Gelatin Market Size

Global Gelatin Market size was recorded at USD 3,023.8 million in 2023, which is estimated to be at USD 3,185.1 million in 2024 and projected to reach USD 4,820.5 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.10% from 2024 to 2031. In the scope of work, the report includes solutions offered by companies such as Darling Ingredients, India Gelatine & Chemicals Ltd., Lapi Gelatine S.p.a, Nitta Gelatin India Limited, Roxlor, Tessenderlo Group, Trobas Gelatine B.V, Weishardt Holding SA, EWALD-GELATINE GmbH, GELITA AG, and others.

The growth of the market is primarily driven by its increasing use in different industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The demand in the food sector is spurred by gelatin's major role in gelling agents, stabilizers, and thickeners, particularly in confectionery products. In pharmaceuticals, gelatin is used for making capsules and as a binder in tablets.

Additionally, the surging popularity of clean-label and protein-rich products augments market expansion. Environmental regulations and shifting consumer preferences are increasingly favoring sustainable and animal-free gelatin sources, thus stimulating product innovation.

The global gelatin market is experiencing steady growth, driven by its versatile applications across various industries. The food and beverage industry remains the largest consumer, utilizing gelatin in confectionery, dairy products, and meat processing.

The pharmaceutical industry is contributing significantly to market growth since gelatin is utilized in the production of capsules and tablets. Additionally, gelatin is used in the cosmetics industry, particularly in formulating skincare products.

Gelatin is a biopolymer derived from collagen, obtained primarily through the partial hydrolysis of animal tissues, predominantly pig skin, cattle bones, and fish scales. It is soluble in hot water and forms a gel when cooled, a property that finds use in various industrial applications.

Its functional properties such as binding, gelling, and stabilizing are utilized in industries ranging from food production to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The market encompasses the production, distribution, and sales of gelatin and its derivatives across global industrial landscapes.

Analyst’s Review

Gelatin manufacturers are increasingly transitioning toward sustainable practices, accompanied by investments in eco-friendly production methods and sourcing. Additionally, there is a notable increase in research focusing on exploring plant-based gelatin alternatives to address dietary preferences and ethical concerns.

Innovative gelatin-based products, particularly in the cosmetics and dietary supplement sectors, are gaining significant traction, thereby facilitating market expansion.

Gelatin Market Growth Factors

The increasing adoption of healthy lifestyle choices is driving the demand for gelatin worldwide. With consumers becoming more health-conscious, there is a noticeable shift towards protein-rich and low-fat diets. Gelatin, due to its high protein content devoid of fats or cholesterol, aligns seamlessly with this prevailing trend.

It is further being recognized for its benefits in joint health, bone strength, and skin elasticity. This alignment with health trends bolsters its inclusion in dietary supplements and functional foods, thereby enhancing its market penetration and facilitating growth.

The ethical concerns and dietary restrictions related to its animal-based origins are presenting a significant challenge to industry development, limiting its acceptance among vegetarians, vegans, and certain religious groups.

To overcome this challenge, manufacturers are developing and promoting plant-based alternatives that mimic gelatin's functional properties. These alternatives, derived from sources such as agar, pectin, and carrageenan, are gaining immense popularity since they cater to a broader audience while maintaining similar textural properties to traditional gelatin. This innovation addresses both ethical and dietary concerns while also tapping into new consumer segments, thereby expanding market reach.

Gelatin Market Trends

The gelatin industry is witnessing a notable shift toward sustainability in production processes. Manufacturers are increasingly investing in technologies that facilitate environmentally friendly extraction and processing of gelatin. This includes methods to reduce water and energy consumption, along with initiatives to source raw materials from responsibly managed farms.

The emphasis on sustainability is improving the environmental footprint of gelatin production and resonates well with consumers who prioritize eco-friendly products. As a result, companies that adopt green practices are witnessing enhanced brand loyalty and gaining a competitive advantage in the market.

Technological advancements in extraction techniques are reshaping the gelatin market landscape. Modern methods such as enzymatic hydrolysis are being adopted to increase the yield and purity of gelatin while reducing the production time and costs.

These innovations hold significant commercial importance as they allow for the processing of lower-grade raw materials and byproducts that were previously considered unsuitable for gelatin production. This enables the optimization of resource use and empowers manufacturers to efficiently meet the growing demand. The continuous evolution of these technologies is anticipated to support growth and diversification in the gelatin market.

