Chlorella Market Size, Share, Forecast, & Trends Analysis by Cultivation Method (Autotrophic, Heterotrophic), Product (Powder, Capsule, Tablets), Source (Chlorella Vulgaris), Application (Nutraceutical), Distribution Channel (B2B) - Global Forecast to 2031

Chlorella Market Size & Forecast

The Chlorella Market is expected to reach $639.7 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2024 to 2031. In terms of volume, the chlorella market is expected to reach 43,810 tons by 2031, at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2024 to 2031. The growth of this market can be attributed to several factors, including the growing inclination of consumers toward a protein-rich diet, the increasing health and wellness trend, the development of innovative chlorella food & beverage products, the growing nutraceutical industry, and growing vegetarianism. Moreover, the growing demand for chlorella extracts is expected to offer growth opportunities for the players operating in this market.

Chlorella Market Growth Drivers

Development of Innovative Chlorella Food & Beverages Products

Chlorella is a food source rich in protein and other essential nutrients. When dried, it has about 42–58% protein, 9.3% fat, and 23.2% carbohydrate by weight, along with chlorophyll, antioxidants, fiber, and numerous minerals and vitamins. The most common claims for food & beverage products containing chlorella are ‘Natural’ (GMO-free, organic, no additives, etc.) and ‘Suitable For’ (low/no/reduced allergens, gluten-free, no animal ingredients, etc.).

Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and very demanding, especially regarding the label information on F&B products that claim to improve health. Consumers’ desire for a healthy life, high disposable incomes, and increasing health concerns drive the consumption of healthy and functional foods. As a result, consumers increasingly prefer nutritious food products as they meet their nutritional needs, prevent nutrition-related diseases, and enhance their physical and mental health. According to Food and Drink Europe, food and beverage sales in Europe reached USD 1.3 trillion (EUR 1.1 trillion) in 2021. Therefore, the demand for natural and healthy food products containing chlorella continues to grow in Europe. In July 2022, Aliga Microalgae (Denmark) launched its white chlorella algae ingredient in Europe. The product can be used in various formulations, ranging from meat & seafood analogs and hybrids to savory, bakery, and vegan dairy products. Thus, the development of innovative food & beverage products containing chlorella is driving the growth of the chlorella market.

Consumer Inclination Towards Health & Wellness Trends

Consumers are increasingly focused on living longer and healthier. Their preferences have shifted toward more natural and organic foods free from additives or preservatives. Also, well-being has become nothing short of a global movement, as consumers seek to ensure healthy lives for as long as possible, particularly as average lifespans continue to rise. Chlorella is a type of algae that packs a big nutrient punch, as it is a good source of several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Research shows that chlorella can help shuttle toxins out of the body and improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels, besides providing other health benefits. Increasing industrialization, urbanization, economic development, and globalization have driven changes in dietary habits and lifestyles, with a significant impact on populations' health and nutritional status, particularly in developing countries.

As the consumption of healthy and convenient food products continues to grow, the demand for chlorella for use in products with ‘natural’ and health claims, such as ‘GMO-free,’ ‘organic,’ and ‘no additives,’ is expected to increase significantly. Since chlorella is rich in protein and other essential nutrients, such as antioxidants, chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, changing food preferences and increasing health consciousness among consumers are expected to drive the growth of this market.

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Chlorella Market Opportunity

Growing Demand for Chlorella Extracts

Considering the nutritional benefits of chlorella, researchers are exploring the use of liquid extracts of chlorella called Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) in combating health problems. It was found that CGF is produced during intense photosynthesis, allowing chlorella to grow rapidly. CGF is a heat extract of chlorella that concentrates DNA and RNA from the nucleus. It is a more readily bioavailable and concentrated form of chlorella with the same benefits found in other chlorella products. CGF is a remarkable nutritional supplement known to promote growth, stimulate immune defenses, and accelerate healing.

Chlorella extract has several applications, including health food & drinks, the cosmetics industry, nutraceuticals, animal feed, etc. CGF is water-soluble and can heal and rejuvenate the human body, repair damaged cells and tissues, and stimulate the growth of new and healthy cells, making this organism one of the most powerful whole foods. In addition, CGF also can slow down the aging process due to its high content of nucleic acids. Thus, increased demand for chlorella extract is expected to create opportunities for stakeholders operating in the market.

Chlorella Market Restraints

High Production Cost

Algae are either produced in open-pond systems or closed ones. Bioreactors and sealed containers are in the closed category, while all other ponds, tanks, raceways, and tubs are in the open category. Closed systems initially require a higher investment. The major capital cost components include photobioreactors (PBRs), support structures, inoculums, and clean-in-place (CIP) systems. Other capital costs include systems for CO2 delivery, makeup water delivery, and algal dewatering.

