Global Market Size, Forecast, and Trend Highlights Over 2025-2037
Food & Beverage Chemicals Market size was valued at USD 68.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 123.6 billion by the end of 2037, rising at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period, i.e., 2025-2037. In 2025, the industry size of food & beverage chemicals is evaluated at USD 72.5 billion.
The food & beverage chemicals market is witnessing significant growth, largely fueled by the increasing demand for processed and packaged foods, which stems from changing dietary habits and a growing global population. The USDA reports a consistent rise in per capita food consumption, especially in developing regions of Asia and Africa. The FAO notes a swift increase in global food processing to cater to the needs of more urbanized communities. Government initiatives aimed at enhancing food fortification and extending shelf life, such as the U.S. FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), have led to a greater reliance on preservatives, stabilizers, and flavoring agents. Additionally, advancements in food-grade chemicals are being supported by favorable fiscal policies; the National Science Foundation (NSF) indicates a 12% rise in federal funding for food science research and development from 2018 to 2023, underscoring the critical role of chemical applications in contemporary food production.
The supply chain sector is experiencing a strategic transformation characterized by a rise in international trade and an expansion of domestic capacity. In 2023, the U.S. International Trade Commission reported a 6.3% increase in imports of food-grade chemicals, with Germany, China, and India identified as major suppliers. At the same time, the Producer Price Index (PPI) for chemical manufacturing increased by 4.8%, while the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for food products containing additives rose by 3.9%. There has been a notable surge in investment in manufacturing infrastructure, with USDA data indicating a 15% growth in chemical processing facilities from 2021 to 2023. Government-supported clean manufacturing initiatives, including those from the Department of Energy, are promoting automation in the production of additives. The rising exports of U.S. food-grade chemicals and a significant increase in import activities in Southeast Asia highlight the momentum in the global market, which is further bolstered by enhanced research funding for clean-label and biocompatible chemical solutions.
Food & Beverage Chemicals Sector: Growth Drivers and Challenges
Growth Drivers
- Surge in clean-label product demand: The increasing consumer demand for transparency and health-oriented options has driven a notable rise in the popularity of clean-label food & beverage products. Data from the USDA indicates that approximately 66% of consumers in the United States are now actively pursuing clean-label alternatives, which has encouraged manufacturers to adopt simpler and more recognizable ingredients. This transition has resulted in a marked increase in the utilization of natural preservatives like rosemary extract and citric acid. Consequently, producers of food chemicals are amplifying their research and development initiatives to create and market natural chemical formulations in response to changing consumer expectations and regulatory demands for cleaner and more sustainable food additive solutions.
- Advances in catalytic and enzymatic technologies: Recent developments in catalytic and enzymatic technologies have greatly enhanced production processes in the food & beverage chemicals industry. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) reports that the adoption of these technologies has increased output efficiency by as much as 21%. These advancements not only lower energy usage but also reduce waste generation, thereby promoting more sustainable manufacturing practices. Their influence is especially significant in the production of flavor enhancers and acidulants, where accuracy and yield are essential. By improving overall plant productivity and decreasing operational expenses, catalytic and enzyme-driven processes are becoming crucial elements of contemporary chemical production strategies.
1. Emerging Trade Dynamics in Food & Beverage Chemicals (2019–2024)
In 2020, global trade in food & beverage chemicals experienced considerable disruptions, resulting in an 11.8% decline attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a recovery ensued, with trade volumes reaching $3.7 trillion in 2022, primarily driven by the Asia-Pacific region, which accounted for 43% of this total. Notably, Japan's exports to China and ASEAN countries saw a significant increase, particularly in the areas of additives and enzymes. Additionally, the trade of specialty chemicals such as sweeteners and emulsifiers between the U.S. and the EU expanded, bolstered by advantageous agreements and growing demand in emerging food & beverage Chemicals markets. The potential for future growth will depend on advancements in digital infrastructure and the strategy of regional sourcing. The tables below highlight major international trade routes, trade growth, and impact & recovery during the pandemic time for food & beverage chemical exports and imports. It includes data on values, global share, and products in global supply chain flows.
