Yogurt has become a universal snack that attracts global consumers for its innate health and convenience. According to Innova Market Insights, new yogurt product introductions increased 9.3% (compound annual growth rate) from 2012 to 2017.¹ As consumers find more occasions to soak up the nutritional benefits and indulgent flavors, yogurt sales rise. It is predicted that the market volume will increase 11% from 2016 to 2018.²

Digestive health and its relation to the immune system is a growing area of focus for consumers, leading into the new year. We’ve already seen a rise in everyday foods and beverages that contain added probiotics, but why? These products tout improved digestive health and a stronger immune system, and we expect the appetite for these benefits to rise in 2017. Fortunately, consumers’ favorite dairy offerings help incorporate probiotics into more products.