Forecast Period
|
2026-2030
|
Market Size (2024)
|
USD 1.82 Billion
|
CAGR (2025-2030)
|
9.04%
|
Fastest Growing Segment
|
Online
|
Largest Market
|
North
|
Market Size (2030)
|
USD 3.01 Billion
|
Market Overview
India Malted Food Drinks Market was valued at USD 1.82 Billion in 2024 and is expected to
reach USD 3.01 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 9.04% during the forecast period.
The India Malted Food Drinks market is witnessing robust growth, owing to the increasing
health-consciousness among consumers and their growing preference for
nutritious, energy-boosting beverages. With rising disposable incomes and
urbanization, more individuals are opting for convenient, ready-to-consume
products that offer essential vitamins, minerals, and protein. Also, the
popularity of malted drinks as a breakfast or post-workout beverage,
particularly among children and working adults, contributes to market growth.
The widespread availability of malted drink options across various price
ranges, along with attractive packaging and marketing strategies, further
supports the market's expansion.
Key Market Drivers
Rising
Disposable Income & Rising Living Standards
Rising disposable income and improving living
standards are key drivers of the India malted food drinks market. As a part
of this, according to a recent study, India’s per
capita disposable income increased from USD 2.11 thousand in 2019 to USD 2.54
thousand in 2023. It is expected to attain a value of USD 4.34 thousand by
2029. The rise in disposable income is prompting shifts in consumer spending
habits and bolstering overall purchasing power. As the Indian
economy continues to grow, a larger portion of the population is experiencing
an increase in income, allowing for more discretionary spending on products
that offer convenience and nutritional value. This economic shift has led to a
greater demand for packaged beverages, including malted food drinks, as
consumers seek quick, healthy, and energy-boosting options for busy lifestyles.
Improved living standards have also resulted in a heightened focus on health
and wellness, particularly in urban areas. With greater awareness about the
benefits of balanced diets and the importance of nutrition, more individuals
are turning to malted drinks as a source of essential vitamins, minerals, and
protein. The shift towards healthier, functional beverages is especially prominent
among working professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and growing families. Also,
the rise in middle-class households with more disposable income has expanded
the consumer base for such drinks. These factors, combined with increased
availability of malted food drinks across retail channels and online platforms,
are fuelling the growth of the market in India. Rising living standards and
disposable income continue to make malted food drinks a preferred choice for
health-conscious consumers.
Product
Innovation by Major Player
Product innovation by major players is a significant
driver of growth in the India malted food drinks market. As a part of this,
as of October 2024, Allied Blenders and Distillers Ltd (ABDL), a company in the
India-made foreign liquor (IMFL) sector, plans to introduce a blended malt
scotch whisky in stages within this fiscal year. After going public, the company
intends to bolster its presence in the Goa market. Also, ABDL aims to improve
its whisky and non-whisky product offerings by focusing on the premium segment
and creating new variants to attract a broader consumer base. Leading
brands are consistently introducing new and improved products to meet the
evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers. As demand for healthier,
convenient, and flavorful options rises, manufacturers are innovating by
offering a wider variety of malted drink products, including those enriched
with additional nutrients, such as protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This
allows consumers to enjoy a functional beverage that caters to their specific
health and dietary needs. Companies are also diversifying their offerings by
introducing flavored malted drinks, catering to the diverse taste preferences
of Indian consumers. Innovations include sugar-free and low-calorie versions,
catering to the growing health-conscious and weight-conscious segments. Also,
brands are launching organic and plant-based malted drinks to appeal to
consumers seeking natural and sustainable alternatives. Packaging innovation
has also played a key role in the market's expansion. Convenient, on-the-go
packaging in various sizes, such as single-serve sachets and eco-friendly
bottles, has made these products more accessible and consumer-friendly. As
these innovations continue, major players in the Indian malted food drinks
market are expanding their product lines, helping drive market growth and
attract a broader consumer base.
Growing
Health-Conscious Population
The growing health-conscious population is a
significant driver of the India malted food drinks market. As awareness of
health and wellness continues to rise, consumers are increasingly seeking
nutritious and functional beverages. This shift towards healthier lifestyle
choices is fuelling demand for malted food drinks, which are often perceived as
an easy way to consume essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins. The growing
focus on balanced diets, weight management, and overall well-being has led to a
preference for beverages that offer added nutritional value and energy.
Health-conscious consumers are particularly drawn to malted drinks that provide
a combination of convenience and nutrition. These drinks are seen as a quick
and efficient source of energy, ideal for busy working professionals, students,
and active individuals. Also, the rise in fitness trends, including gym
memberships, home workouts, and yoga, has further contributed to the demand for
beverages that support post-workout recovery and muscle growth. As the
health-conscious demographic grows, there is also a notable preference for
sugar-free, low-calorie, and organic malted drinks, catering to the increasing
desire for clean and functional nutrition. This evolving shift toward healthier
food and beverage choices continues to drive the growth of the malted food
drinks market in India.

