The plant-based fiber market is estimated at USD 7.45 billion in 2025. With rising consumer awareness about digestive health and sustainable nutrition, the industry is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period, reaching USD 16.8 billion by 2035.
The industry is on a fast track due to a surge in the number of customers realizing the impact that health, wellness, and sustainable nutrition have on the planet. The changing consumer choice from synthetic to natural and functional food additives is the main reason the supply of dietary fibers from grain, fruit, vegetable, nut, and legume sources is rising. Furthermore, the rise of plant-based diets and the vegan lifestyle is one of the reasons for the flourishing industry.
On the other side, the industry, in spite of booming really, is stricken by some issues like variable raw material supplies, empty chains, and production hurdles. Apart from this, the fact that there are consumers who refuse to taste high-fiber products because of their concerns about taste and texture can be detrimental to the issue. The strict health and safety regulations concerning labeling and health benefits also contribute to the problem.
The field, on the other hand, is full of opportunities like the introduction of additives to functional foods and drinks that can use plant-based fibers for gut health, weight management, and cardiovascular well-being. Furthermore, the lack of fiber-infused dietary supplements, dairy substitutes, and gluten-free products is another opportunity for the company. Development in fiber extraction technology and splitting agricultural waste for fiber production are also some other areas for growth.
The key trends that are shaping the industry right now include the growth of prebiotic fibers which are used for digestive health and clean-label, non-GMO, and organic fiber formulations. The addition of plant-based fibers in alternative protein products, for instance, meat substitutes and dairy-free alternatives is the main trend. Furthermore, the packaging of plant-based fibers in innovative ways is an essential factor for achieving sustainability.
As more and more people prefer ingredients that are not only functional but also sustainable and plant-derived, the industry will continue to grow. Those companies that will engage in product development, create value for customers in terms of better nutrition, and utilize sustainable sourcing will be best positioned to take part in the forthcoming changes in the lifestyle and wellness industry.
| Metrics | Values |
|---|---|
| Industry Size (2025E) | USD 7.45 Billion |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 16.8 Billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 8.5% |
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The industry has been expanding at a swift pace, owing to the rising preference for sustainable and eco-friendly materials among consumers. Plant-based Fibers are predominant in the food and beverage sector for their functional benefits, which include enhancing the texture of foods and increasing the nutritional value. This sector has a robust demand, although there is little price sensitivity to it, as consumers prefer healthier options
Nonwoven fabric Plant-based Fibers, for instance, have both acceptance and usability issues since they are absorbent and have high levels of biodegradable hardness. One reason for this is that the Plant-based Fibers have a high level of moisture that creates bonding problems between the fibers and the polymer matrix during nonwoven manufacturing.
Personal care industries are implementing plant-derived fibers in biodegradable packaging and natural skin products. Shoppers here are chiefly concentrated in the area of green solutions, which spurs further industry growth.
The below table gives an overview of the change in CAGR over six months of the base year (2024) and current year (2025) for the industry. This analysis uncovers the critical fluctuations of performance and shows the pattern of revenue realization - giving stakeholders a clearer sight on the annual growth trajectory. H1 is short for the first six months of the year, from January to June. H2, the latter half of the year, the months of July through December.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 7.7% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 8% (2024 to 2034) |
| H1 | 8.3% (2025 to 2035) |
| H2 | 8.5% (2025 to 2035) |
In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2024 to 2034, the business is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 7.7%, followed by a higher growth rate of 8% in the second half (H2) of the same decade. Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2025 to H2 2035, the CAGR is projected to increase to 8.3% in the first half and remain considerably high at 8.5% in the second half. In the first half (H1) the sector witnessed an increase of 60 BPS while in the second half (H2), the business witnessed an increase of 50 BPS.
The global industry has demonstrated stable growth from 2020 to 2024 as a result of the increasing demand for natural, sustainable, and healthy diet solutions. Increased knowledge about the health effects of plant-based fibers in relation to digestive health, weight management, and heart health is making consumers more aware. Ingredients such as oat, flaxseed, chia seed, wheat bran, and psyllium husk are gaining popularity, especially in functional foods and beverages.
Plant-based diets and clean label growth also led to the implementation of high-fiber food formulations in the bakery, dairy-free, and snack categories. In addition, food businesses have highlighted the use of soluble and insoluble fiber addition to enhancing product texture and nutritional value as well as to address evolving consumer preferences.
During the period up to 2025 to 2035, the industry will expand further because of the development of prebiotic fibers, resistant starches, and protein-fiber combinations.
