Lactose-Free Probiotics Market Size - By Product Type, By Probiotic Strain, By Distribution Channel, By End Use, By Application, Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Lactose Free Probiotics Market Size

The global lactose-free probiotics market size was valued at USD 15.8 billion in 2024, with expectations to reach USD 29.7 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7%.
 

Lactose-free probiotics are beneficial for health, especially for digestive and immune systems, since they do not include lactose which is found in dairy products. These probiotics have been created for people who are lactose intolerant, have allergies to dairy or follow plant-based or vegan diets. The functional foods and nutraceuticals industry now includes a fast-growing segment for lactose-free probiotics. More people are choosing healthy foods and many experience lactose malabsorption, so the need for dairy-free probiotics has grown. These products as yogurts, drinks, supplements and snacks, all of which benefit your gut without causing any digestive problems.
 

In Asia-Pacific and North America, the market offers many opportunities for innovation since the number of people with lactose intolerance and those who use functional foods is high. Some companies are using plant-based ingredients such as almond, soy, oat and coconut milk, as well as shelf-stable forms such as capsules and powders enriched with strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis.
 

The rise in clean-label choices, more requests for sustainable and allergen-free foods and a stronger focus on personalized nutrition are the main reasons for this growth. With people becoming more interested in their health, the market for lactose-free probiotics is expected to increase, meeting the needs of those who want to eat healthily.
 

For instance, according to the national Institute of Health (NIH), about 68 percent of the world’s population has lactose malabsorption. This underlines the need for new strategies to reduce dairy induced lactose intolerance and enhance food safety using more sustainable practices, promoting lactose-free probiotics market. The market is showing shifting demand focused on dairy free clear label, health and wellness preventive nutritional products, highlighting a broad opportunity in lactose-free probiotics market, while considering the rising environmental and sustainability concerns.
 

Lactose-Free Probiotics Market Trends

Developments in food biotechnology and more personalized health options are fueling major changes in the lactose-free probiotics market. Technological advancements such as microencapsulation, stabilizing strains and using plant-friendly carriers have made it possible for manufacturers to boost the shelf life and accessibility of live cultures in dairy-free products. More people are asking for functional foods and nutraceuticals that address their dietary needs, especially those who cannot digest lactose.
 

With more yogurt alternatives, probiotic drinks, capsules and powders available, companies are now focusing on using clean-label ingredients and strains that have been proven in clinical studies. Although it is difficult for brands to manage high production costs and strict regulations, using automation and improved fermentation methods is helping them overcome problems with efficiency and scaling.
 

At the same time, the lactose-free probiotics market is changing due to increased global understanding of digestive health, immunity and sustainable eating. Many consumers are choosing plant-based and allergen-free foods that are good for their health and meet ethical and environmental standards.
 

Even though Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are still the most common, Bacillus coagulans and Saccharomyces boulardii are becoming popular because they work well in non-dairy products. By selling through supermarkets and online stores and using influencers to advertise, the brand has been able to reach more people. Even though there are still difficulties with shelf life and educating consumers, the industry’s focus on healthy and inclusive nutrition guarantees a strong and lasting future.
 

Lactose-Free Probiotics Market Analysis

The lactose-free probiotics market by product type is segmented into dairy based lactose free products, plant-based probiotics, fruit-based probiotics, probiotic supplements and others. Dairy-based lactose-free probiotics accounted for 38.2% of the market share in 2024 with a market size of USD 6 billion.
 

• This segment showcases strong dominance from dairy-based lactose-free probiotics. The segment includes yogurt, kefir, cheese, ice cream and similar dairy products that are lactose-free and beneficial for digestion. More people who switch to lactose-free dairy prefer the same taste and texture as regular dairy which helps this category stay strong. Some manufacturers are making traditional dairy products healthier by adding Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis probiotic strains.
   
• The plant-based probiotics segment is gaining momentum comprising soy-based, almond-based, coconut-based, and oat-based products. Due to the increasing interest from vegan and flexitarian buyers, this area is expanding fast because of its clean labels, allergy-safe options and eco-friendly nature. On the other hand, probiotic-enhanced juices and smoothies made with fruit attract those who want a dairy-free, healthy and refreshing drink with natural flavours and gut health benefits. Probiotic supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids are also becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and targeted health applications.
   

The lactose-free probiotics market by probiotic strain is segmented into lactobacillus, bifidobacterium, streptococcus, bacillus, saccharomyces and others. The lactobacillus probiotics strain accounted for 41.1% of the market share in 2024 with a market size of USD 6.5 billion.
 

In the global lactose-free probiotics market, the Lactobacillus strain category holds the leading position, its popularity is due to its healthy functional effects, good digestion and use of it in many dairy-free yogurts, beverages and supplements. Among the different sub-strains, Lactobacillus acidophilus is widely used because it effectively helps with gut health and lactose digestion, mainly for people who are lactose intolerant.
 

L. rhamnosus is recognized for helping the immune system and reducing inflammation, while L. plantarum is important for keeping the gut barrier strong and assisting the body’s metabolism. These strains are often used in both supplements and functional foods, so Lactobacillus is the main ingredient in probiotics for people who avoid lactose.
 

