According to Innova Market Insights, 29% of consumers worldwide drink milk and milk mixed beverages once or even multiple times daily. Another 35% consume these dairy products two to six times weekly. It’s no surprise that the number of new product launches has risen almost eight% in the last five years. Worldwide revenue growth was 4.1% just from 2024 to 2025. Dairies can thus use stabilising systems to combine innovative product concepts with greater formulation flexibility, enabling them to respond more easily to changing market requirements and fluctuating raw material prices, according to ingredients supplier Hydrosol. 

According to Innova Market Insights, the most important sales arguments for flavoured milk mixed beverages are taste (52%), health (44%), and convenience (24%), while personalised concepts are becoming increasingly important in the health space. 

Protein is in the lead among ingredients with health benefits, and protein-rich products show the highest growth at 48%. This is especially the case for middle-aged Generation X and Millennial consumers, while vitamins and minerals are especially in demand among younger consumers, namely Millennials and Gen Z. Fibre is also very important for Millennials. Older consumers, on the other hand, favour products with high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to nutrient content, according to Innova, consumers are also looking for less fat and sugar in milk mixed beverages.  

Dairies may present a variety of concepts using fresh or recombined milk tailored to the diverse demands of specific consumer groups, Hydrosol notes. From protein-rich milk beverages and innovative hybrid drinks to carrageenan-free solutions, the portfolio addresses a wide range of market requirements. At the same time, the systems offer greater formulation flexibility, helping manufacturers adapt to fluctuating raw material prices without compromising product quality. In addition to health benefits, flavour plays a central role. Trending flavors can be offered with these systems, such as different versions of matcha latte: pure, with vanilla, or with fruity notes like mango or strawberry. These can run alongside classic favourites such as chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and caramel. 

“Beverages with Purpose” is one of the 2026 top ten trends from Innova Market Insights. These protein and fibre-rich products are enriched with vitamins and minerals intended to support physical and mental fitness, as well as gut health and the immune system. Healthy aging, weight management and athletic performance are further important criteria. In addition to high protein, these systems also contain fibre for a satiation effect.