Food Thickeners Market Research, Analysis, Segmentation, Trends, Size And Forecasts, Competitive Analysis, SWOT Analysis

Food Thickeners Market Introduction

The food thickeners market is a segment of the food ingredients industry that provides ingredients used to increase the viscosity and texture of food products. These ingredients help to improve the consistency and stability of food products, making them more visually appealing, easier to handle, and more palatable.

Food thickeners are widely used in the food industry, particularly in the production of processed foods, such as sauces, gravies, soups, and desserts, as well as in the manufacturing of dairy products, beverages, and bakery products. They are also used in the medical industry to thicken liquids for people with dysphagia or swallowing difficulties.

There are various types of food thickeners available in the market, including starches, gums, proteins, and others. Starches are the most commonly used food thickener due to their versatility and low cost. Gums, such as xanthan gum and guar gum, are also popular as they provide better stability and texture to food products.

The global food thickeners market is driven by the increasing demand for convenience and processed foods, as well as the growing food and beverage industry. The market is also influenced by the rise in the number of people with dysphagia, especially among the elderly population. Moreover, the growing trend towards healthier and natural food ingredients has led to the development of new and innovative food thickeners, such as plant-based gums and proteins.

Overall, the food thickeners market is expected to continue to grow as the demand for processed foods and the need for specialized medical nutrition products continue to increase.

Food Thickeners Market Industry Analysis

The food thickeners market is a rapidly growing segment of the food ingredients industry. The market is driven by several factors, including increasing demand for processed and convenience foods, the rise in the number of people with dysphagia, and the trend towards healthier and natural food ingredients.

The market is segmented by type, source, application, and region. The types of food thickeners include starches, gums, proteins, and others. The sources of food thickeners can be plant-based, animal-based, or synthetic. The applications of food thickeners include bakery products, beverages, dairy products, sauces, gravies, soups, and desserts.

The global food thickeners market is expected to continue to grow at a significant rate in the coming years. According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the global food thickeners market was valued at USD 12.42 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 15.69 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period (2021-2026).

North America is the largest market for food thickeners, followed by Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. The market in North America is driven by the increasing demand for processed foods and the growing number of people with dysphagia. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the growing food and beverage industry and increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients.

The key players in the food thickeners market include Cargill, Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Ingredion Incorporated, Tate & Lyle PLC, Kerry Group, Ashland Global Holdings Inc., CP Kelco, FMC Corporation, and DowDupont Inc. These companies are focusing on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and mergers and acquisitions to strengthen their position in the market.

Food Thickeners Market Trends

The food thickeners market is constantly evolving and experiencing several trends that are shaping the industry. Here are some of the key trends in the food thickeners market:

Growing demand for natural and clean label food ingredients: Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and are seeking natural and clean label food ingredients. This trend has led to an increased demand for plant-based food thickeners, such as gums and proteins derived from plant sources, as well as starches from non-GMO and organic sources.
Increasing demand for convenience and processed foods: The demand for convenience and processed foods continues to rise, particularly in developing countries. This trend is driving the growth of the food thickeners market, as these ingredients are widely used in the production of processed foods, such as sauces, gravies, and soups.
Innovation in food thickeners: There is a growing focus on developing new and innovative food thickeners that provide enhanced functionality, stability, and nutritional benefits. For instance, there is an increasing demand for protein-based thickeners, which provide nutritional benefits along with texture and stability.
Rising prevalence of dysphagia: Dysphagia is a medical condition that affects swallowing and is prevalent among the elderly population. The increasing number of people with dysphagia is driving the demand for medical nutrition products that require food thickeners to provide a safe and enjoyable eating experience.
Increased adoption of food thickeners in emerging economies: Emerging economies, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, are witnessing a rise in disposable income and an increased focus on food safety and nutrition. This trend is driving the adoption of food thickeners in these regions, as they are widely used in the production of processed foods and medical nutrition products.

Overall, these trends are driving the growth of the food thickeners market and shaping the industry towards more natural, functional, and innovative ingredients.

Food Thickeners Market Size And Forecast

According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the global food thickeners market was valued at USD 12.42 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 15.69 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period (2021-2026).

The starches segment is the largest type of food thickener, accounting for a significant share of the market. However, the protein-based food thickeners segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients.

