Inulin Market

Inulin Market 2024, Size and Trends:

The global inulin market size was valued at USD 1.84 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 3.27 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.97% from 2025-2033. Europe dominates in 2024, with 42.0% of the inulin market share. The market in the region is driven by the increasing consumer demand for natural and functional ingredients, rising health awareness, and the growing application of inulin in the food and beverage (F&B), pharmaceutical, and dietary supplement industries.

The global inulin market demand is driven by the increasing consumer preference for natural and organic ingredients, as they boost the demand for inulin in the food and beverages (F&B) sector. For instance, 54% of European consumers are always on the lookout for products with reduced sugar content when they are out shopping. Such trends highlight the increasing demand for inulin as a key ingredient in sugar-reduced products. In addition, the rising health consciousness propels its use as a prebiotic to enhance gut health, driving the market growth. Besides this, the growing prevalence of diabetes drives the need for inulin as a low-calorie sugar substitute, providing an impetus to the market. Moreover, the expanding applications in the pharmaceutical industry for weight management and cholesterol control are fueling the market demand. Also, the increasing awareness of dietary fiber benefits encourages its inclusion in functional foods, aiding the market growth. Furthermore, continuous innovations in product formulations, such as clean-label and plant-based options, are contributing to the market expansion.

The United States is emerging as a key region with 87.80% of the market shares. The inulin market growth is primarily driven by the growing popularity of plant-based diets, which has increased the demand for inulin as a versatile ingredient in vegan and vegetarian products. In confluence with this, the surge in functional beverages, including kombucha and smoothies, incorporates inulin for added health benefits, providing an impetus to the market. Concurrently, the rising interest in personalized nutrition promotes its use in tailored health products, boosting the market demand. Additionally, the Increased investment in research and development (R&D) enhances its applications in innovative food and pharmaceutical products, supporting the market growth. Also, the prevalence of lactose intolerance drives its use as a dairy alternative ingredient, which is fueling the market demand. Apart from this, the shifting trend toward clean-label products owing to inulin’s natural origin is thereby propelling the market forward. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does oversee dietary supplements but does not categorize them as foods or drugs. The manufacturer is solely liable for the safety of the product and the information that is put on the product. This regulatory framework allows for innovation and flexibility in product formulations, further driving the demand for inulin as a functional ingredient in health-conscious products.

Inulin Market Trends:

Expansion in Dietary Supplements

Inulin is commonly used in dietary supplements due to its benefits in enhancing gut health and immunity, thus enhancing the popularity of digestive health and wellness products. For example, in 2023, 74% of the adult population in the United States take dietary supplements and 55% of them, do so with regularity. In May 2024, scientists from the Centenary Institute and the University of Sydney discovered that delta inulin is another vaccine adjuvant that enhances immune outcomes against diseases including influenza and tuberculosis. It also enhances and strengthens the immune response, thus enhancing the vaccine effectiveness and changing the direction of the inulin market trends.

Increased Usage in the Dairy Industry

Inulin is increasingly being included in dairy products such as yogurt and milk alternatives to increase texture and fiber content, in response to customer preference for healthier dairy options. The data from the US Department of Agriculture showed that in 2023, people in the United States used 661 pounds of dairy products per capita. FlavorSum launched a certified organic pineapple flavor in July 2024 that brings the most refreshing, creamy sensation to frozen dessert products. The flavoring enhances the flavor and sweetens it slightly without making it extremely sweet while bringing acidity to the mix good for ice creams, fruit ice, or sorbets. This trend clearly illustrates the future projections of the inulin market. This trend reflects the inulin market outlook.

Adoption in Food and Beverages for Sugar Reduction

Inulin is increasingly popular as a natural sugar alternative, particularly in low-calorie and sugar-free products. According to USDA, in 2023 U.S. consumers spent around 11.2 percent of their disposable personal income on food. It adds sweetness and texture without the caloric impact of sugar, keeping with global health-conscious trends. In July 2024, PepsiCo announced eight finalists for its Greenhouse Accelerator Program: Juntos Crecemos Edition, aimed at promoting Hispanic-inspired food and beverage brands. One of the finalists, Mayawell, offers prebiotic sodas sweetened with organic agave and Active Agave inulin, supporting digestive health and low glycemic impact.

Inulin Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global inulin market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, form, nature, and application.

Analysis by Type:

• Jerusalem Artichoke Inulin
• Chicory Inulin
• Agave Inulin

Chicory inulin, which accounts for 73.8% of the inulin market share, is widely used due to its high fiber content and prebiotic effects. This type of inulin is widely used in the food sector to improve digestive health and product texture. Inulin is extracted from chicory roots and applied in the food and beverages industry due to its functional nature and prebiotic impact on food systems. In addition, functional F&B has greatly driven the use of chicory inulin especially in low-fat and low-sugar products. Also, being beneficial for the digestive system and the increased absorption of calcium, it is used in dietary supplements. Such market growth is supported by improved techniques in the production of chicory and extraction processes to promote quality production. Besides this, the growing consumer knowledge about natural and plant-based ingredients enhances its position as the preferred kind of inulin. Furthermore, regulatory backing for clean-label and fiber-enriched products is significantly contributing to the market expansion, especially in the European and North American markets.

Analysis by Form:

• Powder
• Liquid

Powdered inulin holds 76.8% of the market share due to its versatility, ease of incorporation, and extended shelf life. It is a popular ingredient for F&B, offering prebiotic benefits and functions as a fat and sugar replacement for functional foods, bakery items, and dairy products. In addition, it makes the compound preferable for use in different formulations, due to solubility and stability. Moreover, powdered inulin is driven by its natural fiber source, due to the growing consumer concern with health-related food products and clean-label products. This makes its adoption of dietary supplements rise because of their ability to enhance gut health and facilitate weight loss. Also, powder processing technologies are continuously improving, and this guarantees quality, and the possibility of expanding the market. The ease of handling and storage is therefore contributing to the growth of powdered inulin, making it the most popular form in the industrial market.

Analysis by Nature:

• Organic
• Conventional

Organic inulin holds a significant and growing share of the inulin market, driven by the increasing consumer shift toward organic and sustainable products. It is derived from organic sources like chicory roots and agave and is also preferred by the health-conscious population for its clean label and chemical-free nature. This is particularly valuable in premium food, beverages, and dietary supplements, and is enhanced by its organic certification. Apart from this, the market growth of organic inulin is due to the increasing concern for the environment and the health consciousness people have about organic farming. This is especially encouraged by the increasing need for plant-based and non-genetically modified organisms (GMO) foods and ingredients to be used in functional foods, infant nutrition, and organic cosmetics. Furthermore, the increased regulation for organic labeling and the rising availability of organic-certified ingredients are strengthening the inulin market share.

Analysis by Application:

• Pharmaceuticals
• Dietary Supplements
• Food and Beverage
  • Bakery and Confectionery Products
  • Cereals
  • Meat Products
  • Sports Drinks
  • Dairy Products
  • Others

The food and beverage (F&B) segment holds 62.7% shares in the inulin market, driven by its widespread use as a functional ingredient. Inulin is also in high demand for certain subsegments due to its functionality such as prebiotic, dietary fiber, sugar, or fat replacer, for bakery and confectionery products, dairy products, and cereals. The consumption of sports and functional drinks is also growing due to the increasing trend towards healthier products. Besides this, the segment is rapidly growing due to the surging market demand for natural low-calorie foods, free from preservatives and beneficial for the gut. Inulin improves the functional and sensory properties of products and thus is a material of choice for producers of clean-label and wellness products. The development of products from plant-based and functional foods and the availability of regulatory approval for dietary fiber fortification is significantly propelling the market forward.

Regional Analysis:

• 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

Europe dominates the global inulin market with 42.0% shares, driven by high consumer awareness of health benefits and a strong demand for functional and clean-label products. According to a global consumer survey conducted in 2023 among people in the UK, France, Germany the Netherlands and Poland pointed out that 43% of the consumers plan to cut down on sugar consumption in the next few years therefore pointing to the desirability for healthier foods. The population of the region actively uses natural additives and products containing dietary fiber, thus stimulating high consumption of functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements containing inulin. In addition, digestive diseases and metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes have spurred the demand for inulin as a prebiotic and as a sweetener. Moreover, the market increase in Europe is because of the improved culture of chicory in countries such as Belgium, France, and the Netherlands as they produce a massive amount of inulin. Besides this, stringent legal requirements for the adoption of natural and plant-based products in food products and pharmacies act as additional support for its use. Furthermore, the growing trends of vegan or organic and non-GMO food products are bolstering the market demand for inulin in the region.

Key Regional Takeaways:

North America Inulin Market Analysis

The inulin market in North America is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers and a rising preference for functional foods and dietary supplements. In the US and Canada where consumers are more conscious about their health, inulin is adopted due to its properties on digestive health, weight management, and gut health. For example, one research showed that elderly people who had constipation and consumed 20-40 grams of inulin daily for one month experienced less of a problem with constipation, highlighting inulin's role in digestive health. In addition, inulin such as mineral, vitamin, and dietary fiber, is popular for use because it has prebiotic properties, which are essential in digestive health since many people today suffer from obesity, diabetes, and other diseases associated with poor eating habits. Inulin also benefits from the current global trend in clean-label and plant-based products as well as the rejection of GMO products. The wide range of uses of inulin, in functional beverages, dairy, and bakery products has played a major role in the use of the product in the F&B industry. Apart from this, the increasing consumer awareness level of health products in the urban regions has been critical in driving the market growth rate in North America.

United States Inulin Market Analysis

Inulin adoption in the United States has seen a marked increase due to expanding investment in healthcare and the pharmaceutical sector. For instance, U.S. health spending rose 4.1% in 2022 to USD 4.5 Trillion, benefiting human insulin development by boosting investment in healthcare innovation and accessibility. As the population ages, there is a rising demand for dietary supplements, prebiotics, and functional foods that support digestion and overall health. Inulin, known for its prebiotic properties, is becoming a key ingredient in the development of products aimed at enhancing gut health, managing blood sugar levels, and improving immunity. This surge in healthcare spending has fueled the growth of inulin's use, as it is incorporated into a wide range of wellness-focused formulations, including probiotics and metabolic health products. Additionally, as healthcare systems focus on preventive care and managing chronic conditions, inulin is gaining recognition for its role in weight management and cardiovascular health. This trend is also bolstered by the growing awareness of dietary solutions to support a better quality of life, which further drives the demand for inulin across various healthcare and pharmaceutical applications.

Europe Inulin Market Analysis

In Europe, inulin is experiencing greater adoption due to the growing demand for dairy products, especially those focusing on gut health and functional benefits. According to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, cheese consumption in the EU is projected to rise by 0.4% annually, supported by strong demand for milk fat. As dairy alternatives and fortified dairy products gain popularity, inulin serves as a key ingredient to enhance the nutritional profile of these products. Inulin’s prebiotic effects help improve digestion, supporting the trend toward functional dairy products, such as yogurt and milk-based beverages that offer added health benefits like improved gut flora and immune system support. Moreover, inulin’s ability to reduce sugar content while maintaining desirable taste and texture properties makes it an appealing choice for dairy manufacturers looking to meet the increasing consumer demand for lower-sugar products. This growing preference for healthier dairy options aligns with evolving consumer habits focused on wellness and longevity. The European market also benefits from a robust regulatory environment that supports the use of inulin in food products, further fostering its integration into new dairy formulations. These factors combined have made inulin a favored ingredient in Europe’s expanding dairy sector.

The inulin market in Germany is witnessing robust demand, primarily driven by the aging German population. This drives the market growth because they want healthier food choices. Moreover, the excellent healthcare system of the region makes nutrition supplements available to many people who then buy more inulin goods. Additionally, German consumers are willing to spend on their wellness which makes dietary supplements and functional foods with inulin very successful in the market. Apart from this, German manufacturing companies bring fresh ideas to create more inulin products which is significantly contributing to the market expansion.

Asia Pacific Inulin Market Analysis

In Asia-Pacific, the adoption of inulin is accelerating as the demand for natural and plant-based ingredients continues to grow across food, beverage, and wellness markets. The shift toward plant-based diets is reshaping food formulations, with consumers increasingly favoring products that offer health benefits without synthetic additives. For instance, India ranks as the country with the highest percentage of vegetarians globally, with estimates ranging from 20% to 39% of its population adhering to a vegetarian diet. As a natural source of fiber, inulin is widely recognized for its ability to promote digestive health, regulate blood sugar, and provide satiety, aligning with the region's focus on holistic nutrition. The increasing preference for plant-based alternatives, including dairy-free, gluten-free, and low-carb options, has opened up numerous opportunities for inulin in product development. With growing health consciousness and heightened awareness of the environmental impact of dietary choices, inulin's plant-based nature positions it as a favored ingredient in clean-label products. Furthermore, the rise in the popularity of functional foods and beverages in Asia-Pacific has positioned inulin as an essential component of various formulations, driving its widespread adoption in the market.

The demand for inulin-based goods in China drives growth across Asia Pacific because regional citizens now put health and wellbeing first. In addition, health-conscious consumers are searching for better nutritional options because lifestyle diseases have risen, and they want low-sugar and high-fiber products. Through public education programs and government support people in China recognize the health rewards of eating inulin. Furthermore, due to this shift more people are making healthier food choices which, booting the demand for inulin products, thereby propelling the market forward.

Latin America Inulin Market Analysis

In Latin America, inulin adoption is driven by the growing interest in dietary supplements, fueled by increasing disposable income among consumers. For instance, total disposable income in Latin America is set to rise by nearly 60% in real terms over 2021-2040. As income levels rise, there is a greater willingness to invest in health and wellness products, including those containing functional ingredients like inulin. These products are seen as solutions for managing digestive health, controlling weight, and boosting overall vitality. With more people seeking natural ways to improve their well-being, inulin's status as a natural prebiotic has made it a popular choice in supplement formulations. The increased purchasing power in this region has led to a surge in demand for dietary supplements containing inulin, as consumers look for products that offer long-term health benefits. This trend is especially prominent in urban areas, where heightened awareness of health and wellness drives demand for inulin-based supplements, further accelerating their adoption.

Middle East and Africa Inulin Market Analysis

In the Middle East and Africa, inulin adoption is gaining momentum due to its use in food and beverages aimed at sugar reduction, which is increasingly influenced by tourism. As tourism continues to grow in the region, there is an expanding market for healthier food and beverage options that cater to international visitors' preferences for low-sugar, functional foods. For example, Dubai recorded 14.96 million overnight visitors between January and October 2024, an 8% rise compared to the same period in 2023, showcasing robust growth in tourism. Inulin’s ability to provide a natural, low-calorie alternative to sugar makes it an attractive ingredient for products targeting health-conscious tourists. This growing demand for sugar-reduced foods is coupled with a cultural shift towards more health-focused diets, influenced by the diverse dietary habits of tourists visiting the region. As tourism continues to be a key economic driver, the need for innovative food and beverage products that align with global health trends has propelled the use of inulin in the region, supporting its adoption in this emerging market.

Competitive Landscape:

The competition in the global inulin market remains high due to extensive activities from market players in terms of new product development, improved production capacity, and market coverage. Large firms are spending on innovation to enhance inulin extraction techniques to enhance quality and quantity. Moreover, several players are using strategic partnerships and acquisitions as key ways to improve their standing in emerging markets, especially in the Asia-Pacific and Latin American markets. Furthermore, sustainability is being capitalized on through the development of organic non-GMO, and eco-friendly inulin to respond to clean-label, plant-based demand. Some of the key players are also involved in product differentiation, developing products for specific food and beverage industries and pharmaceuticals, which is fueling market growth and development.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the inulin market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• BENEO GmbH (Südzucker AG)
• Cargill Incorporated
• Ciranda Inc.
• Cosucra Groupe Warcoing SA
• Jarrow Formulas Inc.
• NOW Foods
• Nutriagaves Group
• PMV Nutrient Products Pvt Ltd.
• Sensus B.V. (Coöperatie Koninklijke Cosun U.A.)
• Steviva Brands Inc.
• The Tierra Group

Latest News and Developments:

• December 2024: GlycoFix introduced capsules designed to naturally regulate glucose levels. Formulated with ingredients such as cinnamon extract, bitter melon, and inulin, these capsules promote healthy blood sugar levels, enhance energy, and help manage hunger. Free from GMOs and stimulants, they are produced in a GMP-certified facility, ensuring safety and effectiveness for adults seeking reliable wellness solutions.
• November 2024: Frutafit® CLR PrebiSol, a highly soluble chicory-derived inulin, meets European digestive health claim criteria with its proven prebiotic effect. Ideal for use in cereals, dairy, and more, it promotes improved digestion and gut health. Visit booth 3.1F20 to explore this natural, health-boosting ingredient at the Cosun showcase.
• July 2024: PepsiCo announced eight finalists for its Greenhouse Accelerator Program: Juntos Crecemos Edition, focused on Hispanic-inspired food and beverage innovations. Among them, Mayawell stands out with its prebiotic sodas, featuring organic agave and Active Agave inulin for digestive health. This program highlights PepsiCo's commitment to supporting diverse food entrepreneurs.
• November 2024: Beneo showcased plant-based innovations at Fi Europe 2024, featuring hybrid product solutions with faba bean protein and Orafti Inulin chicory root fiber. Their plant-based feta cheese balls highlighted improved Nutri-Score, creamy texture, and high fiber, addressing growing global flexitarian interest.

Inulin Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the inulin market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global inulin 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 inulin industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.