In this environment, the biggest opportunity for innovation in the dairy market is to formulate products for consumers who purchase both dairy and dairy-alternative products, according to a dairy flavors and ingredients report from market research firm Mintel.

While innovation in the dairy category has been impacted by the pandemic and inflation, processors have found successful innovation centers around plant-based alternatives, new formats, simple ingredient listings and formulations that meet specific dietary needs.

Bel Brands USA, Chicago, expanded its line of Nurishh plant-based products this spring with two new formats – cubes and cream cheese style.