Based on the application, the sauces, dressings, and condiments segment is the largest application of food thickeners, followed by bakery products and beverages. The growing demand for processed foods and convenience foods is driving the growth of the sauces, dressings, and condiments segment.

Overall, the food thickeners market is expected to continue to grow at a significant rate in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for processed foods, the growing number of people with dysphagia, and the trend towards healthier and natural food ingredients.

Food Thickeners Market Share Analysis

The food thickeners market is highly fragmented, with several players operating in the market. Here are some of the key players in the food thickeners market and their respective market shares:

Cargill, Inc. – Cargill is a global food ingredients company that produces and distributes food thickeners such as starches, gums, and proteins. The company has a significant market share in the food thickeners market.
Archer Daniels Midland Company – ADM is a leading producer of food ingredients, including food thickeners such as starches and proteins. The company has a strong presence in the food thickeners market.
DuPont de Nemours, Inc. – DuPont is a global science company that produces food ingredients such as gums and starches for the food industry. The company has a significant market share in the food thickeners market.
Ingredion Incorporated – Ingredion is a global ingredients solutions company that produces food thickeners such as starches and gums. The company has a strong presence in the food thickeners market.
Tate & Lyle PLC – Tate & Lyle is a global provider of ingredients and solutions to the food, beverage, and industrial markets. The company produces food thickeners such as starches, gums, and fibers. The company has a significant market share in the food thickeners market.

Other players in the food thickeners market include Kerry Group, Ashland Global Holdings Inc., CP Kelco, FMC Corporation, and DowDupont Inc. These companies also have a significant market share in the food thickeners market.

Overall, the market share of each player varies depending on the region and type of food thickener. However, these companies dominate the food thickeners market, and their strategies and innovations will continue to shape the industry.

Food Thickeners Market Competitive Landscape

The food thickeners market is highly competitive, with several players operating in the market. Here are some of the key developments in the competitive landscape of the food thickeners market:

Mergers and acquisitions: Several players in the food thickeners market have been acquiring other companies to expand their product portfolios and market reach. For instance, Ingredion Incorporated acquired Penford Corporation in 2018, which strengthened its position in the starch-based food ingredients market.
Product launches: Players in the food thickeners market are constantly launching new and innovative products to meet the evolving consumer demand. For instance, in 2020, Cargill launched a new range of plant-based pectin texturizers for use in jams, jellies, and other fruit applications.
Partnership and collaborations: Players in the food thickeners market are partnering and collaborating with other companies to develop new products and technologies. For instance, in 2019, Tate & Lyle collaborated with Zymtronix to develop enzyme immobilization technology to improve the efficiency of food processing.
Focus on sustainability: With increasing consumer demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly products, players in the food thickeners market are focusing on developing sustainable sourcing and production methods. For instance, Cargill launched a sustainable texturizing solution made from upcycled food waste in 2020.
Expansion of production facilities: Players in the food thickeners market are expanding their production facilities to meet the growing demand for food thickeners. For instance, in 2020, CP Kelco announced the expansion of its pectin production facility in Denmark.

Overall, the competitive landscape of the food thickeners market is dynamic, with players constantly innovating and expanding their reach to meet the evolving consumer demand.

Food Thickeners Market Intelligence

Here is some additional intelligence on the food thickeners market:

Market drivers: The food thickeners market is primarily driven by the increasing demand for processed foods, the growing number of people with dysphagia, and the trend towards healthier and natural food ingredients. The increasing use of food thickeners in a wide range of applications, including sauces, dressings, bakery products, and beverages, is also driving the market growth.
Market challenges: One of the key challenges in the food thickeners market is the high cost of natural and healthy food ingredients. Additionally, the availability of substitutes such as emulsifiers and stabilizers is posing a challenge to the growth of the food thickeners market.
Market opportunities: The increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients is creating significant growth opportunities in the food thickeners market. Additionally, the increasing popularity of plant-based food products is expected to drive the demand for plant-based thickeners such as gums and fibers.
Regional analysis: North America is the largest market for food thickeners, driven by the increasing demand for processed foods and the growing number of people with dysphagia. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the growing food and beverage industry and increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients.
Product analysis: Starches are the largest type of food thickener, accounting for a significant share of the market. However, protein-based food thickeners are expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients.
Consumer trends: The increasing consumer demand for clean-label and natural food products is driving the demand for natural and healthy food thickeners. Additionally, the growing demand for plant-based food products is expected to drive the demand for plant-based thickeners such as gums and fibers.

