North America Buttermilk Market Size (2024-2030)

The North America Buttermilk Market was valued at USD 150 million in 2023. Over the forecast period of 2024-2030, it is projected to reach USD 220.68 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.67%.

Buttermilk is the liquid remaining after butter is churned from cultured or fermented cream. Traditionally, before cream could be separated from whole milk, the milk was allowed to sit for a period to enable the cream and milk to naturally separate. During this time, naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria in the milk would ferment it. This fermentation aids the butter churning process, as fat from cream with a lower pH merges more easily than that from fresh cream. Additionally, the acidic environment inhibits the growth of potentially harmful microorganisms, thereby extending the shelf life. However, in establishments using cream separators, the cream typically remained only minimally acidic.

Key Market Insights:

The demand for buttermilk has increased due to its widespread use as an ingredient in the production of ice cream, dairy sauces, and various confectionery items. Its utilization is driven by notable properties such as emulsification, foaming, water binding, flavor enhancement, and other beneficial characteristics.

North America Buttermilk Market Drivers:

Easy Availability Of Buttermilk To Increase Market Growth.

Buttermilk is widely accessible both offline and online, driving market growth. Consequently, there is a consistent rise in demand for buttermilk in both industrialized and emerging nations. This demand is particularly high in the United States and other developed countries, driven by an increasing number of health-conscious consumers seeking healthier beverage options. The surge in fast food consumption has boosted buttermilk sales in both physical and online stores. The growing consumer preference for dairy-based beverages has further supported the growth of the buttermilk market. Additionally, the availability of buttermilk in various flavors and brands has expanded the customer base.

Low Costs Drive Market Growth.

Buttermilk's affordability has driven its demand, enabling producers to increase output and supply to meet the rising demand. This has made buttermilk more accessible and affordable for consumers. The low cost has led to a rise in the number of stores selling buttermilk, intensifying market competition and further reducing prices. The inexpensive cost of buttermilk has also encouraged its use in more recipes, significantly contributing to market growth. As more people incorporate buttermilk into their cooking, the number of recipes requiring buttermilk has increased. Overall, the low cost of buttermilk has been a major factor in the market's expansion. As buttermilk becomes more affordable, demand will continue to grow, prompting more retailers to carry it and further boosting market growth.

North America Buttermilk Market Restraints and Challenges:

Lack Of Knowledge and Benefits Of Buttermilk To Hinder Market Growth.

A significant barrier to the growth of the buttermilk market is the lack of understanding of its potential for expansion. Despite its long history, buttermilk has only recently gained prominence in the food and beverage industry. Many consumers may not be aware of the variety of flavors and products available, or of buttermilk's health benefits. This lack of awareness can lead to reduced demand, making it difficult for producers to fully capitalize on their product's potential. Additionally, the insufficient supply of buttermilk products poses a challenge to market growth. The current market size can create distribution and supply issues, and the relatively high production costs compared to other dairy products make it difficult for producers to compete effectively.

North America Buttermilk Market Opportunities:

Buttermilk's high lactic acid content, known for its natural exfoliating properties, is increasing its popularity in the cosmetics industry. It helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a softer, smoother complexion. Additionally, buttermilk is rich in proteins, calcium, and other beneficial minerals for the skin, such as zinc and magnesium. It also hydrates the skin and may reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging. The growing trend towards all-natural cosmetics is further driving the buttermilk market, as many consumers seek natural alternatives to conventional beauty products. Buttermilk is non-irritating, non-toxic, and safe for all skin types, making it a versatile ingredient in various cosmetic products.

NORTH AMERICA BUTTERMILK MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

North America Buttermilk Market Segmentation:

North America Buttermilk Market Segmentation By Type:

• Liquid Buttermilk
• Buttermilk Powder

Liquid buttermilk dominates the market as a widely used dairy product, commonly consumed by many people, particularly after lunch. The market offers various types of liquid buttermilk, reflecting its significant market share. Additionally, liquid buttermilk is frequently used in baked goods such as pancakes, scones, biscuits, and other similar products.

