Sheep Milk Market Size, Trends and Growth Analysis by 2027

The sheep milk market was valued at approximately US$ 6,129.64 million in 2021 and is anticipated to grow to US$ 8,095.61 million by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% during the period from 2021 to 2028.

Sheep milk, often referred to as ewe's milk, is sourced from domesticated sheep. Various breeds of sheep are raised primarily for their wool, meat, and milk. However, certain specialized breeds are exclusively bred for dairy production due to their superior milk yield and extended lactation periods. Historically, sheep milk has been consumed since ancient times, largely due to its high digestibility and acceptance by the human digestive system. It is regarded as a nutritious alternative to cow and goat milk, offering benefits such as resistance to certain diseases and possessing antiallergenic properties. The composition of sheep milk is notable, containing approximately 5.4% protein, 4.9% lactose, 6.4% lipid fat, saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins (including B12, B5, A, B2, B1, and C), minerals (such as phosphorus and calcium), and essential amino acids like tryptophan, valine, threonine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, and histidine.

The sheep milk market is categorized into organic and conventional segments. In 2020, the conventional segment dominated the market share. Conventional sheep milk is produced from sheep that are fed with traditionally grown feed, which often involves the use of chemicals. Most dairy farmers prefer conventional practices due to their cost-effectiveness, making this method widely adopted. The affordability and accessibility of conventional sheep milk have significantly contributed to its rising demand.

Regionally, the sheep milk market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), South & Central America (SAM), and Middle East & Africa (MEA). The Asia-Pacific region holds the largest revenue share in the global sheep milk market. The growth of the middle-class population and increasing urbanization in this region present lucrative opportunities for market players. With rising disposable incomes, consumers are more willing to invest in premium food products like sheep milk, which is generally priced higher than cow milk. Shifts in consumer preferences towards taste, a growing demand for high-protein and energy-rich products, and the increasing interest in sheep milk among health-conscious individuals are driving market expansion in Asia-Pacific. Key players in this region include Fernglen Farm, Origin Earth Ltd., Sheep Milk Company Ltd., and Spring Sheep Milk Co., who are focused on developing innovative, high-quality products through research and technological advancements.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted dairy industries worldwide, including in countries like China and the US. Challenges such as decreased farmgate milk prices, labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, increased production costs, and limited operating capital have affected the sector. However, the pandemic has also transformed consumer behaviors regarding shopping, eating, and lifestyle choices. Lockdowns and restaurant closures have led to an increase in home-cooked meals, benefiting the retail dairy sector, including fluid milk and related products. A survey conducted by McKinsey in October 2020 revealed insights into changing consumer preferences during this period.

As restrictions ease and lockdown measures are lifted, the global sheep milk market is expected to experience significant growth, driven by increased awareness of its nutritional benefits. Sheep milk is known to provide approximately one-third more energy than cow or goat milk, making it particularly appealing to high-performance athletes. It boasts double the protein content and a richer profile of beneficial fats, vitamins, and minerals, including calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc, while being lower in sodium. The heightened demand for food products, especially packaged goods, due to the pandemic is further propelling the need for sheep milk in the food industry. Consumers are increasingly focused on health maintenance, which is likely to enhance the global sales of sheep milk products. The pandemic initially had a mild impact on the sheep milk market, but it is now gaining traction, and post-pandemic growth is anticipated.

Key players in the global sheep milk market include Origin Earth Limited, Sheep Milk Company Ltd., Velvet Cloud, Best Baa Dairy Limited, OVINO, Secret Lands Farm, and Fernglen Farm.

The overall size of the global sheep milk market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methods. Extensive secondary research was conducted using both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data. Additionally, numerous primary interviews were held with industry participants and experts to validate the findings and gain deeper insights. Participants included industry professionals such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, as well as external consultants specializing in the global sheep milk market.