Distillers Corn Oil Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028 Segmented By Distillation Type, By End User, By Region and Competition

Global Distillers Corn Oil Market is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period. The major by-product of ethanol production from maize grain is distillers' corn oil. During the ethanol production process, corn is fermented to produce ethanol, which is then boiled away, leaving a distilled mixture in the pot. This mixture can either be dried before being processed into distilled corn oil or used immediately. The choice of distillation type for the distiller's corn oil depends on this step. Distillers Corn Oil shares many properties with conventional corn oil, but it contains higher quantities of lutein and zeaxanthin. Additionally, it exhibits greater stability compared to regular corn oil.

The Global Distillers Corn Oil Market is driven by the increasing usage of distillers corn oil in biodiesel production. After soybean oil, it is the second-most used feedstock for domestic biodiesel production worldwide. Not only is it affordable, but immediately after distillation, distiller's corn oil contains higher levels of metals (minerals), gums, color, lutein, and free fatty acids (FFA). These characteristics make it highly advantageous for animal feed, contributing to the market's growth.

Growing research and development efforts surrounding the production of distillers corn oil are expected to provide new profitable opportunities for the Global Distillers Corn Oil Market. Researchers are exploring the use of distillers corn oil in other products and finding ways to extract even more oil from the distillers' grains. These advancements will help manufacturers achieve higher yields and meet market demands. Moreover, initiatives are underway to further refine distillers corn oil by reducing the free fatty acid content from around 15% to less than 1%.

This further-refined oil can be utilized as a substitute for soybean oil in swine starter diets, premixes, and other production systems, creating greater value and growth potential. Therefore, numerous growth opportunities exist in the market. However, there are some restraints, such as the requirement to purify distillers corn oil before using it as a biodiesel feedstock due to the presence of impurities. Failure to properly purify the oil can lead to damage to catalytic converters.

Key Market Drivers

Growth in Ethanol Production Industry

The production of biofuel, particularly ethanol, generates distillers corn oil as a co-product. This co-product is obtained from the extraction process of corn, which is used as a feedstock for ethanol production. As the demand for biofuels continues to rise, the production of ethanol also increases, resulting in a significant boost in the availability of distillers corn oil.

The boom in ethanol production not only contributes to the renewable energy sector but also has positive implications for the agricultural industry. The increased demand for ethanol leads to higher prices for bulk agricultural commodities, providing economic benefits to farmers and agricultural communities. This, in turn, stimulates economic development and growth in those regions.

Moreover, distillers corn oil plays a crucial role in the production of biodiesel, another renewable fuel source. As the world shifts its focus towards sustainable energy alternatives, the demand for biofuels is expected to surge. Consequently, the demand for distillers corn oil, as a key ingredient in biodiesel production, is also projected to increase.

Given the global emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources, the ethanol industry is poised for significant growth in the coming years. This growth not only reflects the increasing demand for biofuels but also presents new opportunities for the distillers corn oil market. As ethanol production expands to meet the rising demand, the availability of distillers corn oil will continue to grow, catering to various industries, including the biodiesel sector.

Growth in Animal Feed Industry

Distillers corn oil, a co-product of ethanol production, is not only a valuable ingredient in animal feed due to its high energy content, but it also offers numerous health benefits for livestock. With its rich nutritional profile, including essential fatty acids and antioxidants, distillers corn oil contributes to improved digestion, enhanced immune function, and overall better animal well-being.

As the animal feed industry continues to expand, driven by the growing demand for high-quality and sustainable animal nutrition, the need for distillers corn oil is expected to rise significantly. This surge in demand can be attributed to its cost-effectiveness as an energy source in animal diets, which helps optimize feed conversion efficiency and enhance the productivity of livestock.

Considering the projected global population to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, it is evident that food demand will experience a substantial increase. This, in turn, will lead to a surge in livestock production to meet the growing protein needs of the population. Consequently, the demand for animal feed, including distillers corn oil, is expected to soar, further driving the growth of the global distillers corn oil market.

In conclusion, the growth in the animal feed industry serves as a major driving force behind the expansion of the global distillers corn oil market. As the world grapples with the challenge of meeting the escalating food demand, the necessity for high-quality animal feed becomes paramount. Thus, the demand for distillers corn oil is anticipated to witness a substantial rise, positioning it as a key player in the future of sustainable and efficient animal nutrition.

Key Market Challenges

Volatility in Corn Prices

Distillers corn oil, a by-product of corn ethanol production, is directly affected by the cost of corn. As corn prices fluctuate, so do the production costs, impacting the profitability of distillers corn oil producers. The volatility in the corn market can have a significant impact on the manufacturers of distillers corn oil.

When corn prices rise, the production costs increase, putting pressure on profit margins for distillers corn oil producers. This can create challenges in passing on these increased costs to consumers, considering the competitive nature of the market. The profitability of distillers corn oil manufacturers is directly linked to the price of corn, making it crucial to closely monitor and manage these fluctuations.

Moreover, the extreme price volatility of corn can pose challenges for manufacturers in accurately forecasting costs and revenues, making business planning more complex. The unpredictability of costs also increases the risk associated with investments in the sector, potentially deterring new investments. These price fluctuations are influenced by various factors, including weather conditions, global supply and demand, and government policies. Given these factors, the corn market is expected to remain volatile in the foreseeable future.

Addressing this volatility is a significant challenge for the distillers corn oil market. Manufacturers need to develop effective strategies to manage these risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of their operations. By closely monitoring market trends, optimizing production processes, and diversifying their supply chain, distillers corn oil producers can mitigate the impact of price fluctuations and maintain a competitive edge in the industry.

Key Market Trends

Growing Focus on Sustainable Sourcing

The growing focus on sustainable sourcing is having a significant impact on the distillers corn oil market. Consumers and businesses alike are increasingly demanding products that are sourced responsibly, taking into account factors such as environmental impact, fair trade practices, and ethical considerations. This shift in consumer behavior and preferences is driving changes in the way distillers corn oil is produced.

Moreover, sustainable sourcing not only benefits the environment and communities, but it also helps companies in the distillers corn oil market mitigate financial, social, and environmental risks associated with lower-tier suppliers. By prioritizing sustainable sourcing practices, these companies can improve their supply chain resilience, reduce their carbon footprint, and enhance their overall reputation as responsible industry players.

As awareness about the importance of sustainability continues to increase, the trend of sustainable sourcing in the distillers corn oil market is expected to strengthen. Leading procurement organizations are recognizing the value of incorporating sustainability into their sourcing strategies and are achieving significant progress through targeted value-creation initiatives. These initiatives may include collaborating with farmers and suppliers who prioritize sustainable agricultural practices, implementing traceability systems, and investing in renewable energy sources.

Furthermore, embracing responsible sourcing not only addresses current market demands but can also unlock new growth opportunities for businesses in the distillers corn oil market. By aligning their operations with sustainability principles, companies can attract environmentally conscious consumers, differentiate themselves from competitors, and tap into emerging markets that prioritize sustainable products.

As such, the focus on sustainable sourcing is not just a passing trend but is likely to remain a key aspect of the distillers corn oil market for the foreseeable future. By embracing sustainable practices, companies can contribute to a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible industry while also securing their long-term success.

Segmental Insights

Distillation Type Insights

Based on the category of distillation type, the dry-milling distillery segment emerged as the dominant player in the global market for distillers corn oil in 2022. Ethanol production from corn has historically relied on two main processes, dry milling and wet milling. Dry milling, although less capital-intensive, typically yields a lower ethanol output per bushel of corn compared to wet milling. However, it is worth noting that dry milling distilleries currently dominate the US ethanol production market. This can be attributed to various factors, such as cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency. Despite the differences in ethanol yield, both dry milling and wet milling play crucial roles in meeting the growing demand for renewable fuels and ensuring energy sustainability.

End User Insights

The biodiesel manufacturing segment is projected to experience rapid growth during the forecast period. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in awareness and concern for environmental protection and the impact of climate change. As a result, more attention has been directed towards biofuel energy sources, particularly biodiesel derived from renewable resources. Biodiesel has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional diesel fuels due to its ability to be blended with diesel fuel in any ratio up to 100%.

One of the key advantages of biodiesel is its potential to replace fossil fuels, thereby reducing our dependence on non-renewable resources. Additionally, biodiesel offers the benefit of lower carbon dioxide emissions during combustion compared to traditional diesel fuels. By utilizing biodiesel, we can contribute to a more sustainable and greener future.

Moreover, biodiesel serves as a viable alternative fuel for diesel engines, offering several advantages beyond its renewable origin and reduced carbon content. It has been found to have superior lubricity properties, which can help protect and extend the lifespan of engine components. Furthermore, biodiesel exhibits a higher flash point, making it safer to handle and store compared to traditional diesel fuels.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific emerged as the dominant player in the Global Distillers Corn Oil Market in 2022, holding the largest market share in terms of value. Asia Pacific holds the distinction of being the world's largest producer of corn, thanks to its abundant corn supply. This ample availability of corn serves as a solid foundation for the production of DCO (Distillers' Corn Oil) in the region. With the continuous growth in corn production, Asia Pacific is poised to reinforce and solidify its position as a dominant player in the DCO market, further enhancing its global standing.

Key Market Players

Archer-Daniels-Midland Co

Green Plains Inc

Cardinal Ethanol LLC

Redfield Energy LLC

POET LLC

United Wisconsin Grain Producers LLC

Aemetis Inc

Ace Ethanol LLC

Patriot Renewable Fuels, LLC

RPMG Inc.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Distillers Corn Oil Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Global Distillers Corn Oil Market, By Distillation Type:

• Dry-Milling Distillery
• Wet-Mill Distillery
• Others

Global Distillers Corn Oil Market, By End User:

• Biodiesel Manufacturing
• Livestock Feed
• Others

Global Distillers Corn Oil Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Kuwait
• Turkey
• Egypt

Competitive Landscape

• Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Distillers Corn Oil Market.

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Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).