Middle East & Africa UHT Milk Market Outlook, 2028

Ultra High Temperature milk, or UHT milk, is sterilised at an extremely high temperature and kept there for a short period of time before being immediately cooled to normal temperature. As a result, this method gets rid of practically all of the milk's possible microorganisms. Due to its longer shelf life, consumers like UHT milk. UHT milk has a high nutritional value and needs minimal processing time. The recent COVID-19 epidemic gave UHT milk industry participants a rare chance to expand by creating new UHT-based health beverages. Demand for UHT milk and other shelf-stable goods increased as a result of the outbreak. Additionally, people prefer UHT milk and dairy products to boost their immunity because of the numerous health advantages of UHT milk, such as better bone health and a lower chance of developing certain cancers. The desire for UHT milk was sparked by two factors including growing consumer demand for western packaged milk products with longer shelf lives and an inadequate supply chain structure that requires cold storage of fresh milk. The UHT milk industry is expanding as a result of consumers' changing lifestyles and more exposure to western-style food products, particularly among the substantial youthful population. Additionally, UHT milk consumption is growing relative to non-UHT milk consumption because of the inadequate cold chain setup in the region's developing nations. The main barriers to the market's expansion are, however, the nutritional content lost during the production process and its high cost when compared to regular milk. UHT milk sales in the Middle East and Africa are fragmented as a result of the existence of significant local and regional businesses in many nations. The emphasis is placed on new product development, merger, expansion, acquisition, and partnership of the companies as strategic tactics used by the top companies to increase their brand presence among customers. For instance, in August 2017, Koita's introduced organic UHT milk in an easy-to-use tetra packs with a twist top and door-to-door delivery. The product is created using milk from grass-fed cows that has undergone a special pasteurisation process that gives it the flavour of fresh milk with halal-certified vitamin A and D3.

According to the research report, Middle East & Africa UHT (Ultra-high Temperature) Milk Market Outlook, 2028, the market is anticipated to reach over USD 5 Billion by 2028. The market for UHT milk in Middle East & Africa is primarily driven by the product's rising acceptance among all socioeconomic groups and the ability of businesses to maintain stable retail prices. Companies that sell UHT milk distribute their goods through both large (like supermarkets and hypermarkets) and small retail formats (like convenience stores and independent retailers), with the former producing higher volume sales. Due to the growing number of kids and schools choosing it, the school feeding programme is now one of the important segments for the UHT milk market. Improved technology, a greater focus on food and beverage items with longer shelf lives, and lower shipping and storage costs are some of the key growth reasons for the Middle East & Africa UHT milk market. UHT milk can also be kept unrefrigerated at room temperature for at least six months. This makes it possible to send UHT milk to places without adequate cold chain infrastructure. Additionally, UHT milk can be served without being cooked or boiled, which is practical for those who are employed due to busy schedules and rising knowledge of the nutritional benefits of milk. Middle East & Africa’s UHT milk market is anticipated to expand over the course of the analysis period because UHT is widely used due to its popularity and nutritional value. The primary force behind this exponential rise in Middle East & Africa is the expanding middle class, which is relocating to metropolitan areas. For instance, this population has long used and still does consume UHT milk in Middle East & Africa. Many people are projected to gravitate towards UHT milk as a result of unstable electricity supply and the lack of refrigerators in the majority of homes, particularly in Middle East & Africa.

The Middle East & Africa UHT milk marker is segmented into three major countries including United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and South Africa. Among them, South Africa is dominating the market in 2022. The country's expanding powdered milk business has been a significant obstacle for the UHT milk market here and could pose a danger in the future. The UHT milk industry is one of the most appealing sectors for new businesses in South Africa due to its high growth rate, yet entry is difficult due to a lack of resources and knowledge. Due to the prevalence of several competitors and private label brands, industry competition is at an all-time high. Since customers prefer raw milk due to their belief of its high nutritional content and freshness, the unorganised raw milk market in developing nations is one of the barriers to the UHT milk market. The top of the market has a lot of concentrated power. However, it is characterized by the presence of large numbers of private label brands offered under the branding of retail stores. In South Africa, urbanisation has increased. By encouraging the bulk purchasing of products, including UHT milk, it has indirectly fuelled the market expansion for UHT milk. The cities with the fastest population growth in the nation are Polokwane, Rustenburg, Vanderbijlpark, Nelspruit, and Ekurhuleni. UHT milk has become a staple in other non-perishable foods because of its lengthy shelf life. Due to its low cost and resistance to spoilage in the event of prolonged power outages, UHT milk is also growing in popularity among those who live on a limited income. On the other hand, during the projection period, it is anticipated that the Saudi Arabian market will grow at a strong CAGR. Market growth is predicted to be boosted by the region's large proportion of young people. Additionally, the high levels of disposable money among the millennia and the desire for new spending opportunities among the youth in this region are what fuel demand for UHT milk. Additionally, it is projected that increased consumer demand for products with reduced refrigeration needs will stimulate market expansion for the product.

