The global lactoferrin market size is estimated to reach USD 486.7 million by 2030, registering to grow at a CAGR of 8.6% from 2025 to 2030 according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Increasing incorporation of lactoferrin in various products ranges including infant food, food supplements, dietetic foods, alcoholic beverages, sports nutrition, and personal care and cosmetics should bolster the lactoferrin market in the forecast timeframe, ascribed to strong health benefits.
Lactoferrin offers stimulating effects on the immune system, prevents cell damage caused by aging, promotes the culture of beneficial bacterial in the intestinal tract, and regulates viruses, bacteria, and fungi along with being regulators to iron metabolism. Lactoferrin is found effective for the treatment of hepatitis C infection by inhibiting replication of the virus at the intracellular level. Hence, the strong applicability of lactoferrin in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries is anticipated to drive demand during the forecast period.
Human colostrum has the highest lactoferrin concentration, followed by human milk and then by bovine milk. It is also readily found in human body secretions including the nose, eyes, intestine, and respiratory tract. Lactoferrin can be used as a conjuncture of specific strains of friendly bacteria, together they are proven to boost the immune function of the body, alert the white blood cells of the harmful microbes, and stabilize colonies of gut-friendly bacteria. Commercially, lactoferrin is commonly integrated with probiotics to achieve this.
The Asia Pacific lactoferrin market held the largest revenue share of 30.70% in 2024. The lactoferrin market is projected to witness a strong rise in demand, as the key market players continue adopting strategies to expand their presence in untapped economies of South East Asia. Countries including China, Japan, and Australia have experienced high awareness regarding the health benefits of lactoferrin, which is expected to bolster regional growth over the forecast period.
Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Lactoferrin Market Report
The iron absorption segment accounted for the largest share of 39.3% in 2024, primarily due to the increasing prevalence of iron deficiency and related disorders such as anemia, which affects a significant portion of the global population.
The infant formula segment dominated the global Lactoferrin market in 2024, driven by the increasing awareness of the health benefits of lactoferrin for infants. Lactoferrin is a crucial component of breast milk, known for its immune-boosting properties and ability to enhance iron absorption.
North America accounted for a 23.3% revenue share of the global lactoferrin market in 2024, driven by a combination of rising consumer awareness regarding health and wellness and increasing demand for functional foods.
Grand View Research has segmented the global lactoferrin market based on function, application, and region:
Lactoferrin Function Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Iron Absorption
Antiinflammatory
Intestinal Flora Protection
Antibacterial
Immune Cell Stimulation
Antioxidant
Lactoferrin Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Food Products
Infant Formula
Sports & Functional Food
Pharmaceuticals
Personal care products
Others
Lactoferrin Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
Spain
France
Asia Pacific
China
India
Japan
South Korea
Australia & New Zealand
Latin America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East and Africa (MEA)
UAE
List of Key Players in Lactoferrin Market
Hilmar Cheese Company
Pharming Group NV
FrieslandCampina
Synlait Milk Ltd.
Ingredia SA
MP Biomedicals
Tatura Milk Industries Ltd.
Glanbia plc
APS BioGroup
ProHealth
Fonterra Cooperative Group Ltd.
Farbest Brands
InVitria
Milei GmbH
Ferrin-tech LLC
"The quality of research they have done for us has been excellent..."