Phytosterols Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028, Segmented By Type (Beta-Sitosterol, Campesterol, and Stigmasterol), By Application (Food, Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics & Feed and Others), By Region and Competition Forecast

Market Overview

Global Phytosterols Market has valued at USD 901.06 Million in 2022 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 7.55% through 2028. The worldwide demand for phytosterols is increasing steadily due to increasing use of cosmetics, medicines, and food products. Personal care product demand is increasing owing to rising disposable income, product innovation, and high market penetration. The pharmaceutical industry is expanding as disease prevalence is rising along with healthcare spending. Factors such as massive investments in biotechnology R&D are predicted to promote phytosterol consumption in the pharmaceutical business.

Phytosterols are commonly found in personal care products like anti-aging lotions. The older population's concern for appearance is driving the market for these items. Other key factors driving the growth of the personal care industry include the growing female population, the younger generation's preference for cosmetic products, the increased use of acne treatment products by the adolescent population and growing awareness about the benefits of personal care and cosmetic products. These factors are projected to accelerate worldwide use of phytosterols in the personal care and cosmetics industry.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Application in Cosmetic Products

Phytosterols have gained popularity in the cosmetic industry due to their potential benefits for skincare. The growing demand for phystosterols is being fueled by the flourishing cosmetic and skincare business. Because of their skin-replenishing and anti-inflammatory characteristics, phytosterols are used in the cosmetic industry in anti-aging creams and lotions. The market is seeing significant innovation and expansion in research and development (R&D) to improve therapeutic effects.

The product's plant-based profile and skin-replenishing benefits are projected to drive up demand in the upcoming years. In March 2019, KahlWax, for instance, released a new skincare cosmetics product, 6427 Megasoft Complex. This newest multifunctional product 6427 Megasoft Complex is a one-of-a-kind blend of phytosterol-rich oils, natural waxes, and emollients. As the beauty industry continues to prioritize natural and sustainable ingredients, the use of phytosterols is expected to grow. Skincare brands are actively exploring innovative ways to incorporate plant-based compounds into their products, and phytosterols present a promising opportunity. With ongoing research and advancements in extraction techniques, the availability and efficacy of phytosterols in cosmetics are likely to improve, it is reasonable to expect their continued use and exploration in cosmetic formulations in the future.

Phytosterols Infused Foods and Beverages

Due to the rising awareness about the possible health benefits, there is a continuous demand for phytosterol-rich foods and dietary supplements. Phytosterols are being added to milk, sausages, baked products, yoghurts, spreads, and margarine to improve their nutritious value. The use of herbal and mineral extracts as food additives is also increasing product demand. Phytosterols are an important component of dark chocolate formulations, which are a favorite delicacy among the public.

According to a Forbes article published in September 2022, the demand for Ready-To-Drink (RTD) drinks is increasing, which is boosting the need for phytosterols in liquid form. With the increase in demand, production, and consumption of functional food and beverage products in aqueous forms, such as juices, gels, and emulsions such as sauces, the demand for liquid phytosterols is bound to rise, creating opportunities for innovation and solutions in the less commercialized segment of the research domain.

The rising desire for improved health and lower sensitivity to disease among the ageing population is contributing to the rapid rise of the global healthcare market.  Phytosterols, which are well known for their ability to reduce cholesterol absorption in the body, have become an essential part of the pharmaceutical industry due to their high efficiency and efficacy. Technological advancements in the manufacturing sector and advances in research and development are being employed to meet the demand for phytosterol supplements. Consequently, phytosterols are now easier to extract and use in pharmaceuticals, especially nutritional supplements. Phytosterols found in these supplements can be used to effectively control human diseases and health problems. As the population ages, the market for phytosterol supplements is predicted to grow, providing significant opportunities for pharmaceutical companies to meet the growing demand and develop new products in this area.

Increasing Prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease

The rise in fatalities from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is one of the major factors propelling the phytosterol market's expansion. Heart attacks, strokes, and other circulatory diseases are among the main causes of premature death worldwide. Cardiovascular disease (CVD), notably atherothrombotic ischemic stroke and coronary heart disease, is linked to a high global mortality rate. As a result, it's essential to lower cardiovascular events by putting cost-effective measures in place. According to several studies, lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is essential for preventing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). In addition to lipid-lowering medications, phytosterols (PS) ingestion showed a reduction in cholesterol absorption.

