Dairy Processing Equipment Market

Dairy Processing Equipment Market Size and Share:

The global dairy processing equipment market size was valued at USD 11.78 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 20.11 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.82% from 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a market share of 41.8% in 2024. The rising dairy consumption across the globe is contributing to the growth of the market. Moreover, consumers are becoming more health-conscious and prioritizing their well-being, which is creating the demand for dairy products that offer health benefits and cater to specific dietary needs. Apart from this, the increasing urbanization and changing lifestyles of consumers in emerging economies are expanding the dairy processing equipment market share.

The market for dairy processing equipment is experiencing rapid growth due to the heightened demand for dairy products worldwide. A major trend is the growing use of packaged dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and butter, which is encouraging higher automation and development in dairy processing technology. With consumers increasingly turning to healthier, organic, and functional dairy foods, there is a corresponding increase in investment by manufacturers in cutting-edge processing technology that promotes higher efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability in manufacturing. Technological innovations like automated systems, intelligent sensors, and artificial intelligence (AI) are enhancing the productivity and quality of dairy products. Energy-saving and environment friendly processing equipment is also gaining greater traction, as businesses strive to minimize energy use and waste while maintaining environmental protection regulation standards.

United States dairy processing equipment market is witnessing significant growth owing to the increasing consumer demand for dairy products and technological developments. Growing usage of packaged dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt, is encouraging manufacturers to implement more efficient processing solutions. As the dietary needs of consumers shift to lower-fat and lactose-free items, demand is increasing for high-tech processing equipment that can accommodate a variety of formulations. This trend promotes innovation and the creation of more dedicated processing equipment that can address the shifting market requirements. Technological progress has a crucial impact on the US dairy processing sector. Automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and intelligent sensors are being incorporated into processing equipment to maximize efficiency, cut labor expenses, and provide higher-quality products. The technologies allow dairy processors to track and regulate each phase of production, from pasteurization to packaging, guaranteeing consistency and adherence to strict food safety regulations. In 2025, Following the announcement of a $500 million expansion in Twin Falls, Idaho, in March, Chobani revealed on April 22 that it has commenced construction on a new $1.2 billion, high-tech dairy processing facility in Rome, New York, situated in the center of Mohawk Valley.

Dairy Processing Equipment Market Trends:

Increasing Demand for Dairy Products

The demand for dairy processing equipment is mainly driven by the rising dairy consumption across the globe. The dairy market is estimated to reach USD 1,459.3 Billion by 2032, representing a stunning 4.95% growth rate. It is influenced by several factors, including a growing population, rising disposable income, urbanization, and shifting nutritional preferences. For example, the human population grew to 8.0 billion in 2022, up from an estimated 2.5 billion in 1950. It is expected that this growth will continue to accelerate, reaching 10 billion people by 2050. As the population grows, the demand for nutritious dairy products also surges, which are an important part of a balanced diet due to their high level of essential minerals, including calcium, protein, and vitamins. This increased demand for dairy and its products has highlighted the growing need for dairy processing equipment in the foreseeable future.

Rising Health and Wellness Trends

Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and prioritizing their well-being, which is fuels the demand for dairy products that offer health benefits and cater to specific dietary needs. This shift in consumer preferences is driving the development of new and innovative dairy products, which, in turn, catalyzes the need for advanced dairy processing equipment, thereby impelling the dairy processing equipment market growth. In line with this, the increasing prevalence of lactose intolerance and dairy allergies is a major factor driving the demand for specialized dairy processing equipment. Approximately 65 percent of the human population has a reduced ability to digest lactose after infancy. Lactase non-persistence is most prevalent in people of East Asian descent, with 70 to 100 percent of people affected in these communities. Also, cow's milk allergy is the most common cause of food allergy in young children and affects approximately 2% to 3% of infants. This prevalence is encouraging consumers to look for lactose-free and hypoallergenic dairy alternatives, which involve using different and unique processing techniques and equipment.

