Food Thickening Agents Market Overview
Food Thickening Agents Market Size was estimated at 14.85 (USD Billion) in 2022.The Food Thickening Agents Market Industry is expected to grow from 16.24(USD Billion) in 2023 to 36.48 (USD Billion) by 2032. The Food Thickening Agents Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 9.4% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032).
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Key Food Thickening Agents Market Trends Highlighted
The Food Thickening Agents Market is witnessing a surge in demand driven by the growing trend of processed and convenient foods. The increasing consumer preference for gluten-free products is fueling the adoption of food thickeners as substitutes for wheat-based ingredients.Opportunities abound in the market with the rising demand for plant-based thickeners to cater to vegan and health-conscious consumers. The growing popularity of functional foods and beverages presents further opportunities for specialized thickening agents that enhance nutritional value and texture.Recent trends indicate a shift towards clean-label ingredients and solutions. Food manufacturers are responding to consumer demand for natural and recognizable ingredients, driving the development of thickening agents derived from plant-based sources and non-GMO ingredients. Additionally, the increasing focus on sustainable and ethical sourcing practices is shaping the market landscape, with consumers preferring thickening agents produced using environmentally friendly methods.
Food Thickening Agents Market Drivers
Rising Demand for Convenience Foods
A driver of the Food Thickening Agents Market Industry is the increasing demand for convenience foods. The use of convenience foods is rapidly growing as they are easy to consume and require less time to prepare. These foods are ready-to-use dishes that can be eaten rapidly. Foods are processed in such a way that the body’s essential nutrients are not lost during the processing. Chemical compounds are added to the foods, and they work as thickening agents.The compounds used in this process are used to provide the food with the proper texture and thickness. The additives also make the food smoother. Foods such as soups, sauces, gravies, and frozen foods benefit from such thickening agents. The pork is younger and aged. The rapidly increasing consumption of convenience and processed food, due to the benefits they offer, is directly propelling the growth of the food-thickening agents market industry.
Increasing Demand for Plant-Based Foods
The increasing demand for plant-based foods is another prominent driver of the Food Thickening Agents Market Industry. With a growing number of consumers adopting plant-based diets, the demand for plant-based thickeners is increasing. Such thickeners are derived from plants, and examples of such products include guar gum, locust bean gum, and xanthan gum, among others. Plant-based thickeners are commonly used in a variety of plant-based foods, including plant-based milks, cheeses, and meat alternatives.It is expected that the demand is going to continue rising along with the increase in the number of people who adopt plant-based diets.
Growing Applications in Personal Care and Pharmaceuticals
Thickening agents are becoming more and more in demand in personal care and pharmaceutical products. In personal care, thickening agents are utilized to enhance the texture and viscosity of shampoos, conditioners, and moisturizers, among others. In pharmaceuticals, on the other hand, the said agents are used to regulate the release of active ingredients and maintain the stability of drug formulations. Due to such factors, it is believed that the increasing utilization of thickening agents in both industries will be a major contributor to the expansion of the said market in the future.
Food Thickening Agents Market Segment Insights:
Food Thickening Agents Market Type Insights
Starch, modified starch, gum, hydrocolloids, and other types partition the Food Thickening Agents Market. In 2023, the starch segment led in terms of market share by passing 40% of the global revenue. Starch is a natural thickener that comes from the owner of the corn, wheat, and potatoes. It is highly used in food to guarantee a smooth and uniform structure in solids. Typical applications include use in sauces, soups, gravies, and bakery products. This segment offers many natural thickener applications that build a consistent structure by influencing its function to film over a set temperature, a property that becomes predictable when used in the food industry.Modified starch is another form of thickener and is used worldwide. It is any starch that is chemically or physically modified to create better thickening, gelling, and stabilizing properties than regular starch. The product is used in every food category, including bakery, dairy, and confection. Another essential sector in the global food-thickening agents market is gum. Gum is made from natural sources like plants and microbes and finds the application where a vires format or gel is needed. It is substantially used in food like sauces, desserts, and beverages.Another is hydrocolloid, which is never new in prepared packs and processed food. It is a diversified, ubiquitous group of natural and synthetic polymers. It is used in the food to thicken, stabilize, and gel. Products in this category include dairy products, dressings, and sauces. Other include cellulosic derivatives, carrageenan, and xanthan gum. The global food-thickening agents market is anticipated to expand drastically. This is because of the increasing demand for processed and packaged food in the market and the food industry. Products are gaining popularity because of the expansion of the food service industry and a preference by the consumer to eat convenient foods or eat food prepared using modified products rather than the food itself.Also, low consumption of the tested products. The thickeners are also exaggerating build-up trends in demand. The application of various foods is allocated depending on their environment and purpose.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Food Thickening Agents Market Source Insights
The Food Thickening Agents Market segmentation by Source can be categorized into Plant, Animal, and Synthetic. The Plant source segment held the largest market share in 2023, accounting for around 60% of the Food Thickening Agents Market revenue. Plant-based thickening agents, such as starch, cellulose, and pectin, are derived from various plant sources and are widely used in the food industry due to their natural origin, cost-effectiveness, and functional properties. The Animal source segment is expected to witness steady growth over the forecast period, owing to the increasing demand for gelatin and collagen-based thickening agents in various food applications.Synthetic thickening agents, such as carrageenan and xanthan gum, are gaining popularity due to their ability to provide specific functionalities and textures to food products. The rising demand for processed and convenience foods is driving the growth of the Food Thickening Agents Market.