Nearly 670,000 deaths (or 29% of all deaths) in Europe occur each year as a result of CVD, according to information from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

Similarly, according to data from the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities, 7 million individuals in England alone live with CVD, which is a factor in more than 25% of annual deaths.

Because phytosterols have been found to provide preventative advantages against CVD, their use in the pharmaceutical sector has increased as a result of the rising prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Manufacturers are required by regulatory agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union to label their goods with the quantity of phytosterols they contain and state that they are only meant for use by people with heart disease.

Additionally, there is a growing focus on preventative healthcare options as healthcare costs keep rising. Customers are now more likely to take responsibility for their own health, seek out health information, and choose phytosterol dietary supplements after doing their research.

Companies are offering products infused with plant sterols to take advantage of the cholesterol-lowering properties of phytosterols. For instance, yoghurt drinks, bars, spreads, and soft chews made by the UK business Raisio now contain plant sterols. Additionally, the market for phytosterol food items is being driven by customers' rising disposable income. According to a study on consumer purchasing patterns for foods containing added phytosterols in European nations, the United Kingdom has the highest penetration rate of homes using these products (12.1%). As a result, market expansion during the forecast period is anticipated to be driven by rising consumption of food products containing phytosterols.

Increasing Mergers and Acquisition Among Global Companies

In June 2022, Vitae Naturals, a manufacturer of plant sterol esters and non-GMO vitamin E derivatives with applications in the skincare, food, and nutrition end-use industries, was acquired by Kensing LLC, a manufacturer of plant sterols, natural vitamin E, and high-purity surfactants.

In February 2022, the AGtech startup Elicit Plant raised a USD 17.26 million series, specializing in crops' water resistance and creating cutting-edge phytosterol-based solutions. The money will be used to enhance the company's R&D and international expansion plans for its phytosterol-based water stress solution, which enables farmers to adapt to the effects of climate change.

A recent agreement between Kensing and Azelis for exclusive distribution covering Europe, the Middle East, and Africa came into effect in December 2021. According to this agreement, Azelis will be the sole distributor of vitamins and phytosterols derived from vegetable oil for Kensing in the designated areas. Azelis will also be in charge of managing the supply chain, developing the formulation, and providing technical services for these items.

In July 2019, Raisio Plc. reported investing USD55 million in the expansion of plant-based goods with additional value in addition to healthy foods. The firm has improved its market position due to its investment in the European Market.

In February 2019, Chicago-based Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), which is among the major players in the phytosterols market announced its acquisition of Ziegler Group. As a result of this acquisition, the company has increased the market penetration of its products and nutrition range.

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Key Market Challenges

Minor Health Risk

Phytosterols, also referred to as plant sterols or stanol esters, are naturally occurring compounds found in plants that possess a similar structure to human cholesterol. These products offer numerous benefits, although they may also have minor adverse effects such as constipation, nausea, upset stomach, heartburn, gas, and changes in feces coloration. It is worth noting that higher levels of sterols are associated with an increased risk of negative effects. Therefore, individuals with phytosterolemia, a rare hereditary disease, are advised against using these products. These challenges present notable considerations within the phytosterols market.

Limited Consumer Awareness

Despite their potential health benefits, many consumers may still have limited awareness and understanding of phytosterols. Educating consumers about the benefits of phytosterols and their applications in cholesterol management can be a challenge for companies operating in this market. The prices of phytosterols can be subject to fluctuations due to factors such as raw material availability, production costs, and supply chain dynamics. Price volatility may impact the profitability of phytosterol manufacturers and may influence product pricing and market competitiveness.

Key Market Trends

Rising Demand for Functional Foods

The growing consumer interest in health and wellness has driven the demand for functional foods and ingredients with potential health benefits. Phytosterols, known for their cholesterol-lowering properties, have found applications in a wide range of functional food products, including spreads, dairy products, and baked goods. With the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and heart health issues globally, there is a growing focus on cholesterol management and the use of natural ingredients like phytosterols to support heart health. Companies in the phytosterols market are focusing on product innovation and diversification to cater to specific consumer needs and preferences. For example, there is a trend toward developing phytosterol-enriched products that appeal to specific demographic groups, such as children or the elderly.

