Food Sweetener Market

Food Sweetener Market Outlook 2024-2032

The global food sweetener market size reached US$ 91.4 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, the market is expected to reach US$ 109.9 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 2.01% during 2024-2032. Growing consumer demand for low-calorie and natural alternatives, the rising prevalence of obesity and diabetes, growing food and beverage (F&B) industry, increasing inclination toward clean-label products, government regulations on sugar intake, advancements in food processing, and rising disposable incomes are some of the factors boosting the market growth.

Food Sweetener Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: Growing health consciousness among the consumers is promoting the consumption of low-calorie and natural sweeteners, which is driving the market growth. This is further bolstered by the surging implications of diabetes and obesity, which is pushing the demand for sugar alternatives. Additionally, the burgeoning investments in research and development (R&D) and rapid innovations in the formulations of sweeteners are other food sweetener market growth drivers. Moreover, the increasing disposable incomes, specifically in developing countries, and shifting consumer inclination towards new product variants are stimulating the market growth.
• Key Market Trends: The escalating popularity of plant-based natural sweeteners, like stevia and monk fruit, due to their various health benefits is one of the primary market trends. In line with this, key manufacturers are shifting towards the development of naturally sourced sweeteners due to the surging consumer demand for clean label products, which is creating a positive outlook for the market growth. Moreover, the development of multifunctional sweeteners with functionality related to texture and shelf-life and the growing use of sweeteners in sugar-free products, particularly beverages, are supporting the market growth.
• Geographical Trends: The Asia Pacific market is growing due to increasing consumer preference for healthier, natural food options, especially in China and India. Rising awareness of sugar-related health risks, urbanization, higher disposable incomes, and government regulations promoting low-calorie sweeteners are driving demand. Additionally, Western dietary habits and plant-based diets are contributing to market expansion. Moreover, in North America, the surging prevalence of lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes and obesity, is driving the regional market growth. Additionally, the presence of a well-established food and beverage (F&B) industry is driving the food sweetener market in the USA.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the major market players in the food sweetener industry include Ajinomoto Co. Inc., Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, Cargill Incorporated, Celanese Corporation, DuPont de Nemours Inc., Foodchem International Corporation, GLG Life Tech Corporation, Ingredion Incorporated, NutraSweet Company (Manus Bio), S&W Seed Company, Tate & Lyle PLC, Tereos, among many others.
• Challenges and Opportunities: The primary challenge for the market is the high cost of natural sweeteners when compared to traditional sugars. Moreover, certain artificial sweeteners may come with adverse effects, which further inhibits their use and hinders the market growth. However, these challenges also offer umpteen growth opportunities. For instance, the growing consumer preference for clean-label, natural products offer lucrative opportunities for the key players to introduce novel high-intensity sweeteners, which is further providing a boost to the market growth.
   

Food Sweetener Market Trends:

Increasing Consumer Preference for Low-Calorie and Natural Sweeteners

The shift in eating habits has increased the demand for low-calorie and natural sweeteners, which is one of the key factors supporting the market growth. With the rising health consciousness, consumers are seeking new product variants that help to manage weight and prevent chronic diseases, like obesity or diabetes, which is further stimulating the market growth. As a result, natural sweeteners such as stevia, monk fruit and erythritol are witnessing a considerable surge in demand among the consumers. The market is also propelled by the burgeoning awareness about the side effects of excessive sugar consumption, which has further prompted a shift in preference toward natural sweeteners.

Rise in Obesity and Diabetes Cases

Rising number of patients suffering from lifestyle diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, is one of the key growth factors for the market. According to the industry reports, in 2021, a total of 38.4 million people had diabetes in the US, which is about 11.6% of the population. This is further bolstered by the growing trend of sugar reduction, which has increased the demand for sugar substitutes. Artificial and natural sweeteners, such as aspartame, sucralose, and Stevia, are witnessing huge popularity among the consumers, which is further accelerating the market growth. Apart from this, the availability of sugar free and low-sugar beverages and inflating consumer per capita income are other growth-inducing factors.

Expansion of the Food and Beverage Industry (F&B) in Emerging Economies

Increasing food and beverage (F&B) industry within developing regions is fueling the market growth. Significant economic advancements in countries across Asia, Latin America, and Africa, combined with rising urban populations and higher disposable incomes, is providing a thrust to the market growth. This has led to a rise in the consumption of processed foods, beverages, and ready-to-eat (RTE) products, which has further boosted the demand for sweeteners in these regions. Moreover, the product demand is especially pronounced in countries like India and China, where rapid urbanization and growing influence of Western diets have surged the demand for packaged and processed, which is facilitating the market growth.