Food Thickeners Market Industry Trends

Here are some current trends in the food thickeners market:

Growing demand for natural and clean label ingredients: Consumers are increasingly concerned about the safety and health impact of the food they consume. This has led to a growing demand for natural and clean label food thickeners that are free from synthetic chemicals and additives.
Increasing popularity of plant-based food products: There is a growing trend towards plant-based diets, which has led to an increased demand for plant-based food thickeners such as gums and fibers. Plant-based food thickeners are perceived to be healthier and more sustainable than animal-based thickeners.
Rising demand for gluten-free and allergen-free food ingredients: The number of people with food allergies and intolerances is increasing, which has led to a growing demand for gluten-free and allergen-free food thickeners. This trend is expected to continue as consumers become more aware of the health benefits of these types of products.
Innovation in product formulations: Food thickeners manufacturers are investing in research and development to create innovative product formulations that meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers. For example, some manufacturers are developing food thickeners that offer improved texture, stability, and taste.
Increased use of food thickeners in the pharmaceutical industry: Food thickeners are used in the pharmaceutical industry to make swallowing easier for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills or capsules. This has led to an increased demand for food thickeners in the pharmaceutical industry.
Growing demand for convenience foods: Consumers are increasingly looking for convenience foods that can be prepared quickly and easily. This has led to an increased demand for food thickeners in the production of ready-to-eat meals, soups, and sauces.

Overall, the food thickeners market is expected to continue to evolve as manufacturers respond to changing consumer preferences and demands.

Food Thickeners Market Analysis

Here is a detailed analysis of the food thickeners market:

Market Overview: The global food thickeners market size was valued at USD 13.9 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2021 to 2028. Food thickeners are used to enhance the texture, viscosity, and stability of food products. They are used in a wide range of food and beverage applications, including sauces, dressings, bakery products, and beverages. Food thickeners can be classified into starches, proteins, hydrocolloids, and others based on the type of ingredient used.

Market Drivers: The growing demand for processed foods, the increasing prevalence of dysphagia, and the trend towards healthier and natural food ingredients are the primary drivers of the food thickeners market. The use of food thickeners in a wide range of applications, including sauces, dressings, bakery products, and beverages, is also driving the market growth.

Market Challenges: The high cost of natural and healthy food ingredients is one of the key challenges in the food thickeners market. Additionally, the availability of substitutes such as emulsifiers and stabilizers is posing a challenge to the growth of the food thickeners market.

Market Opportunities: The increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients is creating significant growth opportunities in the food thickeners market. Additionally, the increasing popularity of plant-based food products is expected to drive the demand for plant-based thickeners such as gums and fibers.

Regional Analysis: North America is the largest market for food thickeners, driven by the increasing demand for processed foods and the growing number of people with dysphagia. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the growing food and beverage industry and increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients.

Product Analysis: Starches are the largest type of food thickener, accounting for a significant share of the market. However, protein-based food thickeners are expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients.

Consumer Trends: The increasing consumer demand for clean-label and natural food products is driving the demand for natural and healthy food thickeners. Additionally, the growing demand for plant-based food products is expected to drive the demand for plant-based thickeners such as gums and fibers.

Competitive Landscape: The food thickeners market is highly competitive, with a large number of players operating in the market. The key players in the market include Cargill, Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, Ingredion Incorporated, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., and Kerry Group plc. These players are focusing on product innovation and development, strategic partnerships, and mergers and acquisitions to expand their market presence.

Food Thickeners Market Segmentation

The food thickeners market can be segmented based on various factors, including:

Type: The market can be segmented based on the type of food thickener used, such as starches, proteins, hydrocolloids, and others.
Source: Food thickeners can be derived from various sources, such as plant-based, animal-based, and synthetic sources. The market can be segmented based on the source of the food thickener.
Application: Food thickeners are used in a wide range of food and beverage applications, such as sauces, dressings, bakery products, beverages, and others. The market can be segmented based on the application of the food thickener.
Functionality: Food thickeners are used to enhance the texture, viscosity, and stability of food products. The market can be segmented based on the functionality of the food thickener, such as thickening, gelling, and stabilizing.
Region: The market can be segmented based on geographic regions, such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World.
End-use Industry: Food thickeners are used in various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. The market can be segmented based on the end-use industry of the food thickener.
Nature: The market can also be segmented based on the nature of the food thickener, such as natural and synthetic.
Distribution Channel: The market can be segmented based on the distribution channel, such as direct sales, online sales, and retail sales.