Key Trade Routes & Shipment Volumes
|
Trade Route |
Value (2023, USD Bn) |
Share of Global Trade (%) |
Notable Products |
|
Japan → ASEAN |
21.4 |
6.2% |
Preservatives, enzymes |
|
Germany → North America |
18.8 |
5.4% |
Flavor enhancers, emulsifiers |
|
U.S. → EU |
15.3 |
4.7% |
Specialty sweeteners |
|
China → Africa |
9.9 |
2.9% |
Additives, fermentation agents |
Specialty Chemical Trade Growth (2018–2023)
|
Region Pair |
CAGR (%) |
2023 Value (USD Bn) |
Products |
|
U.S. → Europe |
5.3% |
15.3 |
Natural emulsifiers, citric acid blends |
|
EU → Middle East |
4.8% |
10.2 |
Functional flavorings |
|
China → ASEAN |
6.6% |
12.3 |
Nutritional premixes |
Pandemic Impact and Recovery
|
Year |
Global Chemical Trade (USD Trn) |
Change (%) |
|
2019 |
3.4 |
– |
|
2020 |
2.93 |
–11.8% |
|
2021 |
3.2 |
+6.3% |
|
2022 |
3.6 |
+12.8% |
|
2023 |
3.7 |
+2.8% |
2. Production Capacity Analysis of Food & Beverage Chemicals
The growing demand for flavor enhancers, functional ingredients, and preservatives worldwide is driving an expansion in the food & beverage chemicals market's production capacity. To increase output, major players are investing in automated and environmentally friendly manufacturing facilities. Because of reduced costs and regulatory incentives, Asia Pacific—especially China and India—is leading the way in capacity growth. As businesses adjust production to changing consumer preferences and clean-label trends, capacity utilization rates are increasing. The tables below cover a comprehensive analysis of production capacities by company, location, and process; demand trends by end use, grade, and type from 2018–2023; and 2023 sales channel performance. It also details key export ports and identifies the top 10 specialty food & beverage chemical buyers in the Asia-Pacific region.
Production Capacity Analysis (by Company, Location, and Process)
|
Company |
Country |
Production Site(s) |
Process Type |
Annual Capacity (MT) |
|
BASF |
Germany |
Ludwigshafen, Antwerp |
Batch & Continuous |
460,000 |
|
Cargill |
USA |
Eddyville, IA |
Fermentation |
330,000 |
|
Corbion |
Netherlands |
Gorinchem, Thailand |
Biotechnological |
190,000 |
|
Tate & Lyle |
UK |
Decatur, IL; Koog aan de Zaan |
Wet Milling |
210,000 |
|
Archer Daniels Midland |
USA |
Decatur, IL; Brazil |
Enzymatic Hydrolysis |
510,000 |
Demand Analysis by End-Use, Grade, and Type (2018–2023)
|
Segment |
Grade/Type |
CAGR (2018–2023) |
Key Driver |
|
Packaged Food |
Preservatives, Emulsifiers |
5.3% |
Shelf-life demand |
|
Beverage Industry |
Acidulants, Sweeteners |
4.9% |
RTD and functional drinks |
|
Bakery Products |
Dough Conditioners |
3.8% |
Frozen and processed bakery items |
|
Dairy Processing |
Stabilizers, Enzymes |
4.6% |
Yogurt, cheese innovations |
|
E-commerce Food Services |
Allergen-Free Additives |
6.2% |
Custom nutrition, online retail |
Sales Channel Performance (2023)
|
Channel |
Share of Total Demand (%) |
Growth Driver |
|
B2B Industrial |
63% |
Direct supply to processors |
|
E-commerce |
19% |
Online ingredient distributors |
|
Retail/Wholesale |
21% |
Smaller F&B producers |
Trade Data & Customer Insights (Port-wise and Buyer Analysis)
Top Export Ports for F&B Chemicals (2019-2023)
|
Port |
Country |
Avg Annual Volume (MT) |
Key Export Destination |
|
Shanghai |
China |
2.2M |
ASEAN, US, EU |
|
Rotterdam |
Netherlands |
1.8M |
UK, Germany, China |
|
Houston |
USA |
1.4M |
Mexico, Canada, EU |
Top 10 Buyers of Specialty F&B Chemicals – Asia-Pacific
|
Buyer Name |
Country |
Sector |
|
Uni-President |
Taiwan |
Beverages |
|
Amul |
India |
Dairy |
|
Ajinomoto |
Japan |
Seasonings |
|
Indofood |
Indonesia |
Instant Foods |
|
CP Foods |
Thailand |
Frozen Processed Foods |
|
Lotte Chilsung |
South Korea |
Soft Drinks |
|
Fraser & Neave |
Singapore |
Beverages |
|
Yili |
China |
Dairy |
|
Nongshim |
South Korea |
Snack Foods |
|
Yakult Honsha |
Japan |
Functional Beverages |
Japan’s Food & Beverage Chemicals Industry: Five-Year Shipment and Performance Overview
The food & beverage chemicals sector in Japan has demonstrated consistent growth over the last five years, driven by robust demand from industries such as pharmaceuticals and packaging. In 2022, petrochemicals accounted for 47% of total shipments, amounting to around $82.86 billion. Notable growth segments included food-grade polymers and specialty preservatives. The increasing consumer inclination towards clean-label ingredients has spurred demand for food additives, while advancements in digitalization and investments focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria have improved production efficiency. Major companies like Shin-Etsu and Mitsubishi Chemical have sustained profitability through innovation and strategic capital investments, thereby strengthening the resilience of Japan's industry in the face of global food & beverage Chemicals market changes. The tables below provide insights into the composition and shipment value of food & beverage chemical products from 2018 to 2023, categorized by industry use. They also highlight key trends in R&D spending and capital investments by leading manufacturers during the same period.