New product launches will be fueled by the industry for gut-friendly, immune-boosting, and personalized nutrition foods. Technological advancement in microencapsulation and fiber extraction will enable fiber inclusion in a broad range of food forms.
Plant-based fiber business in the sport nutrition, weight management, and functional beverages space will Keep gathering momentum for its ability to deliver satiety and enhance nutrient bioavailability. Favorable regulations on fiber fortification in packaged foods will push industry-wide uptake. Sustainable packaging and green sourcing will also become crucial to influence consumer decisions, especially in geographies with high green awareness.
Comparative Market Shift Analysis (2020 to 2024 vs. 2025 to 2035)
| 2020 to 2024 Trends | 2025 to 2035 Projections |
|---|---|
| Increased awareness of digestive wellbeing benefits and growing popularity of plant-based diets | Growth of prebiotic fibers, customized nutrition trends, and gut-wellness innovations |
| Oats, flaxseeds, chia seeds, wheat bran, psyllium husk | Resistant starches, protein-fiber combinations, next-generation dietary fibers |
| Bakery, dairy-free alternatives, snacks, and functional foods | Sports nutrition, weight management ingredients, functional beverages |
| Better fiber extraction and use in food products | Microencapsulation to improve stability and absorption |
| Need for clean-label, high-fiber, and gut-friendly food and beverage options | Immune health focus, sustainable sourcing, and environmentally friendly packaging |
The industry is dominated by the increased consumer preference towards environmentally friendly, and health-oriented products. Nevertheless, it faces high threats that might impact its growth and profitability such as disruption in the supply chain, regulation issues, competitor industry players, scalability issues of production, and environmental hazards.
Supply chain risks arise because agricultural raw materials are the primary source of the materials. These materials are vulnerable to climate change, seasonal variability, and geopolitical disruptions. Commonly occurring extreme weather changes such as droughts, floods, and pest infestations can cut yield significantly leading to shortages and price fluctuations.
The industry grows competitive, both with the established brands and the new players that bring plant-based fiber as an alternative. Besides the existence of synthetic fiber alternatives, the traditional competitors in the markets such as food additives, dietary supplements, and textiles can leave aside the industry entry of these brands. Thus, brands should look at the differentiation strategy that comprises of innovation, brand positioning, and consumer education to retain their competitive edge.
The production issue arises from the scale concern as the company demands more commodities. Specific plant-based fibers are high-rope production processes, and require technology and large capital, which could limit the production capacity and profitability.
Companies need to integrate sustainable agriculture, minimize their water footprint, and work on a circular economy to address the question of environmental ethics, and at the same time, being profitable.
Even with these challenges, the industry holds promise. By building more resilient supply chains, observing all the statutory regulations, initiating the process of innovation, and making sustainability their main activity, they can manage risks and grasp the growing need for plant-based products.
| Segment | Value Share (2025) |
|---|---|
| Paper and cardboard | 38% |
Paper and cardboard are leading, with a majority of 38% in the plant-based fiber industry by 2025, followed by bagasse, which will record 22%.
Paper and cardboard succeed in the segment widely due to the many sustainable packaging solutions used in industries such as food, beverage, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce. Thus, Smurfit Kappa, DS Smith, and Stora Enso have developed recyclable and biodegradable alternatives to paper-based packages, hinged to the growth of demand for eco-packaging.
E-commerce boundaries such as Amazon and Alibaba keep triggering the need for strong and sustainable packaging solutions from the client end in a domain like this. It has also reduced overall plastic usage in the secondary packaging of beverage multipacks from Coca-Cola and PepsiCo.
Bagasse holds a major 22% industry share as a byproduct of sugarcane processing. This byproduct is very quickly becoming one of the most popular packaging materials because it is eco-friendly. Eco-Products, Huhtamaki, and Vegware, convert bagasse to make compostable food containers, plates, and cutlery.
The food and quick-service restaurant industries, including brands like McDonald's, Starbucks, and KFC, have packaged increasingly more products in bagasse to comply with sustainability mandates. Bagasse is becoming a preferential alternative to Styrofoam and plastic due to its high durability and heat resistance, and it is compostable as well. Grocery chains like Whole Foods and Trader Joe's are also increasing the application of bagasse for food trays and takeout food containers to cater to customers sensitive to eco-friendliness.
| Segment | Value Share (2025) |
|---|---|
| Boxes and cartons | 35% |
Boxes and cartons will contribute more than 35% share of the industry by 2025, followed by bags and pouches, accounting for nearly a quarter of the industry.
