The global functional Carbohydrate sales is estimated to reach a valuation worth USD 7,823.9 million by 2024, increasing with a CAGR of 7.4% from 2024 to 2034.
The considerable increase in health-conscious living and health-driven people’s interest has led to an increased demand for nutritionally rich food products such as breakfast cereals and fortified breads.
This trend is expected to drive the sales growth with time through its increasing awareness on the benefits of dietary fibers. Moreover, this surge is also influenced by a focus on developing nutritionally fortified foods that can help reduce obesity and gastrointestinal disorders leading to enhancing one’s health with lower levels of cholesterol.
For their nutritional value, many producers in the food and beverage industry are using natural ingredients. In addition to food and beverages industries, functional Carbohydrate have found applications in nutraceuticals, medicine as well as cosmetics.
There is a growing demand for functional foods which contain new or enhanced ingredients that prevent diseases or promote good health. Consequently, food processing firms are collaborating with pharmaceutical companies to widen their product range through research and development in response to the shift towards preventive healthcare.
| Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Functional Carbohydrate Market Size (2024E) | USD 7,823.9 million |
| Functional Carbohydrate Market Projected Size (2034F) | USD 15,984.8 million |
| Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 7.4% |
| Top 3 Countries Market Share | 29.8% |
The growing popularity of fitness centers and gymnasiums is boosting the demand for dietary supplements, while the expanding global sports industry is driving the demand for nutritional powders and beverages. Additionally, the rising global pet population is increasing the demand for functional Carbohydrate in animal nutrition.
Emerging geographies, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, is experiencing population growth, improved living standards, and increased consumer spending power, making them the fastest-growing markets for functional Carbohydrate.
Developing economies with high population density and rising per capita income present high-potential sales for these products. As globalization and changing lifestyles lead consumers to become more conscious of the health benefits of high-fiber foods, the demand for healthy food and beverages is expected to rise, further driving industry growth.
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| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 7.2% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 6.9% (2023 to 2033) |
| H1 | 7.4% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 7.1% (2024 to 2034) |
The above table presents the expected CAGR for the global functional carbohydrate industry over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2024 to 2034. In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2023 to 2033, the business is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 7.2%, followed by a slightly lower growth rate of 6.9% in the second half (H2) of the same decade.
Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2034, the CAGR is projected to increase slightly to 7.4% in the first half and remain relatively moderate at 7.1% in the second half. In the first half (H1) the industry witnessed an increase of 20 BPS while in the second half (H2), the industry witnessed an increase of 20 BPS
Growth Driven by Multiple Applications for Functional Carbohydrate in Different Industries
Functional Carbohydrate are macronutrients used in different foods and dietary supplements due to their many health benefits. They include weight control, immunity enhancement, heart disease care and maintenance of healthy gut/digestive systems. For example, they are found in beverages like protein shakes, coffee, sports drinks, tea and carbonated drinks.
Furthermore, functional Carbohydrate are highly demanded by makers of veterinary feed ingredients since they can improve pet’s skin/hair health among others. Similarly fibers & carbs are used in personal care products thereby boosting the market growth as they have varied applications across various sectors.
High Growth Rate of Convenience Food Consumption
This has resulted in high requirements for such polymers as fibers; Carbohydrate; proteins; and fats when manufacturing ready-to-eat (RTE) or ready-to-mix/drink (RTM/D) products such as dessert mixes or bakery items among others.
One of its special types is starch that could be categorized under polysaccharides which is commonly used within the food & beverage industry because it possesses gelling/binding/thickening properties that vary along with amylose: amylopectin ratio.
The urbanization process coupled with increased disposable incomes together with limited time to cook means convenience food consumption has risen while at the same time on-the-go meals have become an essential part of people’s diets.
Demand Soaring Due to Increasing Geriatric Population
The popularity of macronutrients such as fibers or Carbohydrate increases globally due to aging population health advantages since World Health Organization estimated that the percentage of population aged more than 60 years is expected to rise from 12% till 22% in between 2015 and 2050.
Thus, with accelerating population aging comes increased demand for macronutrients aimed at meeting elderly’s general nutrient requirements. Fibers or Carbohydrate are beneficial in preventing heart-related diseases through lowering cholesterol levels as well as satisfying other health needs essential for old people which is therefore increasing the sales growth of functional Carbohydrate.
Rising Obesity Rates
According to WHO, global obesity rate has nearly tripled since 1975, with 39% of adults aged >18 years being overweight and 13% obese in the year of 2016. There has been an increased focus on diet control and healthy eating because obesity-related health issues have risen significantly.
