Delray Beach, FL, Aug. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to MarketsandMarkets™, The report beta-glucan market size is projected to grow from $542 million in 2024 to $800 million by 2029, at a CAGR of 8.1%. This growth is being driven by the rising demand for natural food additives, the increasing use of beta-glucan in pharmaceuticals, and its emerging role in cosmetics and sustainable packaging solutions.
Beta-Glucan: A Versatile Industrial Ingredient
Known for its health benefits—boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and lowering cholesterol—beta-glucan is now gaining traction beyond traditional food and supplement applications. Industries are exploring innovative uses, such as eco-friendly alternatives in food packaging.
For instance, research published in the Journal of Applied Polymer Science (2020) demonstrated that beta-glucan-based films have promising mechanical strength, making them suitable as edible coatings for fresh produce to extend shelf life. Additionally, the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre has investigated using beta-glucan as a coating for paper-based packaging to improve water resistance and durability. Companies like Biopack have already introduced beta-glucan-based coatings, combining functionality with sustainability goals.
North America Leads the Market
The North American beta-glucan industry is expected to capture the largest share due to its extensive application across health-focused products. Key players in the region include Merck (US) and Lesaffre (US). Technological advancements have expanded beta-glucan's applications in food and beverages, where it functions as a thickening agent, fat substitute, dietary fiber, and hypocholesterolemic agent.
Consumer trends toward low-calorie and low-fat foods, driven by rising obesity and cardiovascular concerns, are fueling demand for natural, health-promoting ingredients. Data from the CDC and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2021-2022) indicates an adult obesity rate of 42.4% in 2020-2021, highlighting the shift toward healthier dietary choices.
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The growth of the food industry and the increasing use of functional ingredients in Canada and Mexico further bolster beta-glucan demand in the region.
Yeast Emerges as a Key Source
Among the various sources of beta-glucan, yeast is projected to grow fastest during 2024-2029. Yeast, particularly species like Saccharomyces cerevisiae, offers scalability, consistent quality, and cost-effectiveness. It is a crucial player in industrial fermentation for bread, beer, and biofuel production, and advancements in biotechnology and genetic engineering have enhanced its efficiency in beta-glucan production.
Dietary Supplements: The Fastest Growing Application
The dietary supplement segment is expected to witness the fastest growth in the beta-glucan market. Products like Swisse Wellness’ Beta-Immune Booster, launched in 2021, highlight the rising consumer interest in natural, immune-boosting supplements. This trend indicates strong potential for beta-glucan in health-focused consumer products.
Key Players in the Beta-Glucan Market
- Kerry Group PLC (Ireland)
- Tate & Lyle PLC (UK)
- DSM Firmenich (Switzerland)
- Merck (US)
- Kemin Industries (US)
- Alltech (US)
- AngelYeast Co. Ltd (China)
- Lallemand Inc. (Canada)
- Leiber (Germany)
- Lesaffre (France)
- Associated British Foods Plc (UK)
- Biorigin (Brazil)
- Ceapro Inc. (Canada)
- Specialty Biotech Co. Ltd. (US)
- Garuda International Inc. (US)
- VW-Ingredients (Netherlands)
- Super Beta Glucan (US)
As consumer awareness of health benefits grows and industries explore innovative applications, the global beta-glucan market is poised for robust growth. From functional foods and supplements to sustainable packaging and cosmetics, beta-glucan’s versatility ensures it will remain a valuable ingredient across multiple sectors.
Key Questions Addressed by the Report
- What is beta-glucan?
- What is the current size of the beta-glucan market?
- What are the major applications of beta-glucan?
- Which industries drive the demand for beta-glucan?
- What are the health benefits associated with beta-glucan?
- Which regions are leading the beta-glucan market growth?
- What are the key factors driving the beta-glucan market?
- Who are the major players in the beta-glucan market?
- What are the challenges facing the beta-glucan market?
- What is the future outlook for the beta-glucan market?
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