Food Emulsifiers Market

Market Definition

A food emulsifier is a substance that helps stabilize and maintain the uniform dispersion of immiscible ingredients, such as oil and water, in food products. It reduces surface tension between different phases, preventing separation and improving texture, consistency, and shelf life.

Commonly used in bakery products, dairy, sauces, and processed foods, emulsifiers include natural options like lecithin, mono- and diglycerides. These additives enhance food quality by improving mouthfeel, preventing crystallization, and ensuring a smooth, homogeneous mixture.

Food Emulsifiers Market Overview

The global food emulsifiers market size was valued at USD 4,096.2 million in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 4,305.9 million in 2024 to USD 6,425.5 million by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.88% during the forecast period.

Rising demand for clean-label and natural ingredients is driving the market, as consumers seek healthier alternatives free from artificial additives. Additionally, the expanding processed food industry, particularly in emerging economies, is fueling the demand for emulsifiers to enhance texture and stability. Growing adoption of plant-based emulsifiers further supports market expansion, aligning with the shift toward sustainable and vegan food products.

Major companies operating in the food emulsifiers industry are ADM, Cargill, Incorporated, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc., Ingredion, Kerry Group plc., Corbion, Dow, DuPont, BASF, dsm-firmenich., Palsgaard, ABITEC, Lonza, RIKEN VITAMIN CO., LTD., and Stepan Company.

The shift in consumer preferences toward packaged and ready-to-eat products is accelerating the growth of the market. Busy lifestyles and urbanization are increasing reliance on convenience foods that require longer shelf life and improved texture.

• BDO’s 2023 report states that around 40% of Indian consumers reported more than 10% increase in their spending on packaged food over the past year. A study by BDO also indicates that India's packaged convenience food industry is set for substantial double-digit growth in the coming years.

Emulsifiers enhance product stability, prevent ingredient separation, and ensure a consistent mouthfeel, making them essential in processed food formulations. Manufacturers are integrating emulsifiers into bakery, dairy, and confectionery products to meet evolving consumer expectations.

Key Highlights:

1. The food emulsifiers industry size was valued at USD 4,096.2 million in 2023.
2. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.88% from 2024 to 2031.
3. North America held a market share of 39.12% in 2023, with a valuation of USD 1,602.4 million.
4. The mono- and diglycerides segment garnered USD 1,643.4 million in revenue in 2023.
5. The powder segment is expected to reach USD 4,099.1 million by 2031.
6. The bakery & confectionery segment secured the largest revenue share of 36.78% in 2023.
7. The plat-based segment is poised for a robust CAGR of 6.21% through the forecast period.
8. The market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.87% during the forecast period.

Market Driver

"Growing Health Consciousness and Demand for Clean-label Products"

The food emulsifiers market is registering growth, due to rising consumer awareness of health and wellness. Clean-label and natural ingredients are becoming priorities, prompting manufacturers to develop plant-based and organic emulsifiers.

Lecithin, enzymes, and other natural alternatives are gaining traction in response to the demand for healthier formulations. Consumers are actively avoiding synthetic additives, driving food companies to reformulate products with natural stabilizers.

• In June 2024, India-based Kriti Nutrients invested in advanced soybean lecithin extraction processes that adhere to international standards. The company manufactures soy-based protein and soybean lecithin at its Dewas facility.

Regulatory bodies are encouraging clean-label innovation, reinforcing market expansion. Companies investing in sustainable and non-GMO emulsifiers are gaining a competitive edge, strengthening the adoption of emulsifiers in the health-conscious segment of the food industry.

Market Challenge

"Regulatory Compliance and Labeling Standards"

Stringent regulatory requirements and evolving labeling standards present a significant challenge for the growth of the food emulsifiers market. Compliance with international food safety regulations, including non-GMO and clean-label certifications, increases production costs and complexity for manufacturers.

