Beta-Glucan Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth and Forecast 2030

Global Beta-Glucan Market: Overview

The global Beta-Glucan Market size was worth around USD 530.45 Million in 2022 and is predicted to grow to around USD 890.88 Million by 2030 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of roughly 6.70% between 2023 and 2030. Glucan is a glucose polymer that is categorized on the basis of interchangeable links. Beta-glucan is the substance found in the walls of bacteria, yeasts, algae, fungi, and lichen. These are a non-uniform group of non-starch polysaccharides linked with D glucose monomer. These are utilized in treating HIV cancer, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It also helps in boosting the immune system of the human body. Moreover, these are also used as food additives in salad dressing, frozen dessert, sour cream, and cheese spread.

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Key Insights:

• As per the analysis shared by our research analyst, the global Beta-Glucan Market is estimated to grow annually at a CAGR of around 6.70% over the forecast period (2023-2030)
• In terms of revenue, the global Beta-Glucan Market size was valued at around USD 530.45 Million in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 890.88 Million by 2030.
• Based on the Application, the food & beverage segment is expected to lead the market, while the wheat segment is expected to grow considerably.
• Based on Type, the soluble form segment, while the domestic consumers segment is projected to witness sizeable revenue over the forecast period.
• Based on the Source, the cereal segment is expected to lead the market, while the wheat segment is expected to grow considerably.
• Based on region, Asia Pacific is projected to dominate the global market during the estimated period, followed by Europe.

Global Beta-Glucan Market: Growth Factors

The rising demand for healthy alternatives that do not have any side effects on the body is one of the major factors driving the growth of the global beta-glucan market. The growing awareness among manufacturers regarding the availability of alternative sources for processing, harvesting, and extracting methods is likely to augment the growth of the global beta-glucan market vigorously during the forecast period. Also, the growing utilization of such a product as an immunity booster in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical sector is also propelling the growth of the global beta-glucan market.

The shift in consumer preferences towards the adoption of nutritious food supplements over traditional synthetic ingredients is further boosting the demand for beta-glucan products. Moreover, the advancements in the food processing techniques like enzyme extraction, assisted ultrasound, pressurized extraction, and many others are providing a better platform for the extraction of beta-glucan for cereals like wheat & barley, mushroom, and seaweed strains. Also, the growing incidences of chronic health disorders like heart health, cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity all across the globe are bolstering the growth of the global beta-glucan market vigorously.

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Global Beta-Glucan Market: Segmentation

The global beta-glucan market can be segmented into application, type, source, and region.

By Application, the market can be segmented into animal feed, pharmaceuticals, personal care & cosmetics, and food & beverages. The food & beverage segment accounts for the largest share in the global beta-glucan market due to the increasing manufacturing of beta-glucan beverages. A significant shift in consumer preferences towards health supplements over synthetic ones is driving the growth of the segment vigorously. Also, the health benefits associated with the consumption of such beverages include cancer prevention, cognitive improvement, and cardiovascular health improvement.

By Type, the market can be segmented into insoluble and soluble. The soluble form of beta-glucans holds the largest share in the global beta-glucan market. The growth can be attributed to the increase in demand for cosmetic products all across the globe. Also, its soluble fibers rapidly dissolve in water and reach the digestive tract easily.

By Source, the market can be segmented into seaweed, yeast, mushroom, and cereal. The cereal segment holds hegemony over others as it is a widely adopted source of beta-glucan for bakery and other products owing to its associated superior psychological properties. Cereals are also considered to have a positive impact on enhancing the bodily functions of the human being.

Recent Development 

• In June 2024, a notable merger took place when Ceapro Inc.—a biotech company focused on oat- and plant-based active ingredients—was integrated into Aeterna Zentaris. This merger broadened Aeterna’s product offerings in the areas of functional foods, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals, with beta-glucan emerging as a central ingredient.
• A new beta-glucan production facility was opened by Lesaffre in France in 2023, driving capacity by 10,000 tonnes/year.
• In March 2023, Kerry Group, the Irish ingredients powerhouse, acquired Biotec Beta Glucans, a manufacturer of beta-glucans derived from oats and barley. The acquisition reinforced Kerry’s presence in the functional ingredients sector.
• In 2024, Lallemand introduced a beta-glucan skincare serum that demonstrated a 29% clinical reduction in skin redness.
• In 2024, ABF Ingredients launched a soluble oat beta-glucan ingredient specifically designed for use in beverages.
• In late 2023, Biothera launched a clinical trial investigating the use of beta-glucan in cancer immunotherapy, showing encouraging early results.

