Butter Buds expands beyond butter, focuses on dairy concentrates

The company, known for its dairy-based products, is now emphasizing its expertise in enzyme modification technology, which allows it to create a wide range of dairy and plant-based solutions. To capture this expansion, Butter Buds unveiled its new catch phrase “Dairy concentrates and beyond” during the show.

“We are excited to introduce our new brand identity, which better reflects our company’s growth and innovation. … While butter remains a core part of our business, we have expanded significantly into the non-dairy space, and we want our brand to accurately represent our diverse product offerings,” Ivey said.

The global alternative dairy space​ continues to grow as consumers continue exploring sustainable, ethical and healthy options in their diets. The market is expected to reach $43.6 billion by 2028, more than double from the previous year’s value of $27 billion.

In 2021, the global dairy market​ was valued at $871 and expected to reach $1.12 trillion by 2026, with a 5.26% compound annual growth rate over the five-year period. Dairy’s continued use also reflects consumers’ ongoing pursuit for its nutrient-dense content, particularly with calcium, vitamin D, phosphorous and magnesium, according to Fact.MR data.

A focus on simpler ingredients, natural flavors​

One of the key trends driving Butter Buds’ product development is the growing consumer demand for simpler ingredient labels. In April, the company introduced its Cheese Buds Simple cheddar product​ under its Simple Concentrate CL line, which removes natural flavors from the label, aligning with the industry-wide trend towards cleaner and more transparent ingredient lists, Ivey said.

“Almost all of our ingredients have to have the natural flavor in the label declaration, this product does not. It just has cheese. So, we have taken natural flavor out of the equation – that is not on the label anymore,” Ivey said.

He added that Cheese Buds Simple cheddar offers a “pantry-friendly, simpler label” option and the company plans to release more items under the Simple line, in addition to organics.

Consumers are increasingly scrutinizing product labels, and “they are looking for products with simpler ingredient decks,” said Ivey. “Our Cheese Buds Simple Cheddar is a prime example of how we are responding to this trend while maintaining the exceptional taste and quality that our customers expect.”

Addressing the plant-based market​

The company has grown significantly in the plant-based market. With more than 30 kosher parve and vegan options available, including products made with sunflower oil, Butter Buds is providing customers with a variety of alternatives to dairy-based ingredients.

“Our enzyme modification technology allows us to create plant-based products that deliver the same functional benefits as dairy-based ingredients, without compromising on taste or texture,” Ivey said.

Global reach and market flexibility​

With a presence in more than 55 countries, Butter Buds has a strong global footprint with multiple distributors around the world, Ivey explained. The company adapts its product offerings to suit different regional palates and preferences, ensuring that its products meet the specific needs of each market.

For example, Butter Buds’ line of non-fat dry milk and cultured milk, Milk Buds, offers a variety of flavor profiles based on regional preferences. Peru features a “vanilla note at the end,” whereas Milk Buds Asia exhibits more of a sweetness, Ivey explained.

“We are proud of our global reach and our ability to adapt to different markets,” said Ivey. “By understanding the unique preferences of consumers around the world, we can develop products that resonate with local tastes.”