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Key Market Challenges
Supply
Chain Disruptions
Supply chain disruptions pose a significant challenge
to the India malted food drinks market. The complexity of sourcing raw
materials such as malt extract, milk powder, and other key ingredients can be
impacted by global supply chain issues, fluctuating prices, and trade
restrictions. These disruptions, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19
pandemic and geopolitical uncertainties, lead to delays in production,
affecting product availability and leading to increased costs for
manufacturers. Also, transportation challenges, including limited logistics
infrastructure and rising fuel prices, can increase the time and cost
associated with delivering finished products to retailers across urban and
rural areas. This affects the efficiency of distribution networks and may lead
to stockouts or shortages, particularly in less accessible regions.
Manufacturers may also face challenges in maintaining consistent product
quality and safety when dealing with disrupted supply chains. To mitigate these
issues, companies may need to adopt alternative sourcing strategies, diversify
their supplier base, or invest in better inventory management systems. However,
the unpredictability of supply chain disruptions continues to impact market
stability, potentially hindering growth in the India malted food drinks market.
Increased
Competition from Alternative Beverages
Increased competition from alternative beverages is a
significant challenge for the India malted food drinks market. Consumers now
have a wide variety of drink options available, including fruit juices, energy
drinks, smoothies, herbal teas, and plant-based beverages, which compete
directly with traditional malted drinks. These alternatives are often marketed
as healthier or more natural options, attracting health-conscious consumers who
may view malted drinks as overly sugary or artificial. The rise in popularity
of ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, especially those positioned as functional or
fortified, poses another threat. These beverages are often marketed with
specific health benefits, such as boosting immunity, enhancing energy, or
aiding digestion, which appeals to the growing wellness-focused population. Also,
plant-based drinks such as almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk are gaining
traction due to their perceived health benefits and appeal to
lactose-intolerant and vegan consumers. As competition intensifies, malted food
drink brands must adapt by innovating their products, focusing on
health-conscious formulations, offering unique flavors, and aligning with
consumer trends like sugar-free, organic, or low-calorie options. The increased
variety of beverage choices and shifting consumer preferences make it more
challenging for the malted food drink market to retain its customer base and
maintain growth.
Key Market Trends
Rising
Demand for Natural & Herbal Ingredients
The rising demand for natural and herbal ingredients
is a significant trend in the India malted food drinks market. As a part of
this, according to a recent study, as of 2021, the market for organic food was
valued at approximately USD 0.25 billion. It is expected that the organic food
market will grow to approximately USD 0.74 billion by the end of the financial
year 2025.Consumers are becoming increasingly health-conscious and are
seeking products that contain natural, organic, and herbal ingredients rather
than artificial additives or preservatives. This shift is driven by the growing
awareness of the potential health risks associated with synthetic chemicals and
the desire for cleaner, more wholesome products. As a result, manufacturers are
focusing on incorporating natural and herbal ingredients, such as turmeric,
ginger, saffron, and tulsi (holy basil), into their malted drink formulations.
These ingredients are known for their various health benefits, such as boosting
immunity, aiding digestion, and promoting overall well-being. Also, the
inclusion of plant-based proteins and natural sweeteners like honey or stevia
is gaining popularity as consumers look for healthier, lower-sugar
alternatives. The trend toward natural and herbal ingredients is also aligned
with the growing demand for functional beverages—those that not only quench
thirst but also provide added nutritional value. As this consumer preference
continues to grow, malted food drink brands are increasingly focusing on
offering products that are not only delicious but also aligned with modern
wellness trends. This shift in consumer demand is shaping the future of the
Indian malted food drinks market.
Increased
Focus on Sustainable Packaging
The increased focus on sustainable packaging is a key
trend in the India malted food drinks market. As a part of this, according
to a recent study, as of April 2024, 58% of businesses in India anticipate a
positive financial return from their sustainability investments within the next
five years. In India, 39% of companies plan to boost their sustainability
investments over the next three years. As environmental concerns rise,
consumers are becoming more conscious of the ecological impact of the products
they purchase, including packaging materials. In response, brands are adopting
more sustainable packaging solutions, such as recyclable, biodegradable, or
eco-friendly materials, to reduce their carbon footprint and align with
consumer values. Manufacturers are transitioning from plastic bottles to
alternatives like glass, paper-based cartons, or recyclable plastic to cater to
the growing demand for environmentally responsible products. Also, the use of
minimalistic packaging that reduces waste and the introduction of refillable
containers are gaining popularity. This move towards sustainability is not only
driven by consumer demand but also by stricter regulations on plastic usage and
waste management in India. Eco-conscious consumers are increasingly looking for
brands that promote environmental responsibility, and this shift is influencing
purchasing decisions in the malted food drinks market. As a result, companies
are investing in research and innovation to develop more sustainable packaging
solutions, which will likely continue to shape the market as environmental
awareness continues to grow. This trend reflects a broader movement toward
sustainability within the Indian food and beverage sector.