Food Sweetener Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on product type, application, and distribution channel.

Breakup by Product Type:

• Sucrose
• Starch Sweeteners and Sugar Alcohols
  • Dextrose
  • High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)
  • Maltodextrin
  • Sorbitol
  • Xylitol
  • Others
• High Intensity Sweeteners (HIS)
  • Sucralose
  • Stevia
  • Aspartame
  • Saccharin
  • Neotame
  • Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K)
  • Others
     

Sucrose accounts for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product type. This includes sucrose, starch sweeteners and sugar alcohols [dextrose, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), maltodextrin, sorbitol, xylitol, and others] and high intensity sweeteners (HIS) [sucralose, stevia, aspartame, saccharin, neotame, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), and others]. According to the report, sucrose represented the largest segment.

As per the food sweetener market overview, the sucrose segment is driven by the surging consumer preference for natural sweeteners over artificial alternatives, particularly in processed foods and beverages (F&B). The rising health consciousness among consumers is prompting a shift toward products perceived as healthier, leading to a growing demand for sucrose, a naturally occurring sugar. The segment is also influenced by the expanding bakery and confectionery industries, where sucrose plays a crucial role due to its functional properties, such as enhancing texture and flavor. Additionally, the segment benefits from its widespread availability and cost-effectiveness compared to other natural sweeteners. The sucrose segment is further driven by the clean label trend, with manufacturers emphasizing the use of simple and familiar ingredients, aligning with consumer demands for transparency in food labeling.

Breakup by Application:

• Bakery and Confectionery
• Dairy and Desserts
• Beverages
• Meat and Meat Products
• Soups, Sauces and Dressings
• Others
   

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the application have also been provided in the report. This includes bakery and confectionery, dairy and desserts, beverages, meat and meat products, soups, sauces, and dressings, and others.

The bakery and confectionery segment is driven by the increasing demand for low-calorie and sugar-free products as consumers become more health-conscious. The growing awareness of the negative health impacts of excessive sugar consumption, such as obesity and diabetes, is pushing manufacturers to reformulate their products with alternative sweeteners. Natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit are particularly favored in this segment due to their ability to provide sweetness without the added calories.

The dairy and desserts segment is driven by the rising consumer preference for low-sugar and low-fat options. As more individuals adopt healthier lifestyles, the demand for dairy products and desserts that use natural and low-calorie sweeteners has surged. The increasing incidence of lactose intolerance and dairy-related allergies has also led to a growing market for dairy alternatives, where sweeteners play a crucial role in enhancing taste.

The beverages segment is driven by the growing shift towards healthier, low-calorie drink options. As consumers become more health-conscious, there is a significant demand for beverages sweetened with natural and low-calorie alternatives to sugar. The rising awareness of the health risks associated with sugary drinks, such as obesity and diabetes, is leading to a decline in the consumption of traditional sugar-sweetened beverages. Additionally, the increasing popularity of functional beverages, such as sports drinks, energy drinks, and fortified waters, which often use sweeteners to enhance taste while maintaining a healthy profile, is contributing to the segment's growth.

The meat and meat products segment is driven by the need for sweeteners in processed and preserved meat products to enhance flavor and shelf-life. Sweeteners are commonly used in marinades, sausages, and cured meats to balance flavors and improve palatability. The increasing consumer demand for ready-to-eat and convenience meat products is boosting the use of sweeteners in this segment. Moreover, the trend towards clean-label and natural products is influencing the choice of sweeteners, with manufacturers opting for natural alternatives that align with consumer preferences for transparency and healthier ingredients.

The soups, sauces, and dressings segment is driven by the growing consumer demand for savory products with balanced flavor profiles. Sweeteners are used in this segment to enhance the taste and mask the acidity or bitterness of certain ingredients. As consumers become more health-conscious, there is an increasing preference for products that use natural and low-calorie sweeteners, which are perceived as healthier alternatives to sugar. The trend towards clean-label products is also influencing the use of natural sweeteners in soups, sauces, and dressings, as consumers seek transparency and simplicity in ingredient lists.

The others segment, which includes a variety of food products such as snacks, cereals, and ready meals, is driven by the increasing consumer demand for low-sugar and low-calorie options. As health awareness grows, consumers are seeking healthier alternatives to traditional snacks and convenience foods, leading to a surge in the use of natural and alternative sweeteners.

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Departmental Stores
• Convenience Stores
• Online Stores
• Others
   

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel. This includes supermarkets and hypermarkets, departmental stores, convenience stores, online stores, and others.

 The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment is driven by the wide availability of various food sweeteners, including natural and artificial options, which cater to diverse consumer preferences. These large retail outlets offer an extensive range of products, making them a one-stop shop for consumers seeking sweeteners for different purposes. Moreover, the growing trend of health-conscious shopping has led to increased shelf space for low-calorie and natural sweeteners, which are prominently displayed to attract attention.

The departmental stores segment is driven by personalized customer service and the availability of niche sweetener products that cater to specific dietary needs. Consumers frequent these stores for their curated selections, which often include specialty and organic sweeteners that might not be as readily available in larger retail chains. The departmental stores segment also benefits from loyal customer bases who prefer shopping in familiar, smaller-scale environments where they can receive tailored recommendations from knowledgeable staff.

The convenience stores segment is driven by the demand for quick and easy access to essential products, including sweeteners, for on-the-go consumers. These stores cater to immediate needs, offering a limited but carefully selected range of popular sweeteners, often in smaller, convenient packaging. The rise in single-person households and busy lifestyles has contributed to the growth of this segment, as consumers look for fast shopping solutions. Convenience stores also capitalize on impulse purchases by strategically placing sweeteners near checkout areas, appealing to those who may need to restock quickly.

The online stores segment is driven by the increasing preference for convenient shopping experiences and the ability to access a vast selection of sweeteners from the comfort of one’s home. Online platforms offer detailed product information, customer reviews, and the ability to compare prices across different brands, which appeals to the modern, informed consumer. Additionally, the rise of health-conscious consumers has led to a surge in demand for niche sweeteners that are more easily found online.

The others segment is driven by the inclusion of food sweeteners in specialized retail formats such as health food stores, organic shops, and wholesale clubs. Health food stores, in particular, cater to consumers seeking natural and organic sweeteners, offering products that align with specific dietary preferences like keto or vegan.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

Asia Pacific leads the market, accounting for the largest food sweetener market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia Pacific represents the largest regional market for food sweetener.

The Asia Pacific regional market is driven by the increasing consumer preference for healthier and natural food options, particularly in rapidly developing countries like China and India. This shift is fueled by growing awareness of the health risks associated with high sugar consumption, leading to a rising demand for low-calorie and natural sweeteners. The expansion of the food and beverage industry in this region, coupled with urbanization and rising disposable incomes, is also contributing to the market's growth. Additionally, the growing adoption of Western dietary habits, which include a higher consumption of processed and convenience foods, is further driving the demand for sweeteners. Government regulations aimed at reducing sugar intake and promoting healthier alternatives are also encouraging manufacturers to innovate and introduce new sweetener products in the market. Furthermore, the escalating popularity of plant-based diets and the development of innovative food processing technologies are supporting the expansion of the Asia Pacific food sweetener market.

Competitive Landscape:

• The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the major market players in the food sweetener industry include Ajinomoto Co. Inc., Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, Cargill Incorporated, Celanese Corporation, DuPont de Nemours Inc., Foodchem International Corporation, GLG Life Tech Corporation, Ingredion Incorporated, NutraSweet Company (Manus Bio), S&W Seed Company, Tate & Lyle PLC, Tereos, etc.
  
  (Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)
   
• Key players in the market are focusing on innovation and diversification to strengthen their positions and capture emerging opportunities. They are investing heavily in research and development (R&D) to create new, healthier sweeteners that align with the growing consumer demand for natural, low-calorie alternatives. Companies are also expanding their product portfolios to include a broader range of sweeteners, catering to various dietary needs and preferences. Strategic partnerships and collaborations with food and beverage manufacturers are being pursued to enhance market reach and accelerate product adoption. Additionally, key players are increasingly focusing on sustainability by adopting eco-friendly production methods and sourcing ingredients responsibly to meet the rising consumer demand for sustainable products.

Food Sweetener Market News:

• In 2024, Tate & Lyle announced a significant partnership with CryptoBiotix, focusing on a new ex-vivo study that examined the effects of low and no-calorie sweeteners on human gut microbiota. The study revealed that these sweeteners either positively influenced or had no negative impact on gut health, highlighting their potential as beneficial alternatives to traditional sugar.
• In 2024, Ingredion’s subsidiary, PureCircle, introduced the first commercial stevia ingredient derived from bioconversion technology. This innovative launch allows for more consistent and higher purity stevia sweeteners, meeting the increasing demand for natural, plant-based alternatives. The new stevia ingredient, developed using a proprietary process, enhances the taste profile of products while maintaining a clean label, aligning with the growing consumer preference for healthier, low-calorie sweetener.

Food Sweetener Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the food sweetener market from 2018-2032.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global food sweetener market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the food sweetener industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.