Overall, these segmentation factors can provide a comprehensive view of the food thickeners market and help businesses identify potential market opportunities.

Food Thickeners Market Forecast

The food thickeners market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2021 to 2028. The market was valued at USD 13.9 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 19.9 billion by 2028.

The increasing demand for processed foods, the growing prevalence of dysphagia, and the trend towards healthier and natural food ingredients are expected to drive the market growth. The use of food thickeners in a wide range of applications, including sauces, dressings, bakery products, and beverages, is also driving the market growth.

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the growing food and beverage industry and increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients. North America is the largest market for food thickeners, driven by the increasing demand for processed foods and the growing number of people with dysphagia.

Starches are the largest type of food thickener, accounting for a significant share of the market. However, protein-based food thickeners are expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the increasing demand for natural and healthy food ingredients.

Overall, the food thickeners market is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for processed foods, the growing prevalence of dysphagia, and the trend towards healthier and natural food ingredients.

Food Thickeners Market Growth

The food thickeners market is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, driven by several factors.

One of the key drivers of market growth is the increasing demand for processed foods. The busy lifestyle of consumers and the growing preference for convenience foods have led to an increased demand for processed foods. Food thickeners are widely used in processed foods to improve the texture, viscosity, and stability of the product.

Another factor driving market growth is the growing prevalence of dysphagia. Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder that affects a large number of people, especially the elderly. Food thickeners are used to modify the consistency of foods and beverages, making them easier to swallow for people with dysphagia.

The trend towards healthier and natural food ingredients is also driving market growth. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and are looking for natural and healthy food ingredients. Food thickeners derived from natural sources, such as plant-based and protein-based thickeners, are gaining popularity.

The use of food thickeners in a wide range of applications, including sauces, dressings, bakery products, and beverages, is also driving market growth. The versatility of food thickeners and their ability to improve the texture and stability of various food products make them an essential ingredient in the food and beverage industry.

Overall, these factors are expected to drive the growth of the food thickeners market in the coming years, with a particular focus on natural and healthy ingredients.

Food Thickeners Market Competitor Analysis

The food thickeners market is highly competitive, with several players operating in the market. Some of the key players in the market include:

Ingredion Inc.
Archer Daniels Midland Company
Cargill, Incorporated
DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
Tate & Lyle PLC
Darling Ingredients Inc.
Kerry Group PLC
Ashland Global Holdings Inc.
CP Kelco
Fuerst Day Lawson Ltd.

These companies are focusing on various strategies to maintain their market position, including product innovation, expansion, and partnerships.

Product innovation is a key strategy adopted by companies to gain a competitive edge in the market. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to develop new and innovative food thickener products that cater to the changing consumer demand for healthier and natural ingredients.

Expansion is another strategy adopted by companies to maintain their market position. Companies are expanding their operations in emerging markets, such as Asia-Pacific, to tap into the growing demand for processed foods and natural food ingredients.

Partnerships and collaborations are also common strategies adopted by companies to gain a competitive edge in the market. Companies are partnering with other players in the market to expand their product offerings and increase their market share.

Overall, the food thickeners market is highly competitive, and companies are focusing on various strategies to maintain their market position and gain a competitive edge in the market.

Food Thickeners Market Strengths

The food thickeners market has several strengths that have contributed to its growth and success, including:

Versatility: Food thickeners are versatile ingredients that can be used in a wide range of food and beverage products, including sauces, dressings, bakery products, and beverages. This versatility has helped to drive the demand for food thickeners in the market.
Improved product texture and stability: Food thickeners are used to improve the texture and stability of food products, which is important for the sensory appeal of food products. Food thickeners help to create a smooth and consistent texture in food products, and also help to prevent separation and syneresis.
Health benefits: Food thickeners derived from natural sources, such as plant-based and protein-based thickeners, are gaining popularity due to their perceived health benefits. These natural thickeners are seen as healthier alternatives to synthetic thickeners, and are often used in products marketed as natural or healthy.
Increasing demand for convenience foods: The busy lifestyle of consumers has led to an increased demand for convenience foods, which has in turn led to an increased demand for food thickeners. Food thickeners are widely used in processed foods to improve the texture, viscosity, and stability of the product.
Growing prevalence of dysphagia: Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder that affects a large number of people, especially the elderly. Food thickeners are used to modify the consistency of foods and beverages, making them easier to swallow for people with dysphagia.