Increasing Urbanization and Changing Lifestyles

The increasing urbanization and changing lifestyles of consumers in emerging economies are major factors offering a favorable dairy processing equipment market outlook. It has been found that more than 4 billion people now live in urban areas. This means over half of the world lives in urban settings. As more people move to urban areas, their dietary habits and consumption patterns evolve, which leads to a higher demand for processed and packaged dairy products. Consumers are looking for options that fit seamlessly into their fast-paced lives, such as single-serve yogurts, flavored milk, cheese slices, and pre-packaged dairy snacks. For example, India exported 67572.99 million tons of dairy products that were worth $284.65 million during the year 2022-23. Among these, it exported 9262.63 million tons of cheese, which was worth USD 46.84 Million. This demand has necessitated the use of advanced dairy processing equipment that can efficiently handle high production volumes and diverse packaging formats while maintaining product quality and safety.

Dairy Processing Equipment Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global dairy processing equipment market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on equipment, type, and application.

Analysis by Equipment:

• Pasteurizers
• Homogenizers, Mixers and Blenders
• Separators
• Evaporators and Dryers
• Membrane Filtration Equipment
• Others

Pasteurizers stand as the largest component in 2024, holding 23.8% of the market. They accounted for the largest market share as they play a critical role in ensuring the safety and quality of dairy products by effectively eliminating harmful pathogens through precise heat treatment. Moreover, it is essential for extending the shelf life of milk, cream, yogurt, and other dairy items while preserving their nutritional value and taste. Besides this, the growing demand for pasteurizers, due to the imposition of stringent food safety regulations and increasing consumer awareness of health and hygiene, is positively impacting the dairy equipment market value. Advanced pasteurization techniques, such as high-temperature short-time (HTST) or ultra-pasteurization (UP), allow for a more precise control over the process, ensuring that the final product remains of high quality, with desirable sensory characteristics.

Analysis by Type:

• Automatic
• Semi-Automatic

Automatic leads the market with 56.4% of market share in 2024. As per the dairy processing equipment market overview and analysis, automatic dairy processing equipment represented the largest market share. It is essential for enhancing operational efficiency, ensuring product consistency, and reducing labor costs in the dairy industry. It includes a wide range of machinery, such as automated pasteurizers, homogenizers, separators, and packaging systems, which are designed to perform various processing tasks with minimal human intervention. Besides this, the rising adoption of automatic equipment due to the increasing demand for high-quality dairy products, the need for compliance with stringent food safety standards, and the pursuit of cost-effective production processes are boosting the dairy processing equipment sector revenue. One of the most significant benefits of using automatic dairy processing equipment is its ability to ensure consistency in the quality of the end products. These systems are designed with precision controls that maintain strict adherence to temperature, time, and pressure parameters, which are critical for achieving the desired product characteristics. Whether it is milk, cheese, yogurt, or butter, automation ensures uniformity in flavor, texture, and nutritional content.

Analysis by Application:

• Cheese
• Processed Milk
• Yogurt
• Protein Ingredients
• Milk Powder
• Fresh Dairy Products
• Others

Processed milk leads the market with 29.6% of market share in 2024. It includes pasteurized, homogenized, and ultra-high temperature (UHT) treated milk that caters to the widespread consumer demand for safe, nutritious, and easily accessible dairy products. Moreover, the essential role of milk in daily diets across diverse demographics and regions is fueling the dairy processing equipment market growth. Additionally, the introduction of advanced processing equipment that ensures the efficient treatment of raw milk to eliminate pathogens, extend shelf life, and enhance flavor and nutritional value is enhancing the dairy processing equipment market share. Processed milk retains most of its essential nutrients, including proteins, calcium, vitamins (such as vitamin B2, B12, and vitamin D), and minerals, while eliminating harmful bacteria and spoilage risks. Processed milk is a rich source of essential nutrients that contribute to bone health, immune function, and overall nutrition.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

In 2024, Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest market share of 41.8%. Asia Pacific dominated the market share, influenced by multiple factors such as its swiftly expanding population, higher disposable incomes, and escalating urbanization. Additionally, the significant investments in upgrading the dairy sectors to satisfy local consumption and export demands are fueling market growth. In addition to this, the implementation of various government programs that aid dairy farming and processing infrastructure, coupled with an increasing consumer awareness of nutritional advantages, is driving the market. This rise in demand is encouraging dairy manufacturers to invest in modern processing technology to enhance production efficiency, accommodate growing volumes, and uphold stringent product quality standards. A significant trend in the area is the embrace of contemporary, energy-saving processing technologies. Due to increasing worries about environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness, dairy processors are incorporating automation, digital controls, and intelligent sensors into their operations. These advancements aid in minimizing waste, enhancing energy efficiency, and boosting overall productivity, which aligns with the region's environmental objectives and regulatory requirements