Composition of Food & Beverage Chemicals-Based Products Shipped (2018–2023)
|
Category |
Share of Shipments (2022) |
CAGR (2018–2023) |
Shipment Value (2022) |
|
Petrochemicals |
46% |
3.3% |
¥13 trillion |
|
Specialty Chemicals |
26% |
4.6% |
¥6.8 trillion |
|
Food-Grade Polymers |
19% |
5.2% |
¥4.9 trillion |
|
Additives & Preservatives |
13% |
6.4% |
¥3.3 trillion |
Value of Shipments by Manufacturing Industry (2018–2023)
|
Industry |
Annual Growth Rate |
Key Driver |
|
Automotive |
9% |
Lightweight packaging materials |
|
Electronics |
6.4% |
Food-safe conductive polymers |
|
Pharmaceuticals |
7.3% |
Demand for food-grade excipients |
|
FMCG |
5.9% |
Preservatives & flavor stabilizers |
R&D and Capital Investment Trends
|
Company |
R&D Investment (2022) |
Focus Area |
|
Mitsubishi Chemical |
¥160 billion |
Bioplastics, AI-based safety |
|
Sumitomo Chemical |
¥120 billion |
Sustainable packaging |
|
Asahi Kasei |
¥96 billion |
Digital fermentation |
Top 30 Chemical Companies – Financial Benchmark (2023)
|
Company |
YoY Profit Growth |
Revenue (¥ Trillion) |
Global Peer Benchmark |
|
Shin-Etsu Chemical |
+13% |
1.3 |
Beats global average |
|
Mitsubishi Chemical |
+9.6% |
1.07 |
On par with BASF |
|
Toray Industries |
+7.9% |
1.0 |
Slightly below peers |
Challenges
- Volatile raw material costs: The variable pricing of feedstocks such as citric acid and ascorbic acid affects cost frameworks. The IEA reports that the global price of food-grade citric acid increased by 18% in 2022, driven by energy input expenses, which compressed profit margins by more than 10%.
- Stringent environmental regulations: The production of food-grade chemicals is overseen by regulatory bodies such as the EPA and EFSA. In 2023, Company A achieved compliance with EU emission standards by utilizing environmentally friendly solvents, resulting in a 15% increase in its market share within the EU.
Food & Beverage Chemicals Market: Key Insights
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
|
Base Year |
2024 |
|
Forecast Year |
2025-2037 |
|
CAGR |
5.8% |
|
Base Year Market Size (2024) |
USD 68.7 billion |
|
Forecast Year Market Size (2037) |
USD 123.6 billion |
|
Regional Scope |
|
Food & Beverage Chemicals Segmentation
Food Additives (Preservatives, Sweeteners, Antioxidants, and Acidulants)
The preservatives segment is projected to dominate the global food & beverage chemicals market with a 32.6% share by 2037, driven by rising demand for shelf-stable and processed foods. Increasing urbanization and fast-paced lifestyles have significantly boosted the consumption of ready-to-eat and long-life products, as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Furthermore, stringent food safety regulations and the growing preference for clean-label products are accelerating the adoption of GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) certified synthetic preservatives. These factors collectively underscore the critical role of preservatives in ensuring food quality, safety, and extended shelf life across global food & beverage Chemicals markets.
Processing Aids & Enzymes (Food Enzymes, Acidity Regulators, and Antifoaming Agents)
Food enzymes are anticipated to witness substantial growth across the food & beverage chemicals market by holding a 26.9% share, particularly in baking, brewing, dairy, and juice applications. These enzymes play a crucial role in improving product texture, flavor, and processing efficiency. As highlighted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), advancements in biotechnology have led to highly specific and efficient enzymes tailored for various food processes. Moreover, the rising global demand for gluten-free and lactose-free food products is further propelling enzyme adoption. With increased focus on health-conscious consumption and cleaner production methods, food enzymes are positioned as essential components in modern, high-performance food processing solutions.
