Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market (2026 - 2033)

Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Summary

The global human milk oligosaccharides market size was valued at USD 386.4 million in 2025 and is projected to grow from USD 441.6 million in 2026 to USD 944.1 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 11.5% from 2026 to 2033. The market in Europe dominated with a revenue share of 67.4% in 2025. The rise in demand for dietary supplements and growing awareness among consumers about the importance of gut health are expected to fuel market growth.

Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), which function as prebiotics in the human body, play a significant role in maintaining gut health. They facilitate the growth of beneficial bacteria, particularly bifidobacteria, in the gut, thereby improving metabolic activity. The rise in demand for dietary supplements and growing awareness among consumers about the importance of gut health are expected to fuel market growth. Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), which function as prebiotics in the human body, play a significant role in maintaining gut health. They facilitate the growth of beneficial bacteria, particularly bifidobacteria, in the gut, thereby improving metabolic activity.

Due to their antimicrobial protection and prebiotic properties, HMOs can be incorporated into a variety of food products, including infant formulas, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods. The growth of the HMO market may be limited by factors such as the lack of large-scale production technology, high research and development costs, and stringent government regulations. HMOs have their largest application in infant formula, which can help promote infant health and prevent disease.

In addition, they are crucial for brain development and memory enhancement in humans. Human milk oligosaccharides primarily prevent infections, provide sialic acid for brain development, and exhibit prebiotic effects. Oligosaccharide concentration in bovine milk-derived infant formulas is lower when compared to human milk-derived formulas.

The growth of the human milk oligosaccharides market may be hindered by the limited availability and high cost of enzymes and chemicals used in their production. Despite this, the demand for HMOs continues to rise due to their essential role in promoting optimal health and preventing diseases in both infants and adults. HMOs support various aspects of an infant's development, such as digestion, immunity, and brain function, while HMO supplements have been shown to increase beneficial gut bacteria in adults.

Type Insights

2’FL human milk oligosaccharides market accounted for a revenue share of 42.2% in 2025. 2'-FL or 2'-fucosyllactose, a major human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) found in human breast milk, exhibits prebiotic effects that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria. 2’FL supports a healthy gut microbiome essential for preventing gastrointestinal disorders like colic, constipation, and diarrhea. It also modulates the immune system, reducing infection risks and inflammation by preventing pathogens from attaching to the gut lining.

In addition, 2'-FL is linked to improved cognitive development, making it valuable in infant formulas to support early brain growth. Regulatory approvals from bodies like the FDA and EFSA have facilitated its widespread adoption, particularly in infant formula. In 2023, 2’-Fucosyllactose (2’-FL) and Lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT) were officially approved as new food nutrition enhancers in China, marking a significant regulatory milestone for human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are globally recognized as essential nutrients. Following this approval, other HMOs are advancing through the regulatory process. In May 2024, the Center for Food Safety Assessment (CFSA) issued a draft and reopened the public consultation period for 2’-FL and LNnT.

The DFL human milk oligosaccharides market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.4% from 2026 to 2033. DFL DiFucosyllactose (DFL) is a human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) with structural similarities to those naturally occurring in breast milk. Renowned for its prebiotic activity, DFL selectively nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, fostering a healthy gut microbiota crucial for digestive and immune health. Additionally, studies indicate its ability to inhibit the adhesion of pathogens to intestinal cells, potentially reducing infection risks. Pharmaceutical manufacturers widely incorporate DFL into supplements and infant formula due to its nutritional enrichment and immune-supporting properties. By closely mimicking the composition of breast milk, DFL-enhanced products offer infants vital health benefits comparable to breastfeeding. Furthermore, its clinical potential extends to managing gastrointestinal disorders, underscoring its versatility and significance in promoting overall well-being.

Application Insights

Infant formula accounted for a revenue share of 89.2% in 2025. Demand for human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) in infant formula is steadily rising owing to their acknowledged health benefits and their similarity to breast milk. As complex carbohydrates naturally present in breast milk, HMOs play a vital role in bolstering infants' immune systems, fostering healthy gut development, and helping shield against infections. Manufacturers are capitalizing on these advantages by integrating HMOs into infant formula, thereby enriching the nutritional profile and more closely emulating the benefits of breast milk. This integration has spurred innovation in various infant foods.

The sales of dietary supplements are expected to grow with a CAGR 15.6% from 2026 to 2033. Demand for human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) in dietary supplements is surging, propelled by their recognized health benefits and versatility. These naturally occurring complex carbohydrates, primarily found in breast milk, support immune function, gut health, and cognitive development. As consumers increasingly prioritize digestive health and overall wellness, manufacturers are seizing the opportunity to incorporate HMOs into a wide array of supplements, driving innovation in the industry.