Food Thickening Agents Market Application Insights
The application segment plays a pivotal role in shaping the Food Thickening Agents Market. Food Processing stands as the dominant segment, contributing significantly to the overall market revenue. The segment's growth is driven by the increasing demand for processed foods due to their convenience and extended shelf life. Beverage Production holds a notable position in the market, influenced by the rising consumption of beverages such as juices, soft drinks, and dairy-based drinks. Bakery Products form another significant segment, fueled by the growing popularity of baked goods and the increasing use of thickening agents to enhance texture and consistency.Dairy Products also contribute to the market revenue, with thickening agents widely employed to improve the texture and stability of dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. Additionally, the 'Other' segment encompasses applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products, among others, further diversifying the market landscape
Food Thickening Agents Market Functionality Insights
The Functionality segment plays a critical role in the Food Thickening Agents Market. In 2023, the Thickening sub-segment held the largest market share due to its ability to enhance food texture and viscosity. It is widely used in sauces, soups, and beverages to improve mouthfeel and prevent separation. The Gelling sub-segment is projected to witness significant growth owing to its applications in desserts, confections, and dairy products. It provides a firm texture and prevents syneresis, ensuring product stability. The Stabilizing sub-segment contributes to the prevention of sedimentation and flocculation in various food systems.It is commonly used in dairy products, ice creams, and dressings to maintain a uniform texture and prevent ingredient separation. Emulsifying agents are crucial for creating and maintaining stable emulsions in foods. They are utilized in salad dressings, mayonnaise, and baked goods to ensure proper blending of ingredients and prevent oil separation. The Coating sub-segment enhances the surface properties of foods, providing protection against moisture loss and improving texture. It finds applications in confectionery, bakery, and meat products.The Functionality segment is expected to continue driving the growth of the Food Thickening Agents Market, with a projected revenue of USD 18.45 billion by 2024. The increasing demand for processed and convenience foods, coupled with the growing popularity of plant-based alternatives, is fueling the market growth.
Food Thickening Agents Market Consumer Preference Insights
The Food Thickening Agents Market is segmented into various categories based on consumer preference, including organic, non-GMO, low carb, gluten-free, and others. Among these segments, organic food thickening agents are expected to witness significant growth in the coming years due to rising health consciousness and the increasing demand for natural and clean-label products. The global organic food thickening agents market is projected to reach a valuation of USD 2.46 billion by 2024, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period.Non-GMO food thickening agents are also gaining traction as consumers become more aware of the potential risks associated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The global non-GMO food thickening agents market is estimated to reach USD 1.82 billion by 2024, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% over the forecast period. Low-carb and gluten-free food thickening agents cater to specific dietary needs and preferences, driving their demand in the global market. The global low-carb food thickening agents market is expected to reach USD 1.25 billion by 2024, with a CAGR of 7.8%, while the global gluten-free food thickening agents market is projected to reach USD 1.06 billion by 2024, growing at a CAGR of 7.2% during the same period
Food Thickening Agents Market Regional Insights
The regional segment of the Food Thickening Agents Market exhibits significant variations in market size, growth dynamics, and competitive landscapes. North America and Europe collectively accounted for over 55% of the global revenue in 2023, driven by increasing demand for processed foods and clean-label ingredients. APAC is projected to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period, with a CAGR of 10.2%, owing to rising disposable incomes, changing lifestyles, and expanding food processing industries in countries like China and India.South America and MEA also present lucrative growth opportunities, supported by favorable regulatory frameworks and growing urbanization.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Food Thickening Agents Market Key Players And Competitive Insights:
Primarily, players in the Food Thickening Agents Market seek to grow their market presence through diverse strategies. These include extending product lines, new market entry, and activity in relation to established companies across the industry. The main actors in the food-thickening agents market primarily utilize innovation and R to cater to the needs of current customers and attract new ones. The Food Thickening Agents industry is continually developing with regard to new companies that frequently establish themselves as manufacturers of innovative products, often shaping the industry landscape. The first notable competitor in the Food Thickening Agents Market is Ingredion Incorporated, which is known for its product coverage and the global extent of its coverage. Ingredion Incorporated is known to be active in the starch market and offers a product range, including modified starches, sweeteners, and texturizers. This company is known to be innovative and invests in new technology to cater to the needs of the customers with the most valuable solutions. Another key competitor in the Food Thickening Agents Market is the Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), which is a food processing and commodities trading corporation. ADM offers its customers a variety of food ingredients, including texturizers, stabilizers, and emulsifiers. ADM possesses a wide array of production capacities worldwide and has a remarkable presence in most of the relevant markets. ADM focuses on providing custom-tailored solutions to their customers and on innovation, and this policy is attributed to the notable presence of the company in the Food Thickening Agents Market.
