The global phytosterols market was valued at USD 952.4 million in 2022, which is expected to reach USD 1,921.4 million by 2030, progressing with a CAGR of 9.2% during 2022–2030. Consumers are increasingly seeking functional food ingredients that offer health benefits, and phytosterols fit into this trend. Their cholesterol-lowering properties and potential to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes have made them sought-after ingredients in functional food and dietary supplement formulations.
CVDs are the leading cause of deaths due to chronic diseases globally, and according to the WHO, a leading behavioral risk factor for heart attacks and strokes is an unhealthy diet. Another major reason for the shift toward plant-based diets is the increasing LDL level in people due to their unhealthy eating habits. Phytosterols’ chemical structure is similar to that of the body’s own cholesterol. Moreover, from plant-derived sterol-rich foods and supplements, the digestive system absorbs sterols, rather than bad cholesterol, which ultimately helps lower the risk of CVDs.
β-sitosterol-based supplements are gaining popularity globally as they are extracted from plants; therefore, contain no chemicals and exhibit minimal side-effects. Widely found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and nuts, this compound reduces the amount of cholesterol in the body and swelling in the prostate.
Campesterol, stigmasterol, sitostanol, and campestanol are also incorporated into food products aimed at preventing chronic diseases and inflammation. These natural functional solutions are gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers, who have become highly aware of their health since the pandemic.
According to the WHO, adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancers, such as stomach and colorectal cancer. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is perfect for a healthy and balanced life, especially foods containing high concentrations of phytosterols. Thus, as these crops are available in an abundant quantity all over the world, they are the largest source of phytosterols for F&B companies.
The growing income of people across different regions is leading to changes in lifestyles and eating habits. People are replacing fatty saturated food and beverages with healthy, balanced diets rich in plant sterols. Phytosterol-fortified food and beverages, such as pasta, margarine, orange juice, granola bars, chips, and oatmeal squares, are daily consumable items and easily available at regular grocery stores. This is why they have captured the major share of the market, based on consumption.
Moreover, dietary supplements are becoming increasingly significant in the market due to their growing consumption globally. Since people are not always able to get the required nutrients from their diet, they are looking to dietary supplements to fill the gap. Moreover, doctors and nutritionists often recommend food supplements, especially to women, middle-aged people, and the elderly.
The European region held the largest phytosterols market share, of 40%, in 2022. This is attributed to the rising demand for phytosterol-based food products and supplements due to the quick shift to plant-based food products, partly because of the increasing animal cruelty concerns. Moreover, the adoption of healthier lifestyle habits has been increasing significantly to reduce medical expenses.
Furthermore, the Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market for phytosterols due to its rapidly increasing population and the rising consumption of processed foods & beverages. Moreover, inhabitants are becoming increasingly aware of their health amidst the increasing burden of chronic diseases. Further, governments are taking initiatives for managing the health of the population, which, combined with the growing processed food industry and booming number of middle-class consumers, is propelling the market.
Some of the key players are Archer Daniels Midland Company, Arboris LLC, BASF SE, Cargill Inc., Bunge Limited, Raisio plc, GUSTAV PARMENTIER GmbH, The Lubrizol Corporation, Advanced Organic Materials, and Ashland Inc.