Companies are investing in advanced quality control systems and traceability solutions to ensure compliance with global standards. Strategic collaborations with regulatory agencies and industry associations are helping streamline approval processes.

Additionally, firms are developing reformulated emulsifiers that align with clean-label trends, such as non-GMO and plant-based alternatives, to meet consumer demand while adhering to regulatory requirements.

Market Trend

"Growing Adoption of Low-fat and Reduced-calorie Formulations"

The shift toward healthier food options is accelerating the adoption of emulsifiers in low-fat and reduced-calorie formulations. Consumers seeking balanced diets prefer food products with improved nutritional profiles without compromising taste and texture.

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that total fat intake should not exceed 30% of total energy consumption to prevent unhealthy weight gain. Saturated fats should contribute less than 10% of total energy intake, while trans-fat intake should remain below 1%. Emphasis is placed on reducing the consumption of saturated and trans-fats in favor of unsaturated fats, with the ultimate goal of eliminating industrially-produced trans-fats.

Emulsifiers play a crucial role in replicating the creaminess and mouthfeel of full-fat products in healthier alternatives. Food manufacturers are leveraging emulsifiers to maintain product integrity while reducing fat content in dairy, spreads, and processed foods. The expansion of the functional food industry and increased regulatory focus on calorie reduction initiatives are driving the demand for innovative emulsifiers.

Food Emulsifiers Market Report Snapshot

Segmentation	Details
By Product Type	Mono- and Diglycerides, Lecithin, Sorbitan Esters, Stearoyl Lactylates, Polyglycerol Esters, Others
By Form	Liquid, Powder
By Source	Plant-based, Animal-based
By Application	Bakery & Confectionery, Dairy & Frozen Products, Beverages, Meat & Poultry, Processed Foods, Others
By Region	North America: U.S., Canada, Mexico
	Europe: France, UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe
	Asia Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, Rest of Asia Pacific
	Middle East & Africa: Turkey, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa
	South America: Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America

 Market Segmentation:

• By Product Type (Mono- and Diglycerides, Lecithin, Sorbitan Esters, Stearoyl Lactylates, and Polyglycerol Esters): The mono- and diglycerides segment earned USD 1,643.4 million in 2023, due to its widespread use in processed foods, superior emulsifying properties, and cost-effectiveness.
• By Form (Liquid, Powder): The powder segment held 65.91% share of the market in 2023, due to its enhanced stability, extended shelf life, and ease of handling, making it the preferred choice for large-scale food processing and manufacturing applications.
• By Source (Plant-based, Animal-based): The plant-based segment is projected to reach USD 4,348.6 million by 2031, owing to the increasing consumer preference for clean-label, allergen-free, and sustainable ingredients.
• By Application (Bakery & Confectionery, Dairy & Frozen Products, Beverages, Meat & Poultry, Processed Foods, Others): The bakery & confectionery segment is poised for significant growth at a CAGR of 4.96% through the forecast period, due to the rising demand for emulsifiers that enhance texture, extend shelf life, and improve the stability of baked goods and confectionery products.

Food Emulsifiers Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

North America accounted for around 39.12% share of the food emulsifiers market in 2023, with a valuation of USD 1,602.4 million. The market in North America is registering strong growth, due to the increasing consumption of processed and convenience foods. Rising urbanization and busy lifestyles are fueling the demand for packaged meals, frozen foods, and ready-to-eat snacks.

• According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the total export value of U.S. processed food products in 2024 reached $38.84 billion, with a total export volume of 11.15 million metric tons. The three-year average export value stands at USD 37.86 billion, while the compound average growth rate (CAGR) for the period from 2015 to 2024 is valued at 2.9%.

Emulsifiers are essential in these products to enhance texture, improve shelf stability, and prevent ingredient separation. The fast food industry, a dominant force in North America, is a significant consumer of emulsifiers, particularly in sauces, dressings, and bakery products. The continuous expansion of food processing capabilities across the region is reinforcing the demand for high-performance emulsifiers.