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Dairy Processing Equipment Market Analysis

The United States hold 81% share in North America. The United States market is primarily driven by growing demand for high-protein dairy and increasing investment in advanced filtration systems. In line with this, the rising popularity of lactose-free and plant-blended dairy alternatives is accelerating the adoption of specialized enzymatic and homogenization technologies. In the U.S., approximately 36% of the population experiences some level of lactose intolerance, driving increased demand for alternatives. As of September 2024, lactose-free milk sales rose by 11.6%, with a 2.6% increase in volume over the past 6 to 12 months. Similarly, emerging automation trends driving the adoption of robotics and controllers to augment efficiency and cut labor costs are impelling the market. Furthermore, increasing demand for aseptic packaging, supporting the installation of integrated filling, sterilization, and sealing units, is stimulating the market appeal. The expansion of artisanal and specialty cheese production is also fueling sales of custom curdling and molding equipment. Additionally, regulatory pressures from the FDA and USDA are driving adoption of sophisticated cleaning-in-place (CIP) systems, which is fostering market expansion. Besides this, the heightened sustainability goals encouraging investment in energy-efficient evaporators and heat recovery solutions are providing an impetus to the market.

Europe Dairy Processing Equipment Market Analysis

The market in Europe is experiencing growth due to rising demand for organic, sustainable dairy, driving the adoption of eco-friendly processing technologies. According to reports, in 2023, organic dairy farms accounted for 47.5% (38,500 hectares) of the total organic area in the Netherlands. In accordance with this, growing demand for functional dairy, like probiotics augmenting investment in advanced fermentation and filtration systems, which is propelling the market growth. Similarly, ongoing innovations in dairy automation, particularly in packaging and material handling, are optimizing operational efficiency and reducing production costs. The growth of vegan and plant-based dairy alternatives, stimulating demand for specialized homogenizers and emulsification equipment, is enhancing market appeal. Furthermore, stringent EU food safety regulations supporting the installation of real-time monitoring and traceability systems are strengthening market demand. The increasing variety of dairy product lines, augmenting interest in multi-functional equipment capable of flexible processing, is impelling the market. Moreover, continual technological advancements in energy recovery and waste treatment, enhancing overall plant sustainability, are creating lucrative market opportunities.

Asia Pacific Dairy Processing Equipment Market Analysis

The Asia Pacific market is majorly propelled by increasing disposable incomes of people in countries like China and India. In addition to this, the growing interest in premium dairy items, such as gourmet cheese and flavored milk, is bolstering the need for advanced processing technologies. Similarly, the heightened focus on food safety and regulatory compliance is encouraging the adoption of cutting-edge pasteurization and sterilization systems. Furthermore, rising consumer interest in plant-based dairy alternatives is fueling demand for equipment tailored to non-dairy milk production, which is stimulating market appeal. In India, around 59% of users report that their entire household drinks plant-based milk, while 31% consume it individually. Many are also willing to pay up to 20% more for plant-based options and frequently switch brands based on pricing. Additionally, the continual development of cold chain logistics is enhancing product distribution, leading to greater demand for packaging and storage solutions. Moreover, ongoing innovations in automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are improving efficiency, reducing costs, and scaling production, impacting the market trends.

Latin America Dairy Processing Equipment Market Analysis

In Latin America, the market is advancing due to the growing formalization of the dairy sector, which is prompting increased investment in advanced processing infrastructure. As such, in 2024, Lactalis announced a USD 42 Million investment to modernize and expand its seven dairy units in Brazil's Minas Gerais state. The program, backed by local authorities, aims to augment industrial capacity, sustainability, and support local milk producers. Similarly, rising consumer need for value-added dairy products such as yogurts and flavored milk is accelerating the adoption of specialized fermentation and mixing equipment. Furthermore, export-driven dairy operations in countries like Argentina and Uruguay are driving the need for high-capacity, hygienic machinery that complies with international standards, which is impelling the market. Moreover, supportive government initiatives, including subsidies and modernization schemes, are encouraging mid-sized dairies to upgrade equipment and enhance production capabilities.