Key Companies in the Food Thickening Agents Market Include:
- Palsgaard A/S
- M. Huber Corporation
- TIC GUMS
- Kerry Group plc
- Ingredion Incorporated
- Cargill, Incorporated
- Ashland Global Holdings Inc.
- Archer Daniels Midland Company
- CP Kelco U.S., Inc.
- Ceamsa
- Tate Lyle
- DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
- Lonza Group AG
- Penford Corporation
Food Thickening Agents Market Industry Developments
The Food Thickening Agents Market size was valued at USD 16.24 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 36.48 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.4% during the forecast period. Rising demand for processed foods, increasing consumer preference for convenience foods, and growing health consciousness are key factors driving market growth. Additionally, the expansion of the food and beverage industry, coupled with the development of new and innovative thickening agents, is further propelling market growth. Recent news developments include the launch of new thickening agents with improved functionality and reduced calorie content, as well as strategic partnerships between market players to expand product portfolios and enhance market presence.
Food Thickening Agents Market Segmentation Insights
Food Thickening Agents Market Type Outlook
- Starch
- Modified Starch
- Gum
- Hydrocolloids
- Other
Food Thickening Agents Market Source Outlook
Food Thickening Agents Market Application Outlook
- Food Processing
- Beverage Production
- Bakery Products
- Dairy Products
- Other
Food Thickening Agents Market Functionality Outlook
- Thickening
- Gelling
- Stabilizing
- Emulsifying
- Coating
Food Thickening Agents Market Consumer Preference Outlook
- Organic
- Non-GMO
- Low Carb
- Gluten-Free
- Other
Food Thickening Agents Market Regional Outlook
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North America
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Europe
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South America
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Asia Pacific
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Middle East and Africa
| Report Attribute/Metric |
Details |
| Market Size 2022 |
14.85(USD Billion) |
| Market Size 2023 |
16.24(USD Billion) |
| Market Size 2032 |
36.48(USD Billion) |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) |
9.4% (2024 - 2032) |
| Report Coverage |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| Base Year |
2023 |
| Market Forecast Period |
2024 - 2032 |
| Historical Data |
2019 - 2023 |
| Market Forecast Units |
USD Billion |
| Key Companies Profiled |
Palsgaard A/S, J.M. Huber Corporation, TIC GUMS, Kerry Group plc, Ingredion Incorporated, Cargill, Incorporated, Ashland Global Holdings Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, CP Kelco U.S., Inc., Ceamsa, Tate Lyle, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Lonza Group AG, Penford Corporation |
| Segments Covered |
Type, Source, Application, Functionality, Consumer Preference, Regional |
| Key Market Opportunities |
1 Growth in the processed food industry2 Rising demand for clean label products3 Increasing awareness of the health benefits of dietary fiber4 Expanding vegan and vegetarian food products5 Technological advancements in thickening agents |
| Key Market Dynamics |
Rising demand for processed foods Increasing use in glutenfree and low carb diets Health concerns associated with synthetic thickeners Technological advancements in thickener formulations Growing awareness of plant based thickeners |
| Countries Covered |
North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The Food Thickening Agents Market size is expected to reach USD 16.24 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.4% from 2024 to 2032, reaching USD 36.48 billion by 2032.
The North America region is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the Food Thickening Agents market, owing to the increasing demand for processed and packaged foods in developing countries such as China, India, and Indonesia.
Food Thickening Agents are widely used in various applications, including sauces, soups, gravies, bakery products, confectionery, and dairy products. They are used to improve the texture, consistency, and stability of food products.
The major players in the Food Thickening Agents Market include Archer Daniels Midland Company, Cargill, Incorporated, Ingredion Incorporated, Tate Lyle PLC, and DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
The growth of the Food Thickening Agents market is primarily attributed to the increasing demand for processed and packaged foods, the rising popularity of convenience foods, and the growing awareness of the health benefits associated with certain Food Thickening Agents, such as fiber and prebiotics.
The Food Thickening Agents market faces challenges such as the rising costs of raw materials, the stringent regulatory environment, and the increasing competition from alternative ingredients.
Key trends shaping the Food Thickening Agents market include the growing demand for clean-label and natural ingredients, the increasing use of Food Thickening Agents in plant-based food products, and the development of innovative Food Thickening Agents with improved functionality.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the Food Thickening Agents market, disrupting supply chains and reducing demand from the food service sector. However, the market is expected to recover as the pandemic subsides and economic activity resumes.
The future prospects for the Food Thickening Agents market are positive, driven by the increasing demand for processed and packaged foods, the growing popularity of convenience foods, and the rising awareness of the health benefits associated with certain Food Thickening Agents.
Key opportunities for growth in the Food Thickening Agents market include the development of new and innovative Food Thickening Agents with improved functionality, the expansion into emerging markets, and the development of sustainable and eco-friendly Food Thickening Agents.