Boxes and cartons dominate this segment owing to their application in food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and retail packaging. For example, International Paper, Tetra Pak, WestRock, and Mondi Group have all made their mark and positioned themselves further in the industry through the availability of sustainable and recyclable alternatives for packaging concerns. The increasing inclination of consumers toward green packaging in e-commerce and food delivery has significantly contributed to this segment's growth.
Not to mention that government restrictions on single-use plastics and rising consumer awareness about sustainability further drive fiber-based cartons. Also, Walmart and Carrefour, among leading grocery chains, have increased their reliance on plant-based fiber cartons for fresh produce and dry goods.
It puts around 25% of that share in bags and pouches, as companies are now shifting towards flexible, lightweight, and compostable packaging. Companies like Amcor, ProAmpac, UFlex, and Sealed Air are investing massively in these bags and pouches made from plant-based fibers to meet global sustainability standards.
Key growth segments for this area include the food industry, particularly snack foods, fresh produce, coffee, and dairy alternatives. For instance, Nestlé has also set a goal to increase the use of fiber-based pouches in some confectionery products. At the same time, Unilever fosters the initiative of biodegradable fiber pouches for some of its personal care and household brands.
The demand for resalable, biodegradable, and compostable packaging reinforces the industry for fiber-based bags and pouches. Numerous organic food brands like Nature's Path and Clif Bar are hearty users of what is now referred to as plant-based fiber packaging for personal consumption by environmentally conscious consumers.
Other brands under the category of cosmetics include L'Oréal and The Body Shop, which have been considering fiber-based pouches for their beauty and skincare range as part of their sustainability commitments.
| Countries | CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| USA | 7.2% |
| UK | 6.8% |
| France | 6.3% |
| Germany | 6.5% |
| Italy | 6.1% |
| South Korea | 7.5% |
| Japan | 7.7% |
| China | 9.8% |
| Australia | 6.4% |
| New Zealand | 6.2% |
The USA market for Plant-based Fiber is seeing aggressive expansion driven by the expanding use of preventive healthcare practices. Consumers are getting proactive about maintaining their health through diet instead of turning to medical procedures on an as-needed basis. Functional food innovation has positioned fiber into staple foods with the addition of foods that fortify digestive health, blood sugar, and overall well-being.
The industry is also influenced by significant product reformulations at a large scale when companies replace synthetic or less desirable ingredients with high-end fiber sources. Manufacturers have been encouraged to incorporate dietary fibers that, apart from their fundamental functions, possess additional health advantages due to the demand for clean-label and transparent nutritional information. Government dietary guidelines heavily emphasize the consumption of fiber, adding to its profile in conventional diet trends.
The UK industry is seeing robust growth in the sale of Plant-based Fibers due to rising public health concerns regarding gut well-being and food health. Consumers are actively seeking out products containing added fiber to combat lifestyle diseases like obesity, diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders.
The growth in plant-based diets has also driven demand further, with fiber ingredients serving as central building blocks in vegan and vegetarian foods. Moreover, regulatory policy to promote the reformulation of processed foods to provide greater fiber has provided opportunities for innovation for food manufacturers.
Private label power by supermarkets has also extended the availability of fiber-rich products to various consumers. Intermingling dietary fiber with bakery, dairy alternatives, and snack divisions is transforming the nutritional landscape in the UK
There is a growing intake of Plant-based Fiber in France due to the national culinary tradition dating back to historical times emphasizing equalized diets. Consumer demand for whole foods, as well as the natural origin of fiber-rich food, is consistent with purchasing habits on clean-label as well as organic fiber-enriched foods. Government-backed nutrition guidance has also played a key role in shaping consumer behavior, directing consumers toward increased intake of fiber for gastrointestinal health and the prevention of chronic disease.
French food manufacturers are adding fiber to high-end bakeries, dairy-free substitutes, and high-end functional foods and positioning them as healthy and gourmet. Dietary fiber intake is further fueled by sustainability initiatives that promote the use of upcycled farm residues to produce natural fiber ingredients.
Germany's Plant-based Fiber industry is underpinned by its well-established nutrition culture, which highly accepts fiber as a fundamental element of gastrointestinal health and disease prevention. Scientific study and evidence-based nutrition have been the priorities of the nation, leading to very specialized fiber solutions that are created to solve specific health problems like cardiovascular health, metabolic management, and microbiome balance.