Additionally, regulatory bodies in the region, including the FDA, are enforcing stricter labeling requirements, encouraging companies to reformulate products with transparent ingredient lists.

• In December 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that January 1, 2028, will serve as the uniform compliance date for final food labeling regulations issued between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2026. However, all food products covered by this compliance date must adhere to the relevant labeling regulations when first introduced into interstate commerce on or after January 1, 2028.

The food emulsifiers industry in Asia Pacific is poised for significant growth at a robust CAGR of 6.87% over the forecast period. The shift toward healthier food choices is fueling the market in Asia Pacific. Consumers are actively seeking low-fat, high-protein, and functional foods that provide nutritional benefits without compromising taste and texture.

Emulsifiers are essential in low-fat dairy products, nutritional beverages, and plant-based alternatives, ensuring stability and consistency. The increasing awareness of diet-related health issues is prompting food manufacturers to incorporate emulsifiers that enhance the sensory appeal of healthier formulations.

The rising influence of wellness trends, including weight management and sports nutrition, is further driving the demand for emulsifiers across the region. Furthermore, food manufacturers are investing in emulsifier formulations tailored for plant-based applications, supporting product diversification. The expanding vegan and flexitarian consumer base is accelerating the adoption of emulsifiers in the region.

Regulatory Framework Also Plays a Significant Role in Shaping the Market

• In the U.S., the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food additives, including emulsifiers, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Emulsifiers must be approved by the FDA and are listed in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21, Part 172. Manufacturers are required to provide evidence of safety for their intended use.
• In Europe, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) oversees food additive regulations within the EU. Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 establishes a Union list of approved food additives, including emulsifiers, along with their conditions of use. Each additive undergoes a rigorous safety assessment before approval.
• In China, the National Health Commission (NHC) regulates food additives. Emulsifiers must be approved and are listed in the GB 2760-2014 National Food Safety Standard for Food Additive Use. Manufacturers must adhere to specified usage levels and comply with labeling requirements.
• In Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) oversees food additive regulations. Emulsifiers are subject to approval and are listed in the Japanese Standards of Food Additives. Safety assessments are conducted prior to approval, and usage must comply with specified standards.

Competitive Landscape:

The food emulsifiers industry is characterized by a large number of participants, including both established corporations and rising organizations. Leading companies in the market are implementing strategic initiatives to enhance market presence and drive growth.

Investments in Research and Development (R&D) are leading to the formulation of innovative emulsifiers that align with clean-label and non-GMO trends, catering to evolving consumer preferences. Expanding production capacities and establishing partnerships with food manufacturers are strengthening supply chain efficiency.

Companies are also focusing on sustainable sourcing of raw materials and eco-friendly production processes to align with global sustainability goals. Additionally, mergers, acquisitions, and regional expansions are helping market players strengthen their foothold and capitalize on emerging opportunities across key markets.

List of Key Companies in Food Emulsifiers Market:

• Merck KGaA
• Cibus Inc.
• Recombinetics
• Sangamo Therapeutics
• Editas Medicine
• Precision BioSciences
• Therapeutics
• Intellia Therapeutics, Inc.
• Caribou Biosciences, Inc.
• Cellectis S.A., and

Recent Developments (M&A/Product Launch)

• In December 2023, ADM expanded its global flavors portfolio through an agreement to acquire UK-based FDL (Flavor Dynamics Limited). This strategic move aligns with ADM’s commitment to expanding its portfolio of specialty ingredients, including emulsifiers that enhance texture, stability, and functionality in various food applications. By integrating FDL’s expertise, ADM aims to meet growing consumer demand for innovative, clean-label solutions while broadening its global reach.
• In November 2024, IFF introduced a range of innovative food & beverage solutions at Gulfood Manufacturing, Dubai World Trade Center. These concepts featured IFF’s proprietary blend of specialty stabilizers, emulsifiers, patented flavor technology, and advanced top notes, enabling significant cost savings across product formulations.