Starch Derivatives Market

Market Overview

The global starch derivatives market size was valued at USD 38 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 84.9 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 9.5% during the forecast period (2024-2032). The market growth is being enhanced by the primary market drivers of health advantages and expanding application fields.

Starch plays a vital role as both an essential energy source and a structural element as the predominant carbohydrate storage in plants. Starch derivatives are produced by performing several chemical changes, such as oxidation, esterification, or etherification, which change the chemical composition of the D-glucopyranosyl units present in the starch molecule. These alterations are essential for customizing starch derivatives to meet specific needs in industrial and consumer applications. They enhance thickening, gelling, binding, sticky, and film-forming capabilities.

Furthermore, the growth of the starch derivatives market is primarily driven by increasing demand for convenience foods and beverages in developing countries, population growth, and rising per-capita income. The increase is ascribed to the expanding utilization of starch derivatives in processed foods, drinks, and medications. The industry is expected to experience growth in the future because of the rising demand for the product as a thickening agent, stabilizer, emulsifier, and binder.

Highlights

• Maltodextrin generates the highest revenue share based on type.
• Wheat feedstock influenced the market growth by source.
• Liquid generates the highest revenue share based on form.
• Thickening feedstock influenced market growth through function.
• Food and beverages generate the highest revenue share based on application.

Market Dynamics

Starch Derivatives Market Drivers

Innovative Starch Derivatives as Dietary Auxiliaries 

The factors contributing to this phenomenon include population growth, shifts in dietary preferences, breakthroughs in starch modification techniques, and increased recognition of the benefits of functional ingredients in both food and non-food uses. Moreover, the adaptability and economical nature of starch derivatives compared to synthetic alternatives contribute significantly to the expansion of the industry. The global starch derivatives market is anticipated to be driven by the growing demand for convenient food and drinks in developing countries worldwide, the increasing population, and the rising per-capita income. Several prominent stakeholders are investing significantly in research and development endeavors to facilitate the widespread adoption of starch derivatives. These advancements are improving the presence of starch derivative goods in the worldwide starch derivatives industry.

Moreover, the implementation of biofuel regulations and increasing costs of raw materials are among the factors constraining the expansion of the worldwide starch derivatives market. The Starch Europe members representing the European Starch Industry have 73 facilities spread throughout 20 EU Member States. These facilities produce 10.5 million tonnes of starch and derivatives annually and 5 million tonnes of proteins and fibers. The output of wheat, maize, and potatoes has increased from 8.7 million tonnes in 2004 to 10.5 million tonnes in 2022, with additional contributions from barley, rice, and peas. The European Union (EU) consumption amounts to 8.3 million tons, with 53% being used in the food industry, 2% in the feed sector, and 45% in non-food industries such as papermaking. 32% of the starch consumed is in its natural form, 19% is in a modified form, and the remaining 49% is in the form of starch sweeteners.

Rise of Bio-Based and Biodegradable Products 

The increasing focus on sustainability has driven the widespread use of bio-based and biodegradable starch derivatives, a significant development in the industry. These environmentally conscious alternatives are gaining popularity, particularly in packaging, disposable items, and agricultural mulch films. Gulshan Polyols Ltd. And Tate & Lyle are at the forefront of this shift, providing starch derivatives that comply with environmental regulations and offer functional advantages similar to traditional materials.

Additionally, the bio-based starch derivatives sector has grown substantially, with projections indicating that the market will achieve a value of USD 1.5 billion by 2023, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.0%. The rise of this phenomenon is propelled by worldwide environmental regulations and the increasing consciousness and preference of consumers for sustainable products, underscoring the crucial role of eco-friendly solutions in the market's growth.

Starch Derivatives Market Restraints

Fluctuating Raw Material Prices and Stringent Regulatory Norms

The volatility in the prices of raw materials is a significant obstacle for the starch derivatives market. Crucial components such as corn, wheat, and potato are indispensable, but their costs are volatile and affected by erratic weather conditions, changeable crop production, and shifting supply-demand factors. For instance, a drought occurring in a critical corn-producing area might considerably diminish the amount of maize available, resulting in a rise in prices and ultimately causing an increase in production expenses for corporations like Ingredion and Cargill. The volatility mentioned impacts the cost structure and affects pricing strategy and profitability of manufacturers of starch derivatives. Market assessments suggest that these variations can result in a 5-10% rise in manufacturing expenses, which may deter investment in the industry and impede market expansion.

Additionally, regulatory obstacles severely hinder the growth possibilities of the starch derivatives market. The food, pharmaceutical, and personal care industries are subject to strict regulatory scrutiny on using additives, such as starch derivatives. The regulations, which vary significantly by geographical area, oversee product safety, labeling, and content. For example, the stringent rules imposed by the European Union on modified starches in food products create barriers to market entry and restrict the range of applications for specific starch derivatives. These severe regulations can cause delays in product introductions, raise compliance expenses, and limit market entry, ultimately reducing market expansion. According to reports, adhering to these standards can lead to a rise in operational costs of up to 15%, which poses a substantial obstacle to expanding in the market.