Beta-Glucan Market: Report Scope

Beta-Glucan Market dynamics 

Key Growth Drivers

The beta-glucan market is experiencing a significant surge, primarily driven by a global shift in consumer focus toward health and wellness. Growing awareness of beta-glucan's scientifically-backed health benefits, such as its ability to boost the immune system, lower cholesterol levels, and improve gut health, is a major catalyst. The increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues has led consumers to actively seek out preventive health solutions, making beta-glucan-fortified products highly desirable. This trend is particularly evident in the functional food, beverage, and dietary supplements sectors, where beta-glucans are being incorporated as a natural and effective ingredient. The rising popularity of plant-based and clean-label products further aligns with the natural origins of beta-glucan, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers catering to this demographic.

Restraints

Despite the strong growth factors, the beta-glucan market faces several key restraints. The high cost associated with the extraction and purification of beta-glucan from its various sources (e.g., oats, yeast, and mushrooms) is a significant barrier, which can limit its affordability for mass-market products. The inconsistency in the quality and purity of beta-glucan depending on its source and extraction method can also impact product consistency and consumer trust. Furthermore, the market faces challenges from a lack of global standardization in product specifications and health claims, which can create regulatory hurdles and complicate marketing efforts in different regions. The presence of alternative ingredients, such as other types of dietary fiber or prebiotics, also creates a competitive pressure that can restrain the market's growth.

Opportunities

The beta-glucan market is ripe with opportunities for innovation and expansion. The growing application of beta-glucans beyond traditional food and supplements into the pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and animal feed industries represents a major area of growth. For example, its use in personal care products for anti-aging and skin-soothing benefits is a rapidly emerging trend. There is also a significant opportunity for market penetration in developing economies, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, where rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and increasing health consciousness are driving demand for functional ingredients. Ongoing research and development to discover new sources, improve extraction efficiency, and develop novel formulations, such as those that enhance solubility or bioavailability, will create new product offerings and further expand the market's potential.

Challenges

The beta-glucan market is not without its challenges. One of the primary hurdles is the high cost and complexity of the production process, which can limit the market to a few large-scale players with significant capital. This also makes it difficult for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to enter and compete effectively. Another key challenge is the limited consumer awareness and knowledge about the specific health benefits of beta-glucan, particularly in certain regions. While general health trends are positive, educating consumers about the scientific evidence behind beta-glucan's efficacy remains a crucial task. Finally, regulatory issues related to the approval of health claims and the different standards across countries can create a complex and costly environment for manufacturers seeking to market their products globally.

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Global Beta-Glucan Market: Regional analysis

Asia Pacific holds the largest share in the global beta-glucan market owing to the presence of a strong consumer base in the region. Moreover, the growing research and development activities in the region to launch innovative beta-glucan products in the market are further boosting the growth of the regional market.

Europe accounts for the second-largest share in the global beta-glucan market due to the presence of prominent market players in the region. Also, the growing disposable income of the people coupled with transforming consumer preferences towards nutraceutical supplements is likely to augment the growth of the regional market during the forecast period.

Global Beta-Glucan Market: Competitive Players

The report provides a company market share analysis to give a broader overview of the key market players. In addition, the report also covers key strategic developments of the market, including acquisitions & mergers, new product launches, agreements, partnerships, collaborations & joint ventures, research & development, and regional expansion of major participants involved in the Beta-Glucan Marketon a global and regional basis.

The global Beta-Glucan Market is dominated by players like:

• Kerry Group PLC
• Associated British Foods Plc
• Biothera Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Biotec Pharmacon ASA
• Tate & Lyle Oat Ingredients
• Lesaffre Human Care
• Angel Yeast Company Ltd.
• BioSpringer
• Immuno Medic
• Super Beta Glucan (SBG) Inc.
• Bio Origin
• Ceapro Inc.
• DSM Food Specialties B.V. & 
• DSM Nutritional Products AG
• AIT Ingredients.

By Type:

• Insoluble
• Soluble

By Application:

• Animal feed, 
• Pharmaceuticals, 
• Personal care & cosmetics
• Food & beverages

By Source:

• Seaweed, 
• Yeast, 
• Mushroom
• Cereal

Global Beta-Glucan Market: Regional Segment Analysis

• North America
  • The U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Southeast Asia
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

What Reports Provides

• Full in-depth analysis of the parent market
• Important changes in market dynamics
• Segmentation details of the market
• Former, on-going, and projected market analysis in terms of volume and value
• Assessment of niche industry developments
• Market share analysis
• Key strategies of major players
• Emerging segments and regional markets
• Testimonials to companies in order to fortify their foothold in the market.