Global Beta-Glucan Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Beta-Glucan Market Size

• The global beta-glucan market size was valued at USD 656.63 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1158.07 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 7.35% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fueled by the increasing incorporation of beta-glucan in functional foods, beverages, dietary supplements, and pharmaceuticals, driven by its well-established health benefits such as cholesterol reduction, immune support, and heart health improvement
• Furthermore, rising consumer awareness regarding preventive healthcare and a shift toward natural, plant-based ingredients are positioning beta-glucan as a preferred ingredient in modern health and wellness products. These converging factors are accelerating the adoption of beta-glucan across various industries, thereby significantly boosting the market’s growth

Beta-Glucan Market Analysis

• Beta-glucan is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in oats, barley, yeast, fungi, and certain algae. It is widely used for its functional properties, including blood cholesterol management, immune system modulation, and gut health improvement, across food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical applications
• The escalating demand for beta-glucan is primarily fueled by increasing health consciousness among consumers, rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases, and growing interest in functional and natural ingredients that support overall wellness
• Europe dominated the beta-glucan market with a share of 37.1% in 2024, due to increasing health-consciousness, high consumer awareness about functional ingredients, and stringent regulatory frameworks supporting nutraceuticals and dietary supplements
• Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing region in the beta-glucan market during the forecast period due to increasing disposable incomes, urbanization, and growing awareness about functional ingredients in countries such as China, Japan, and India
• Soluble beta-glucan segment dominated the market with a market share of 61.9% in 2024, due to its well-established health benefits, including cholesterol reduction, improved heart health, and enhanced immune function. Its high solubility makes it ideal for incorporation into beverages, dietary supplements, and functional foods, increasing its adoption across the nutraceutical and food & beverage industries. The segment also benefits from growing consumer awareness of fiber-rich diets and the rising prevalence of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. Manufacturers are increasingly investing in product innovations and functional formulations using soluble beta-glucan, further reinforcing its market dominance

Report Scope and Beta-Glucan Market Segmentation

Beta-Glucan Market Trends

Rising Use of Beta-Glucan in Functional Foods and Supplements

• The beta-glucan market is witnessing rapid expansion driven by its growing application in functional foods, dietary supplements, and nutraceutical formulations. Consumers are increasingly seeking natural ingredients backed by scientific validation, and beta-glucan—recognized for its cholesterol-lowering, immune-enhancing, and prebiotic properties—is gaining strong market traction as a functional bioactive compound
  • For instance, Cargill Incorporated has launched beta-glucan derived from oats under its Barliv™ brand, targeting heart-health-focused functional beverages and snacks. Similarly, Kerry Group utilizes yeast-derived beta-glucan in its Wellmune® ingredient line, incorporated into nutrition bars and immune-supporting supplements across global health product portfolios
• The use of beta-glucan in functional food formulations such as cereals, yogurts, and fortified drinks is rising due to its fiber content and its ability to modulate immunity and blood glucose levels. These properties make it a preferred ingredient among producers aiming to address consumer interests in holistic wellness and metabolic health
• In addition, the increasing incorporation of beta-glucan in dietary supplements is driven by research linking regular intake with improved cardiovascular health and reduced inflammation. This has expanded the ingredient’s presence beyond food categories into capsules, gummies, and powdered supplements designed for daily consumption
• As plant-based and clean-label nutrition continues to dominate consumer preferences, beta-glucan sourced from oats, barley, and yeast offers a natural, sustainable alternative to synthetic functional agents. Its versatility and scientific credibility position it as a cornerstone ingredient in next-generation health and wellness products
• The rising integration of beta-glucan into functional, fortified, and immune-supporting product categories underscores a lasting trend toward science-based nutrition solutions. This shift is shaping a broader movement in the health food industry toward clinically proven and nature-derived functional ingredients

Beta-Glucan Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing Consumer Focus on Preventive Healthcare

