Milk Powder Packaging Market Size - By Material Type, By Packaging Type, and By Capacity – Global Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Milk Powder Packaging Market Share

The global milk powder packaging market was valued at USD 2.5 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% to reach USD 3.5 billion by 2034. The growth of the milk powder packaging industry is attributed to factors such as the rising global demand for dairy products coupled with the growing infant nutrition industry.
 

The rising global demand for dairy products is a major growth driver for the milk powder packaging industry. For instance, according to the Statista, the global dairy market is anticipated to reach USD 1,243 billion in the year 2028 and was valued at USD 893 billion in the year 2022. This surge in demand for dairy product is driven by the rapid urbanization, population growth, and the surge in demand for long shelf-life dairy products which require advanced, efficient, and sustainable packaging solutions. Furthermore, the increasing consumption of functional dairy products such as protein infused milk powder and elderly meal replacements are further pushing the demand for multi layered pouches, nitrogen flushed cans, and resealable stand-up bags, which supports the growth of the market.
 

Milk powder packaging manufacturers should concentrate on producing innovative, sustainable, and air-tight packaging forms such as multi-layered pouches, nitrogen-flushed cans, and resealable stand-up pouches to respond to the growing world demand for long-shelf-life and functional milk products.
 

The growth in infant nutrition industry is another key growth driver for the milk powder packaging market. With the increasing birth rates coupled with the growing awareness of infant health and nutrition, parents are pushing the demand for fortified baby formula which requires specialized packaging to ensure safety, hygienic, and extended shelf life of products. Additionally, the surge in production of milk powder is further pushing the demand for specialized and high-quality solutions such as airtight tins and resealable pouches to ensure safety and freshness of product while complying with regulatory requirements.
 

Milk powder packaging manufacturers must design specialized, top-notch products such as air-tight tins and re-sealable bags to accommodate increasing demand for enriched baby formula in a way that ensures safety, hygiene, and longer shelf life while fulfilling the regulatory specifications.
 

Milk Powder Packaging Market Trends

• The shift towards nano coating technology in the milk powder packaging to ensure extended shelf life, preserve nutrient, and improved barrier properties is a significant trend. Several brands are adopting these ultra thin coatings to offer superior resistance from sunlight, oxygen, and light. This trend ensures extended product integrity while preventing the risk of spoilage.
   
• As milk powder is extremely sensitive to moisture, oxygen, and light exposure, packaging innovations based on high-barrier films and multi-layer laminates are gaining traction. Materials with increased oxygen and moisture resistance, including metalized films, aluminum foil laminates, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) structures, are commonly used to preserve product freshness and nutritional quality for longer durations.
   
• The adoption of plant based and biodegradable packaging is another significant trend observed in the market. Several brands are shifting towards compostable and plant derived packaging such as paper pouches and bio lines to cater the consumer preference for sustainable packaging while complying with regulatory requirements.
   
• The integration of smart packaging technologies, including QR codes, RFID tags, and time-temperature indicators (TTIs), is a significant trend in milk powder packaging. These technologies increase traceability, transparency of the supply chain, and real-time data on product authenticity and freshness. Smart packaging is being used by brands to establish consumer trust and fight counterfeiting in the emerging markets.  
  
   

Milk Powder Packaging Market Analysis

The market on the basis of material type is categorized into plastic, paper & paperboard, metal, and others.

• The plastic material segment is the largest market and was valued at USD 1.1 billion in the year 2024. Plastic materils offers superior moisture resistance, air tight sealing, and light protection and are gaining rapid adoption among manufacture, which ensure extended shelf life. Additionally, the increasing demand for flexible and resealable packaging such as standup pouches, zipper bags, and spouted pouches to cater the growing preference for single use and portion sized milk powder further propels the growth of this segment in market. Also, the surge in demand for infant nutrient formula and protein enriched dairy powders are pushing the demand for post consumer recycled (PCR) plastic packaging while complying with regulatory requirements, further supports the growth of this segment in the market.
   