Middle East and Africa Dairy Processing Equipment Market Analysis

The market in the Middle East and Africa is significantly influenced by increasing investments in food security and the expansion of domestic dairy production, particularly across the GCC region. Accordingly, in 2025, Saudi Arabia launched a 1 million sq. m dairy industrial cluster in Al-Kharj to bolster food security and attract investments. The SR 22 Billion (USD 5.87 Billion) dairy sector is 129% self-sufficient, with Al-Kharj producing over 70% of national output. Furthermore, the rising urban middle class is fueling demand for packaged and fortified dairy products, driving adoption of advanced filling and nutrient-enhancement systems. Additionally, the emergence of dairy cooperatives and public-private partnerships in Sub-Saharan Africa is supporting the deployment of small-scale, locally adaptable processing equipment. Besides this, climate-related operational challenges are prompting investment in energy-efficient technologies tailored for hot, resource-constrained environments, thereby reinforcing sustainable growth in the sector.

Competitive Landscape:

The major dairy processing equipment companies are pursuing several strategies to maintain and enhance their market positions. They are investing in research and development (R&D) to innovate and introduce advanced, energy-efficient, and automated processing solutions. These innovations aim to improve product quality, safety, and operational efficiency, meeting the evolving demands of dairy producers. Additionally, key players are expanding their global footprint through strategic acquisitions, partnerships, and collaborations in regions where the demand for dairy products is rapidly increasing. They are also focusing on providing comprehensive after-sales services, including maintenance and technical support, to build long-term relationships with their clients. To cater to the growing demand for specialty products, such as lactose-free, low-fat, and plant-based dairy items, companies are expanding their product portfolios and offering versatile processing equipment. According to the dairy processing equipment market forecast, this flexibility is expected to allow dairy processors to adapt to shifting consumer preferences and maintain a competitive edge.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the dairy processing equipment market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Alfa Laval AB
• Feldmeier Equipment Inc.
• GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft
• Genemco Inc.
• IDMC Limited
• IMA – Industria Macchine Automatiche S.p.A. (SO.FI.M.A.)
• John Bean Technologies Corporation (FMC Technologies)
• KRONES Aktiengesellschaft
• SPX Corporation
• Tetra Laval International SA

Latest News and Developments:

• April 2025: Arla Foods and DMK Group announced plans to merge, forming a dairy cooperative with 12,200 farms and nearly 25 billion liters of annual milk production. The merger, pending approvals, aims to enhance innovation, market reach, and operational efficiency across the dairy value chain, including pasteurization systems.
• January 2025: GEA launched the Dairy Evaporator eZero, an energy-efficient system that cuts energy use by up to 60% and CO₂ emissions by up to 100%. Compatible with pasteurization-linked evaporator systems, it supports sustainable production of milk powder and infant formula through advanced MVR technology and ammonia heat pumps.
• January 2025: Alfa Laval launched Extend, a pasteurizer add-on that reduced biofilm buildup by up to 99% using low electrical currents. Installed at a major Scandinavian dairy, it cut cleaning frequency by 30%, saving 7,000 m³ water, 100,000 kWh energy, and 35 tons of chemicals annually.
• September 2024: Golden Calf Company launched the Calf Hero X, a next-gen colostrum pasteurizer and warmer offering improved efficiency, affordability, and eco-friendliness. With built-in data logging, universal parts, and robust stainless-steel design, it supports streamlined colostrum care and tracking for dairy farms, especially smaller operations.
• September 2024: RELCO partnered with Milky Mist Dairy to launch a cheddar cheese plant in Tamil Nadu, India. Featuring advanced technologies like HORIZON II vats, IDS CheddarMaster, and TRU-BLOCK systems, the 5-ton-per-hour facility aims to double milk processing capacity and begin commercial production by Christmas 2025.

Dairy Processing Equipment Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, dairy processing equipment market forecast, and dynamics of the market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global dairy processing equipment market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the dairy processing equipment industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.