Next, we have the Bifidobacterium strains, for example B. bifidum, B. longum and B. lactis which are often included in products for infants and older people because they help improve digestion and nutrient absorption. Streptococcus thermophilus is often found in plant-based yogurts and helps break down lactose while working together with other strains in multi-strain preparations.
 

Bacillus strains, especially B. coagulans and B. subtilis, are becoming more popular because they can keep their shape as spores which helps with making shelf-stable supplements. Saccharomyces boulardii which is a yeast-based strain, is also starting to be used in dairy-free probiotics for managing gut infections and antibiotic-related diarrhoea, expanding the variety of strains available in lactose-free products.
 

The lactose-free probiotics market is segmented into supermarket & hypermarket, specialty stores, pharmacies & drugstores, online and others based on the distribution channel. Supermarket & hypermarket form of channel made up 42.9% of the market in 2024 and expected to grow at a faster rate of 5.1% CAGR to reach a wider consumer base. 
 

The lactose-free probiotics market, when segmented by distribution channel, highlights that supermarkets and hypermarkets are the dominant force. These big stores have a large selection of probiotic foods and supplements, including dairy-free yogurts, juices and plant-based products, so they are the easiest place for people to find them.
 

The fact that they offer products that are easy to find, have a wide choice and use promotions attracts lot of consumers.  The growth of retail facilities, mainly in developing countries in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Store chains such as Walmart, Target and Tesco are putting more of these types of products on the shelves, helping brands reach more customers and compete in the lactose-free probiotics market.
 

Following this, online retail is another important channel, since the increase in e-commerce following the pandemic. People tend to buy probiotic supplements and lactose-free drinks online because it is more convenient. Specialty stores and pharmacies & drugstores are also important, especially when you need products designed for health conditions for the first time as they also provide in consultation.
 

The lactose-free probiotics market by end user is segmented into lactose-intolerant individuals, health-conscious consumers, elderly population, children & infants and others. Lactose-intolerant individuals accounted for 43.1% of the market share in 2024 with a market size of USD 6.8 billion.
 

Lactose-intolerant individuals represented the largest consumer group in the global lactose-free probiotics market, the reason for this is that many people globally, especially in Asia, Latin America, Africa and Southern Europe, are lactose intolerant. People in this group choose lactose-free probiotic products like dairy-free yogurts, supplements and beverages to improve their digestion without experiencing bloating, gas or pain. Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis are usually added because they help with lactose digestion and restore the balance in the gut.
 

Another group of consumers who are growing in popularity are those who choose plant-based and clean-label probiotics for their health. Lactose-free probiotics are used by the elderly for digestive health and children and infants are given probiotics that help their immune systems and gut development. Vegans, athletes and those with dairy allergies are part of the others segment that is helping to increase the demand for lactose-free probiotic products.
 

The lactose-free probiotics market by application is segmented into digestive health, immune support, weight management, women's health, paediatric health and others. Application for digestive health accounted for 42.7% of the market share in 2024 with a market size of USD 6.8 billion.
 

Digestive health emerged as the leading application segment in the global lactose-free probiotics market, the rise in gut health awareness worldwide and the higher number of digestive issues such as bloating, irritable bowel syndrome IBS and lactose intolerance are the main reasons for this growth. Probiotics that do not contain lactose such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, are commonly recommended to assist digestion for those who are sensitive to dairy.
 

These probiotics are found in yogurt substitutes, supplements and drinks that aid in maintaining healthy intestinal bacteria and boosting nutrient intake. Probiotics are also used to help the immune system, manage weight, support women’s health and assist in developing the gut health of children and infants.
 

The lactose-free probiotics market is dominated by APAC, accounting for 38.6% of total revenue in 2024.
 

• The Asia-Pacific region dominates the lactose-free probiotics industry, largely due to China’s contribution. The reason for this is that over 90% of East Asian population experience lactose malabsorption due to lactose intolerance. Besides, with people becoming more aware of their gut health, growing urbanization and rising disposable income are leading to more people wanting and opting for dairy-free, functional foods.
   
• Innovation happening in different regions and government backing for nutrition and health research have contributed to the development of new products. Brands are focusing on creating plant-based and probiotic-rich dairy products, mainly for yogurt, drinks and baby food. All of these elements combined show why APAC is leading in this market segment.
   
• After Asia-Pacific, North America and Europe are quickly becoming important players in the lactose-free probiotics market. In North America, more people are aware of digestive health, clean labels and plant-based foods which has helped the U.S. market grow. Due to the increasing number of people with lactose intolerance in Hispanic and Asian American communities, companies are now making more lactose-free probiotic products.
   
• At the same time, the European market has grown steadily due to active vegan campaigns, an aging population and new products in the yogurt and supplement sectors. The favorable regulations from EFSA in countries like Germany, France and the UK have helped these countries adopt food supplements. Europeans are strongly interested in sustainable and clear products which increase their demand for organic and allergen-free probiotics. 
   

