Kefir Market is Rising Awareness about Probiotic Food and Beverages
Kefir is a fermented dairy product made by inoculating cow, goat, or sheep milk with kefir grains. Kefir is a probiotic drink with numerous health benefits such as increased calcium absorption, improved lactose digestion, protection against diarrhea and various types of cancer. The rising awareness about the nutritional and health benefits of probiotic foods and beverages among consumers is primarily driving the growth of the global kefir market.
Global kefir market was valued at US$ 1482.05 Million in 2021 in terms of revenue, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.84 % during the forecast period (2022 to 2030).
Key Takeaways
Key players operating in the kefir market are Groupe Danone, Lifeway Foods Inc., Hain Celestial Group, and Fresh Made Inc. The key opportunities in the market include rising demand for probiotic drinks, increasing application of kefir in cosmetics industry, and growing adoption of kefir based weight management programs. Technological advancements such as development of aseptic packaging solutions and shelf-stable kefir products are further augmenting the Kefir Market Growth.
Market drivers
The major driver for the kefir market is growing health and wellness trend among consumers. Kefir offers various health benefits such as improved digestion, strengthened immunity, and reduced risk of diseases. Additionally, shifting preference for probiotic and fermented drinks owing to their health-promoting attributes is also accelerating the market expansion. Furthermore, increasing lactose intolerance among population worldwide has positively impacted the demand for lactose-free kefir products.
Current challenges in Kefir market
The kefir market is facing several challenges currently due to changes in taste and preference of consumers. Younger consumers are shifting towards Greek yogurt and other probiotic drinks which are lower in calories as compared to kefir. Also, the similar culture of kefir is available in other products at lower prices which is affecting the sales of kefir. Production of kefir involves fermentation process which increases the cost of production and price of kefir. This price sensitivity is restricting the market growth.
SWOT Analysis
Strength: Kefir contains probiotics that support digestive and immune health. Its creamy texture is liked by many consumers.
Weakness: Limited product varieties and flavors in kefir make it less appealing for new users. Production process increases the cost.
Opportunity: Scope for kefir based foods and beverages with various ingredients. Rising health consciousness among people presents an opportunity.
Threats: Competition from low cost probiotic substitutes is a threat. Changes in taste preference can shift consumers towards other products.
Geographical regions of market concentration
The European region accounts for the largest share in the global kefir market regional analysis by value owing to high consumption in countries like Russia, Poland and Bulgaria. Kefir has been a traditional fermented dairy product consumed in these countries for centuries. North America is also a major market due to increasing awareness about gut health benefits of kefir.
Fastest growing geographical region
The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest growth in the kefir market during the forecast period. This is due to growing health consciousness, rising disposable incomes and expansion activities by major manufacturers in developing countries of Asia. The increasing adoption of Western food culture will also contribute to the rising demand for kefir in the region.