Sustainability is also one of the driving forces behind demand, with German food producers paying attention to using locally sourced agricultural residues to develop high-quality fiber ingredients. Consumers are extremely reactive to product labeling that explicitly indicates fiber content and health aspects, which helps in the growth of fiber-enriched food categories such as plant-based meat substitutes, dairy substitutes, and high-fiber cereals.
Italy's industry is expanding as the nation's heritage diet converges with healthy, contemporary lifestyle patterns. Italy's traditional Mediterranean diet is inherently high in natural sources of fiber, and still, there is an increasing trend towards fortified, functional fiber products. There is increasing demand for fiber-filled pasta, bread, and snack alternatives due to consumers' desire for convenience in enhancing the fiber content without compromising on traditional tastes and textures.
Furthermore, the rising trend of gut health awareness has prompted Italian food businesses to innovate in the probiotic and prebiotic fiber segment. The premiumization of high-fiber items, with an emphasis on artisanal quality, has transformed plant-based fiber into a health-driven and gourmet ingredient.
South Korea's industry is expanding at a rapid rate, fueled by a combination of nutritional policy-initiated consumer behavior and government-pushed nutritional policy. The country has a very strong functional foods industry, and dietary fiber is now being incorporated into a wide array of products, from traditionally fermented foods to modern-day health drinks and meal replacements.
The rising prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders has driven demand for prebiotic fibers, which support gut microbiota equilibrium. In addition, the influence of K-beauty and wellness trends has expanded the function of fiber intake beyond the gut, with uses directed toward skin health, weight management, and metabolic health. The industry also benefits from advancements in food technology, where new fiber solutions enhance the nutritional content of processed food without changing its sensory attributes.
The industry in Japan is on the increase due to the overlap between traditional eating patterns and scientific advances in functional nutrition. The country has an ancient heritage of high-fiber foods such as seaweed, soy foods, and fermented vegetables that have long been part of its nutrition-centric food culture.
Consumers today, however, are looking for products with added fiber that support their active lifestyle. Industry growth has been driven chiefly by the widespread availability of functional beverages and added-dietary-fiber convenience foods. Furthermore, Japan's fast-aging population has heightened demand for fiber-based solutions that fight age-related diseases, including cardiovascular health, digestive efficiency, and blood sugar management.
China's industry is expanding remarkably well, driven by growing disposable income, urbanization, and the integration of traditional Chinese medicine with modern nutritional science. There has been a rise in consumers demanding quality nutritional foods with both the Western dietary fiber concept and traditional botanical ingredients all wrapped together in some of the most famous health-enhancing botany.
Manufacturers of food have completely rewritten product lines to have their fiber-rich equivalents, primarily within the categories of dairy substitutes, snacks, and instant meals. In addition, food policy initiatives supporting improved nutritional foods have led to greater applications of Plant-based Fibers as functional foods in high-volume products. The country's huge food industry is taking advantage of cutting-edge processing technology to maintain fiber integrity while enhancing the texture and taste of fiber-enriched foods.
Australia's industry is fueled by the country's high interest in preventive health and sustainability. Consumers are increasingly focusing on gut health, and dietary fiber has emerged as a key nutrient for digestive health. Rising demand for clean-label and plant-based diets has led to high demand for natural fiber ingredients derived from domestic crops, such as oats, legumes, and native plants.
Australian food manufacturers are leading functional food innovation through the creation of fiber-enhanced snacks, breakfast cereals, and protein bars aimed at active and health-conscious consumers. Industry benefits are coupled with strict dietary rules for foods that promote national fiber fortification among nutritional suggestions.
The industry for Plant-based Fiber in New Zealand is expanding with rising consumer concerns about digestive wellness, immune wellness, and total wellness. The agriculture industry in New Zealand thrives, and so has New Zealand's cultivation of fiber-rich foods from local sources like kiwifruit, flaxseed, and whole grain.
Demand for organic and minimally processed sources of fiber is growing in line with the nation's preference for natural and sustainable foods. New Zealand's sports and active lifestyle culture has also driven the uptake of high-fiber functional foods for energy balance and metabolic health. The easy availability of products with fiber-fortified in mainstream consumer channels is another driver that fuels industry growth.
The industry is characterized by intense competition among continuous innovations and strategic positioning of the different applications. Committed ingredient players have been competing with specialized fiber producers and rising innovators who concentrate mainly on discovering novel sources and processing technologies.
