The cost of infant formula is poised to climb further as the price of whey protein, a key ingredient, has more than doubled in a year. Expana, a global market intelligence platform, reports that whey protein concentrate 80 (WPC80), which contains 80% pure protein, surged from €11,733 (£10,050) per metric tonne in July 2025 to €25,875 by July 2026. This dramatic increase is driven by a trend dubbed 'proteinmaxxing', where fitness enthusiasts consume high-protein diets, boosting demand for whey.
Whey protein's role in infant formula
Whey protein is essential in infant formula, as it helps mimic human breast milk by adjusting the protein ratio and making it easier for babies to digest. Any significant rise in its price directly impacts the cost of producing formula, which is then often passed on to consumers.
Office for National Statistics (ONS) data already shows that the average price of baby formula has increased by 4.8% over the past year. A standard 750g box now costs £12.11, up from £11.55 a year earlier. This trend is expected to continue as raw material costs remain high.
Expert warnings on affordability
Dr Vicky Sibson, director of the First Steps Nutrition Trust, an independent UK public health nutrition charity, expressed deep concern. "Whey is a major ingredient in infant formula, so significant increases in its price risk increasing the price of formula itself," she said. She added that manufacturers have historically passed on cost increases to consumers, citing the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) report during the cost of living crisis.
Sibson highlighted the "hugely concerning" situation, noting "mounting evidence that many families using formula to feed their babies find it unaffordable, and the coping strategies they use – like watering down feeds – may be harmful." She called for regulatory intervention, referencing precedents in other countries like Greece, and pointed to the CMA's findings of high profit margins (between 50% and 75%) in the sector. "Companies should not be allowed to protect their margins at the expense of the wellbeing of mothers and babies," she urged.
Manufacturers' response to rising costs
Jose Saiz, who covers the European dairy market at Expana, confirmed that higher ingredient costs have already led to increased consumer prices across many dairy and nutrition products, though the extent varies by market and brand. Over the past six months, manufacturers have been reformulating recipes to manage costs, notably by increasing the use of demineralised whey powder 90 (D90), another ingredient used in infant formula.
Saiz noted that "infant formula manufacturers report that current high whey protein prices are becoming economically unsustainable at existing retail price levels. Many believe further consumer price increases will eventually be necessary unless raw material costs ease." This suggests that families relying on formula may face even higher prices in the near future, exacerbating existing affordability challenges.
Impact on families and calls for action
The rising cost of infant formula places a significant burden on families, particularly those with low incomes. The First Steps Nutrition Trust and other advocacy groups are urging the government and regulators to take action to ensure that formula remains affordable. The CMA's previous investigation into the market revealed high profit margins, and campaigners argue that companies should absorb some of the cost increases rather than passing them on to consumers.
As the situation develops, parents are advised to seek support from health visitors or local food banks if they struggle to afford formula. Health professionals also stress the importance of not diluting formula, as this can harm a baby's health. The coming months will be critical in determining whether manufacturers will raise prices further or find ways to mitigate the impact on families.
