Global UHT Milk Market Grows Steadily at a CAGR of 8.34%

Introduction

Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) milk is a type of processed milk that undergoes high-temperature sterilization to extend its shelf life without the need for refrigeration. It is heated to approximately 135–150°C (275–302°F) for a few seconds, effectively eliminating harmful bacteria while preserving its nutritional value. This process allows UHT milk to remain safe for consumption for several months when stored in aseptic packaging. The market is being driven by the rising demand for long-shelf-life dairy products. UHT milk offers the convenience of storage without refrigeration, making it an essential product in regions with inconsistent supply chains or limited refrigeration infrastructure.

Market Dynamics

Increasing urbanization and busy lifestyles drive the global market

Increasing urbanization and busy lifestyles are major drivers of the global UHT milk market. As urban populations continue to grow, with projections suggesting that over 68% of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2050, there is a rising demand for convenient, ready-to-consume food products. In response, companies are developing products that meet these evolving consumer needs.

• For example, in July 2023, Akshayakalpa Organic, a leading certified organic dairy company, expanded its presence to 42 cities in India, launching a new Ultra High Temperature (UHT) milk pack. This expansion reflects the growing demand for long-lasting, easily accessible dairy options in urban areas.

With the fast-paced nature of modern life, UHT milk’s extended shelf life and convenience make it an increasingly popular choice among busy consumers looking for hassle-free options.

Growth in developing regions

The global UHT milk market offers significant opportunities, particularly in developing regions where the demand for convenience and extended shelf life is increasing. As these regions experience economic growth and urbanization, the appeal of UHT milk grows due to its ability to provide safe, easily accessible, and affordable dairy products.

• For example, in March 2024, Heritage Foods opened a state-of-the-art UHT milk plant in Shamirpet, Hyderabad. The facility, equipped with SIG packaging technologies, produces a wide variety of products, including milkshakes, flavored lassi, cold coffee, buttermilk, whey-based energy drinks, and UHT milk. The plant offers nine different SKUs, ranging from 80 to 200ml.

This expansion underscores the rising demand for UHT milk in emerging markets, where dairy infrastructure is still evolving, further solidifying the growth potential of the market.

Regional Analysis

Europe remains the dominant region in the global UHT milk market, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient, long-shelf-life dairy products. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK have large UHT milk consumption, with supermarkets offering a variety of UHT products. Consumer preferences for convenience and extended shelf-life products are growing, with many people opting for UHT milk as a staple. Major dairy producers in Europe, such as Arla Foods and Nestlé, are investing in innovative packaging and distribution strategies to maintain market leadership. Moreover, the trend of healthier eating has led to the introduction of organic UHT milk in the region, further boosting growth.

Key Highlights

• The global UHT milk market size was valued at USD 77.53 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow from USD 83.99 billion in 2025 to reach USD 159.42 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.34% during the forecast period (2025–2033).
• By fat content, the market is segmented into whole UHT milk, UHT organic whole milk, skimmed UHT milk, semi-skimmed UHT milk, and UHT organic semi-skimmed milk. The whole UHT milk segment dominates the global market.
• By product type, the global UHT milk market is segmented into flavored and unflavoured. The unflavoured segment owns the highest market share.
• By distribution channel, the global UHT milk market is segmented into B2C, convenience stores, forecourt stores, online stores, and D2C. The supermarket/hypermarket (B2C) segment dominates the global market.
• North America is the highest shareholder in the global market.

Competitive Players

1. Nestlé
2. LACTALIS
3. Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited
4. Danone
5. COM INC.
6. Arla Foods
7. Sodiaal
8. Savencia Fromage & Dairy
9. Amcor plc

Recent Developments

• In April 2025, French company Malo Dairy, part of SILL Enterprises, launched UHT milk packaged in Elopak's Pure-Pak cartons. The filling process utilizes the E-PS120AH machine, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. This innovation is part of Malo Dairy’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact. The Pure-Pak cartons are made from renewable materials and are fully recyclable, contributing to the company’s sustainability goals.

Segmentation

1. By Fat Content
   1. Whole UHT milk
   2. UHT Organic Whole Milk
   3. Skimmed UHT milk
   4. Semi-Skimmed UHT milk
   5. UHT Organic Semi-Skimmed Milk
2. By Product Type
   1. Flavored
   2. Unflavoured
3. By Distribution Channel
   1. B2C
      1. Specialty Retail Stores
      2. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
   2. Convenience Stores
   3. Forecourt Stores
   4. Online Stores
   5. D2C
4. By Regions
   1. North America
   2. Europe
   3. Asia-Pacific
   4. Latin America
   5. The Middle East and Africa