Colostrum is gaining preference as an essential component in food and beverages industry. Future Market Insights (FMI) estimates global colostrum volume to exceed 10,331.5 tonnes by 2016 end and represent market value of over US$ 1367.4 Mn by 2016 end.
Increasing demand for colostrum can be attributed to it being a major source of immunoglobulin — with higher amount of IgG — that strengthens the immune system and helps in reducing signs of ageing. Various colostrum-based products such as whole colostrum powder, skim colostrum powder and specialty colostrum powder are available in the market. Increasing demand for probiotic colostrum-based products is anticipated to fuel growth of the global colostrum market in the near future.
In terms of application, infant food is the largest segment in the global colostrum market. This is mainly attributed to increasing number of branded infant food products being prescribed by physicians, paediatricians, pharmacists and doctors. Due to the aforementioned factors, infant food segment is expected to expand at a CAGR of 3.7% in terms of value and 3.5% in terms of volume over the forecast period (2016–2026).
In terms of revenue generation, whole colostrum powder is the most attractive segment and is estimated to account for US$ 645.4 Mn by 2016 end. FMI estimates whole colostrum powder segment to exceed 6,508.6 tonnes by 2016 end; an increase of 2.3% in 2016 over 2015.