• The paper & paperboard material segment is the fastest growing market and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period. The shift in consumer preferences towards sustainable and biodegradable packaging along with increasing government regulations towards plastic waste reduction is driving the rapid adoption of these materials. Furthermore, the surge in demand for premium and speciality dairy products are further adopting high quality printed paperboard, foil stamping, and matte finishes. Also the advancement in technology has led to the development of water resistant and grease resistant coatings, which are gaining rapid traction due to enhanced moisture barrier properties.
   

The milk powder packaging market on the basis of packaging type is divided into flexible packaging and rigid packaging.
 

• The flexible packaging segment is the largest market and was valued at USD 1.4 billion in the year 2024. The growth of this segment is driven by the increasing consumer demand for single serve and on the go packaging such as single sachets, portion controlled packs, and travel friendly packaging coupled with the growing emphasis towards lightweight and cost effective packaging solutions, which reduces transportation and storage costs. Additionally, the growth of e-commerce and online retail stores are pushing the demand for durable, tamper proof and leak proof packaging solutions which ensures product integrity, further supports the growth of this segment in the market.
   
• The rigid packaging segment is projected to grow with a CAGR of 2.6% during the forecast period. Rigid packaging offers superior barrier protection from moisture, light, and oxygen and ensures extended shelf life of product, which makes them ideal for high value and premium milk powder products such as infant formula and fortified dairy products. Moreover, the increasing consumer preference for durable and reusable packaging, especially for household consumption due to their long term use further propels the growth of this segment in the market.
   

The milk powder packaging market on the basis of capacity is bifurcated into up to 100g, 100g – 1kg, and above 1kg.
 

• The 100g – 1kg segment is the largest market and was valued at USD 1.1 billion in the year 2024. The growth of this segment is driven by the increasing consumer preference for daily and weekly consumption to avoid risk of spoilage is a major growth driver in the market. Additionally, the growth of online store and retail grocery store coupled with the subscription-based DTC brands are boosting the demand for this segment for repeat purchase. Furthermore, the growing demand for infant formula, nutritional dairy products rely on this milk powder packaging, which supports the growth of this segment in the market,
   
• The above 1kg segment is projected to grow with a CAGR of 3.2% during the forecast period. Several hotel, restaurants, bakeries, and industrial sectors, which uses milk powder in bulk quantity are driving the demand for this segment, which ensure cost efficient packaging. Additionally, the increasing demand for rigid plastic buckets, HDPE drums, and bulk bags for bulk storage and transportation further support the growth of above 1kg segment.
   

The North America region held 28.3% of the global milk powder packaging market share in 2024. The growth in the region is driven by the increasing consumer demand for convenience packaging while ensuring long shelf life of dairy products. Easy for storage and easy to transport dairy alternatives are boosting demand for packaging solutions in this region.
 

• The U.S. dominated the market, accounting for USD 585.7 million in 2024. The increasing demand for infant formula and dairy milk formulas, along with advancements in lightweight, sustainable packaging and eco-friendly packaging materials is gaining momentum, pushing the growth in the market. According to Statista, the revenue generated by the total milk product was valued at USD 39.8 billion and the flavoured milk generated revenue of USD 752 million. Several major manufacturers in the region are focusing towards the advancement in packaging technologies to enhance product shelf life and sustainability, which supports the growth of market.
   
• The Canada milk powder packaging industry is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 1.9% during the forecast period. The rise in demand for dairy alternatives and plant based milk product, along with the increasing government initiatives for sustainable packaging is fuelling the growth of market. Additionally, the increasing milk powder exports from Canada to the International markets which requires durable and protective packaging further pushes the growth of milk powder packaging industry in the region.
   

