Retail Trends Driving Innovation in Lactose Free Dairy Cheese
The dairy industry has seen a significant shift in recent years with the growing demand for lactose-free products. One segment that has seen particular innovation is lactose-free dairy cheese. As consumers become more health-conscious and aware of dietary restrictions, the market for lactose-free dairy cheese has expanded rapidly. In this report, we will explore the retail trends driving innovation in this sector.
Rising Demand for Lactose-Free Products
The demand for lactose-free products, including dairy cheese, has been steadily increasing as more consumers are diagnosed with lactose intolerance or choose to avoid lactose for health reasons. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global lactose-free dairy market is expected to reach $17.5 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 8.8% from 2019 to 2025.
Major players in the dairy industry have taken notice of this trend and have been investing in developing innovative lactose-free products to cater to this growing market. Companies like Lactalis, Emmi, Arla Foods, and Danone have all introduced lactose-free dairy cheese options to meet consumer demand.
Innovative Product Development
In response to the increasing demand for lactose-free dairy cheese, companies have been investing in research and development to create innovative products that mimic the taste and texture of traditional dairy cheese. Advances in food technology have allowed manufacturers to produce lactose-free cheese that is virtually indistinguishable from its lactose-containing counterpart.
One example of innovative product development in the lactose-free dairy cheese market is the use of plant-based ingredients as a substitute for dairy. Companies like Daiya Foods and Violife have successfully created plant-based lactose-free cheeses that are not only dairy-free but also vegan-friendly.
Expansion of Distribution Channels
To reach a wider audience, companies producing lactose-free dairy cheese have been expanding their distribution channels. In addition to traditional grocery stores, lactose-free cheese products are now available in specialty health food stores, online retailers, and even in some mainstream supermarkets.
This expansion of distribution channels has made lactose-free dairy cheese more accessible to consumers, driving further growth in the market. According to a report by Market Research Future, the online retail segment of the lactose-free dairy market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% from 2019 to 2024.
Marketing and Branding Strategies
As competition in the lactose-free dairy cheese market intensifies, companies have been focusing on marketing and branding strategies to differentiate their products from competitors. Many companies have adopted a health and wellness positioning, emphasizing the benefits of lactose-free products for consumers with lactose intolerance or other dietary restrictions.
In addition, companies have been leveraging social media and influencer marketing to reach a younger, health-conscious audience. By partnering with popular influencers and bloggers, companies are able to increase brand awareness and drive sales of their lactose-free dairy cheese products.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the retail trends driving innovation in lactose-free dairy cheese are driven by the increasing demand for lactose-free products, innovative product development, expansion of distribution channels, and marketing and branding strategies. As the market for lactose-free dairy cheese continues to grow, companies will need to stay ahead of the curve by investing in research and development, expanding distribution channels, and implementing effective marketing strategies to remain competitive in this rapidly evolving industry.
