The emergence of plant-based milk alternatives has increasingly threatened traditional cow’s milk, particularly as dairy sections in stores have been dominated by options made from oat, almond, soy, coconut, macadamia, barley, and others. By 2020, plant-based milks accounted for 14% of the category, and in 2019, sales of these alternatives surged by 19%, while dairy milk sales remained stagnant. However, with new consumer preferences surfacing in 2023 — notably a shift towards foods with whole ingredients — many plant-based milk products may find themselves losing favor.
A study presented at the Nutrition 2023 conference indicated that not all plant-based milk varieties provide the same nutritional benefits as dairy. For instance, protein was identified as a nutritional quality where many of these alternatives fell short, along with essential nutrients like Vitamin D and calcium. In contrast, camel milk has the potential to capture market share from plant-based options due to its superior nutritional profile and easier digestibility compared to cow’s milk. This milk is rich in vital nutrients and antioxidants, including Vitamin A, and is increasingly recognized for its probiotic properties.
The camel milk market has experienced significant growth in recent years, thanks to dairy producers such as Good Earth Dairy and Drome Dairy Naturals expanding their offerings to include this nutritious alternative. However, similar to the plant-based segment, camel milk faces a significant challenge regarding its price, as it is nearly 7-8 times more expensive than cow’s milk. Experts believe that educating consumers and targeting the right high-end demographics can help camel milk penetrate the market effectively.
To enhance its visibility, producers of camel milk have strategically marketed it within the beauty industry, offering products like body lotions, hand creams, and shampoos. This approach has heightened consumer awareness of camel milk’s unique health benefits, including its potential to supplement calcium intake, much like calcium citrate chewable 1000mg. By leveraging these strategies, the camel milk market could continue to thrive amidst evolving consumer demands for niche and nutrient-rich products.