China and Hong Kong Probiotic Food Supplements Market - 2024-2027

Overview

The China and Hong Kong probiotic food supplement market recorded a value of US$ 1,060.28 million in 2023 and is expected to reach a value of US$ 1,865.35 million in 2027, growing at a CAGR of 15.46% during the forecast period (2024-2027).

The consumer shift towards natural and organic products is another trend influencing the probiotic supplement market. Many consumers are seeking out products that align with their preferences for clean labels and natural ingredients. This has led to an increase in the availability of organic probiotic supplements and products free from artificial additives and preservatives.

For instance, in September 2022, Nestle Health Science introduced two new probiotics targeting children's growth and immune health in China's offline retail market. Sold under the Garden of Life brand, the products feature strains including Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001, Bifidobacterium animalis BB-12, and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019. This launch aims to enhance children's health and wellness in China.

Drivers

Increasing Health Awareness and Lifestyle Changes

There is a growing trend among consumers towards preventive healthcare, where maintaining a healthy gut flora is seen as essential for overall health. Probiotic supplements are increasingly recognized for their role in supporting digestive health, boosting the immune system, and even potentially improving mental health. Urbanization and the fast-paced lifestyle in China and Hong Kong are leading to dietary imbalances and increased stress levels, contributing to gastrointestinal issues. Probiotic supplements offer a convenient solution for improving gut health, making them a popular choice among busy urban populations.

For instance, in February 2024, AB-LIFE expanded its presence in Asia by teaming up with Wonderlab, a prominent dietary supplement company in China. The collaboration introduced Shape100, a probiotic product targeting cholesterol improvement and weight management, in Wonderlab's signature "Little Green Bottle" packaging. Shape100 blends three bacterial strains, offering a scientifically backed alternative to statins, aligning with Wonderlab's innovative approach to nutrition and wellness.

Growing Aging Population

Older adults are increasingly adopting preventive healthcare practices to avoid illnesses and manage existing conditions. Probiotic supplements are a part of this approach, as they help maintain overall health and prevent infections by supporting a balanced gut microbiota. The elderly population generally has more disposable income and is willing to spend on health and wellness products, including probiotics. This economic power enhances their influence on the market, encouraging manufacturers to develop specifically targeting this demographic.

The market is seeing the development of specialized probiotic formulations designed to meet the specific needs of older adults, such as improving bone health, reducing inflammation, and enhancing nutrient absorption. For instance, in April 2021, Swedish probiotic supplier Probi and China's pharmaceutical giant Sinopharm partnered to introduce probiotic supplements to the Chinese market. Sinopharm will launch three supplements targeting immune health, bone health, and iron absorption, all based on Probi's clinically substantiated strains.

Restraints

Stringent Regulatory Requirements

Both China and Hong Kong enforce rigorous quality control measures for probiotics. Products must meet high standards for bacterial counts and must not contain harmful contaminants. These stringent quality requirements can increase production costs and time, potentially limiting the number of products available in the market.

On January 15, 2024, according to the Consumer Council Organization, Stringent regulatory requirements are significantly restraining the probiotic food supplements market in China. This caution stems, in part, from international incidents such as the warning issued last year by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after a premature baby died of sepsis caused by Bifidobacterium from a probiotic formula. Such incidents have heightened public concern over the safety of probiotic supplements.

Segment Analysis

The China and Hongkong probiotic food supplements market is segmented based on ingredient, dosage, application, age and distribution channel.

Growing Demand for Gastrointestinal Health Products in China and Hong Kong

The demand for gastrointestinal health products, particularly probiotic food supplements, is rapidly increasing in China and Hong Kong. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), digestive disorders are among the top health concerns in these regions, prompting a growing interest in preventive health measures, including the use of probiotics.

In China, there has been a significant increase in the consumption of probiotic supplements due to changing dietary habits and a greater focus on overall well-being. The Chinese Nutrition Society (CNS) has emphasized the role of probiotics in enhancing digestive health, which has further fuelled consumer interest. As a result, there is a noticeable shift towards natural and functional foods that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, with probiotics becoming a popular choice for improving gut flora balance.

Gastrointestinal health application segment is expected to be the dominant segment with over 50% of the market during the forecast period 2024-2031. In June 14, Junlebao launched a new product N-15 probiotics. It is understood that this product contains special patented probiotics N1115, which have acid resistance and bile salt resistance, and can reach the intestinal tract alive to maintain the homeostasis of intestinal flora. The new product does not contain sucrose, flavors, or pigments.

Sustainability Analysis

Sustainability is becoming a key focus in the probiotic food supplements market in China and Hong Kong, driven by increasing consumer and regulatory emphasis on environmental and health impacts. Companies in these regions are concentrating on sustainably sourcing raw materials, minimizing packaging waste, and reducing the carbon footprint of their production processes. Data from the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) shows a 30% rise in the use of eco-friendly packaging by probiotic supplement manufacturers.

