Global Corn Oil Market Grows Steadily at a CAGR of 7.45%

Introduction

Corn oil is a widely used vegetable oil extracted from the germ of corn kernels. It is known for its mild flavor, high smoke point, and versatility in cooking, making it ideal for frying, baking, and salad dressings. Rich in polyunsaturated fats and low in saturated fats, corn oil is considered heart-friendly and is often used in processed foods and margarines. It also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health and immune function. Besides culinary uses, corn oil is used in biodiesel production, cosmetics, and industrial applications.

Market Dynamics

Diversified usage of corn oil in various industries drives the global market

The widespread utilization of corn oil across diverse industries is a major growth driver in the global corn oil market. Thanks to its nutritional value and favorable chemical characteristics, corn oil is extensively used in food processing, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and increasingly in the renewable energy sector. Its versatility makes it a valuable ingredient in both consumer and industrial applications.

• A notable example of this trend occurred in March 2022, when the Minnedosa Ethanol Plant in Canada expanded its operations to include the production of corn oil for renewable diesel. Previously focused on producing fuel-grade ethanol and Dried Distillers Grain with Solubles (DDGS) for livestock feed, the facility began manufacturing Distillers Corn Oil (DCO) to better navigate fluctuations in feedstock availability and pricing.

With growing interest across sectors, corn oil is positioned as a key commodity driving innovation and supporting the expansion of sustainable solutions.

Latest innovations in optimal corn oil extraction

Innovations in corn oil extraction methods are opening new opportunities in the global market, as manufacturers seek to improve both yield and efficiency while preserving oil quality. Cutting-edge techniques such as enzymatic extraction and advanced mechanical pressing are gaining traction for their ability to enhance oil recovery in a cost-effective and sustainable manner.

• A prime example is the breakthrough announced in August 2023 by Fluid Quip Technologies (FQT). The company’s patented Distillers Corn Oil (DCO) Technology™ achieved record-high corn oil yields for Ace Ethanol in Stanley, Wisconsin—exceeding previous recovery rates by over 20%. This system enhances oil separation from the whole stillage, then clarifies the thin stillage stream to minimize fine solids, optimizing the downstream evaporation and oil recovery process.

These technological advancements are reshaping the industry, enabling more efficient and scalable corn oil production. As demand rises, such innovations are expected to play a key role in driving sustainable growth in the corn oil market.

Regional Analysis

North America leads the global corn oil market, driven by high consumption in food processing, biodiesel production, and the growing demand for healthier edible oils. The U.S. dominates due to its vast corn production, supporting large-scale corn oil extraction. The rising trend of plant-based diets has also fueled demand for corn oil as a cholesterol-free alternative to animal fats. Moreover, the biofuel sector benefits from government incentives promoting renewable energy, with corn oil being a key feedstock in biodiesel production. Major companies like Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) and Cargill enhance market growth with continuous innovations and large processing capacities.

Key Highlights

• The global corn oil market size was valued at USD 6.34 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow from USD 6.82 billion in 2025 to reach USD 12.11 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.45% during the forecast period (2025–2033).
• By type, the global corn oil market is segmented into edible and non-edible. The edible corn oil segment owns the highest market share.
• By applications, the market is segmented into food processing, cosmetics, paints and coatings, insecticides, and biofuel. The food processing segment dominates the market.
• By distribution channel, the global corn oil market is segmented into institutional/direct sales and B2C. The B2C segment owns the highest market share.
• By industry vertical, the market is segmented into food & beverage, restaurants & food service providers, pharmaceutical industry, livestock, and others. The food & beverage segment dominates the global market.
• North America is the highest shareholder in the global market.

Competitive Players

1. ACH Food Companies, Inc.
2. Abu Dhabi Vegetable Oil Company
3. Archer Daniels Midland Company
4. Cargill Incorporated
5. Wilmar International Ltd.
6. Qingdao Changsheng Group Co., Ltd.
7. Elburg Global
8. Savola Group
9. ConAgra Brands, Inc
10. IFFCO
11. Henry Lamotte Oils GmbH
12. Cairo Oil And Soap
13. Lam Soon Edible Oils Sdn. Bhd.
14. Proteins Pvt Limited
15. Taj Agro International
16. The J.M. Smucker Company
17. Saporito Foods Inc.

Recent Developments

• In October 2024, IFF introduced OPTIMASH® F200 and OPTIMASH® AX, a new enzyme solution designed to improve corn oil extraction in fuel ethanol production. This innovative blend can increase corn oil recovery by up to 15%, benefiting industries such as biodiesel, renewable diesel, and animal feed. Additionally, IFF unveiled a proprietary oil mapping calculator that helps ethanol producers fine-tune enzyme dosing for optimal yields.

Segmentation

1. By Type
   1. Edible
   2. Non-Edible
2. By Applications
   1. Food Processing
   2. Cosmetics
   3. Paints And Coatings
   4. Insecticides
   5. Biofuel
3. By Distribution Channel
   1. Institutional/Direct Sales
   2. B2C
      1. Retail
      2. Supermarket/Hypermarket
      3. Online
4. By Industry Vertical
   1. Food & Beverage
   2. Restaurants & Food Service Providers
   3. Pharmaceutical Industry
   4. Livestock
   5. Others
5. By Regions
   1. North America
   2. Europe
   3. Asia-Pacific
   4. Latin America
   5. The Middle East and Africa