Overall, the versatility, improved product texture and stability, health benefits, increasing demand for convenience foods, and growing prevalence of dysphagia are some of the key strengths of the food thickeners market.

Food Thickeners Market Opportunities

The food thickeners market presents several opportunities for growth and expansion, including:

Increased demand for natural and clean label products: The demand for natural and clean label products is increasing globally, and this trend is expected to continue in the food thickeners market. Companies can take advantage of this opportunity by developing new and innovative natural food thickeners that cater to the changing consumer preferences.
Expansion into emerging markets: Emerging markets such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East present significant opportunities for the food thickeners market. These regions have a large and growing population, and increasing urbanization and disposable income are driving demand for processed foods and natural food ingredients.
Expansion into new application areas: Food thickeners have traditionally been used in products such as sauces, dressings, and beverages. However, there is an opportunity to expand into new application areas such as pet food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products.
Growing demand for plant-based thickeners: The demand for plant-based food ingredients is growing globally, and this trend is expected to continue in the food thickeners market. Companies can take advantage of this opportunity by developing new and innovative plant-based thickeners that cater to the changing consumer preferences.
Development of new functional properties: Food thickeners can be developed to have additional functional properties such as emulsifying, stabilizing, and gelling properties. Developing new functional properties can open up new application areas and provide new opportunities for growth in the food thickeners market.

Overall, the increased demand for natural and clean label products, expansion into emerging markets, expansion into new application areas, growing demand for plant-based thickeners, and development of new functional properties are some of the key opportunities in the food thickeners market.

Food Thickeners Market Weakness

The food thickeners market also has some weaknesses that companies in the industry should be aware of, including:

Health concerns: Some synthetic food thickeners have been linked to health concerns such as allergic reactions, digestive issues, and carcinogenicity. This has led to increasing consumer awareness of the potential health risks associated with certain food thickeners, which could impact demand.
Price sensitivity: The food thickeners market is price-sensitive, and price competition is intense. Consumers often opt for cheaper alternatives, which can put pressure on profit margins.
Supply chain disruptions: The food thickeners market is dependent on a complex global supply chain, which can be subject to disruptions such as weather events, natural disasters, and geopolitical tensions. These disruptions can impact the availability and price of raw materials, and affect the stability of the market.
Limited availability of raw materials: Some natural food thickeners, such as carrageenan and guar gum, are derived from specific plants that are grown in limited geographic regions. This limited availability can impact supply and pricing in the market.
Regulatory issues: The food thickeners market is subject to a range of regulations related to food safety, labeling, and health claims. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in fines, product recalls, and damage to brand reputation.

Overall, health concerns, price sensitivity, supply chain disruptions, limited availability of raw materials, and regulatory issues are some of the key weaknesses of the food thickeners market.

Food Thickeners Market Threats

The food thickeners market also faces some threats that companies in the industry should be aware of, including:

Intense competition: The food thickeners market is highly competitive, with numerous players offering a wide range of products. The intense competition can result in price pressure, limited market share, and reduced profitability.
Consumer preferences and behavior: Consumer preferences and behavior are constantly evolving, and changing consumer demands can impact the food thickeners market. For example, consumers may shift towards natural or organic products, or reduce their consumption of processed foods altogether, which could reduce demand for food thickeners.
Emergence of new substitutes: New substitutes or alternative products can emerge that compete with food thickeners, and reduce demand for traditional thickening agents. For example, some manufacturers are using other ingredients such as prebiotics, resistant starches, and fibers to improve the texture of food products.
Economic instability: Economic instability and downturns can impact consumer spending and demand for processed foods, which could negatively impact the food thickeners market.
Technological advancements: Technological advancements in food processing and formulation can lead to the development of new and innovative products that may compete with food thickeners. For example, some food manufacturers are using ultrasonic technology to modify the texture of food products.

Overall, intense competition, changing consumer preferences and behavior, the emergence of new substitutes, economic instability, and technological advancements are some of the key threats facing the food thickeners market.

Post Disclaimer

Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Market Insight Lab journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.