Starch Derivatives Market Opportunity

Innovations in the Food and Pharmaceutical Sectors

The market for starch derivatives is experiencing significant expansion, primarily due to advancements in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Starch derivatives, modified starches with improved characteristics, are progressively employed in various applications, such as food, medicines, and nutraceuticals. The food sector significantly influences the starch derivatives market. Starch derivatives have extensive applications as thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers in various food products. Their contribution to enhancing texture, extending shelf-life, and augmenting nutritional value aligns with consumers' inclination towards high-quality and nourishing food choices.

In May 2024, Roquette, a prominent multinational company specializing in plant-derived products, introduced LycaGel Flex, an innovative premix using hydroxypropyl pea starch. This product specifically caters to the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors, providing enhanced stability and functioning in medication formulations and dietary supplements. This discovery highlights the increasing need for sophisticated starch derivatives to improve product performance and meet strict industry standards. In May 2024, Arcadia Biosciences sold their non-GMO Resistant Starch (RS) Durum Wheat trait to Corteva Agriscience for USD 4 million, a noteworthy move. Arcadia maintains the authority to incorporate this characteristic into its GoodWheat product range, which encompasses pasta, macaroni, and cheese. This strategic decision emphasizes the growing significance of resistant starches in the food sector, propelled by the increasing customer need for healthier and functional food products.

Moreover, starch derivatives play a crucial role in the pharmaceutical industry by aiding in developing excipients that improve drug delivery and stability. Introducing cutting-edge products such as LycaGel Flex demonstrates an increasing inclination towards using starch derivatives in advanced pharmaceutical applications. In general, the market for starch derivatives is positioned for ongoing expansion. The continuous advancements and strategic collaborations in the field highlight the growing uses of starch derivatives, fueled by the rising need for functional and health-focused products in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Regional Analysis

The global starch derivatives market analysis is conducted across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Asia-Pacific Dominates the Global Market

Asia-Pacific is the most significant global starch derivatives market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% over the forecast period. China and India, are the dominant nations in the regional market. Within this geographical area, developing economies such as China and India are projected to have a rise in the consumption of modified starch due to their fast-paced industrialization and the growth in the disposable income of the middle-class population. There is expected to be an increase in the use of this technology in several unconventional business sectors, such as functional foods, nutrition, and healthcare. Several prominent global starch derivatives market companies, such as Avebe and Ingredion, made significant investments in expanding their product capacity and establishing new manufacturing facilities. This led to the growth of end-user industries such as food and drinks and pharmaceuticals.

North America is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.7% over the forecast period. The North American market is projected to have a significant portion of the total revenue during the forecast period. The North American starch derivatives market is experiencing expansion due to the presence of established sectors such as food & drinks, pharmaceuticals, paper, and cosmetics in the region. The starch derivatives market in North America will likely expand due to the high production volumes of various ready-to-eat food products, such as low-fat yogurt, noodles, soups, pasta, sauces, etc., widely utilized in the food sector. Furthermore, the North American market is experiencing additional expansion due to the regional manufacturers making more significant expenditures in technical developments.

Europe holds a significant market share. Various crucial elements propel the European market for starch derivatives globally. The food and beverage industry's increasing demand for natural sweeteners, thickeners, and stabilizers drives market growth. Furthermore, the growing consciousness of health among consumers drives the need for low-calorie and functional food ingredients in which starch derivatives play a vital role. In addition, progress in biotechnology improves manufacturing efficiency and expands the range of uses for derivatives, which drives the market in Europe.

Segmental Analysis

The global starch derivatives market is segmented based on type, source, form, function, and application.

Based on type, the market is divided into Maltodextrin, Cyclodextrin, Glucose Syrups, and Hydrolysates.

The Maltodextrin segment dominated in 2023 due to its versatile uses across several industries. Due to its versatility, it is an essential component in formulating food and beverage products, pharmaceuticals, personal care items, and industrial uses. Maltodextrin is a functional addition used in the food and beverage industry. It provides increased viscosity, improved texture, and added bulk. It is extensively utilized to produce confectionery, dairy goods, sports drinks, and processed foods. 

The glucose syrup segment is the fastest growing. The segment is expected to experience substantial growth throughout the projected period due to the rising consumption of ice cream, desserts, bakery goods, processed meats, and sauces. The demand for glucose is expected to increase because of its growing use in various non-food applications, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, textiles, paper, and plywood. Additionally, it serves as a flavor intensifier, a substance that increases volume, an agent that affects texture, and an inhibitor of sugar crystallization in beverages.

