November 18, 2024 – In Latin America, dairy and non-dairy yogurt are preferred for their blend of nutrition, versatility, and alignment with evolving dietary needs and lifestyle choices. Innova’s 360 research into yogurt trends highlights the latest product launches, top brands, flavors, and what may develop in the future.
Yogurt Market Size and Trends
Dairy and non-dairy yogurt display steady launches across Latin America, reflecting diverse consumer preferences. Nearly 30% of consumers in the region have increased their non-dairy consumption, driven by variety and novelty. Meanwhile, 1 in 2 seek 100% plant-based options to diversify their diets. This preference is reflected in the growth of plant-based bases like coconut, almond, and cashew milk. This aligns with Innova’s annual top trend of 2024, ‘Plant-Based: The Rise of Applied Offerings,’ which underscores the growing demand for diverse plant-based dairy products that move innovation in the market.
Latin America is the smallest region for the yogurt sales value globally. More than 1 in 3 consumers in Latin America value inclusivity in their diet. Vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options reflect this demand, addressing varied dietary needs and cultural preferences.
Spoonable dairy yogurt leads within the dairy and non-dairy yogurt cluster. Spoonable dairy yogurt leads within the dairy and non-dairy yogurt cluster. In Latin America, Yogurt trends display that 32% of consumers consider immune health as their primary concern related to physical health. This is reflected in 15% CAGR growth launches with immune health claims over the past four years. This also aligns with Innova’s ‘Prioritizing Prevention’ trend, where companies are proactively addressing potential health issues before they develop to maintain consumer interest.
Leading Yogurt Markets
Brazil leads Latin America in dairy and non-dairy yogurt launches, while Mexico is the fastest-growing market among the top 5 Latin American countries over the past three years. Yogurt trends show that In Mexico, 1 in 3 consumers prioritize foods that celebrate their cultural heritage. It drives 41% CAGR in yogurt launches with traditional claims during this period.
Brands have tapped into this demand by highlighting traditional straining methods for fermented yogurt and locally sourced ingredients. These approaches appeal to consumers who value authentic craftsmanship and cultural connections, enhancing taste experiences and boosting growth in the Mexican market.
Top Brands and Companies
Danone is the top company in dairy and non-dairy yogurt launches in Latin America. It is driven by its brands like Yogurisimo, Oikos, La Serenisima, and Activia. To engage young consumers, Danone partners with Pixar, launching kid-friendly yogurt pouches featuring characters from Monsters, Inc., Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Inside Out, and Cars. Additionally, its co-branding with Hershey’s, Twix, and M&M’s enhances the appeal of nutritious snacks, blending fun with health.
Alpina Productos Alimenticios, Sigma Alimentos, Lactolac, and Nestle are other notable companies in the market. Yogurt trends display that these top 5 companies account for a total 27% of launches in Latin America over the past year.
Claims and Positionings Trends
The top 5 positionings in Latin America yogurt market are probiotic, source of protein, gluten free, lactose free, and low/no/reduced fat. However, these top positionings are country-specific in the country.
Yogurt trends display that apart from these top 5 positionings, no added sugar, immune health, and high/source of fiber are gaining popularity in Mexico, while consumers in Argentina lean towards no additives/preservatives, vitamin/mineral fortified, and low/no/reduced calories. In Colombia, no additives/preservatives, traditional, and no added sugar claims are on the rise. Plant-based, digestive/gut health, and seasonal—other claims are growing in Brazil. This indicates that brands are introducing and customizing their products to meet these consumer demands.
Yogurt Flavor Trends
Strawberry, vanilla, peach, coconut, and banana are the top 5 flavors in the Latin American dairy and non-dairy yogurt market. Yogurt trends display that apart from these top 5 flavors, berry, lemon, pineapple, cookie, and mango flavors are also growing in the space. This highlights the yogurt market’s balance between classic consumer preferences and evolving flavor trends.
What’s Next in Yogurt Market Trends in Latin America?
In Latin America, consumers increasingly prioritize health and nutrition in their food choices, with 43% willing to compromise on indulgence for healthier options. This drives demand for yogurt launches with claims like no added sugar, sugar-free, HFCS-free, and unflavored, which are gaining attention. Additionally, 35% of consumers are significantly influenced by high nutritional value claims, highlighting space for brands to develop dairy and non-dairy yogurt rich in protein and fiber that support a healthier lifestyle and evolving dietary needs.
Importantly, 32% of consumers prefer fruit and superfruit flavors, creating opportunities for brands to explore cross-category innovations like banana and cookie or strawberry and cheesecake, blending health with indulgence. By balancing health benefits with diverse indulgent flavors, brands are likely to lead in the evolving Latin American yogurt market.
This article is based on Innova’s Overview of Dairy & Non-Dairy Yogurt in Latin America report. This report is available to purchase or with an Innova Reports subscription. Reach out to find out more
