Journal logo

Global Beta Glucan Market to Reach $1.15 Billion by 2033

Rising health awareness, nutraceutical demand, and aging populations drive growth

By Janine Root Published 4 months ago 5 min read

According to Renub Research Recent Report global beta glucan market is poised for significant growth in the coming decade, driven by increasing health consciousness, expanding functional food and nutraceutical sectors, and a rising aging population. Valued at USD 593.64 million in 2024, the market is expected to reach USD 1,147.71 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.60% from 2025 to 2033.

Beta glucan, a naturally occurring polysaccharide composed of glucose molecules, is primarily found in oats, barley, yeast, mushrooms, and certain seaweeds. Recognized for its immune-boosting, cholesterol-lowering, and anti-inflammatory properties, beta glucan has emerged as a key ingredient in dietary supplements, functional foods, beverages, and cosmetic formulations.

Market Overview

Beta glucan has garnered attention due to its potential health benefits, especially in enhancing the immune system. It activates neutrophils and macrophages, helping the body fight infections and inflammation. Additionally, beta glucan supports heart health by lowering cholesterol and improving blood sugar management. Its versatility has made it a preferred bioactive ingredient in dietary supplements, functional foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

The market is being propelled by rising consumer awareness of health and wellness, growing demand for natural and plant-based ingredients, and the prevalence of lifestyle-related chronic diseases. Beta glucan’s use in preventive healthcare, along with its regulatory endorsements, has further accelerated adoption.

👉 Want to explore detailed market trends, segment insights, and forecasts? 🔗 Request Free Sample Report

Key Market Drivers

1. Rising Demand for Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods

The explosive growth of the global nutraceutical sector is a major driver for beta glucan. Consumers increasingly integrate functional foods and supplements into daily diets to meet nutritional and health needs.

Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and health-conscious populations are actively seeking immune-boosting and heart-protective products.

Manufacturers are developing a variety of natural beta glucan-based supplements to meet this growing demand.

The “go-green” movement has further fueled interest in plant-derived and sustainable ingredients, positioning beta glucan as a valuable addition to functional foods and beverages.

2. Awareness of Health Benefits

The prevalence of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders has motivated consumers to seek natural solutions. Beta glucan is recognized for:

Reducing cholesterol: EFSA and FDA confirm the heart health benefits of oat beta-glucan.

Enhancing immune function: Beta glucan stimulates immune cells to fight infections.

Supporting blood sugar management: Beneficial for diabetics and metabolic health.

Companies are responding with innovative beta glucan products. For example:

BENEO’s Orafti β-Fit (barley beta-glucan) launched in 2023 for functional fiber applications.

Solabia-Algatech Nutrition’s BioGlena utilizes proprietary fermentation to maximize immune benefits.

Lantmännen Functional Foods’ PromOat Instant offers 100% soluble oat beta-glucan for enhanced bioavailability.

Government initiatives promoting preventive healthcare and natural supplements also bolster market growth.

3. Aging Population

The growing senior population worldwide is increasing demand for immune-boosting, heart-protective, and cholesterol-lowering natural supplements.

Older adults are more vulnerable to infections, chronic illnesses, and inflammation, increasing the need for preventive nutrition.

For instance, in India, the population aged 60 and above is projected to reach 139.4 million by 2025, up from 10.1% in 2021.

Beta glucan-based supplements, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals are increasingly targeted toward elderly consumers seeking preventive healthcare solutions.

The combination of an aging demographic and rising awareness of lifestyle disease management ensures continued growth for beta glucan applications.

Regional Insights

North America

North America holds a significant share of the beta glucan market due to high health awareness and demand for functional foods. The United States is a key market:

Rising prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases drives demand for cholesterol-lowering and immune-supporting beta glucan products.

According to surveys, 40.3% of US adults were obese between 2021–2023, highlighting the need for functional dietary interventions.

Major dietary supplement manufacturers and ongoing research & innovation support market growth.

Europe

Europe has a well-established market for beta glucan, propelled by:

Functional food trends and preventive healthcare awareness

Regulatory endorsements: EFSA recognizes health benefits of oat beta-glucan and algae-based postbiotics such as BetaVia Pure by Kemin Industries

Aging populations and lifestyle disease prevalence continue to drive demand.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region shows rapid growth potential, driven by:

Increasing health consciousness and disposable income

Urbanization and adoption of preventive nutrition

Expansion of functional food and nutraceutical markets in India, China, and Japan

Middle East

Markets such as Saudi Arabia are growing due to:

Rising preventive healthcare trends

Growing demand for natural and organic products

Government initiatives promoting public health awareness

Increase in functional foods, beverages, and supplements containing beta glucan

👉 For deeper analysis, detailed segment data, and company insights: 🔗 Request Customization Report

Product Type Segmentation

Beta glucan is classified into:

Soluble: Primarily from oats and barley, widely used in functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements.

Insoluble: Derived from yeast, mushrooms, or cereals, often used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and animal feed.

Soluble beta glucan dominates due to its bioavailability, health benefits, and regulatory support.

Source Segmentation

Cereal (Oats, Barley): Key for functional foods and beverages.

Yeast: Used in nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals for immune support.

Mushroom: Growing interest due to natural immunity-enhancing compounds.

Seaweed: Emerging source, especially in postbiotics and specialty dietary supplements.

Application Segmentation

Beta glucan is utilized across industries:

Food & Beverages: Functional foods, fortified beverages, dietary supplements

Pharmaceuticals: Immune boosters, cholesterol-lowering formulations

Cosmetics & Personal Care: Skin hydration, anti-aging, and immunity-supportive products

Animal Feed: Immunity and health supplements for livestock and pets

Others: Emerging applications in medical foods and specialized nutrition

The food & beverage segment dominates, while pharmaceuticals and cosmetics are emerging growth areas.

Key Players and Company Insights

Prominent companies in the beta glucan market include:

Ceapro Inc. – Specialty beta glucan extracts for nutraceuticals

Tate & Lyle PLC – Functional food ingredients, including oat beta glucan

Koninklijke DSM N.V. – Nutritional solutions and supplements

Cargill Incorporated – Functional fibers and dietary ingredients

Kerry Group Plc – Food and beverage ingredient solutions

Givaudan SA – Bioactive compounds for nutrition and cosmetics

Euglena Co. Ltd. – Algae-based beta glucan innovations

Merck KGaA – Pharmaceutical-grade beta glucan for medical applications

These companies focus on product innovation, regulatory compliance, and strategic partnerships to expand their market presence globally.

Market Outlook

The global beta glucan market is poised for robust growth due to:

Rising consumer awareness of health and wellness

Increasing functional food and nutraceutical demand

Aging populations seeking preventive healthcare solutions

Regulatory support from authorities such as EFSA and FDA

Innovation in soluble and plant-based beta glucan products

By 2033, the market is expected to double in size, reaching USD 1,147.71 million, reflecting the growing global adoption of beta glucan across food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and animal feed applications.

Note: If you need details, data, or insights not covered in this report, we are glad to assist. Through our customization service, we will collect and deliver the information you require, tailored to your specific needs. Share your requirements with us, and we will update the report to align with your expectations.

industrybusiness

About the Creator

Janine Root

Janine Root is a skilled content writer with a passion for creating engaging, informative, and SEO-optimized content. She excels in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with audiences and drive results.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.