while inhibiting the growth of harmful pathogens. As research continues to unveil the significant role of the gut microbiota in various aspects of health, including immune function and cognitive development, the awareness and demand for HMOs as a means to support healthy gut microbiota is growing.
Regulatory and Intellectual Property Issues can Hamper the Growth of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Market
HMOs used in food and dietary supplement products must adhere to regulatory requirements set by governing bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). These regulations govern aspects such as safety, labeling, and health claims associated with HMO-based products. Meeting these regulations can be complex and time-consuming, requiring substantial resources and expertise. Difficulties in obtaining regulatory approvals may delay product launches or limit the market entry of HMO-based products.
Intellectual property rights play a crucial role in innovation and market competition. Companies invest in research and development efforts to create novel HMO compositions, manufacturing processes, and applications. Obtaining patents protects these innovations and provides companies with exclusivity and competitive advantage. However, intellectual property issues can hamper market growth if there are significant patent disputes, legal challenges, or restrictions on the use of proprietary technologies. This can limit the entry of new players and hinder the development of innovative HMO-based products.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis
The COVID-19 Analysis includes Pre-COVID Scenario, COVID Scenario, and Post-COVID Scenario along with Pricing Dynamics (Including pricing change during and post-pandemic comparing it to pre-COVID scenarios), Demand-Supply Spectrum (Shift in demand and supply owing to trading restrictions, lockdown, and subsequent issues), Government Initiatives (Initiatives to revive market, sector or Industry by Government Bodies) and Manufacturers Strategic Initiatives (What manufacturers did to mitigate the COVID issues will be covered here).

Segment Analysis
The global human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) market is segmented based on product, type, application, and region.
Abundance of 2’-Fucosyllactose (2’FL) in Human Milk
The global Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market has been segmented by Infant Formula, Dietary Supplements, Functional Food & Beverages, Others
In 2022, based on application, the infant formula held the highest share of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market.
The global demand for infant formula has been steadily increasing, driven by factors such as urbanization, changing lifestyles, and the rise in the number of working mothers. According to the Babytree/Nielsen research Infant formula makes up the great bulk of the baby care market, accounting for 72% of all sales. With more parents opting for infant formula as an alternative to breastfeeding, the demand for high-quality and nutritionally enriched formulas, including those containing HMOs, has risen significantly.
Infant formula serves as a substitute for breast milk components when breastfeeding is not possible or insufficient. HMOs are an essential component of breast milk, contributing to various health benefits for infants, including supporting the immune system, gut health, and cognitive development. The inclusion of HMOs in infant formula is aimed at providing similar benefits and promoting the growth and development of formula-fed infants.

Geographical Analysis
Growing Health Consciousness in North America Regions
In 2022, the North American region had a significant share of the Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market. North America has a well-established healthcare infrastructure and advanced research and development capabilities. The region is home to several prominent pharmaceutical and nutrition companies that are actively engaged in HMO research and product development. The strong healthcare infrastructure facilitates the production, distribution, and marketing of HMO-based products, contributing to the region’s significant market share.
North America is home to several key market players in the HMO industry, including manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. These companies have the expertise, resources, and market reach to drive the growth of HMO-based products in the region. The presence of established market players strengthens the market position of North America in the HMO industry.

Competitive Landscape
The major global players in the market include Elicityl SA, Medolac Laboratories, Inbiose NV, Glycosyn, ZuChem, Jennewein Biotechnologie GmbH, Glycom A/S, Dextra Laboratories Limited, DuPont Nutrition & Health, Nestl? Health Science
Why Purchase the Report?

  • To visualize the global human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) market segmentation based on product, type, application and region, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
  • Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.
  • Excel data sheet with numerous data points of human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) market-level with all segments.
  • PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
  • Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.


The Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Market Report Would Provide Approximately 61 Tables, 63 Figures, and 102 Pages.
Target Audience 2023

  • Manufacturers/ Buyers
  • Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
  • Research Professionals
  • Emerging Companies