Consequently, weight management is increasingly relying on soluble fibers that form viscous gels reducing appetite & caloric intake while slowing down carbohydrate absorption/digestion rates. These benefits are driving the ongoing growth of functional Carbohydrate category today.
Opportunity to enhance sales due to the increment in consumption of sports nutrition and nutraceutical products
The demand for fiber has increased in nutraceutical products because of its health benefits such as reducing the risks of diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis etc. Fiber is also important for maintaining gut health by preventing or relieving constipation and promoting smooth movement of stools.
For athletes, fibers are useful in dietary intake since soluble fiber helps soften stools while insoluble fiber adds bulkiness hence aiding bowel movement regularity. Furthermore, fiber supports muscle performance, endurance and recovery. This situation creates significant opportunities for manufacturers within the functional Carbohydrate sales from the growing popularity of sports nutrition as well as nutraceuticals.
In underdeveloped countries, historically, lack of awareness about macronutrient benefits posed challenges to the functional Carbohydrate market. The idea was compounded by thinking that getting these macronutrients was very costly therefore slowing down industry growth.
However, there has been considerable growth in developing countries’ food and beverage sectors during recent years. This increasing trend is primarily driven by higher per capita income as well as more affluent middle class population ready to spend more on food products that promote health.
Consumers in emerging geographies like India and China are now giving more attention towards functional foods for their nutritional requirements. The increasing popularity of functional foods across these regions provides huge sales prospects for such branded ingredients with respect to functional Carbohydrate. Changing food habits toward better healthy life style choices among consumers include this trend.
Moving forward, global demand for functional Carbohydrate is projected to be high going forward; it is estimated that the sales will increase at a CAGR of 7.4% over a period between now and 2024 compared to a CAGR of 7.1% during 2019 to 2024 time frame which shows an increase adaptability with new consumer trends through continuous focus on health.
There is a high-level concentration of industry power among multinationals mixed up with regional companies within the functional Carbohydrate industry space.
The major players like ADM and Cargill Inc., have wide range of products in their portfolio, advanced research capabilities, as well as global presence making them lead the sales. These companies’ scale and resources help them to innovate more while trying to meet consumers’ growing needs for healthier ingredients.
The other three tiers witnessed the stratification of the industry structure. The first tier consists of industry leaders who control large shares of this category mainly because they possess broad product portfolios thus exerting much influence via strong distribution networks.
The second tier includes Ingredion, Tate & Lyle, Roquette etc.; these are reputable enterprises known for innovative solutions provided by specialized products they make though some may focus on particular applications or advanced formulations only.
There are numerous smaller regional players that form tier 3 including Arla Foods amba, SunOpta among others. Even though they hold a smaller share individually, these firms make the industry highly competitive and dynamic. In several instances, their focus revolves around niche markets and local demands which enhance the diversity of this industry thereby making it more robust.
The increasing consumer awareness and demand for health-promoting foods drive the functional Carbohydrate sales. This includes concerns about obesity, gastrointestinal disorders and overall health that are increasingly resulting in a preference for dietary supplements as well as functional beverages enriched with fibers and specialty Carbohydrate.
Furthermore, there is an increasing popularity of fitness clubs and gymnasiums that increase the demand for functional beverages or dietary supplements.
Emerging markets especially in Asia-Pacific are experiencing rapid growth due to increased incomes, improved living standards and rising health consciousness. Considering India’s fast-growing population, China has also become a primary player because of its consumers’ consumption patterns that have seen an increase in functional foods intake.
Moreover, there has been a global aging population which is driving the need for macronutrients to support healthy living longer Functional Carbohydrate have become important components of older adults’ diets since they help improve cardiovascular health among other functions such as digestive health improvement by boosting immunity
Also, the trend towards natural and plant-based ingredients influences the competitive landscape of the functional Carbohydrate category. In future, companies will have to come up with some clean-label solutions as consumers increasingly demand products that are free from synthetic additives. There is a shift among health-conscious consumers in Europe and North America, which is a major market driver.
The following table shows the estimated growth rates of the top five geography sales. China and India are set to exhibit high Ginseng Extract consumption, recording CAGRs of 11.5% and 10.4%, respectively, through 2034.
| Countries | CAGR 2024 to 2034 |
|---|---|
| United States | 7.6% |
| Germany | 8.6% |
| China | 11.5% |
| Australia | 9.1% |
| India | 10.4% |
The evolving attitudes of consumers toward natural food ingredients can be evident in their shopping habits. Natural products' health benefits are the most important elements driving growing demand and, as a result, the expansion of natural ingredients in the USA market.