Segmentation Analysis

The global gelatin market is segmented based on source, application, and geography.

By Source

Based on source, the market is segmented into porcine, bovine, marine, and others. The porcine segment led the market in 2023, reaching a valuation of USD 1,413.9 million. This notable growth is mainly attributable to the widespread availability and cost-effectiveness of pork by-products that are extensively utilized in gelatin production.

The processing technology utilized for porcine gelatin is well-established, making it more accessible for manufacturers to efficiently produce high-quality gelatin. Additionally, porcine gelatin typically exhibits excellent gel strength and viscosity, making it highly sought after in both the food and pharmaceutical industries.

By Application

Based on application, the market is classified into dietary supplements, food and beverage, pharmaceutical products, cosmetic & personal care, and others. The dietary supplements segment is poised to witness significant growth at a CAGR of 8.21% through the forecast period. This considerable growth is primarily driven by the global surge in health consciousness and focus on preventive healthcare.

As consumers are increasingly seeking products that support wellness, immune function, and overall health, gelatin-containing supplements are gaining popularity due to their high protein content and associated health benefits, such as joint and bone health support.

Furthermore, the aging global population contributes to this trend, as older adults are turning to supplements to maintain their health and vitality. These factors are likely to collectively contribute to the segment's robust projected compound annual growth rate through the forecast period.

Gelatin Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global gelatin market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

Gelatin Market Size & Share, By Region, 2024-2031

Europe emerged as the leading region in the gelatin market in 2023, attaining a valuation of USD 991.4 million. This notable regional market growth is fueled by its advanced food processing technologies and stringent quality control standards, which enhance the quality and safety of European gelatin.

Moreover, Europe boasts a strong presence of leading gelatin manufacturers actively engaged in continuous research and development activities to innovate and improve gelatin products. Additionally, the region's stringent regulatory frameworks ensure that gelatin production meets stringent environmental and health standards, thereby solidifying Europe's leading position in the global marketplace.

Asia-Pacific is estimated to register considerable growth with a share of 46.76% by 2031. This notable expansion is mainly propelled by the expanding economies within the region.

This is resulting in the region experiencing increased demand across various sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, and cosmetics, all of which rely extensively on gelatin. Additionally, demographic shifts, such as a growing middle-class population and an increasing focus on health and wellness, are bolstering demand for dietary supplements and functional foods containing gelatin.

Competitive Landscape

The global gelatin market study will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions.

Manufacturers are adopting a range of strategic initiatives, including investments in R&D activities, the establishment of new manufacturing facilities, and supply chain optimization, to strengthen their market standing.

List of Key Companies in Gelatin Market

Darling Ingredients
India Gelatine & Chemicals Ltd.
Lapi Gelatine S.p.a
Nitta Gelatin India Limited
Roxlor
Tessenderlo Group
Trobas Gelatine B.V
Weishardt Holding SA
EWALD-GELATINE GmbH
GELITA AG

Key Industry Developments

December 2023 (Partnership): Darling Ingredients Inc. secured U.S. Patent No. 11795489B2 for StabiCaps through Rousselot, its health brand. This specialized gelatin enhances soft gel capsule formulation and stability, thereby improving the release of active ingredients, including medications. StabiCaps addresses crosslinking issues commonly seen in soft gel capsules, ensuring efficient nutrient and pharmaceutical ingredient release. In addition to U.S. patent approval, the company obtained approval from the European Patent Office (EPO) patent for StabiCaps in May 2022.
April 2023 (Launch): GELITA, prominent collagen peptides and tailored gelatin manufacturer, introduced CONFIXX, a rapid-setting gelatin aimed at revolutionizing fortified gummy production. This innovative gelatin, devoid of starch, offers a sensorial experience similar to starch-based gummies but with enhanced efficiency and cost savings. The shift toward CONFIXX enables manufacturers to streamline production, reduce energy consumption, and ensure GMP compliance, thus facilitating enhanced product innovation and quality control in the fortified gummy segment.

The Global Gelatin Market is Segmented as:

By Source

Porcine
Bovine
Marine
Others

By Application

Dietary Supplements
Food and Beverage
Pharmaceutical Products
Cosmetic & Personal Care
Others

By Region

North America
- U.S.
- Canada
- Mexico
Europe
- France
- U.K.
- Spain
- Germany
- Italy
- Russia
- Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- North Africa
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
Latin America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America