The COVID-19 pandemic increased demand for food free of germs and other microorganisms, leading to widespread use of UHT technology and accelerating market expansion. In light of this, the UHT market is anticipated to experience significant growth over the course of the forecast period due to the integration of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) with UHT processing technology for increased productivity. Furthermore, the high levels of disposable income among millennials and their thirst for new consumption opportunities will fuel demand for UHT milk across the region. Additionally, a growing demand for products with little refrigeration is anticipated to fuel the product's market expansion. The UHT milk business was further hastened by Egypt's lack of infrastructure and cold chain capabilities for storing fresh milk. The Middle East and Africa dairy market is primarily driven by rising health concerns brought on by changing lifestyles and a growing population. Since fresh milk is thought to be more nutrient-rich than shelf-stable milk, it is particularly experiencing tremendous growth. The desire for portable ready-to-drink items, such as drinkable yoghurt, among health-conscious young people and women in the area is particularly driving the dairy sector. The market in the Middle East and Africa is being further stimulated by the rising demand as well as the expanding consumer acceptance of new and creative dairy products such flavoured milk and milk products, cheese spreads, and sauces, among others. Along with the growing availability of dairy products, the market is being helped by the growing presence of businesses in the food and beverage industry, which is the primary application for dairy. The region's dairy business is expanding as a result of the increasing use of items like cheese for fondue in the fine dining industry. For instance, with operations throughout the Middle East, SADAFCO, a major UHT milk supplier and distributor in Saudi Arabia, is upending the market with a daring new look for its beloved anchor brand Saudia. To stay up with the fast changing country, the company is updating all of its dairy and non-dairy milk packaging in addition to offering more chances for novel experiences. As a recognisable brand that has been woven into society from the beginning, Saudia milk is now able to maintain its emphasis on nutrition and health as its primary goals.

Based on the product type, skimmed UHT milk is particularly popular in Middle Eastern and African countries where dietary preferences often lean towards lighter or low-fat options. Skimmed UHT milk provides a reduced-fat alternative to whole milk, aligning with the dietary choices of individuals who prioritize healthier options. With an increasing focus on health and wellness, there has been a growing demand for skimmed UHT milk in the Middle East and Africa. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, seeking lower-fat alternatives without compromising on the nutritional benefits of milk. Skimmed UHT milk caters to these preferences by offering a healthier choice. Skimmed UHT milk is commonly used in traditional Middle Eastern and African culinary practices. It is often incorporated into recipes for various dishes, including desserts, sauces, and traditional beverages. Skimmed UHT milk provides a lighter texture and allows for the incorporation of dairy into dishes while minimizing the fat content. Skimmed UHT milk serves as a healthier alternative to whole milk, aligning with the changing dietary preferences and increasing health consciousness in the Middle East and Africa. Its versatility in traditional cuisine, nutritional value, and extended shelf life make it a significant segment within the dairy industry, catering to the diverse needs of consumers in the region and beyond.

Animal-based UHT milk holds cultural, nutritional, and economic significance in the Middle East and Africa. Its consumption, production, and exportation contribute to the region's agricultural heritage, support rural livelihoods, and meet the dietary needs of individuals in diverse communities. Milk from cows and other animals has been a part of traditional diets and culinary practices for centuries, with milk products being used in various dishes, desserts, and beverages. Middle Eastern and African countries have a rich tradition of dairy farming and milk production. Many communities have a long-standing connection to animal husbandry, raising livestock such as cows, goats, and camels to obtain milk. The tradition of animal-based milk production has been passed down through generations and continues to be an important part of the region's agricultural heritage. Animal-based UHT milk is widely consumed in urban areas of the Middle East and Africa. Rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles have led to an increased demand for packaged UHT milk as a convenient and accessible source of dairy nutrition in cities and towns. UHT milk production offers certain sustainability benefits in the Middle East and Africa. It allows for the preservation and utilization of milk resources without the need for immediate refrigeration or rapid consumption, reducing food waste and extending the shelf life of milk products.