Regional Insights

The human milk oligosaccharides industry in Europe accounted for a share of 67.4% of the global market in 2025. The market is experiencing significant growth driven by several key trends. One major trend is the increasing demand for infant formula supplemented with HMOs like 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL) and lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT). These HMOs are being added to infant formula due to their beneficial effects on infant gut health and cognitive development. As a result, major infant formula manufacturers in Europe are launching new products fortified with HMOs to cater to this rising demand.

The France human milk oligosaccharides industry is expected to grow with a CAGR of 10.3% from 2026 to 2033. According to the National Library of Medicine, in 2023, more than half of formula-fed infants in France consumed probiotic-enriched formula. Infant formulas containing human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), such as 2'-fucosyllactose (2'FL) and lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT), are gaining popularity for mimicking the benefits of breastmilk.

A clinical trial in France found that infants who were fed formula supplemented with 2'FL (1.0 g/L) and LNnT (0.5 g/L) had lower rates of bronchitis and required fewer antipyretics and antibiotics compared to the control group, suggesting HMOs may help prevent infections. Another French study showed that the HMO-supplemented formula promoted a gut microbiota composition closer to that of breastfed infants, with a higher abundance of beneficial Bifidobacteria.

The human milk oligosaccharide industry in Germany accounted for a share of 19.1% of the Europe market in 2025. In Germany, the human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) market has been witnessing significant growth due to rising awareness about the benefits of HMO in infant nutrition, dietary supplements, and food & beverages. As a result, there has been an increasing demand for HMO as an ingredient in infant formula and other nutritional products. The German market is characterized by a growing number of parents opting for products enriched with HMO, driven by the understanding that HMOs mimic the composition of human breast milk, thereby offering numerous health benefits to infants.

North America Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Trends

The human milk oligosaccharides industry in North America is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.5% from 2026 to 2033. The rising trend of personalized nutrition and the focus on gut health among adults are driving the market growth. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are being explored for their potential as functional ingredients in foods and dietary supplements to improve digestive health and boost immunity. The growing interest in prebiotics and probiotics, driven by a broader consumer inclination toward preventive healthcare, is also fueling the adoption of HMOs in various food and beverage products. Technological advancements and innovation in the biotechnology sector are further catalyzing the HMO market. The development of cost-effective methods for synthesizing HMOs on a large scale has made it feasible for manufacturers to incorporate these ingredients into a wider array of products. This has opened up new opportunities for food and beverage companies to enhance their product offerings with the health benefits of HMOs, thereby increasing market penetration.

U.S. Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Trends

The human milk oligosaccharide industry in the U.S. accounted for a share of 79.6% of the North America market in 2025. Also U.S. has a large infant population, leading to increased demand for infant formula products fortified with HMOs. As HMOs provide numerous health benefits for infants, including improved gut health, immune system support, and cognitive development, their incorporation into infant formulas is becoming increasingly popular. According to the State of Babies Yearbook 2023, the U.S. is home to 11,034,857 babies, representing 3.3 percent of the country’s population.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of specific HMOs, such as 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL), in infant formula and other food products. This regulatory approval has boosted consumer confidence and accelerated the adoption of HMO-fortified products.

Major players in the U.S. HMO market are actively forming partnerships and collaborations to expand their product portfolios, enhance research and development capabilities, and strengthen their market position.

The Mexico human milk oligosaccharides industry is expected to grow with a CAGR of 15.6% from 2026 to 2033. Consumers in Mexico are becoming more health-conscious and seeking products with functional benefits, such as gut health and immune system support. HMOs are recognized for their prebiotic properties and potential to promote a healthy gut microbiome, driving their demand for functional foods and supplements.

Ongoing research on HMOs is enhancing the understanding of their impact on gut health, immune function, and neurological development. This is leading manufacturers to invest in consumer education initiatives and differentiate their products with HMOs.

Asia Pacific Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Trends

The human milk oligosaccharides industry in the Asia Pacific is expected to grow with a fastest CAGR of 16.0% from 2026 to 2033. The first trend is the increasing population and urbanization in several countries, such as India and China. This is driving the demand for infant formulas and functional foods/beverages containing HMOs. In addition, the growing awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding is also contributing to this trend. The Asia Pacific region is witnessing a rapidly increasing prevalence of chronic ailments like gut diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, and rickets. This is driving an ever-increasing demand for functional foods and beverages containing HMOs, which are known to offer health benefits. Another trend supporting the growth of the HMO market in the region is regulatory support from several countries. These countries have implemented regulations encouraging the use of HMOs in infant formulas to improve the quality of infant nutrition products and promote health. Furthermore, the expanding markets for dietary supplements and baby food products, especially in countries like India and China, are projected to contribute significantly to the Asia Pacific HMO Market over the coming years.