• Increasing consumer awareness of disease prevention and long-term wellness is a key driver stimulating demand for beta-glucan. This naturally derived compound, known for its ability to support immune modulation and cardiovascular health, is being proactively adopted in everyday nutrition to prevent lifestyle-related health issues
  • For instance, companies such as Tate & Lyle and Ceapro Inc. are developing beta-glucan ingredients tailored for functional beverages and health supplements targeting immunity and cholesterol management. Their strategic focus on preventive wellness positions beta-glucan as a high-value ingredient within the expanding functional nutrition sector
• The global rise in chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders has encouraged consumers to incorporate ingredients that deliver measurable health benefits. Beta-glucan’s proven capacity to regulate blood sugar, lower LDL cholesterol, and enhance immune resistance supports this preventive approach to healthcare
• In addition, public health authorities and food manufacturers are promoting dietary fiber consumption as part of national health programs, directly fueling the use of beta-glucan in food products. Its inclusion enhances both nutritional value and product functionality, which supports consistent market growth
• With consumers shifting from curative to preventive health strategies, demand for bioactive ingredients providing multi-dimensional benefits is rising. Beta-glucan’s evidence-based efficacy and compatibility with natural wellness trends ensure its continuing relevance in preventive healthcare and functional food innovation globally

Restraint/Challenge

High Production Costs and Regulatory Hurdles

• The beta-glucan market faces constraints from high production costs and stringent regulatory requirements governing its use in food and nutraceutical products. Extraction and purification processes from yeast, oats, or barley require specialized equipment and enzymes, driving up manufacturing expenses and limiting scalability for smaller producers
  • For instance, manufacturers such as Koninklijke DSM N.V. and Lesaffre encounter substantial production costs associated with maintaining purity and bioactivity standards for food-grade and supplement-grade beta-glucan. These costs rise further due to quality consistency requirements and controlled production environments
• Complex and region-specific regulatory frameworks also create entry barriers. Approval timelines for functional claims such as cholesterol reduction or immune enhancement vary significantly between jurisdictions such as the U.S. FDA, EFSA, and regulatory bodies in Asia-Pacific, leading to delays and increased compliance expenditure
• In addition, variations in extraction methods can result in inconsistencies in solubility and functional performance, complicating product development. Manufacturers must invest heavily in R&D to ensure optimized formulations that maintain health efficacy and consumer acceptance
• Although technological innovation and market standardization are expected to reduce some constraints, production and regulatory hurdles continue to limit widespread beta-glucan adoption. Harmonized regulations, cost-efficient extraction methods, and greater clinical validation will be pivotal to unlocking the ingredient’s full commercial potential in the global functional foods and supplements sector

Beta-Glucan Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of category, type, source, and application.

• By Category

On the basis of category, the beta-glucan market is segmented into soluble beta-glucan and insoluble beta-glucan. The soluble beta-glucan segment dominated the largest market revenue share of 61.9% in 2024, driven by its well-established health benefits, including cholesterol reduction, improved heart health, and enhanced immune function. Its high solubility makes it ideal for incorporation into beverages, dietary supplements, and functional foods, increasing its adoption across the nutraceutical and food & beverage industries. The segment also benefits from growing consumer awareness of fiber-rich diets and the rising prevalence of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. Manufacturers are increasingly investing in product innovations and functional formulations using soluble beta-glucan, further reinforcing its market dominance.

The insoluble beta-glucan segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, fueled by increasing demand in weight management, gut health, and animal nutrition. Insoluble beta-glucans provide dietary fiber that promotes digestive health and satiety, leading to rising application in cereals, bakery products, and animal feed formulations. Growing research on the immune-modulating properties of insoluble beta-glucan also contributes to its adoption in nutraceuticals and functional foods.

• By Type

On the basis of type, the beta-glucan market is segmented into 1,3 beta-glucan, 1,4 beta-glucan, and 1,6 beta-glucan. The 1,3 beta-glucan segment dominated the largest market revenue share in 2024, driven by its strong immune-boosting properties and ability to support cardiovascular and metabolic health. It is widely used in dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods, making it a preferred choice among health-conscious consumers. The extensive scientific evidence supporting its efficacy in enhancing immunity and reducing cholesterol levels further strengthens its position.

The 1,6 beta-glucan segment is projected to witness the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2032, fueled by growing research highlighting its role in anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating activities. Its unique structural properties make it suitable for advanced nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications, increasing demand across health-focused industries. Rising interest in novel and specialty beta-glucans also drives the adoption of the 1,6 type.