Additionally, the market's sustainability efforts are propelled by a greater awareness of biodiversity and its influence on probiotic strains. According to the Hong Kong Consumer Council, 45% of consumers take a company's sustainability practices into account when purchasing health supplements. This has led to more investment in sustainable agricultural methods and research into probiotic strains that are both effective and eco-friendly.

Unmet Needs

In the probiotic food supplements market in China and Hong Kong, there are several unmet needs, particularly concerning product diversity and consumer awareness. Consumers are increasingly seeking probiotics that address specific health concerns such as stress management, skin health, and immune support, beyond just digestive wellness.

A survey by the Chinese Nutrition Society found that 60% of consumers are interested in more specialized probiotic products, but the current market offerings are perceived as too generic. This indicates a significant opportunity for innovation in developing targeted probiotic supplements. Additionally, there is a considerable gap in consumer education regarding the benefits and proper use of probiotics.

Many consumers lack understanding of the different probiotic strains and their specific health benefits, which can lead to confusion when making purchasing decisions. According to the Hong Kong Consumer Council, 55% of consumers are uncertain about how to select the right probiotic supplement for their needs. This underscores the need for enhanced education and clearer product labelling to empower consumers to make informed decisions and maximize the benefits of probiotic supplements.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include STP - Mineral Therapy, Be Pure, Vita Green Health Products Co Ltd., GenieBiome Ltd and Health Bank.

By Ingredient

Lactobacillus

Streptococcus

Bifidobacterium

Others

By Dosage

Tablet

Capsules

Liquid

Powder

Others

Chewables & Gummies

Soft Gels

Others

By Application

Gastrointestinal Health

Gut Microbiota/Microbiome Balance

Digestion

Constipation

Bloating

Diarrhea

Leaky Gut

Inflammation

Immune System

Others

Gluten sensitivity

Abdominal Pain

GERD/Helicobacter pylori

Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea/Post-Antibiotic Treatment

Gut Flora/Gut Microbiome Restoration

Others

Vaginal Health

Urinary Tract Health

Kidney Stones

UTIs

Others

Oral Health

Anti/Healthy Ageing

Allergies/Asthma

Bone & Joint Health

Osteoarthritis

Osteoporosis/Low Mineral Bone Density

Inflammation

Brain/Mental Health

Sleep

Cognition

Mood

Depression

Focus

Cardiovascular Health

Circulation

Energy/Fatigue Reduction

Metabolic Syndrome/Blood Glucose

Liver Health

Energy

Immunity/Respiratory Infections

Nutrient Absorption

Skin-Hair-Nails

Atopic Dermatitis & Eczema

Acne

Rosacea

Hair Growth/Hair Loss

Skin Microbiome

Others

Sports

Women's Health

Fertility

Menopause

Pregnancy

Pcos

Vaginal Health & Health Vaginal Microbiome

Vaginal Infections (Bv/Vvc)

Pregnancy Outcomes

Others

Men's Health & Men's Fertility

Weight Management

Paediatric Health

Colic

Constipation

Regurgitation

Atopic Dermatitis

Others

Others

By Age

Infant

Children

Adults

Seniors

By Distribution Channels

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets

Pharmacies and Drug Stores

Convenience Stores

Online Retailers

Other Distribution Channels

Key Developments

In January, 2024, Hong Kong Consumer Council urged the government to establish legislation to regulate dietary supplements, including probiotics. This appeal follows the Council's review of 40 commercially available probiotic products. The findings highlight the need for stricter oversight to ensure consumer safety and product efficacy.

In April 2024, ADM announced that its spore-forming probiotic DE111 (Bacillus subtilis) has been officially approved by the National Health Commission (NHC) in China. This approval allows Chinese customers access to DE111, which meets China's stringent quality and safety standards. The probiotic's rigorous evaluation assures consumers of its efficacy and safety.

In February 2024, AB-LIFE expanded its presence in Asia by teaming up with Wonderlab, a prominent dietary supplement company in China. The collaboration introduced Shape100, a probiotic product targeting cholesterol improvement and weight management, in Wonderlab's signature "Little Green Bottle" packaging. Shape100 blends three bacterial strains, offering a scientifically backed alternative to statins, aligning with Wonderlab's innovative approach to nutrition and wellness.

Why Purchase the Report?

To visualize the China + Hongkong probiotic food supplement market segmentation based on ingredient, dosage, application, age, and distribution channel, as well as understand key commercial assets and players.

Identify commercial opportunities by analysing trends and co-development.

Excel data sheet with numerous data points of China + Hongkong probiotic food supplement market-level with all segments.

PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.

Product mapping available as excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The China + Hongkong probiotic food supplement report would provide approximately 30 tables, 55 figures and 218 pages.

Target Audience 2024

Manufacturers/ Buyers

Industry Investors/Investment Bankers

Research Professionals

Emerging Companies