Based on the form, liquid UHT milk offers a convenient and accessible source of dairy nutrition in the Middle East and Africa. Its long shelf life allows for easy storage at room temperature, making it available in areas with limited refrigeration facilities or unreliable electricity supply. Liquid UHT milk is widely consumed as a beverage in the Middle East and Africa. It is often enjoyed plain or with added flavours such as chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry. It serves as a refreshing and nourishing drink for individuals of all ages, providing essential nutrients in an easily consumable form. Middle Eastern and African cultures have their traditional milk-based beverages, many of which are made with liquid UHT milk. Examples include Sahlab in the Middle East, a warm milk-based drink with starch and aromatic flavours, and Kunun Zaki in Nigeria, a popular cold millet-based beverage enriched with liquid UHT milk. Liquid UHT milk is widely used in cooking, baking, and food preparation in the Middle East and Africa. It serves as a versatile ingredient in various traditional dishes, desserts, and sauces, adding richness and creaminess to recipes. Some Middle Eastern and African countries with well-established dairy industries export liquid UHT milk to international markets. These exports contribute to economic growth, trade opportunities, and the promotion of Middle Eastern and African dairy products globally.

UHT milk serves as a versatile ingredient in the production of various dairy products in the Middle East and Africa. Based on the end user segment, Dairy Product (Butter, Cheese, Yogurt, Milk Powder, Ice Cream, Others) segment is growing at a higher CAGR by 2023-28. UHT milk serves as a primary ingredient in the production of butter. The UHT milk is first pasteurized at high temperatures, and then the cream is separated, churned, and transformed into butter. This process ensures the production of high-quality butter with a longer shelf life. While UHT milk is not typically used directly in cheese production, it can be converted into cheese through the process of reconstitution. UHT milk powder, which is obtained by evaporating UHT milk, can be rehydrated and used as a base for cheese production. This allows for the creation of a variety of cheeses in the Middle East and Africa. In addition to that, UHT milk is commonly used in the production of UHT yogurt. The UHT milk is fermented with the addition of live bacterial cultures to create a thick and creamy yogurt with an extended shelf life. UHT yogurt is popular in the Middle East and Africa due to its convenience and availability. UHT milk is also used in the production of other dairy products, such as flavored milk beverages, desserts, and custards. Its long shelf life and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of applications in the Middle East and Africa. One of the significant advantages of UHT milk in various dairy products is its convenience and extended shelf life. UHT milk can be stored at room temperature for several months without refrigeration until the package is opened, making it suitable for regions with limited refrigeration infrastructure or in situations where refrigeration is not readily available.

The Middle East and Africa region has been witnessing significant economic development and industrial growth. This growth has led to the establishment of more businesses and industries, creating a demand for B2B distribution channels. B2B distribution plays a critical role in supplying raw materials, components, and finished products to businesses involved in manufacturing, construction, and other sectors. Many countries in the Middle East and Africa have been investing in infrastructure development, including transportation networks, logistics hubs, and industrial zones. This infrastructure development supports the growth of B2B distribution by improving connectivity, reducing transportation costs, and creating more efficient supply chains. The Middle East and Africa have attracted significant foreign investment and witnessed increased trade activities in recent years. This has led to the establishment of more multinational companies and international trade partnerships. B2B distribution channels are essential for facilitating the movement of goods and services between businesses, both domestically and internationally. B2B distribution channels often provide specialized services tailored to the specific needs of businesses. This includes inventory management, warehousing, logistics, and just-in-time delivery. As businesses in the Middle East and Africa become more sophisticated and seek greater efficiency, they rely on B2B distribution partners to handle complex supply chain requirements. The advancement of technology has transformed B2B distribution in the Middle East and Africa. Automation, digital platforms, and e-commerce solutions have made it easier for businesses to connect, collaborate, and conduct transactions with their B2B distribution partners. This digital transformation has enhanced the efficiency, transparency, and speed of B2B distribution, contributing to its growth in the region. The segment is growing at a prominent CAGR of more than 7% by 2023-28.

Major Companies present in the market:

Danone S.A., Nestlé S.A., Arla Foods amba, Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited, Royal FrieslandCampina N.V., The Coca-Cola Company, Meggle Group, Emmi AG , Promasidor Nigeria Limited.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Middle East & Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Middle East & Africa UHT Milk market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Artificial Turf market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report:

• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Product

• Whole
• Skimmed
• Partly Skimmed
• Fat Filled

By Source

• Animal
• Plant

By Form

• Liquid
• Solid

By End Use Application

• Retail Sales
• Dairy Product (Butter, Cheese, Yogurt, Milk Powder, Ice Cream, Others)
• Bakery & Confectionery
• Milk & Milk based Beverages
• Infant Formula

By Distribution Channel

• B2C (Specialty Store, Modern trade, Convenience Stores, Grocery Stores, Specialty Food Stores, Online Retailers, Other Distribution Channel)
• B2B (HORECA)

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organisations related to the smart lighting industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.