The Europe region held 24.5% of the global milk powder packaging market share in 2024. The growth of Europe’s market is driven by increasing demand for fortified and organic dairy products, as more consumers are prioritizing high nutrition daily alternatives. Additionally, the surge in demand for plant based and lactose free milk powder is leading to innovations in protective and organic non-contaminated packaging solutions, which supports market expansion.
 

• The Germany market accounted for USD 152.6 million in 2024. The country’s strong dairy industry, added with a preference for premium and organic milk powder, is pushing the demand for sustainable and reusable packaging materials such as air-tight sealed metal cans. Germany’s food safety and recycling policies, including the Pfand (deposit refund) system, are also encouraging the use of sustainable and reusable packaging policies. Also, the increasing demand for tamper-proof and extended shelf life packaging especially in the infant formula and sports nutrition segments, are further boosting the market.
   
• The UK milk powder packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 3.3% during the forecast period. The increasing government regulations for plastic waste reduction is driving demand for innovative packaging solutions that maintains freshness without contamination. Sustainability regulation remains a key factor, which is driving the shift towards the biodegradable pouches, paper-based containers, and lightweight metal tin to reduce plastic waste. Additionally, the surge in consumer demands for convenience and portion controlled packaging formats, supports the market expansion.
   
• The France market is projected to reach USD 132.9 million by 2034. The market is significantly influenced by increasing demand for premium dairy products and organic infant formula. As one of the strong dairy production industry countries in Europe, France focuses on high-barrier packaging solutions such as metalized pouches and airtight tins to maintain product’s freshness, nutritional value, and quality. The rise in lactose free and organic milk powder consumption is driving the innovation in sustainable and ecofriendly packaging materials, which propels growth of market in the region.
• The Italy milk powder packaging market accounted for USD 85.4 million in 2024. The government’s push towards sustainable packaging coupled with the rise in demand for milk powder packaging, which ensure extended shelf life of products is driving the market. Investments in advanced moisture-resistant packaging, along with consumer preference for resealable and portion-controlled packaging, are shaping the market. Moreover, Italy’s circular economy policies encourage the use of recyclable and biodegradable materials, promoting sustainable organic packaging innovations in the dairy sector.
   
• The Spain market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 2% during the forecast period. The surge in export of Spanish dairy products is pushing the need for durable and secure milk powder packaging. Moreover, shifting consumer preferences towards convenient, single-serve, and portion-controlled dairy products packaging formats are encouraging brands to invest in innovative packaging solutions. Government initiates supporting sustainable packaging, including bans on single plastic use, are pushing the growth of sustainable milk powder packaging in the region.
   

The Asia-Pacific region held 34% of the global milk powder packaging market share in 2024. The Asia Pacific region, headed by China, Japan, and South Korea is rising due to growing demand for premium dairy product and increasing demand for infant nutritional dairy products. The growth of middle-class population and changing dietary habits and are pushing demand for innovative and protective milk powder packaging solutions.
 

• The Japan market accounted for USD 127.4 million in 2024. The market growth is driven by an increasing preference for adult nutritional supplement that require advanced milk packaging solution to ensure secure and reliable packaging. Additionally, the ageing population and rising consumption of adult nutritional supplements are fueling demand for advanced packaging materials like metalized cans and airtight containers, which supports the growth of milk powder packaging market in the region. 
   
• The China market is projected to reach USD 550.4 million by 2034. The increasing adoption of the smart and traceable packaging solutions is a major growth driver in the market due to growing concern about food safety and counterfeit products. Also, several smart packaging technology such as QR codes, RFID tags, and blockchain-enabled trackers are being deployed into milk powder packaging to ensure product authenticity and quality assurance.
   
• The India market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 6.3% during the forecast period. The rapid expansion of urban and rural dairy industry is fueling the demand for durable and travel-friendly packaging formats. Furthermore, with the growing number of consumers purchasing milk powder online, there is an increasing need for packaging that ensures product stability and prevents leakage or spoilage, which further propels the growth of market in the region.
   

