In Colombia, fluid milk consumption is declining, while yogurts, cheeses, and butters gain popularity, offering new opportunities to reconnect consumers with dairy through diversified products.
In Colombia, traditional fluid milk consumption is steadily declining, while dairy derivatives such as yogurts, cheeses, and butters are rising in popularity. This shift in consumer behavior presents new strategic opportunities to reconnect Colombians with the essential nutritional benefits of dairy products.
According to a national study conducted by Compas Raddar in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and Asoleche, per capita fluid milk consumption in Colombia has dropped from 142 liters annually in 2016 to approximately 132 liters in 2023. While this decline might suggest a reduced interest in dairy, the study highlights that consumers are not abandoning dairy altogether but rather changing how they consume it.
Yogurts, cheeses, and butters are increasingly replacing traditional milk in Colombian households. The growing preference for these dairy derivatives aligns with evolving lifestyles and consumer demands for convenience, variety, and enhanced nutritional options. Artisanal cheeses, functional yogurts, fortified dairy drinks, and new product formats are gaining traction, reflecting innovation in the dairy sector.
The Ministry of Agriculture points out that misconceptions about milk’s health benefits, product quality concerns, and pricing challenges have influenced consumption patterns. To address these barriers, a multisectoral approach involving government agencies and the private sector aims to improve consumer trust through education and market strategies based on scientific evidence.
This initiative is designed to clarify myths, promote the nutritional value of dairy, and encourage diversified consumption. Understanding consumer profiles comfortable with dairy derivatives helps the industry tailor its offerings and marketing to meet modern preferences.
Overall, Colombia’s dairy industry sees the shift as an opportunity to innovate and grow by providing products that fit contemporary needs while reinforcing the vital role of dairy in a balanced diet.
