Baby Food - Southern Africa | Statista Market Forecast

Revenue in the Baby Food market amounts to US$828.40m in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 5.79% (CAGR 2024-2029).
In global comparison, most revenue is generated China (US$20bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$11.83 are generated in 2024.
In the Baby Food market, volume is expected to amount to 83.12m kg by 2029. The Baby Food market is expected to show a volume growth of 3.3% in 2025.0.
The average volume per person in the Baby Food market is expected to amount to 1.0kg in 2024.

Definition:

The Baby Food market covers specially formulated foods that are intended for infants and small children, most notably in the form of homogenized food preparations. In this market, both supplementary foods (e.g., fruit- and vegetable-based baby food) and infant formula are included.

Additional Information:

The market comprises revenue and average revenue per capita, volume and average volume per capita, price per unit (unit refers to kilogram), sales channels. The market encompasses retail sales through both online and offline sales channels to private end customers (B2C). The market only covers at-home consumption; out-of-home consumption is not included.

For more information on the displayed data, click the info button on the right side of each box.

Homogenized and dietary food preparations for infant feeding
Infant formula
Baby rice cereals and flour for baby meals

Baby care products
Baby beverages
Out-of-home consumption

The Baby Food market in Southern Africa has been experiencing minimal growth, primarily due to factors such as declining birth rates and a shift towards breastfeeding. However, there is potential for growth in the Prepared Baby Food sub-market as busy parents seek convenient and healthy options. Additionally, increasing health awareness among consumers may drive demand for nutritious baby food products. The use of digital technologies in marketing and distribution could also play a role in the market's growth.

Customer preferences: As health-conscious consumers become more aware of the benefits of organic and natural products, there has been a noticeable increase in demand for organic baby food options in Southern Africa. This trend is driven by a growing concern for the health and well-being of infants, as well as a desire to support sustainable and ethical food production practices. Additionally, with the rise of social media and influencer marketing, there has been a shift towards more visually appealing and Instagram-worthy baby food options that align with the aspirational lifestyles of modern parents.

Trends in the market: In Southern Africa, the Baby Food market is experiencing a rise in demand for organic and natural baby food products, driven by growing health consciousness among consumers. This trend is expected to continue, with more companies launching new and innovative organic baby food options. Moreover, there is a growing focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly packaging solutions in the region, indicating a shift towards more eco-conscious consumer behavior. These trends have significant implications for industry stakeholders, as they will need to adapt and innovate to meet the changing demands of the market. The trajectory of these trends suggests a promising future for the Baby Food market in Southern Africa, with potential for growth and profitability for those who can effectively cater to the evolving preferences of consumers.

Local special circumstances: In Southern Africa, the Baby Food market is heavily influenced by cultural and geographical factors. With a diverse population, local food preferences and dietary traditions play a significant role in shaping the market. Additionally, varying economic conditions and government regulations in different countries within the region impact the availability and affordability of baby food products. For example, South Africa has a more developed market with a higher demand for organic and premium products, while countries like Zambia and Malawi have a larger market for affordable and basic baby food options.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The growth of the Baby Food market in Southern Africa is also influenced by macroeconomic factors such as economic stability, government policies, and consumer spending habits. Countries with stable economies and supportive policies for the food industry are experiencing faster market growth compared to regions with economic challenges and limited consumer spending. Additionally, the increasing awareness about proper nutrition and the rising demand for convenient and healthy baby food options are driving the growth of the market in the region.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the total consumer spending on food, which comprises all private household spending on food that is meant for at-home consumption (out-of-home consumption is not accounted for).

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a top-down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending, and consumer price index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Food market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:

The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.

This report presents a comprehensive analysis and additional information on the Consumer market, in a PDF format.