Growing
Demand for Premium & Fortified Malted Drink
The growing demand for premium and fortified malted
drinks is a significant trend in the India malted food drinks market. As
consumers become more health-conscious and seek higher-quality products, there
is an increasing preference for malted drinks that offer additional nutritional
benefits. Premium variants of malted drinks, which are enriched with added
vitamins, minerals, protein, and other functional ingredients, are gaining
popularity among a more affluent consumer base. These products are positioned as
more than just a beverage; they are marketed as a source of enhanced health and
well-being. Fortified malted drinks are especially appealing to
health-conscious individuals, athletes, and working professionals who look for
convenient, on-the-go solutions that support their active lifestyles. For
example, drinks enriched with protein for muscle recovery, calcium for bone
health, or antioxidants for immune support are becoming more common in the
market. As disposable incomes rise, consumers are willing to pay a premium for
high-quality, functional products that contribute to their overall health.
Brands are responding to this demand by developing new premium formulations,
such as organic or plant-based malted drinks, to cater to evolving consumer
preferences. The trend toward premium and fortified malted drinks reflects a
broader shift in the Indian market toward healthier, more nutrient-dense
options.
Segmental Insights
Distribution
Channel Insights
Supermarket/Hypermarket dominated the India
Malted Food Drinks market, due to their wide product range, convenience, and
accessibility. These large retail outlets offer consumers the ability to
compare various malted drink brands, sizes, and flavors in one place. With
increasing urbanization and growing middle-class incomes, supermarkets and
hypermarkets are becoming the go-to destination for packaged beverages,
including malted drinks. Also, these retailers frequently offer attractive
discounts and promotions, further driving consumer purchases. The presence of
well-established supermarket chains ensures that malted food drinks are easily
accessible across urban and semi-urban areas, boosting market growth.

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Regional Insights
The North region dominated the India Malted Food
Drinks market, due to its large urban population, higher disposable income, and
increasing health-consciousness. Major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and
Jaipur contribute significantly to the demand for malted drinks, with consumers
increasingly seeking convenient, nutritious beverages. The region's strong
retail infrastructure, including supermarkets and hypermarkets, further
supports the widespread availability of malted food drinks. Also, the rising
trend of fitness and wellness among consumers in the North is fuelling demand
for fortified and health-oriented malted beverages, strengthening the region's
dominance in the market.
Recent Developments
- In December 2024, Himmaleh Spirits, the
innovative craft distiller known for the award-winning Kumaon & I gin, has
unveiled plans for a new malt distillery in the scenic Kumaon area of
Uttarakhand. The cutting-edge distillery, which includes Forsyths pot stills
from Scotland, will now create artisanal Himalayan Single Malt whisky.
- In November 2024, Amrut Distilleries,
recognized for its single malt whiskies, gin, and rum, has established a brand
licensing partnership with Indian Glycols Limited (IGL), to bolster its
presence in the northern Indian market. This signifies IGL’s entry into the
premium segment of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL). IGL will manufacture, market, and disseminate
Amrut’s MaQintosh Whisky, Old Port Rum, Bejoice XO Brandy, and MaQintosh White Label
Whisky throughout northern India as per the agreement
- In February 2024, MMP has been involved
in the malted foods business for over 30 years and has successfully built
strong customer relationships. The company has managed to secure repeat orders
from its current customers due to the established relationship. The company has
formed business partnerships with renowned entities such as Mondelez India
Foods Private Limited, Hindustan Unilever Limited, The Kaira District
Co-operative Milk Producers' Union (Amul), Parle Agro Private Limited,
Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), Patanjali Foods
Limited, the Indian Army, among others. The company’s reputation in the market
for timely delivery and quality products is bolstered by its association with
esteemed clients and the frequency of their orders.
- In June 2023, SLAB Ventures Netherlands
and AB InBev India launched D’yavol Inception, a blended malt Scotch whisky
designed for those who appreciate true luxury and sophistication, D’yavol
Inception is a unique, non-chill filtered blended malt Scotch whisky that
harmonizes gentle peat and luxurious sherry notes, crafted for discerning
connoisseurs who pay attention to detail. This remarkable blend is carefully
made in central Scotland, combining eight unique single malts from the renowned
areas of the Highlands, Lowlands, Speyside, and Islands.
Key Market Players
- Mondelēz International, Inc.
- Hindustan Unilever Limited
- Nestlé India Limited
- Gujarat Co-Operative Milk Marketing Federation
Limited
- Patanjali Ayurved Limited
- Continental Milkose India Ltd
- Insta Foods
- Imperial Malts Ltd
- Barmalt
- Nutricia Ltd
By Type
|
By Distribution
Channel
|
By Region
|
|
- Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- Pharmacies
- Online
- Others
|
|
Report Scope:
In this report, the India Malted Food Drinks Market
has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry
trends which have also been detailed below:
- India Malted Food Drinks
Market, By Type:
o With Cocoa
o Without Cocoa
- India Malted Food Drinks
Market, By Distribution Channel:
o Supermarket/Hypermarket
o Pharmacies
o Online
o Others
- India Malted Food Drinks
Market, By Region:
o North
o South
o East
o West
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents
in the India Malted Food Drinks Market.
Available Customizations:
India Malted Food Drinks Market report with the
given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a
company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for
the report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and
profiling of additional market players (up to five).
India Malted Food Drinks Market is an upcoming
report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or
want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]