• By Source

On the basis of source, the beta-glucan market is segmented into cereals, grains, seaweed, yeast, and mushroom. The cereal-based segment dominated the largest market revenue share in 2024, driven by widespread availability, cost-effectiveness, and high beta-glucan content, particularly from oats and barley. Cereal-derived beta-glucan is extensively used in functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements due to its proven cardiovascular and metabolic health benefits. Increasing consumer preference for natural and plant-based ingredients further supports its dominance.

The mushroom-based segment is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, fueled by rising demand for immune-enhancing, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties in health supplements. Mushroom-sourced beta-glucans are increasingly incorporated into nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products, driven by growing awareness of their holistic health benefits.

• By Application

On the basis of application, the beta-glucan market is segmented into food and beverages, personal care, pharmaceuticals, animal feed, and others. The food and beverages segment dominated the largest market revenue share in 2024, driven by the rising trend of functional and fortified foods and beverages. Beta-glucan is widely used in bakery products, cereals, dairy alternatives, and beverages for its cholesterol-lowering, gut-health, and immune-boosting benefits. Consumer inclination toward healthy, fiber-rich diets and increasing product innovations by food manufacturers further strengthen this segment’s market position.

The pharmaceuticals segment is projected to witness the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2032, fueled by the increasing incorporation of beta-glucan in dietary supplements, immune boosters, and cholesterol-lowering formulations. Its recognized therapeutic benefits, particularly in enhancing immunity and managing metabolic health, drive demand in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Growing clinical research and regulatory approvals for health claims related to beta-glucan further propel its adoption in this sector.

Beta-Glucan Market Regional Analysis

• Europe dominated the beta-glucan market with the largest revenue share of 37.1% in 2024, driven by increasing health-consciousness, high consumer awareness about functional ingredients, and stringent regulatory frameworks supporting nutraceuticals and dietary supplements
• Consumers in the region show strong preference for natural, fiber-rich ingredients such as beta-glucan, particularly for cardiovascular health, immunity, and gut health
• The widespread adoption is further supported by high disposable incomes, growing demand for fortified and functional foods, and expanding applications in pharmaceuticals and personal care, establishing beta-glucan as a key ingredient across multiple industries

Germany Beta-Glucan Market Insight

The Germany beta-glucan market captured the largest revenue share in 2024, fueled by rising consumer focus on health and wellness, along with increasing product innovations in functional foods and nutraceuticals. The country’s advanced food and pharmaceutical industries, combined with strong regulatory support for health claims, drive the adoption of beta-glucan in dietary supplements, bakery products, and beverages. Germany’s emphasis on sustainable, natural ingredients further enhances the demand for cereal- and mushroom-based beta-glucan formulations.

U.K. Beta-Glucan Market Insight

The U.K. beta-glucan market is expected to grow at a notable CAGR during the forecast period, supported by the growing trend of functional foods and the rising awareness of immune-boosting and heart-healthy ingredients. Increased consumer spending on dietary supplements and fortified foods, alongside the adoption of preventive healthcare measures, is driving market growth. The U.K.’s well-established retail and e-commerce channels also facilitate easy accessibility to beta-glucan-based products.

North America Beta-Glucan Market Insight

The North America beta-glucan market is projected to expand steadily, driven by rising health consciousness and increasing demand for dietary fibers and nutraceutical products. The U.S. leads the region with significant adoption of beta-glucan in functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements. Strong R&D activities, coupled with growing awareness of the health benefits of beta-glucan, including cholesterol reduction and immune support, support market expansion.

Asia-Pacific Beta-Glucan Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific beta-glucan market is poised to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, fueled by increasing disposable incomes, urbanization, and growing awareness about functional ingredients in countries such as China, Japan, and India. Rising demand for nutraceuticals, fortified foods, and immune-supporting products, along with government initiatives promoting health and wellness, is driving adoption. The region also benefits from expanding production capabilities and cost-effective sourcing of beta-glucan from cereals, yeast, and mushrooms.