Lactose-Free Probiotics Market Share

The Nestle S.A., Danone S.A., Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd., Chr. Hansen Holding A/S and Probi AB are significant 5 players in the lactose-free probiotics industry with respect to innovation and distribution. These are prominent companies within the global lactose-free probiotics industry operating in their respective regions. These companies hold strong positions globally due to their extensive experience in lactose-free probiotics market. Their diverse product portfolios, backed by robust production capabilities and distribution networks, enable them to meet the rising demand across various regions.
 

Lactose-Free Probiotics Market Companies

Nestle S.A.: Nestle S.A., which is the biggest food and beverage company globally, has taken the lead in developing lactose-free probiotics. Nestle’s brands like NAN and Garden of Life include probiotics aimed at digestive health for infants and adults, without using lactose. Nestlé Health Science, a division of the company, puts a lot of money into research and development, working on personalized nutrition products that are also plant-based and dairy-free.
 

Danone S.A.: Danone S.A. is known for being a top player in the lactose-free probiotics market with its well-liked brands Activia, Alpro and Silk. With a clear focus on health and nutrition, Danone now offers plant-based dairy options that contain live probiotic cultures. The brand has gained many vegan, lactose-intolerant and health-conscious consumers thanks to its innovations with soy, almond and oat-based probiotic yogurts.
 

Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd.: Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. is known worldwide for its probiotics which mainly help with digestion. Yakult which was famous for its dairy-based probiotic drinks, has now introduced lactose-free options to meet the needs of more consumers. It uses its special Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain in both original and modified non-dairy products for people who cannot tolerate lactose. Yakult’s influence in Asia-Pacific, Europe and Latin America, along with its clinical studies, allows it to keep its reputation and authority in the functional beverage industry.
 

Chr. Hansen Holding A/S: Chr. Hansen Holding A/S, a Danish bioscience company, is instrumental in supplying probiotic strains and cultures used in a wide array of lactose-free food and supplement products globally. Rather than consumer-facing brands, its core strength lies in R&D and B2B partnerships with dairy-free food manufacturers. Chr. Hansen’s portfolio includes robust, clinically proven strains like LGG and BB-12, widely adopted in plant-based dairy alternatives, beverages, and infant nutrition.
 

Probi AB: Probi AB is a Swedish biotechnology firm focused exclusively on probiotics, with a strong foothold in the dietary supplements segment. The company is known for its patented, clinically supported strains that are used in lactose-free capsules, powders, and functional beverages. Probi emphasizes personalized gut health and targets specific health areas such as immunity, digestion, and women’s health. Through strategic partnerships with food, pharma, and wellness companies, Probi enables the development of lactose-free probiotic formulations tailored for different markets.
 

Lactose-Free Probiotics Industry News:

• In March 2024, Chr. Hansen, now part of Novonesis, announced a collaboration with UC San Diego to pioneer research on Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), aiming to develop next-generation probiotics that support gut health.
   
• In August 2024, Nestlé Health Science expanded its presence in the lactose-free probiotics sector by acquiring global rights to VOWST®, a microbiome-based therapy.
   
• In October 2024, Probi AB introduced "Probi® Metabolic Health" in 2024, a probiotic concept targeting key markers of metabolic syndrome, utilizing proprietary strains like Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v. Additionally, Probi partnered with Sinopharm to launch "Yuelewei," a sports nutrition product aimed at supporting bone and joint health, expanding its reach in the lactose-free probiotics market.
   
• In November 2024, Kerry Group acquired DirectSens' LactoSens technology, an advanced biosensor for fast and accurate lactose detection in dairy products. This acquisition enhances Kerry's capabilities in providing lactose-free solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.
   
• In December 2024, BioGaia launched BioGaia Gastrus PURE ACTION, a clean-label, double-strength, FODMAP-friendly probiotic supplement designed for individuals with sensitive stomachs.
   

The lactose-free probiotics market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Billion from 2021 - 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Product Type

• Dairy-based lactose-free probiotics
  • Yogurt
  • Kefir
  • Cheese
  • Ice cream
  • Others
• Plant-based probiotics
  • Soy-based
  • Almond-based
  • Coconut-based
  • Oat-based
  • Others
• Fruit-based probiotics
  • Juices
  • Smoothies
  • Others
• Probiotic supplements
  • Capsules
  • Tablets
  • Powders
  • Liquids
• Others

Market, By Probiotic Strain

• Lactobacillus
  • L. acidophilus
  • L. rhamnosus
  • L. plantarum
  • Others
• Bifidobacterium
  • B. bifidum
  • B. longum
  • B. lactis
  • Others
• Streptococcus
  • S. thermophilus
  • Others
• Bacillus
  • B. coagulans
  • B. subtilis
  • Others
• Saccharomyces
  • S. boulardii
  • Others
• Others

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets & hypermarkets
• Specialty stores
• Pharmacies & drugstores
• Online retail
• Others

Market, By End Use

• Lactose-intolerant individuals
• Health-conscious consumers
• Elderly population
• Children & infants
• Others

Market, By Application

• Digestive health
• Immune support
• Weight management
• Women's health
• Pediatric health
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE