Beta Glucan Market: Current Analysis and Forecast (2023-2030)

Beta-glucans are glucose polymers classified according to their interchain linkage as either α- or B-linked. Beta-glucans are soluble fibers found in the cell walls of bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and some plants, such as oats and barley. They have been linked to a long list of potential health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol levels, improving blood sugar management, and boosting immune health. They may also help prevent the body from absorbing cholesterol from food and stimulate the immune system by increasing chemicals that prevent infections.

The Beta Glucan Market is expected to grow at a strong CAGR of around 7.54% owing to the growing demand for natural and plant-based ingredients. Furthermore, the rising consumer shift towards plant-derived food and food supplements is driving the global beta-glucan market. Moreover, the increasing world population, rising awareness for necessary nutrition, and innovative extraction technologies are also contributing to the market growth. In addition to this, growing demand and popularity for nutraceutical products are also triggering the utility of beta-glucan in the global marketplace. Further, the abundant availability of raw materials is promoting the production of beta glucan among manufacturers also contributing to the market growth of the beta-glucans in the marketplace which can also be witnessed from the product launches that are happening in this space. For instance, in July 2023, BENEO announced the launch of the barley beta-glucans ingredient called Orafti B-Fit. It is a natural and clean label wholegrain barley flour with 20% beta-glucans and is an extension of the company's functional fiber range.

Based on source, the market is segmented into grains and cereals, yeast, mushroom, and seaweed. The grains and cereals-based beta-glucan are anticipated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Grains and cereals are some of the most primary, effective, and abundant sources for the extraction of beta-glucan globally. This is due to their molecular composition and the presence of dietary fibers, polyphenols, and other phytochemicals. Furthermore, beta-glucan is a type of soluble dietary fiber found in oats and barley and has been linked to lowering blood cholesterol and reducing the risk of coronary heart disease. It is also known to have prebiotic properties, which can help to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This has made it a popular choice for neutraceutical products, and its demand has been further boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers are now more likely to buy products that are fortified with beta-glucan, as they are aware of its health benefits.

Based on category, the market is bifurcated into soluble and insoluble. The soluble segment is anticipated to witness significant CAGR growth during the forecasted period. Soluble beta-glucans are polysaccharides found in the cell walls of plants, fungi, and bacteria. They are known for their health benefits, including their ability to lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and boost the immune system. Furthermore, Soluble beta-glucans have several advantages over insoluble beta-glucans. They are more easily absorbed by the body, which means they can be more effective in delivering their health benefits. They are also more easily digested, which makes them more suitable for people with digestive issues. Soluble beta-glucans also have a lower viscosity than insoluble beta-glucans, which makes them easier to incorporate into food and beverages. This makes them more suitable for use in food products and supplements. In addition to their health benefits, beta-glucans can also be used to improve the texture and flavor of food. They can be used as a thickening agent in soups and sauces, and they can also be used to improve the texture of baked goods. Factors like these are driving up the demand for soluble beta-glucans in the market and can also be witnessed in the recent product launches that have happened in this space.

Based on application, the market is segmented into foods and beverages, personal care, pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and animal feed. The food and beverages segment holds the majority of the market share for the applications of beta-glucans. The health and wellness sector within the food and beverage industry continues to experience significant growth as more consumers prioritize preventive nutrition, immunity, clean eating, and overall health and wellness. Furthermore, the increasing intolerance to lactose and the global adoption of vegan eating habits are expected to drive market demand for beta-glucans in the foods and beverages segment. Rising awareness of animal health and cruelty to animals has resulted in a shift toward plant-based food products as well. Moreover, the working population has shifted to a more at-home lifestyle in recent years. With a lack of commute to work and less overall active movement in the mornings, people have started to focus more on their diet by turning to health and wellness food products. Consumers are increasingly seeking products comprised of organic, range-fed, low-carb, dairy-free, and gluten-free characteristics to live a healthier lifestyle. Furthermore, increasing rates of obesity-related diseases have popularized the consumption of healthy foods to improve immune responses and overall health and factors like these are driving the demand for the foods and beverages which are fortified with beta glucans.

For a better understanding of the market adoption of 5G services, the market is analyzed based on its worldwide presence in countries such as North America (The U.S., Canada, and the Rest of North America), Europe (Germany, The U.K., France, Spain, Italy, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Rest of World. North America stands out as a significant market for beta glucans. One significant factor driving the demand for beta glucans in North America is the increasing health consciousness among consumers. Beta glucans, which are natural soluble fibers derived from sources like oats, barley, and mushrooms, have been linked to numerous health benefits. These benefits include cholesterol reduction, improved immune system function, and blood sugar regulation, making them highly desirable among health-conscious individuals. The rising focus on preventive healthcare in North America has led to a surge in demand for products containing beta glucans. Furthermore, North America has been witnessing a steady rise in chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. Beta glucans have demonstrated their ability to help manage these conditions by controlling blood sugar levels, reducing cholesterol, and boosting heart health. As the awareness of these health benefits increases, consumers in North America are increasingly seeking products enriched with beta glucans, leading to higher demand, though this is not specific to just North America, chronic diseases are growing globally and there is a need for the preventive health measures as well change in diets and supplementations, which is getting popular along with the rising consumer awareness, translating into the growth in the demand for the products that are fortified with beta glucans. Additionally, the availability and accessibility of beta glucan products play a crucial role in driving consumer demand. North America has a well-established food and supplement industry, with a wide range of products containing beta glucans readily available in the market. Moreover, major food and pharmaceutical companies in North America are incorporating beta glucans into their product offerings, making these products more familiar and appealing to consumers.

Some of the major players operating in the market include: Tate & Lyle; Kerry Group plc.; Cargill, Incorporated; International Flavors & Fragrances Inc; Panasonic Corporation; Merck & Co., Inc.; Lesaffre; Ohly; Lantmannen Biorefineries; and L&P Food Ingredient Co.