Emerging Trends in Dairy Industry Focus on Sustainability and Consumer Health

The IFF Dairy Trends Report 2026 provides insights into significant shifts within the dairy sector, driven by consumer demand for more sustainable and health-oriented products. One major trend identified is 'considered consumption,' where consumers increasingly prioritize products that align with their environmental and social values. For instance, 56% of Chinese consumers regard yogurt as beneficial for gut health, while 32% of Brazilians use it as a protein supplement alternative. Holistic health is another emerging trend, with consumers adopting a comprehensive approach that includes managing energy, sleep, stress, and mood. This has led to an expectation for dairy products to offer functional benefits like added proteins and probiotics. High-protein yogurts and cottage cheese are seen as solutions for those using weight-loss drugs like GLP-1s to manage appetite and support satiety. The report also notes a growing demand for 'joyful harmony' in products, where consumers ...