The Latin America region held 7.4% of the global milk powder packaging market share in year 2024. The market in Latin America is fueled by the increasing demand for infant formula such as dairy-based nutritional product and fortified milk powder. Moreover, the rapid expansion of the e-commerce and retail distribution industry has increased need of resealable packaging solution, which can maintain product quality during transportation and storage.
 

The MEA region held 5.9% of the global milk powder packaging industry share in 2024. The market in the Middle East & Africa is boosting due to the increasing demand for powdered dairy product, especially in UAE & Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the health consciousness consumers are pushing the demand for lactose free milk product, which has increased the adoption of high-barrier and portion controlled packaging solution. Also, the presence of the several international dairy brand in the region promotes food safety and sustainable packaging solution, which further supports the expansion of market in the region.
 

Milk Powder Packaging Market Share

The milk powder packaging industry is highly competitive and fragmented with the presence of established global players as well as local players and startups. The top 5 market leader in the global market are CarePac, Coveris, Huhtamaki, Mondi, and Sonoco Product Company, collectively accounting for over 30% market share. Major key players of the market are investing in sustainable and innovative packaging solutions to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly, lightweight and high-performance packaging. The next-generation milk powder packaging are focusing towards the enhanced barrier protection, resealability, lightweight materials which ensures product freshness, extended shelf life, and compliance with food safety requirement.
 

Innovation in milk powder packaging technology such as biodegradable pouches, recyclable metalized films, and smart packaging solutions with QR codes and traceability, are gaining rapid popularity among manufactures. Moreover, the rise in demand for speciality and premium dairy products such as organic infant formula, high protein milk powder and functional nutritional powder, which is pushing brands to adopt modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), nitrogen flushed cans, and hybrid packaging formats, which ensure superior protection and convenience by combining rigid and flexible packaging materials. Furthermore, the advancement in technology has led to the development of paper based composite cans, refillable packaging, and plant-based bioplastics to offer enhanced consumer convenience while reducing the production and transportation cost.
 

CarePac offers a wide range of milk powder packaging solutions such as zip tops, snap closure, standup pouches, and others. The firm emphasizes on the use of sustainable material and flexible packaging solution with quick production times, which positions the company well against its competitor.
 

Coveris is known for their innovative and sustainable packaging solutions and focuses on improving recyclability and reducing environmental impact . This firm heavily invests in R&D and offers recyclable PE barrier monolaminate, which reduces plastic waste. Furthermore, the firm has partnered with several companies such as Tesco to offer sustainable packaging solutions, which position it as a leader in the market.
 

Milk Powder Packaging Market Company

The milk powder packaging industry features several prominent players, including:

• CarePac
• Coveris
• Huhtamaki 
• Mondi
• Sonoco Product Company
• Advanced Industries Packaging
• BOWE PACK

• Milk Powder Packaging Industry News

• In May 2024, Fonterra announced sustainable packaging, particularly for its milk powder sachets, by transitioning to recycle-ready ‘mono-material’ structures. This move aims to reduce plastic waste in the Asia Pacific region, where flexible packaging contributes heavily to mismanaged waste. By aligning packaging with evolving recycling infrastructure, Fonterra aims for a fully recycle-ready global packaging portfolio by 2025.
   
• In January 2023, Overherd introduced the UK’s first oat milk powder, packaged in flexible, recyclable pouches instead of traditional cartons. This innovative packaging reduces waste and enhances sustainability. Oat milk, the UK’s top plant-based milk, saw spending hit in 2020, highlighting increasing demand for eco-friendly dairy alternatives
   

The milk powder packaging market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) and volume (Kilo Tons) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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By Packaging Type

• Flexible packaging   
  • Pouches
  • Sachets
  • Others
• Rigid packaging       
  • Cans
  • Jars
  • Others

By Material Type   

• Plastic
• Paper & paperboard 
• Metal  
• Others

By Capacity 

• Up to 100g   
• 100g – 1kg   
• Above 1kg    

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