Infant formula prices are under pressure due to the growing popularity of high-protein diets and GLP-1 weight-loss medications, which are increasing demand for whey protein. This essential ingredient, vital for mimicking the composition of breast milk in baby food, has experienced a sharp rise in price, creating a financial challenge for manufacturers and families alike.
Whey demand rising with health trends
Whey protein concentrate 80, a common form used in dietary supplements, has seen a dramatic price rise from €11,733 per metric tonne in July 2025 to €25,875 in recent months. This increase reflects broader changes in consumer behavior and the influence of popular health trends that prioritize protein consumption.
The trend of proteinmaxxing, where individuals aim to consume as much protein as possible, has fueled demand for concentrated whey. This is especially true for people taking GLP-1 weight-loss medications, which suppress appetite, as they often rely on whey to maintain muscle mass during weight loss.
Formula makers face a tight squeeze
Whey is a critical component in infant formula, helping to balance the protein content and improve digestibility for infants. It is specifically used in high-whey formulas designed for newborns and babies under one year old. These formulas aim to replicate the nutritional profile of breast milk as closely as possible.
Industry experts warn that manufacturers are finding it increasingly difficult to absorb the rising costs of ingredients like whey. According to the Office for National Statistics, the average price of baby formula has already increased by 4.8% over the past year. A 750g box of formula now costs £12.11, up from £11.55 a year ago.
Reformulation and potential price hikes
To cope with rising costs, some formula producers are reformulating their products to include more D90 demineralised whey powder. This alternative ingredient, which removes 90% of the minerals, allows manufacturers to meet specific protein and lactose requirements while managing production costs more effectively.
Jose Saiz, a European dairy market analyst at Expana, stated that many manufacturers have altered their recipes over the past six months in response to ingredient costs. One significant shift has been the increased use of demineralised whey powder 90, a common component in infant formula.
Even with reformulation, high whey prices remain economically unsustainable for manufacturers at current retail price levels, Saiz added. Unless raw material prices decline, producers may be forced to raise consumer prices in the near future.
Dr. Vicky Sibson, director of the First Steps Nutrition Trust, highlighted the growing concern that families feeding their babies with formula may struggle to afford it. Some may resort to harmful coping strategies, such as diluting the formula to make it last longer, which could pose serious health risks to infants.