India’s probiotics market has nearly doubled over the last five years, reaching ₹2,070 crore in 2025, up from ₹1,016 crore in 2021, according to data from market research firm PharmaTrac. The segment posted a robust 22% year-on-year growth in May, driven by rising consumer focus on gut health, immunity, and digestion.
“The probiotics market has become an essential part of the wellness category, showing a five-year CAGR of 19%,” said Sheetal Sapale, vice president – commercial, PharmaTrac. Pharmaceutical giants such as Sun Pharma, Zydus, Dr Reddy’s, USV, Torrent, and Mankind lead the market, which continues to be dominated by legacy brands. New product launches in the past two years have contributed ₹49 crore in revenue.
Probiotic drugs account for over 90% of the Indian probiotics market, with dairy-based offerings forming the rest. Dairy majors like Amul and Mother Dairy are expanding their probiotic portfolios, with Amul claiming daily sales of 3 million litres of probiotic buttermilk. “The category is growing in high double digits but remains vastly under-penetrated,” said Jayen Mehta, MD, Amul.
Start-ups are also making their presence felt. Firms like The Good Bug and WellBeing Nutrition have attracted investor interest, with The Good Bug recently raising ₹100 crore in a funding round led by Susquehanna Asia Venture Capital and Fireside Ventures.
Mother Dairy MD Manish Bandlish noted that probiotics now account for 45% of its fresh dairy portfolio, underlining the growing consumer demand.
Doctors are also seeing a rise in usage. “Probiotics are increasingly consumed by younger demographics, spurred by greater health awareness and social media,” said Dr Rakesh Patel, gastroenterologist at Fortis Hospital, Kalyan. However, experts warn against indiscriminate use. “While effective in many conditions, rampant use without medical advice is not always warranted,” cautioned Dr Kaushal Madan of Max Hospital, New Delhi.
With rising health consciousness and a shift towards functional foods, India’s probiotics segment appears poised for sustained growth.