Research suggests that a majority of the global population has lactose malabsorption, making it difficult to digest cow's milk. Despite this, the dairy alternatives market is expected to reach nearly $52 billion by 2036, almost doubling its current value. Lifestyle changes are a major driver of this shift, with consumers increasingly choosing plant-based milk for health, digestion, and lifestyle reasons.

Major coffee chains like Starbucks and Peet’s Coffee are offering new non-dairy options, reflecting a wider societal shift towards plant-based products. Europe is dominating the global dairy alternatives market, driven by strong consumer adoption, sustainability awareness, and innovation. Growth is also seen in Asia Pacific, with countries like India and China experiencing increased demand due to rising awareness of lactose intolerance. The report suggests that plant-based products are becoming a mainstream global food category, with consumers adopting them as part of their daily nutrition.