European dairy suppliers led by Ireland’s Bord Bia are accelerating their expansion into Southeast Asia’s fast-growing functional nutrition market, driven by rising demand for science-backed dairy ingredients that support protein, healthy ageing, gut health and overall wellness.
The initiative is being promoted through the “European Dairy: Ireland, Where Nature Meets Science” campaign, a €3.2 million EU co-funded programme designed to strengthen Irish dairy’s presence across Asia. Singapore has emerged as a key gateway for the strategy, serving as a regional innovation and distribution hub for functional food and beverage manufacturers. According to Bord Bia, Ireland exported €276 million worth of dairy products to Southeast Asia in 2025, representing a 16.4% year-on-year increase.
Consumer trends are supporting the growth opportunity, with research showing that 60% of consumers globally regularly check ingredient labels, while protein, vitamins and fibre remain among the most sought-after nutrients. In Asia, nearly three in five consumers are increasing protein intake, while 55% consider digestive health very important, creating opportunities for dairy-based functional ingredients.
Irish dairy producers are highlighting the nutritional benefits of grass-fed milk, with research from Teagasc indicating that milk from Irish grass-fed cows contains higher levels of omega-3 and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) compared to conventional feeding systems. At Food & Hospitality Asia Singapore 2026, Irish dairy suppliers showcased ingredient solutions for sports nutrition, healthy ageing, life-stage nutrition and foodservice applications.
Industry experts believe growing demand for premium, functional and natural nutrition products could create significant opportunities for value-added dairy exports and innovation partnerships across Southeast Asia.
Source: Dairynews7x7 1 June, 2026 Read full story here