Our in-depth analysis of the global food & beverage chemicals market includes the following segments:
|
Food Additives |
|
|
Processing Aids & Enzymes |
|
|
Flavouring Agents |
|
|
Color Additives
|
|
|
Emulsifiers & Stabilizers
|
|
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Customize this ReportFood & Beverage Chemicals Industry - Regional Synopsis
Asia Pacific Market Analysis
By 2037, the food & beverage chemicals market in Asia Pacific is expected to hold 48% of the share in the global market, highly driven by China and India’s contributions to the market growth. China is projected to lead with anticipated revenues of USD 59.6 billion, driven by strong government initiatives, increased financial backing, and a nationwide shift towards sustainable chemical practices. As of 2023, more than 1.5 million companies in China have adopted green technologies. Conversely, India is predicted to experience the highest CAGR in the region at 7.8%, supported by substantial public investment, the integration of green practices by small and medium enterprises, and a food processing sector valued at USD 415 billion. Both nations are capitalizing on the demand for clean-label products and advancements in plant-based, eco-friendly chemical solutions.
North America Market Statistics
By 2037, the food & beverage chemicals market in North America, predominantly influenced by the U.S. and Canada, is projected to attain a value of USD 96.6 billion, accounting for 29% of the global market share, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2024 to 2037. This growth is fueled by a rising demand for clean-label ingredients, natural preservatives, and functional additives. In the United States, federal programs such as the Department of Energy's $2.3 billion investment in clean energy chemical technologies and the Environmental Protection Agency's Green Chemistry Program have fostered advancements in sustainable innovation. Meanwhile, Canada's focus on transparent labeling and stringent food safety regulations further contributes to the maturity of the food & beverage Chemicals market. Together, these regulatory frameworks, sustainability initiatives, and technological advancements position North America as a prominent leader in global food chemical innovation and compliance with regulations.
Companies Dominating the Food & Beverage Chemicals Landscape
- Company Overview
- Business Strategy
- Key Product Offerings
- Financial Performance
- Key Performance Indicators
- Risk Analysis
- Recent Development
- Regional Presence
- SWOT Analysis
The international food & beverage chemicals market is intensely competitive, dominated by multinationals that prioritize innovation. Companies in the United States, such as Cargill and ADM, focus on bio-based solutions, while European firms like BASF and Kerry are investing in clean-label technologies. Asian enterprises, including Ajinomoto and Jubilant Ingrevia, are growing through innovations tailored to their regions. Essential strategies encompass sustainability, traceability, and advancements in fermentation. As consumer demand increasingly favors natural and environmentally friendly additives, leading companies are adjusting their product offerings to align with changing consumer preferences and regulatory requirements in global markets. The table below provides insights into the company name and the share held by them in the global food & beverage Chemicals market.
Top 15 Global Food & Beverage Chemical Manufacturers
|
Company Name |
Country |
Approx. Market Share (%) |
Strategic Focus |
|
BASF SE |
Germany |
6.9% |
Natural additives, digital manufacturing |
|
Cargill, Incorporated |
USA |
6.6% |
Plant-based solutions, bio-based chemicals |
|
DuPont de Nemours, Inc. |
USA |
6.0% |
Emulsifiers, global ingredient innovation hubs |
|
Kerry Group plc |
Ireland |
5.3% |
Clean-label tech, Asia-Pacific expansion |
|
Givaudan SA |
Switzerland |
5.0% |
Flavor chemistry, sustainable sourcing |
|
Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) |
USA |
xx% |
Fermentation-based processing, traceability |
|
DSM-Firmenich |
Netherlands |
xx% |
Nutrition science R&D, precision fermentation |
|
Tate & Lyle PLC |
UK |
xx% |
Sugar substitutes, reformulation partnerships |
|
CJ CheilJedang Corp |
South Korea |
xx% |
Bioconversion for flavors, sustainability targets |
|
Ingredion Incorporated |
USA |
xx% |
Specialty starches, digital traceability |
|
Danisco (IFF) |
USA |
xx% |
Cultures and enzymes for dairy and beverages |
|
Wilmar International Limited |
Malaysia/Singapore |
xx% |
Plant-oil derivatives, regional food labs |
|
Manildra Group |
Australia |
xx% |
Wheat-based chemical inputs, R&D in food alcohols |
|
Jubilant Ingrevia Limited |
India |
xx% |
Green catalysts, fermentation-enhanced ingredients |
In the News
- In June 2024, BASF SE launched Ecoflex F Blend C1200 BMB, a biodegradable plastic made from renewable materials. This product is tailored for sustainable packaging, addressing the increasing demand for compostable materials and enhancing BASF's standing in the biodegradable plastics sector, in line with global sustainability and circular economy objectives.
- In May 2024, Origin Materials launched the inaugural 100% PET cap specifically engineered for carbonated soft drinks, compatible with the PCO 1881 neck finish. This innovation improves recycling efficiency and decreases packaging weight, thereby aiding sustainability objectives within the beverage industry and promoting circular economy efforts in plastic packaging solutions.
Author Credits: Rajrani Baghel
- Report ID: 1018
- Published Date: May 22, 2025
- Report Format: PDF, PPT