The Cyclodextrins segment is the second largest. Cyclodextrins have extensive use in both the food and cosmetic sectors. Food additives are employed in the food business to eliminate undesirable odors or tastes, stabilize flavors, and inhibit browning reactions and microbiological contaminations. Cosmetics use cyclodextrins as protective agents against heat, light, and oxidation. Additionally, they are employed in skincare products due to their ability to alleviate skin irritation and inflammation.

Based on the source, the market is divided into Corn, Potato, Cassava, Wheat, and Others.

The wheat segment dominated in 2023. Wheat, being extensively grown and easily accessible, is a cost-effective choice for producers, which is why wheat starch is commonly used. The plentiful availability of wheat as a primary resource enhances its economic feasibility in producing starch derivatives. The clean label movement has heightened the inclination towards natural and easily identifiable substances. These factors will contribute to the growing demand in the segment.

The corn segment is the fastest growing. Corn is the primary provider of starch derivatives, which are highly favored due to its plentiful supply and comparatively affordable price, making it a fundamental component in extensive industrial uses. Its primary purpose is to manufacture diverse starch derivatives, such as maltodextrins and high fructose corn syrup, which are essential elements in numerous sectors. Corn starch's supremacy is driven by its diversity in terms of modification capabilities, which enables the manufacture of derivatives that fulfill specific industrial requirements, including enhanced thickening, adhesive characteristics, and texture improvement.

Based on form, the market is bifurcated into Dry and Liquid.

The liquid segment dominated in 2023. Liquid starch derivatives are specifically engineered to enhance their capacity to dissolve and remain stable in water-based solutions. This is especially beneficial when quick dissolution and even distribution are essential for maintaining high product quality. Manufacturers can benefit from the convenience of using liquid starch derivatives in their processing. Hence, the segment is expected to experience significant growth in the upcoming years.

The dry segment is the fastest growing. Dry starch derivatives are crucial for driving the growth of the global starch derivatives industry. These derivatives, such as maltodextrin, cyclodextrin, and pregelatinized starch, provide improved stability, solubility, and usefulness in different applications. They are adaptable and can be used in several industries, including food and beverage, medicines, and textiles, increasing their demand. 

Based on function, the market is segmented into Stabilizing, Emulsifying, Binding, and Thickening, and Others. 

The thickening segment dominated in 2023. Thickening agents play a crucial role in the functionality aspect of the Starch Derivatives Market, mainly because they are essential in several industries, especially in food manufacturing. These agents are vital in enhancing the texture and uniformity of various items, including sauces, soups, dairy products, and sweets. Their capacity to adjust viscosity while maintaining other features such as color and flavor renders them highly important in the food and beverage industry.

The emulsifying segment is the fastest growing. Emulsifying agents are essential in the worldwide starch derivatives market since they improve the stability and texture of products for both food and industrial uses. They enhance the even distribution of starch derivatives, preventing the separation of different phases and enhancing the product's longevity. This feature is crucial in processed foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, where maintaining a consistent level of quality is of utmost importance. Hence, incorporating emulsifying agents into starch derivatives is crucial in driving market growth, aligning with customer preferences, and improving food processing and other industries.

Based on the application, the market is segmented into food and beverage, cosmetics, animal feed, paper, pharmaceuticals, and other products. 

The food and beverage segment dominated in 2023. Starch derivatives have a long history, and the food and beverage sector increasingly focuses on their applications. They are utilized in various food applications because of their functional characteristics. Starch derivatives have emerged as a very effective environmentally friendly product, binding, and gelling agent. Due to the rising amounts of sugar, there has been a surge in the need for starch in the food and beverage business.

The pharmaceutical segment is the fastest growing. This growth can be attributed to increased disposable income and advancements in healthcare infrastructure. Furthermore, the projected expansion of the pharmaceutical sector in the United States, China, and India is expected to present significant prospects during the forecasted timeframe. Moreover, cosmetics extensively utilize starch for various purposes, such as in creams, lotions, shaving gels, bath treatments, and body powders. The increasing preference for natural cosmetics is anticipated to drive the market for starch derivatives.

Recent Developments

• April 2024- Foodchem, a prominent company in China specializing in food additives and ingredients, announced its involvement in two esteemed exhibitions: DJAZAGRO 2024 and Saudi Food Manufacturing 2024. These events provide an excellent opportunity for Foodchem to display its unique products and emphasize its in-house manufacturing skills.
• February 2024- Ingredion incorporated (NYSE: INGR), a prominent global supplier of specialty ingredient solutions to the food and beverage manufacturing industry and a trailblazer in clean-label ingredients, has introduced NOVATION® Indulge 2940 starch. This new addition to their range of clean-label texturizers is the first non-GMO functional native corn starch that offers a distinctive texture for gelling and co-texturizing in famous dairy and alternative dairy products and desserts.