Buttermilk powder, however, is the fastest growing segment in the market. Its increasing popularity is primarily driven by the growing awareness of its health benefits among health-conscious consumers. Buttermilk powder is valued for its ability to impart creamy textures to various food products and ensure even distribution of flavors, contributing to its rising demand. Many individuals are opting for buttermilk powder due to its unique ability to prevent the formation of fat granules, thereby enhancing the appearance and quality of the final product.

North America Buttermilk Market Segmentation By Application:

• Confectionery
• Ice Cream
• Bakery
• Dairy-based Sauces

The bakery segment holds the largest share of the buttermilk market. Consumers are increasingly shifting their preferences from regular staple foods to nutrient-enhanced healthy food products, thus boosting the demand for yeast extracts in the bakery ingredients industry. Buttermilk plays a crucial role in food processing, particularly by soaking flour or grain overnight. Additionally, buttermilk contains beneficial bacteria that help break down or predigest various ingredients, further driving market growth. The health benefits of buttermilk are a top priority for participants in the global food and beverages industry, contributing significantly to its market expansion.

North America Buttermilk Market Segmentation By Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Convenience/Grocery Stores
• Specialist Retailers
• Online Channels
• Other Distribution Channels

Within the offline channel, supermarkets/hypermarkets dominate the majority share. This is primarily due to the wide range of products available and attractive discounts offered at these outlets. The convenience and cost-effectiveness provided by supermarkets/hypermarkets encourage consumers to prefer purchasing through offline channels. Collaborative efforts between brands and hypermarkets, such as optimizing product displays, contribute significantly to enhancing customer engagement and driving sales.

The online segment is witnessing a significant growth rate during the buttermilk market forecast period. The increasing penetration of various online portals in developing regions, coupled with a rise in offers and discounts, attracts consumers to purchase buttermilk through online channels. Moreover, the online sales channel has expanded consumer reach, making it a key source of revenue for many companies. Additionally, the online sales market is expected to continue expanding due to the rapid growth in online and mobile user customer bases in emerging markets.

North America Buttermilk Market Segmentation- by region

• USA
• Canada
• Mexico

Consumer attitudes toward dairy products are evolving globally, with certain trends driving increased dairy consumption. For instance, there is a growing interest in label-friendly products in North America. This demand creates positive growth opportunities for the market. In countries such as the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, consumers are increasingly choosing dairy products with clean-label ingredients due to their awareness of the benefits. This trend is significantly driving the cultured buttermilk market in North America.

COVID-19 Pandemic: Impact Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic had an unprecedented impact on the buttermilk market, initially leading to higher-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. This sudden rise in demand was driven by pantry stocking behaviors seen with many other food items during the early stages of the pandemic. However, as the pandemic continued and lockdown measures were enforced, consumer behavior shifted towards increased home cooking and preference for shelf-stable products, resulting in a decline in buttermilk demand. The market faced challenges due to this fluctuation in demand and disruptions in the supply chain.

Furthermore, the closure of restaurants, cafes, and other food service establishments significantly affected the buttermilk market. The absence of these large-scale customers contributed to a decline in the commodity's price. As the pandemic evolves and restrictions ease, the buttermilk market is expected to gradually recover, with demand returning to pre-pandemic levels once normalcy resumes in the food service sector and consumer behaviors stabilize.

Latest Trends/ Developments:

Buttermilk is found in cleansers, moisturizers, exfoliators, and toners, and can also enhance skin texture and tone when used in face masks and scrubs. As more consumers become aware of buttermilk's benefits, its use in cosmetic products is expected to become more widespread. This natural and affordable ingredient can improve the appearance and health of the skin, contributing to the ongoing growth of the buttermilk industry. As consumers increasingly focus on the ingredients in their skincare products, the buttermilk market is poised for continued expansion.

Key Players:

These are top 10 players in the North America Buttermilk Market: -

1. Amul
2. DairyAmerica
3. Arla Foods
4. Sodiaal Group
5. Dairy Farmers of America
6. Innova Food Ingredients
7. Glanbia
8. Associated Milk Producers
9. Arion Dairy ProductsValley Milk
10. Sterling Agro Industries