Natural ingredients have become increasingly popular among customers. The reason for this is that the number of people who suffer from various diseases and are allergic to synthetic substances is increasing. As a result, the growing demand for natural-based ingredients is predicted to boost the use of functional Carbohydrate in a variety of food products.
China remains one of the most lucrative market in East Asia for functional Carbohydrate, with a value share of 70.3% in 2024. Natural ingredients are becoming more popular as the world's population grows and people become more concerned about their health and well-being. The functional Carbohydrate catgory is expected to develop as a result of this.
Vegetarian lifestyles, vegan products, and plant-based diets are becoming more popular as people's interest in ethics, health, and sustainability grows. In the current environment, this indicates the growing demand for vegan food products, and it is predicted to continue to rise in the future time as well.
Plant-derived ingredients and products, such as plant proteins, Carbohydrate, herbs, non-alcoholic beverages, sweeteners, herbs, seasonings, and food coloring, are in great demand. Plant-derived functional Carbohydrate components are growing in popularity as a result of the vegan cuisine trend.
| Segment | Product Type (Dietary fiber) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 24.5% |
The dietary fiber segment is projected to hold a significant value share of 24.5% in the functional Carbohydrate sales by 2024. Dietary fibers are essential macronutrients known for their role in promoting digestive health, aiding in weight management, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for dietary fiber-enriched products is on the rise. This trend is particularly driven by increasing awareness of the benefits of fiber in maintaining gut health and its ability to regulate blood sugar levels.
The sales for dietary fibers is expanding as manufacturers innovate to incorporate a variety of fiber types into their products. From soluble fibers that help lower cholesterol to insoluble fibers that improve bowel movements, the versatility of dietary fibers makes them a vital component in the modern diet. With a growing emphasis on preventive healthcare, dietary fibers are becoming a staple in the daily nutrition of consumers globally.
| Segment | Application (Food & Beverage) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 24.5% |
The application of functional Carbohydrate in the food and beverage industry is also expected to capture a substantial value share of 24.5% by 2024. This sector is increasingly incorporating functional Carbohydrate to enhance the nutritional profile of products while also improving their taste, texture, and shelf-life. Functional Carbohydrate are being used in a wide range of food and beverage products, including baked goods, dairy products, beverages, and confectioneries.
The shift towards healthier eating habits and the growing consumer demand for functional foods are major drivers for this segment. Consumers are seeking out products that not only satisfy their taste buds but also offer health benefits.
This has led to the development of food and beverages that are fortified with dietary fibers, prebiotics, and other specialty Carbohydrate. The functional benefits of these ingredients, such as improved digestive health, enhanced immunity, and better weight management, are attracting a broad consumer base.
Moreover, the food and beverage industry is witnessing a surge in demand for clean-label and natural products. Functional Carbohydrate derived from natural sources are gaining popularity as they align with consumer preferences for transparent and trustworthy ingredients. This trend is particularly strong in regions like North America and Europe, where health-conscious consumers are driving the sales forward.
Rapid Growth of Food Additive Industry
With a huge number of participants, the global food additive category is fragmented. ADM, Cargill Inc., Ingredion Inc., and Tate & Lyle are among the top manufacturers working on label-friendly food additives. The category is predicted to grow due to the rising usage of chemicals in food products to improve nutritional advantages as well as texture and flavor.
Food additives are also reported to extend the shelf life of processed meats, soups and sauces, dairy products, sweets, and other foods. Food makers are always on the lookout for more natural, label-friendly ingredients that meet consumers' specific needs. As a result, the additive industry's expansion has a direct impact on the sales of functional Carbohydrate.
The Functional Carbohydrates market will reach nearly USD 5.4 Billion by 2022.
Automotive industry accounted for 28.3% of sales in the global Functional Carbohydrates market in 2021.
The North America Functional Carbohydrates market is expected to register 3.2% CAGR between 2021 and 2031.
The demand for Functional Carbohydrates is expected to grow at 4% CAGR between 2021 and 2031.
Increasing demand from automotive and building & construction sectors will continue augmenting growth in the market. To gain competitive edge, the market players are likely to focus on expanding their production facilities.
The Japan Functional Carbohydrates market will grow at 6.9% CAGR between 2021 and 2031.
Functional Carbohydrate is segmented as Dietary Fiber, Functional Polysaccharides, Functional Oligosaccharides, Sugar Alcohols, and other Functional Monosaccharides
It is segmented as Food & Beverages, Cosmetics & Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals and Others
Industry analysis has been carried out in key countries of North America, Latin America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia, Oceania and Middle East & Africa
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Functional Carbohydrate Market
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