Product functionality remains the main differentiator in most competitive scenarios, thus having manufacturers invest heavily in research and development in performance characteristics like solubility, stability, sensory neutrality, and process tolerance. Cargill's stronghold in the industry, however, is through extensive application knowledge that is employed to aid customers in optimizing fiber inclusion in various food systems while solving technical hitches that come with it.
Competition increasingly hinges on scientific validation, with producers conducting clinical research to prove that certain health benefits are beyond specific restrictions. The investment in research is also aimed at creating differentiated messages for marketing that hit the right note with educated consumers who want evidence-based nutrition solutions.
This also applies to research Ingredion has entered into with leading universities that substantiate the prebiotic properties of their fiber ingredients by creating compelling scientific narratives and premium positioning. Sustainability credentials have evolved into one of the major aspects of competitive factors where variables being marketed by manufacturers include environmental benefits that involve agricultural byproduct use, reduced water use, and carbon footprint benefits over conventional ingredients.
Vertical integration strategies provide substantial and great benefits to companies with totally controlled raw materials source, processing, and application development areas since they are certain about the quality of production and cost control, unlike firms relying on outside suppliers. Archer Daniels Midland uses this integration of its agricultural supply chain to obtain quality consistency in its raw materials while holding price steadiness amid variations in the farm market.
More recently, having developed online formulation assistance, virtual application laboratories, and remote technical support, digital capabilities have become a front-line competitive tool for enhancing customer experiences through the product development journey of manufacturers.
Market Share Analysis by Company
| Company Name | Estimated Market Share (%) |
|---|---|
| Cargill | 20-24% |
| Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) | 18-22% |
| DuPont | 14-18% |
| Ingredion Incorporated | 10-14% |
| Tate & Lyle | 8-12% |
| Other Companies (Combined) | 30-40% |
| Company Name | Key Offerings/Activities |
|---|---|
| Cargill | Provides a broad range of soluble and insoluble Plant-based Fibers, including citrus, oat, and pea fibers, with a strong focus on sustainability and clean-label applications. |
| Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) | Offers functional fiber blends for gut health, sugar reduction, and textural enhancement, leveraging proprietary processing technology. |
| DuPont | Specializes in prebiotic fibers such as polydextrose and inulin, supporting digestive wellness and glycemic control. |
| Ingredion Incorporated | Develops plant-based dietary fibers optimized for low-calorie formulations, texture enhancement, and sugar replacement. |
| Tate & Lyle | It focuses on fiber fortification solutions, particularly resistant starch and soluble corn fiber, and targets health-focused food innovation. |
Key Company Insights
Cargill (20-24%)
A market leader in functional Plant-based Fibers, Cargill is investing in fiber fortification for dairy alternatives, meat substitutes, and baked goods. The company is advancing upcycled fiber solutions to align with sustainability goals.
Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) (18-22%)
ADM has expanded its dietary fiber portfolio with innovative prebiotic and texturizing solutions, leveraging agricultural co-products for fiber extraction. Its focus on precision nutrition and fermentation technology strengthens its position.
DuPont (14-18%)
A pioneer in prebiotic and functional fibers, DuPont is capitalizing on the gut health trend with customized fiber blends. Its science-backed solutions cater to health-conscious consumers.
Ingredion Incorporated (10-14%)
Ingredion is driving fiber innovation with its non-GMO, clean-label fiber ingredients, emphasizing sugar replacement and calorie reduction in food formulations.
Tate & Lyle (8-12%)
The company has a strong presence in soluble fibers, particularly in beverages and low-sugar formulations, investing in fiber-enhanced food solutions that support diabetes management and digestive health.
Other Key Players (30-40% Combined)
The industry is expected to reach USD 7.45 billion in 2025.
The industry is projected to grow to USD 16.8 billion by 2035.
China is expected to experience significant growth with a 9.8% CAGR during the forecast period.
The paper and cardboard segment is one of the most popular applications in the industry.
Leading companies include Cargill, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), DuPont, Ingredion Incorporated, Tate & Lyle, Roquette Frères, SunOpta, Kerry Group, Fiberstar, Inc., and CP Kelco.
By material, the industry is segmented into paper & cardboard, bagasse, linen, hemp, corn starch, wheat straw, and others (jute, bamboo, etc.).
By packaging type, the industry is categorized into boxes & cartons, bags & pouches, films & wraps, tableware, and containers.
By end use, the industry finds applications in food and beverage, personal care and cosmetics, industrial, textiles, electronics and electricals, and others.
The industry is geographically segmented into North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ), Japan, and The Middle East & Africa (MEA).
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Plant-based Fiber Market
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