Global Rice Milk Market Overview, 2024-29

Rice milk has a rich cultural and historical background, particularly in Asian cuisines where it has been consumed for centuries. In traditional Asian cultures, rice milk was often made by soaking rice, grinding it with water, and then straining the mixture to produce a creamy, refreshing beverage. This method allowed communities to utilize abundant rice crops for both sustenance and culinary variety. The modern commercialization of rice milk began gaining momentum in the latter half of the 20th century, paralleling the rise of health-conscious and lactose-intolerant consumer demographics worldwide. As dietary preferences shifted towards plant-based alternatives, rice milk emerged as a viable option due to its naturally mild taste and hypoallergenic properties (free from lactose, nuts, and soy). In recent decades, the market for rice milk has expanded significantly, driven by growing demand for dairy-free and vegan products. Major food manufacturers have introduced various formulations, fortified with vitamins and minerals to enhance nutritional value and appeal to health-conscious consumers. Today, rice milk is a staple in many households and is readily available in a variety of flavors and formulations, contributing to the diverse landscape of non-dairy milk options alongside almond, soy, and oat milk. According to the research report " Global Rice Milk Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the Rice Coconut Milk market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 1945 Million by 2029. The rice milk market is influenced by several key factors that shape its growth, popularity, and consumer appeal. One significant factor is the increasing prevalence of lactose intolerance and dairy allergies among consumers. Rice milk serves as a suitable alternative for individuals who cannot consume dairy products, offering a mild and naturally sweet flavor without allergens commonly found in cow's milk. Another driving force behind the rise of rice milk is the growing trend towards plant-based diets and vegan lifestyles. As more people adopt these dietary choices for health, ethical, or environmental reasons, the demand for non-dairy milk alternatives like rice milk continues to expand. Manufacturers have responded by improving the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of rice milk, often fortifying it with vitamins and minerals to meet consumer needs. Rice milk appeals to consumers seeking diverse options in the non-dairy milk market. Its versatility in cooking and baking, along with its ability to froth for coffee and other beverages, enhances its appeal. Moreover, rice milk's hypoallergenic nature—being free from lactose, nuts, and soy—addresses the needs of individuals with multiple food allergies or sensitivities. the sustainability of rice production plays a role in the market's dynamics. Rice is a staple crop in many regions worldwide, making rice milk production potentially more sustainable compared to water-intensive dairy farming or the cultivation of alternative milk sources like almonds.

The rice milk market offers a variety of options to cater to different consumer preferences, primarily divided into flavored and unflavored varieties. Unflavored rice milk serves as a neutral base, typically made from blending milled rice and water with minimal additives. It appeals to consumers seeking a dairy-free, lactose-free alternative with a mild taste that can be used in cooking, baking, or consumed on its own. Nutritionally, unflavored rice milk may be fortified with vitamins like vitamin D and calcium to mimic the nutritional profile of dairy milk, addressing concerns about potential nutrient deficiencies in non-dairy diets. On the other hand, flavored rice milk varieties enhance consumer appeal by offering a range of taste options such as vanilla, chocolate, and other fruit flavors. These flavored versions are often sweetened with natural sweeteners like cane sugar or flavored extracts to provide a more enjoyable drinking experience. They are particularly popular among consumers looking for a more indulgent or dessert-like beverage option without dairy ingredients. Facts about the rice milk market underscore its growth trajectory driven by increasing consumer awareness of health benefits and environmental sustainability. The market's expansion is also propelled by innovations in flavor development, packaging formats (such as shelf-stable cartons and refrigerated options), and strategic marketing aimed at differentiating products in a competitive landscape. Regulatory approvals for fortified rice milk formulations have contributed to market growth, ensuring that products meet nutritional standards and consumer expectations worldwide. The rice milk market caters to a diverse range of end-users who seek alternatives to dairy milk for various reasons. One prominent group includes individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, which rely on rice milk as a safe and digestible substitute. Its hypoallergenic nature, devoid of lactose, nuts, and soy, makes it suitable for those with multiple food sensitivities. Another significant consumer base consists of vegans and individuals adhering to plant-based diets, who choose rice milk as part of their ethical or dietary preferences. Interestingly, the development in the rice milk industry has seen notable advancements to meet these diverse consumer needs. Manufacturers have focused on enhancing the nutritional profile of rice milk by fortifying it with vitamins (such as Vitamin D and Vitamin B12) and minerals (like calcium), making it more comparable to dairy milk in terms of nutritional benefits. Innovations in processing techniques have also improved the taste and texture of rice milk, addressing previous concerns about watery or grainy textures that deterred some consumers. The culinary versatility of rice milk has expanded its appeal beyond traditional uses. It can be used in cooking, baking, and as a creamy base for beverages like lattes and smoothies. The ability of rice milk to froth and foam adequately for coffee drinks has further boosted its popularity among baristas and coffee enthusiasts. In terms of sustainability, rice milk holds an advantage over other non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, as rice cultivation generally requires less water and land resources. This aspect appeals to environmentally conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions. The distribution channels for the rice milk market are diverse and evolving, reflecting the product's increasing popularity and consumer demand. Initially, rice milk was primarily available in health food stores and specialty markets catering to individuals with specific dietary needs, such as vegan or lactose-intolerant consumers. However, as mainstream awareness and acceptance of non-dairy alternatives have grown, rice milk is now widely distributed through various channels. One significant development in the industry is the expansion into mainstream supermarkets and grocery chains. Major brands and private labels now stock rice milk alongside traditional dairy products, offering consumers convenient access to a broader range of choices. This shift has been facilitated by increasing consumer awareness of health benefits and dietary preferences, driving demand for non-dairy alternatives. Online retail platforms have also played a crucial role in the distribution of rice milk. E-commerce allows consumers to purchase rice milk directly from manufacturers or through online retailers, providing convenience and accessibility, especially for those in areas where specialty stores may be less accessible. The digital marketplace has enabled smaller, niche brands to reach a wider audience, contributing to the overall growth of the rice milk market. The foodservice industry has embraced rice milk as a versatile ingredient for use in cafes, restaurants, and bakeries. Its ability to froth and blend well in beverages like lattes and smoothies has made it a favorite among baristas and culinary professionals. This adoption in foodservice channels has expanded the visibility and usage of rice milk beyond retail settings, further driving market expansion. Major Companies present in the market: The Hain Celestial (US), SunOpta (Canada), Nestle, Danone (France), Oatly (Sweden), Ripple Foods (US), Califia Farms (US), Daiya Foods Inc. (Canada), Pacific Foods of Oregon LLC, Elmhurst Milked Direct LLC, The Dohler Group, Kerry Inc, Sahmyook Foods. Considered in this report • Geography: Global • Base year: 2023 • Estimated year: 2024 • Forecast year: 2029 Aspects covered in this report • Global Rice milk market with its value and forecast along with its segments • Country-wise plant based milk market analysis • Various drivers and challenges • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendations Product Types of milk in the report • Organic • Conventional Form of milk by formulation: • Powdered • Liquid By Sales Channel: • Supermarkets/Hypermarkets • Convenience Stores • Online • Others The approach of the report: This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analysing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to plant based milk industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.