The global human milk oligosaccharides market size is expected to reach USD 944.1 million by 2033, registering a CAGR of 11.5% from 2026 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market growth is primarily driven by the rising demand for dietary supplements and an increasing awareness among consumers regarding the significance of gut health. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are crucial in maintaining gut health as they act as prebiotics in the human body. By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, particularly bifidobacteria, in the gut, HMOs enhance metabolic activity and contribute to overall well-being. The increasing recognition of HMO benefits continues to drive market growth.
Moreover, the antimicrobial protection and prebiotic properties of HMOs make them versatile ingredients that can be incorporated into various food products, such as infant formulas, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods, driving their demand. The market for HMOs is further bolstered by their essential role in infant nutrition, brain development, memory enhancement, and disease prevention. Furthermore, advancements in synthetic production methods have expanded the availability of HMOs beyond breast milk, catering to situations where breastfeeding may not be feasible. As consumer awareness continues to rise and demand for prebiotic-rich products escalates, the market for human milk oligosaccharides is expected to witness sustained growth driven by their unique health benefits across different age groups.
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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.
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.
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.
Grand View Research has segmented the global human milk oligosaccharides market on the basis of type, application, and region:
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Type Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
2’FL
3’FL
3’SL
6’SL
LNT
LNnT
DFL
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Application Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Food & Beverages
Dietary Supplements
Infant Formula
Pharmaceuticals
Human Milk Oligosaccharides 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
List of Key Players of Human Milk Oligosaccharides Market
Chr. Hansen A/S
KYOWA HAKKO BIO CO. LTD.
zuChem, Inc.
ELICITYL S.A.
FrieslandCampina Ingredients
Inbiose NV
Glycom A/S
BASF SE
Dextra Laboratories
Biosynth
RAJVI ENTERPRISE
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