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Fortified baby food market to reach USD 18.1 billion by 2033
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Saturday, 28 February, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Our Bureau, Mumbai
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The global fortified baby food market is set for strong expansion, with projections indicating it will reach USD 18.1 billion by 2033, up from USD 9.6 billion in 2024. According to the latest Growth Market Report, the sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% between 2025 and 2033, driven by rising parental awareness about infant nutrition and increasing concerns over micronutrient deficiencies.
Fortified baby foods enriched with essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin D, DHA, folic acid, and calcium are gaining prominence as a preventive solution to early childhood malnutrition. In India, where millions of births are recorded annually, the category is emerging not just as a commercial opportunity but as a public health imperative.
Industry experts note that urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing participation of women in the workforce are accelerating demand for convenient, ready-to-eat infant nutrition products. Fortified cereals continue to dominate early-stage feeding, while infant formula retains strong traction in urban markets. Fruit and vegetable purees, snacks, and ready-to-drink nutritional blends are also witnessing growing adoption.
Government-led initiatives such as Poshan Abhiyaan and nutrition-focused programs under the National Health Mission are further boosting awareness around fortified foods. Regulatory oversight by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India ensures strict compliance with nutrient composition, labeling, and safety standards, enhancing consumer trust.
Changing consumer preferences are also shaping the market landscape. Parents are increasingly seeking clean-label, organic, and non-GMO products with no added sugar or preservatives. Brands are responding with localised innovations, including ragi-based cereals, multigrain khichdi mixes, and regionally adapted formulations.
Technological advancements such as microencapsulation for nutrient stability, probiotic integration, AI-driven personalized nutrition, and sustainable packaging are redefining product development. However, challenges remain, including high pricing compared to homemade alternatives and trust barriers in semi-urban and rural markets.
With growing middle-class expansion, organized retail penetration, and stronger nutrition advocacy, India is expected to remain a key growth engine in the fortified baby food sector over the coming decade.
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