China Beta-Glucan Market Insight

The China beta-glucan market accounted for the largest revenue share in Asia-Pacific in 2024, attributed to growing consumer awareness of functional ingredients and preventive healthcare. The expanding middle-class population and increasing consumption of fortified foods and dietary supplements are key drivers. Moreover, domestic production of beta-glucan from cereals and mushrooms, coupled with rising e-commerce penetration, enhances product accessibility across the country.

Japan Beta-Glucan Market Insight

The Japan beta-glucan market is gaining momentum due to the country’s high health-conscious population, aging demographic, and increasing focus on preventive healthcare. Beta-glucan is widely used in dietary supplements, functional foods, and beverages. Integration of health-focused ingredients into daily nutrition, supported by strong regulatory standards and consumer preference for natural compounds, is driving steady market growth in both residential and commercial applications.

Beta-Glucan Market Share

The beta-glucan industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Cargill, Incorporated (U.S.)
• Ceapro Inc. (Canada)
• Super Beta Glucan (U.S.)
• DSM (Netherlands)
• Tate & Lyle (U.K.)
• Kemin Industries, Inc. (U.S.)
• Lesaffre (France)
• Garuda International, Inc. (U.S.)
• Merck KGaA (Germany)
• Kerry (Ireland)
• Ohly (Germany)
• AIT Ingredients (U.S.)
• AngelYeast Co., Ltd. (China)
• Algatech LTD. (Israel)
• Specialty Biotech Co., Ltd. (China)
• Glycanova (Germany)
• Van Wankum Ingredients (Germany)
• Leiber GmbH (Germany)
• Nutra Green Biotechnology Co., Ltd. (China)
• Lallemand Inc. (Canada)

Latest Developments in Global Beta-Glucan Market

• In June 2023, Kemin Industries received approval from the Thai Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) for its immune support ingredient, BetaVia Complete, as a Novel Food in Thailand. This product, derived from Kemin’s proprietary strain of algae, Euglena gracilis, is rich in beta-1,3-glucan, protein, and essential fatty acids. The approval allows its use in food supplements at a dosage of 375 milligrams per day, significantly strengthening Kemin’s market presence in the Asia-Pacific region. This milestone enhances the company’s ability to tap into the growing demand for immune-boosting nutraceuticals in Thailand and neighboring markets, positioning it as a key player in functional food ingredients
• In January 2022, DSM launched an integrated Food & Beverage operating structure by consolidating its Food Specialties, Hydrocolloids, and a portion of its Nutritional Products Group. This strategic reorganization is designed to guide consumers in making healthier choices while balancing taste and texture, reflecting rising market trends toward functional and wellness-oriented foods. By focusing on health, nutrition, and bioscience, DSM aims to expand its footprint in the global beta-glucan market and accelerate growth in the nutraceutical and functional food segments, reinforcing its position as an innovation-driven leader
• In December 2022, Kemin Industries expanded its production facility in Cavriago, emphasizing the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in animal nutrition and health. This expansion addresses the growing global demand for premium-quality beta-glucan products, enabling faster product supply and increased market penetration. The enhanced production capacity also positions Kemin to capitalize on emerging opportunities in both human and animal health sectors, strengthening its competitive edge in the rapidly expanding beta-glucan industry
• In December 2021, Angel Yeast initiated a major yeast product expansion project, targeting an annual output of 20,000 tons, executed by China National Chemical Engineering NO.16 Construction Co., Ltd., with completion expected by May 2024. This expansion is set to significantly increase the company’s production capacity, allowing Angel Yeast to meet the rising domestic and international demand for yeast and beta-glucan derivatives. The project reinforces Angel Yeast’s market position as a leading supplier and supports growth in both food and pharmaceutical applications
• In June 2020, Lesaffre acquired a majority stake in Chinese firm Biohymn Biotechnology, a specialized producer of yeast and yeast extracts. This strategic move was aimed at expanding Lesaffre’s presence in the Chinese market and enhancing its access to high-quality beta-glucan and yeast-based products. By strengthening its production and distribution capabilities in China, Lesaffre bolstered its market reach, enabling closer engagement with local clients and tapping into the rapidly growing demand for functional ingredients in Asia

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