Expanding Applications in Dietary Supplements

Phytosterols are increasingly being used as key ingredients in dietary supplements targeting cholesterol management and overall cardiovascular health. Supplements containing phytosterols offer a convenient way for consumers to incorporate these compounds into their daily diets. Companies in the phytosterols market are focusing on product innovation and diversification to cater to specific consumer needs and preferences. For example, there is a trend toward developing phytosterol-enriched products that appeal to specific demographic groups, such as children or the elderly.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Beta-Sitosterol, derived from plant woods and vegetable oils, is extensively utilized in dairy products, beverages, and as a dietary supplement additive. Moreover, a considerable number of obese individuals consume daily doses of 1.5g to 5g of beta-sitosterol for body fat reduction. The growing consumer preference for health and nutrition has significantly bolstered the demand for beta-sitosterol. As a result, beta-sitosterol is anticipated to emerge as a prominent segment in the phytosterols market.

Campesterol serves as a food additive and is also marketed as a dietary supplement due to its cholesterol-lowering properties. The increasing demand for phytosterol-fortified nutritional supplements and food products is expected to drive the demand for this ingredient in the food segment throughout the forecast period.

Application Insights

Phytosterol products find prominent applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries. Within the pharmaceutical segment, they are utilized in tablets, creams, and medicinal products. The demand for phytosterols in pharmaceutical applications has been driven by factors such as elevated cholesterol levels among the geriatric population, as well as the prevalence of lifestyle diseases and other health conditions.

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Regional Insights

The phytosterol market is categorized by region as follows: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Central and South America, and Middle East Africa. Europe is expected to exhibit substantial growth in the phytosterol sector, propelling it to become one of the fastest-growing regions during the forecast period. The consumption of phytosterols in food has been thoroughly tested and approved by the European Union, Switzerland, and Norway. Europe has stringent regulations regarding food ingredients and packaging. As per the amending Regulation (EC) No 608/2004 of the European Union, it is mandatory to provide details about the food ingredients present in products containing added phytosterols on the labeling.

The growth in demand for phytosterols in Europe is primarily driven by the cosmetics, mature pharmaceutical, and food industries in the U.K. and Germany. Furthermore, the region's early adoption of bio-based alternatives has further accelerated the consumption of bio-based ingredients across various end-use industries.

Recent Developments

June 2022: Kensing LLC, a manufacturer of plant sterols, natural vitamin E, and high-purity surfactants, has announced the acquisition of Vitae Naturals. Vitae Naturals is a manufacturer of plant sterol esters and non-GMO vitamin E derivatives with applications in the skincare, food, and nutrition industries.

February 2022: Elicit Plant, an AGtech company specializing in crops' water resistance and the development of innovative phytosterol-based solutions, has successfully raised a series of funding amounting to USD 17.26 million. The funds will be utilized to drive international growth and further research and development programs for their phytosterol-based solution. This solution effectively addresses water stress and empowers farmers to tackle challenges brought about by climate change.

In February 2019, Archer Daniels Midland announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Ziegler Group, a prominent player in the phytosterols sector in Europe. This strategic move has allowed the company to expand its nutrition portfolio and enhance its product penetration in the market.

In July 2019, Raisio made a significant investment of USD 55 million in the growth of healthy foods and plant-based added-value products. This investment has further strengthened the company's market position in Europe.

Key Market Players

• Archer Daniels Midland
• BASF SE
• Cargill, Inc.
• Ashland Inc.
• Lipofoods SLU
• Pharmachem Laboratories Inc.
• Gustav Parmentier GmbH
• Raisio Plc.
• DuPont de Nemours, Inc
• Unilever PLC

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Phytosterols Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

            ·         Phytosterols Market, By Type:

o   Beta-Sitosterol

o   Campesterol

o   Stigmasterol

• Phytosterols Market, By Application:

o   Food

o   Pharmaceutical

o   Cosmetics & Feed

o   Others

• Phytosterols Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

§  Kuwait

§  Turkey

§  Egypt

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Phytosterols Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Phytosterols Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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