The China human milk oligosaccharides industry accounted for a share of 41.3% of the global market in 2025. The Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) market in China is witnessing several key trends. There is a growing demand for premium infant formula products fortified with HMOs as awareness of their benefits for infant gut health, immunity, and cognitive development increases. Parents are increasingly seeking infant formulas that mimic the nutritional profile of human breast milk by incorporating HMOs.

The human milk oligosaccharides industry in Singapore is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.9% from 2026 to 2033. In January 2024, Kyowa Hakko Bio partnered with the Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS) to advance research on Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs). The collaboration aims to deepen understanding of HMOs and their potential applications in promoting health across the lifespan. Key objectives include exploring the benefits of HMOs in supporting immune regulation and promoting a healthy gut microbiome. The partnership will involve joint studies by researchers from the Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS) and Kyowa Hakko Bio's biotechnology. This collaboration is expected to yield valuable insights that benefit people of all ages and advance healthcare and nutrition.

Central & South America Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Trends

The human milk oligosaccharides industry in Central & South America is witnessing growing demand for infant formula. As parents and caregivers become more mindful of what babies consume, there is an increasing preference for infant formulas that more closely mimic the composition of human breast milk by incorporating HMOs. This helps promote the development of a healthy gut microbiome and immune system in infants.

Moreover, the rising popularity of functional foods and beverages with prebiotic properties is fueling the demand for HMOs among health-conscious adults in Central and South America. Consumers are seeking natural, holistic solutions to support overall health and wellness, and HMOs are seen as valuable ingredients that can enhance the nutritional profile of various food and drink products.

The Brazil human milk oligosaccharides industry has gained traction, with the primary application of HMOs being in infant formula, where they mimic the beneficial effects of breast milk. The rising birth rates and the growing middle-class population in Brazil are contributing to the increased consumption of infant formula products. According to World Data, in 2023, Brazil's birth rate reached 13.55 per 1,000 people.

Beyond infant formula, HMOs are incorporated into functional foods and beverages designed to improve gut health and immunity in adults. This trend aligns with the broader global shift toward functional and health-oriented food products. 

Middle East & Africa Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Trends

The human milk oligosaccharides industry in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is experiencing growth due to several emerging trends. One notable trend is the increasing adoption of complementary food feeding among infants in the Middle East. As more parents introduce their babies to solid foods alongside breastmilk or formula, the demand for HMOs in infant formula is expected to rise. This shift in feeding practices reflects growing awareness of the importance of proper nutrition during the critical early stages of a child's development.

Key Human Milk Oligosaccharides Company Insights

The human milk oligosaccharides industry is characterized by the presence of several key companies with well-established brand recognition and extensive distribution networks. Expansions are a vital strategy in the HMO market to meet increasing global demand and capitalize on emerging trends. With growing recognition of the health benefits of HMOs, especially in infant nutrition, companies strive to establish local offices and production facilities to serve regional markets better. Mergers are a prominent strategy in the HMO market due to the complexity of HMO research and production. By combining resources and expertise from different companies, mergers enable faster development of HMO-related products and technologies. Additionally, mergers provide access to larger customer bases and distribution networks, enhancing market penetration and competitiveness in the rapidly growing infant formula industry.

Recent Developments

• In March 2026, dsm-firmenich expanded its human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) portfolio across China, Malaysia, and Thailand. Its 3’-sialyllactose (3’-SL) sodium salt has been approved for early-life nutrition in these markets, along with 2’-FL/DFL, LNT, and 6’-SL sodium salt in Malaysia and Thailand. As one of the first companies to gain approvals, it continues to drive HMO expansion in key growth regions.

• In May 2025, BENEO and WACKER announced the global launch of the human milk oligosaccharide 2’-Fucosyllactose (2’-FL), the most widely studied HMO. Initially available in the European market, this launch marks the first outcome of their strategic partnership to enhance early-life nutrition. It aims to increase HMO supply, ensuring consistent quality and availability for both large and small infant formula manufacturers.

Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Report Scope

Global Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional and country level and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global human milk oligosaccharides market report on the basis of type, application, and region.

• Type Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • 2’FL

  • 3’FL

  • 3’SL

  • 6’SL

  • LNT

  • LNnT

  • DFL

• Application Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • Food & Beverages

  • Dietary Supplements

  • Infant Formula

  • Pharmaceuticals

• Regional Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

    • Spain

    • Italy

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • Taiwan

    • South Korea

    • Vietnam

    • Indonesia

    • Philippines

    • Malaysia

    • Singapore

  • Central & South America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa