Medical Foods Market

Medical Foods Market Size and Share:

The global medical foods market size was valued at USD 24.49 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 37.39 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.78% from 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market in 2024. The growing incidences of chronic illnesses like diabetes, cancer, and metabolic disorders among the masses, rising geriatric population, and the increasing progress in the field of nutrigenomics, focusing on the relationship between nutrition and genes, are several of the factors impelling the market growth.

The increased rate of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, or cardiovascular diseases, requiring focused nutritional interventions in these disease management is a major driver for the global market of medical foods. For instance, according to an industry report on April 17, 2024, a resurgence in the "food as medicine" approach within modern clinical trials, emphasizing dietary interventions' effectiveness in treating or delaying certain diseases. Recent studies, such as the PREDIMED trial, demonstrate that dietary interventions like the Mediterranean diet can effectively prevent or delay cardiovascular diseases. These findings suggest that incorporating specific dietary strategies into standard medical practice could enhance disease management and prevention. Furthermore, growing demands for products to prevent malnutrition and conditions related to old age are also contributing to the expansion of the market. Similarly, continual advances in clinical nutrition research and technology have made possible the development of new and customized medical food formulations, which are attractive to healthcare providers and patients. The increasing awareness regarding the role of personalized nutrition in health management significantly supports the market demand.

The United States is a key regional market and is experiencing growth due to rising the incidence of rare metabolic disorders which increased the demand for specific medical nutrition products catering to individual needs. Similarly, the growing focus on preventive care prompted the use of medical foods, preventing disease progression in vulnerable populations. In addition to this, favorable healthcare policies and strategic partnerships between healthcare services have also made them more accessible and adopted in the market. For example, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and The Rockefeller Foundation announced a partnership on January 31, 2024, to accelerate the integration of Food is Medicine initiatives into health systems. The collaboration will improve health outcomes and equity by increasing public awareness of nutrition's role in health and exploring strategies to expand successful health programs to Americans. Also, The Rockefeller Foundation committed to increasing its investment in Food is Medicine programs by over USD 100 million, which also includes up to USD 51 million to the American Heart Association to study the health and economic impacts of these interventions across diverse U.S. populations. Improvements in pediatric and neonatal care have created a requirement for specialized nutritional solutions for infants and children with specific health conditions. Moreover, the developed pharmaceutical and healthcare infrastructure in the United States enables the speedy development, regulation, and distribution of medical foods, further strengthening its position in the global market.

Medical Foods Market Trends

Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases

The expanding prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and metabolic disorders, which need continuous dietary management to improve patient outcomes and quality of life, is fueling the market growth. According to WHO, in 2023, chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases (17.9M deaths per year) and diabetes (2.0M) are driving demand for medical foods that support disease management and improve patient outcomes. This growth marks the utmost importance of personalized nutrition for dealing with the increased loads of non-communicable diseases at the global level. Customized medical foods allow for targeted nutritional assistance that helps with symptom management, recovery support, and avoiding the acceleration of disease development. Non-communicable diseases have become a trend worldwide. This makes medical food professionals engage in clinical practice more. This awareness is not only creating a demand for specific nutrition products but also elevating the value of medical foods. In 2023, Danone increased its selection of adult medical-nutrition products in China by introducing Fortimel Balanced beverages to its lineup. These beverages were created to meet the dietary requirements of individuals recovering from surgery or chronic illnesses. This move signaled an entry into the adult foods for Special Medical Purposes (AFSMP) market and bolstered Danone's expansion in specialized nutrition.

Growing Geriatric Population

As per the India Ageing Report 2023 by the United Nations Population Fund, the percentage of people over 60 years old in India will increase from 10.5% or 14.9 crore in 2022 to 20.8% or 34.7 crore by 2050. Older adults are more prone to chronic illnesses, malnutrition, and age-related problems, which require special dietary consideration. Medical foods provide older adults with customized nutritional alternatives that address specific needs: improved digestion, nutrient absorption, and general health. This is driving the demand for medical foods focused on improving the health and well-being of the geriatric population. Long-term nutritional support is frequently needed by older individuals, making medical foods an important adjunct to their nutrition regimen.

Advances in Nutrigenomics

According to the IMARC Group, the nutrigenomics market was valued at USD 1,212.6 Million in 2023. Advances in the field of nutrigenomics, the study of nutrition and genetics, contribute to the market's growth. Nutrigenomics research provides a framework that helps explain how the differences in genes among various people have resulted in dietary requirements and reactions to nutrients. Science has developed that can help formulate specialized medical foods depending on the individual genetic characteristics of patients. Medical foods can better handle and prevent diseases through genetic-based tailoring of nutrition interventions. The formulation of medical foods based on the application of nutrigenomics resulted in highly accurate and effective products that are becoming acceptable among health providers and users.

Medical Foods Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global medical foods market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product, route of administration, application, and distribution channel.

Analysis by Product:

• Pills
• Powder
• Others

Powder leads the market in 2024. Powder is versatile, easy to use, and can be utilized in multiple of food products and drinks.It provides a convenient choice for patients needing personalized nutrition, enabling accurate dosing and customized nutrient profiles for addressing specific medical conditions. The dominance of this segment is further strengthened by rising improvements in formulation technologies, which enhance the flavor and texture of powdered products to increase patient adherence. Medical foods market trends indicate a growing preference for these versatile powdered products.

Analysis by Route of Administration:

• Oral
• Enteral

Oral administration leads the market in 2024. Oral is convenient, easy to use, and non-invasive, making it suitable for a wide range of patients including those with chronic conditions and need long-term nutritional support. The popularity of this segment is influenced by the creation of palatable and easily consumable formulations like tablets, capsules, powders, and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. Additionally, the growing presence of oral nutritional supplements in online and offline stores is making it more convenient for patients to adhere to their treatment. The extensive usage and reliability of oral nutritional items notably contribute to the overall medical foods market size.

Analysis by Application:

• ADHD
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Metabolic Disorders
• Others

Diabetes leads the market in 2024. This dominance is attributed to the high incidences of diabetes among the masses, which often require specialized nutritional products created to regulate blood sugar levels and overall metabolic well-being. Specially designed medical foods for individuals with diabetes are created to offer well-balanced nutrition, manage carbohydrate consumption, and avoid high blood sugar levels. The rise in Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes cases, coupled with the growing understanding about the importance of dietary control in managing the condition, is contributing to the market growth. Additionally, the rising focus on research operations, along with supportive regulatory frameworks, is further driving the medical foods demand as these products become essential for effective diabetes management and patient compliance. In 2023, Nestlé launched its Lean Cuisine Balance Bowls, a new line of frozen meals designed to support individuals managing blood sugar levels. These meals, developed with input from the American Diabetes Association, adhered to their nutrition guidelines and contained 400 calories or less, with zero added sugars.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets
• Hospital and Retail Pharmacies
• Online Pharmacies
• Others

Hospitals and retail pharmacies lead the market in 2024. The leadership of the segment can be attributed to the trust and convenience these pharmacies offer, as they are often the primary point of contact for patients receiving prescriptions and guidance from healthcare professionals. Hospital and retail pharmacies provide a reliable source of medical foods, ensuring the availability of specialized nutritional products tailored to specific medical conditions, thereby offering a favourable medical foods market outlook. The professional advice and counselling available at these pharmacies enhance patient compliance and proper usage. Additionally, strategic collaborations between medical food manufacturers and pharmacies contribute to an efficient supply chain, ensuring that patients have consistent access to essential products.

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

In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share, driven by the advanced healthcare infrastructure, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, and increasing healthcare expenditure. The strong presence of major market players and ongoing innovations in medical food products are bolstering growth in the North American market. Additionally, the region benefits from robust regulatory frameworks that support the development and commercialization of medical foods. The growing awareness and proactive management about health conditions through specialized nutrition are positively influencing the market. Additionally, the robust insurance coverage in North America is making it easier for people to access and use medical foods. Moreover, the presence of various key market players in the region is making it easier for people to access medical nutrition products. In 2024, Danone announced its acquisition of Functional Formularies, a US-based whole foods tube-feeding business, from Swander Pace Capital. This acquisition expanded Danone’s medical nutrition portfolio, adding to its enteral tube-feeding ranges. Danone aimed to better support the nutritional needs of tube-fed patients and families through this deal.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Medical Foods Market Analysis

The adoption of medical foods has seen a remarkable rise, increased by the proliferation of online platforms. As per the International Trade Administration, global B2C e-commerce revenue is anticipated to reach USD 5.5 Trillion by 2027, expanding at a 14.4% CAGR. Expanding online distribution channels are driving medical food accessibility, enhancing convenience for patients and caregivers. With increasing accessibility, these digital channels enable personalized nutrition solutions to reach diverse demographics efficiently. Consumer reliance on e-commerce for dietary products that cater to specific health conditions enhanced convenience and widened market reach. Platforms emphasize user-friendly interfaces and seamless delivery networks, which resonate with individuals managing chronic illnesses, malnutrition, and metabolic disorders. Online resources empower users with educational content on tailored dietary regimens, fostering trust and repeated purchases. Advanced logistics ensure rapid product availability, addressing the growing demand for nutritionally precise formulations. Furthermore, the integration of telehealth services complements digital shopping by providing medical professionals with tools to recommend specific formulations, bolstering adoption. This dynamic ecosystem of interconnected services and technological innovations is reshaping the way consumers and healthcare providers access and utilize therapeutic nutrition solutions.

Asia Pacific Medical Foods Market Analysis

Increased adoption of medical foods aligns closely with the swift expansion of healthcare services. Enhanced medical infrastructure, particularly in urban areas, supports the distribution and recommendation of these specialized nutritional products. For instance, India's healthcare sector attracted USD 5.33 Billion in private investments across 57 deals in 2024. Experts project USD 5-6 Billion annual investments, fostering growth in medical foods through enhanced healthcare infrastructure. Despite fewer deals, rising investments highlight the sector's potential. As healthcare practitioners increasingly incorporate dietary management into treatment plans, the awareness of therapeutic formulations is gaining traction. Hospitals and clinics emphasize integrating nutrition-based interventions for conditions like diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, and neurological ailments. Parallel investments in specialized training programs for nutritionists have further empowered the medical community to advocate for precise dietary solutions. Retail pharmacies linked to healthcare centers have broadened the availability of medical foods, enabling patients to access formulations recommended during consultations. With rising wellness awareness, the healthcare sector actively promotes preventive care measures, creating opportunities for medical foods to serve as integral components of long-term health strategies. This synergy between medical practice and therapeutic nutrition highlights a pivotal trend.

Europe Medical Foods Market Analysis

The rising prevalence of chronic illnesses is catalyzing the demand for medical foods as integral components of disease management. Conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and digestive disorders necessitate precise nutritional interventions to support recovery and enhance quality of life. According to the European Cancer Information System, new cancer cases in the EU increased by 2.3% to 2.74 Million in 2022, with deaths rising by 2.4% compared to 2020. This growing burden highlights the urgent need for supportive interventions, positioning medical foods as a critical aid for cancer patients. The trend highlights expanding opportunities in the medical nutrition sector. Healthcare systems increasingly prioritize dietary strategies to complement conventional treatments, and medical foods are positioned as indispensable tools in managing malnutrition and metabolic imbalances. Home-based care is on the rise, driven by the need for cost-effective, patient-centered solutions, which boosts the consumption of tailored nutritional products. Manufacturers are innovating with flavour enhancements and easy-to-consume formats to cater to individuals with complex dietary needs. The inclusion of specialized nutrition as part of public health campaigns further promotes its adoption. This alignment between the healthcare ecosystem and patient needs underlines the growing reliance on therapeutic dietary products to address chronic conditions effectively.

Latin America Medical Foods Market Analysis

Inflating disposable incomes are playing a pivotal role in enhancing access to medical foods. Individuals are increasingly allocating resources to premium nutrition products that support specific health requirements. For instance, inflating disposable incomes in Latin America, projected to grow by nearly 60% in real terms from 2021 to 2040, are driving demand for medical foods. This growth is fueled by narrowing regional disparities, technological advancements, and a shift to value-added sectors. Enhanced purchasing power benefits the healthcare sector, increasing access to specialized nutrition solutions. Personalized dietary solutions are gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers seeking proactive wellness strategies. Pharmacies and wellness centers highlight these offerings as integral components of tailored healthcare routines, ensuring easier access for consumers across income brackets. The ability to invest in high-quality medical formulations accentuates a growing shift towards preventive health measures. As affordability improves, the adoption of therapeutic dietary products designed for malnutrition, recovery, and chronic illness management is expanding, paving the way for robust market growth.

Middle East and Africa Medical Foods Market Analysis

The expansion of healthcare facilities is directly influencing the rising use of medical foods in this region. According to Dubai Healthcare City Authority report, by 2022, Dubai had 4,482 private medical facilities, including 56 hospitals and over 55,208 licensed professionals. With projected growth of 10-15% in medical professionals and 3-6% in facilities, expanding healthcare infrastructure is driving demand for medical foods, offering enhanced patient nutrition and recovery support. New clinics and hospitals integrate nutrition-focused approaches into patient care, emphasizing tailored dietary regimens for managing malnutrition, post-surgical recovery, and metabolic disorders. These facilities frequently collaborate with nutrition experts to develop personalized therapeutic plans, ensuring accessibility for patients in both urban and rural areas. The increased availability of specialized medical infrastructure aligns with efforts to provide comprehensive care, highlighting the critical role of targeted nutrition. As healthcare networks continue to grow, medical foods are becoming integral components of the patient treatment experience, promoting wider adoption across diverse demographics.

Competitive Landscape:

The global medical foods market is characterized by intense competition due to the increasing demand for specialty nutritional solutions designed for the management of chronic diseases. Formulation innovations, driven by the rising incidence and prevalence of diabetes, cancer, and neurological disorders, permeate medical food offerings from manufacturers. Divergence in regional regulation and changing dietary requirements propel product innovation and market access. Key players in the market are actively involved in huge research operations to innovate and improvise product formulations to ensure better efficacy and compliance by patients. Strategic mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations are very common to enhance market presence and distribution capabilities. Pricing, quality, and targeted efficacy always remain central to competitive strategies.

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

• Abbott Healthcare Private Limited
• Alfasigma S.p.A.
• Danone S.A.
• Fresenius Kabi AG
• Mead Johnson & Company LLC (Reckitt Benckiser)
• Medtrition Inc.
• Meiji Holdings Co. Ltd.
• Metagenics Inc. (Alticor)
• Nestlé S.A.
• Primus Pharmaceuticals Inc.
• Targeted Medical Pharma Inc.
• Victus Inc.

Latest News and Developments:

• December 2024: Nestlé unveiled new products targeting the GLP-1 market, aiming to outpace competitors in the booming weight management segment. Capitalizing on society's growing focus on quick and efficient weight loss, the company leverages the rising demand for medical foods and supplements. These innovations address shifting consumer preferences for alternatives to traditional diet and exercise. Nestlé's aggressive approach highlights the lucrative opportunities in the GLP-1 and wellness market.
• December 2024: Lilavati Hospital, in collaboration with Sodexo, launched “Aarogyum,” a millet-based diet program to boost patient recovery and well-being. This initiative introduces nutrient-rich, immunity-boosting meals packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Millets are recognized for their benefits in digestion and gut health, vital for recovering patients. The program reflects the hospital's commitment to nutrition as a cornerstone of patient care. “Aarogyum” aims to promote quicker recovery and healthier dietary choices for improved overall health.
• September 2024: Dutch Medical Food B.V., a global leader in medical nutrition, partnered with India’s Pristine Pearl Pharma Pvt. Ltd. to launch innovative nutrition solutions. The collaboration introduces a range of medical foods targeting disease-related malnutrition in adults and children. With this calculated move, Dutch Medical Food enters the Indian market. The initiative aims to address the growing demand for tailored nutrition in managing chronic diseases. It highlights the importance of medical foods in improving patient health outcomes.
• May 2024: Solarea Bio announced the beta launch of Bondia, a novel daily medical food designed to manage postmenopausal bone loss using synbiotic capsules. The product, developed from fruit and vegetable-derived microbes, underwent clinical validation and a private beta program to evaluate its effectiveness.

Medical Foods 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 medical foods market from 2019-2033.
• The medical foods market research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global 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 assist 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 medical foods 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.