Monosodium Glutamate Market Size

Market Size Snapshot

Note – Market size depicts the revenue generated over the financial year

MSG is a molecule derived from the molecule glutamic acid, or salt. MSG is an ingredient of many foodstuffs, and is also called monosodium glutamate. MSG has been in use since the time of the Ancients. The demand for flavour enhancers in the food and beverage industry, along with the growing trend for umami flavours in cooking, are driving this market growth. The increasing awareness among consumers about the benefits of MSG as a low-calorie flavour enhancer is also expected to drive the market growth. The technological developments in food processing and preservation are also contributing to the market growth. MSG production has been revolutionized by the use of fermentation technology, which has led to a decrease in costs and an increase in efficiency, making MSG more accessible to food manufacturers. The key players in the market, such as Ajinomoto Co., Inc. and Tate & Lyle Plc., are adopting strategic initiatives such as the introduction of new products and forming strategic alliances to strengthen their position in the market. Ajinomoto has been focusing on expanding its product portfolio and R&D activities to meet the changing consumer preferences, which has helped it to maintain its position as the market leader.

Regional Market Size

Regional Deep Dive

MSG is a market that has different characteristics in different regions. The market is influenced by the habits of the people, the regulations and the economic situation. In North America, the trend of natural seasonings and clean label products has become a trend, while in Asia, MSG is still a basic food ingredient, so the demand is still high. Europe is under the strict control of health and food safety. The market is cautious. Latin America and the Middle East are gradually developing. In short, the MSG market is in a transitional period.

Europe

• In Europe, the market is heavily influenced by stringent food safety regulations, with the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducting assessments that impact MSG's approval and usage in food products.
• Consumer awareness regarding health implications has led to a decline in MSG usage in some countries, prompting manufacturers to explore alternative flavor enhancers and reformulate products to meet consumer preferences.

Asia Pacific

• Asia-Pacific remains the largest market for MSG, driven by its integral role in traditional cuisines, with companies like Ajinomoto and Meihua Holdings leading the market in production and innovation.
• The region is witnessing a surge in demand for MSG in processed foods, spurred by urbanization and changing dietary habits, as more consumers seek convenient meal options.

Latin America

• In Latin America, the MSG market is gradually expanding as food manufacturers seek to enhance flavor profiles in processed foods, with companies like Ajinomoto establishing a presence in the region.
• The region's diverse culinary traditions are fostering a unique demand for MSG, although regulatory scrutiny and health trends are prompting manufacturers to consider alternative flavoring solutions.

North America

• The North American market is increasingly leaning towards natural and organic flavor enhancers, with companies like Ajinomoto North America focusing on clean-label products to cater to health-conscious consumers.
• Recent regulatory discussions around food additives have prompted companies to invest in transparency and consumer education, as seen with the FDA's ongoing evaluations of food ingredients, which could influence MSG usage in food products.

Middle East And Africa

• The Middle East and Africa are experiencing growth in the MSG market due to increasing urbanization and a rising food processing sector, with local companies like Al Watania and others expanding their production capabilities.
• Cultural acceptance of MSG in various cuisines is aiding market penetration, although health concerns remain a challenge that companies must navigate through education and product transparency.

Did You Know?

“Did you know that MSG was first discovered in 1908 by Japanese chemist Kikunae Ikeda, who identified it as the source of umami flavor in seaweed broth?” — Ajinomoto Company, Inc.

Segmental Market Size

Monosodium Glutamate plays an important role in the food industry, mainly as a flavor enhancer. The current demand is based on the growing preference for umami in all cuisines. MSG is increasingly used in ready-made foods to enhance the flavor without increasing the calorie content. The popularity of Asian cuisine is also an important driver of MSG consumption. However, the trend towards clean label products has also led to a more natural MSG being used, thereby securing the market position of MSG. The MSG market is currently mature and dominated by companies such as Ajinomoto. MSG is mainly used in the food industry, in snacks and ready-made foods, where it is used to improve the flavor profile. There are several trends that are accelerating the growth of MSG, such as food safety, the clean label trend and the regulatory framework for food additives. In addition, the development of food technology, such as fermentation processes for the production of MSG, is influencing the development of the market, thereby securing its position in the competitive market.

Future Outlook

The Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market is expected to grow steadily from 2024 to 2032. The total market size is expected to rise from US$7.14 billion to US$9.90 billion, with a CAGR of 4.28%. This growth is mainly due to the increasing demand for flavor enhancers in the food and beverage industry, especially in emerging markets where urbanization and changes in dietary habits are driving consumption. MSG is expected to penetrate into various categories of processed food, snacks, and restaurants. Its penetration in these categories is expected to reach approximately 15% by 2032. MSG is expected to continue to be in demand due to the development of food preservation and processing technology. The production method of MSG is also expected to change with the development of fermentation technology. It is expected to increase the efficiency and safety of MSG production and be in line with the trend of "clean label" products. However, the regulatory framework for food additives is also changing, and many countries are reviewing the safety and labeling of food additives, which may limit the growth of the market. The market for MSG must also change to be more transparent and more natural in the eyes of consumers.