Kings Research today announced the release of its latest study on the Global Beta Glucan Market, which examines the evolving landscape of dietary fibers and bioactive ingredients driving growth across the food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries.
According to the report, the global beta glucan market size was valued at USD 534.0 million in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 559.6 million in 2024 to USD 813.6 million by 2031, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.49% during the forecast period. The study analyzes trends across application, source, and form segments, offering a comprehensive view of the industry’s performance across major global regions.
Beta glucan, a natural polysaccharide found in sources such as oats, barley, yeast, and mushrooms, has gained significant attention for its clinically proven role in immune modulation, cholesterol reduction, and gut health improvement. As consumers increasingly shift toward preventive healthcare, beta glucan-enriched food and supplements have become essential components in daily diets.
Non-communicable diseases are responsible for 41 million deaths each year, accounting for approximately 74% of global deaths, creating strong incentives for functional food adoption (Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/). Furthermore, research indicates that daily beta glucan consumption can reduce LDL cholesterol by 5–10% (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/), underscoring its preventive potential against cardiovascular diseases.
Kings Research highlighted major factors driving the expansion of the beta glucan market:
- Growing Uses of Functional Food and Drink
Beta glucan is becoming increasingly popular in functional foods, especially in breakfast cereals, drinks, and baked goods. Food makers can utilize related health claims because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recognized beta glucan extracted from oats as a heart-healthy dietary fiber. Businesses like Tate & Lyle PLC and Kerry Group plc have developed novel formulations that increase fiber content without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Increasing Use of Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals
The immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory qualities of beta glucan are driving its widespread use in the pharmaceutical industry. According to research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), beta glucan generated from yeast may increase macrophage activity, strengthening the body's defenses against infections. Companies such as DSM-Firmenich AG and Kemin Industries, Inc. are using beta glucan in immune support supplements to diversify their nutraceutical portfolios.
- Transition to Natural and Sustainable Sources
Innovation in environmentally friendly beta glucan extraction is being stimulated by consumers' choice for clean-label and plant-based products. Advanced processing technologies from Ceapro Inc. and Super Beta Glucan boost sustainability and bioavailability by lowering solvent usage and increasing purity yields.
- Asia-Pacific’s Rapid Industrialization and Awareness Surge
The Asia-Pacific region is emerging as the fastest-growing market, supported by rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and government-led nutrition programs in countries like China, Japan, and India.
For food manufacturers, nutraceutical companies, and ingredient suppliers, the beta glucan market offers significant opportunities:
- Product Differentiation: Incorporating beta glucan enhances immune support, heart health, and gut wellness claims in functional foods and supplements.
- Revenue Growth: Rising demand for natural and preventive health ingredients creates new market segments.
- Sustainability & Innovation: Bio-based sources and eco-friendly extraction methods support clean-label initiatives and regulatory compliance.
- Regional Expansion: Growth in Asia-Pacific enables entry into high-demand emerging markets.
- Competitive Edge: Advanced formulations and partnerships with global ingredient suppliers strengthen product portfolios.
Regional Insights
North America dominated the global beta glucan market in 2023, driven by the strong presence of major functional food and nutraceutical producers in the U.S. and Canada. The region benefits from a well-established regulatory framework and a consumer base that prioritizes clean-label nutrition.
Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific is projected to record the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by increased consumer awareness, expanding retail access, and the regional expansion of global players. Countries like India and China are expected to see significant adoption in both food and pharmaceutical applications.
Competitive Landscape
The global beta glucan market is moderately consolidated, with both multinational corporations and regional producers competing through technological innovation and product differentiation. Key players include Cargill, Incorporated, Ceapro Inc., Super Beta Glucan, DSM-Firmenich AG, Tate & Lyle PLC, Kemin Industries, Inc., Lesaffre, Garuda International, Inc., Kerry Group plc, Zilor, GlycaNova AS, Merck KGaA, Leiber GmbH, Lallemand Inc., and VW-Ingredients.
Leading firms are investing heavily in biotechnology-driven extraction, clinical validation, and strategic partnerships to strengthen their global footprint. For instance, Cargill recently expanded its beta glucan ingredient portfolio targeting heart health, while DSM-Firmenich AG is developing synergistic formulations combining beta glucan with probiotics.
About Kings Research
Kings Research is a global provider of syndicated research reports and consulting services, helping organizations navigate emerging markets, assess opportunities, and make informed business decisions.
To request a sample, access the full report, or explore consulting services, please visit https://www.kingsresearch.com/beta-glucan-market-218.
All market data are sourced from Kings Research proprietary analysis, validated against credible government publications and peer-reviewed research papers. Examples cited include: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), World Health Organization (WHO), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. National Library of Medicine, and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).