In developed regions like North America and Europe, closed cultivation systems are used to produce chlorella due to unfavorable environmental conditions. A closed bioreactor system offers far more control over the algae’s growth, exposure to contaminants, and other conditions. It is easier to maintain water temperature, pH levels, and nutrient inputs with closed cultivation systems. If only indoor growing environments are available for algaculture, closed reactors are likely the best choice to control humidity levels. However, closed systems are highly expensive, require much maintenance, and are limited much more by size than open ponds. Open pond designs cost only a fraction of what it takes to build closed systems of the same volume. Building a 200-gallon bioreactor may cost as much as a 2,000-gallon pond, depending on the equipment and materials chosen for the project. This increases the production costs and, therefore, the final prices of chlorella. Closed algae cultivation systems often need hours of daily maintenance to continue operating properly. From cleaning out filters to resetting water quality sensors, closed systems are expensive to maintain. Thus, high production costs restrain the growth of this market.

Chlorella Market Analysis: Key Findings

By Cultivation Method: In 2024, the Autotrophic Cultivation Segment to Dominate the Chlorella Market

Based on cultivation method, the chlorella market is segmented into autotrophic cultivation and heterotrophic cultivation. In 2024, the autotrophic cultivation segment is expected to account for the larger share of 95.4% of the chlorella market. The large market share of this segment is mainly attributed to factors such as the easy construction & management of open ponds, the inexpensive methods used to deliver large-scale biomass production, and exposure of the culture to sunlight. Besides, chlorella production in open ponds by major chlorella-producing countries, such as Germany, Japan, China, the Czech Republic, and Taiwan, is expected to boost chlorella production.

Moreover, autotrophic cultivation is further segmented into open-pond autotrophic cultivation and closed-pond autotrophic cultivation. In 2024, the open-pond autotrophic cultivation segment is expected to account for the larger share of 82.2% of the autotrophic cultivation market, owing to the easy construction and management of open ponds, low cost for large-scale biomass production, and more exposure of the culture to sunlight than heterotrophic.

However, the heterotrophic cultivation segment is projected to witness the highest growth rate of 8.8% during the forecast period of 2024–2031 due to its higher productivity, lower risk of contamination, low water consumption, low space usage, and excellent purity of the biomass. Furthermore, its use to obtain higher cell concentrations and products that are more suitable for producing pure pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics is driving the demand for heterotrophic cultivation in the market.

By Product: In 2024, the Powder Segment to Dominate the Chlorella Market

Based on product, the chlorella market is segmented into powder, tablets, chlorella extracts, and capsules. In 2024, the powder segment is expected to account for the largest share of 69.9% of the chlorella market. The large market share of this segment is mainly attributed to its strong coloring ability, the growing number of health-conscious customers, and chlorella powder's ability to get rid of heavy metal & ash content like mercury from the body. Furthermore, the use of chlorella powder in chlorella tablets, chlorella capsules, extracts, instant noodles, dumplings, bakery, beverages, ice cream, and dietary supplements is driving its demand in the market. Also, due to the powder's free flow property, it can blend easily with any product and dissolve uniformly, making it the most preferred form of chlorella for consumption.

However, the chlorella extracts segment is projected to witness the highest growth rate of 9.1% during the forecast period of 2024–2031 due to the growing demand for chlorella from functional food and supplement manufacturers and the presence of high levels of water-based nutrients, such as essential amino acids, vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, calcium, chlorophyll, lutein, and zeaxanthin. In addition, chlorella extracts have a higher solubility and improved taste, further supporting the growth of the segment.

By Source: In 2024, the Chlorella Vulgaris Segment to Dominate the Chlorella Market

Based on source, the chlorella market is segmented into the chlorella vulgaris, chlorella pyrenoidosa or sorokiniana, and other sources. In 2024, the chlorella vulgaris segment is expected to account for the largest share of 53.3% of the chlorella market. The large market share of this segment is attributed to the growing demand for novel and naturally flavored plant-based protein-rich ingredients and growing application in the biofuel industry. Further, the various advantages over other sources, such as having high lipid productivity, devoid of seasonal changes, less water & land requirement, and greater photosynthetic efficiency, make it more sustainable. Besides, chlorella vulgaris is pegged as a healthy, natural, and sustainable superfood with immune-boosting properties, further propelling the market growth.

However, the chlorella pyrenoidosa or sorokiniana segment is projected to register the highest CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period of 2024–2031. The growth of this segment is driven by its ability to grow quickly, the higher concentration of some vitamins and amino acids, like choline, higher protein content, and provides natural detoxification for immune support.

By Application: In 2024, the Nutraceutical Segment to Witness Highest Demand During the Forecast Period

Based on application, the chlorella market is segmented into nutraceuticals, food & beverages, animal feed, cosmetics, and other applications. In 2024, the nutraceuticals segment is expected to account for the largest share of 66.5% of the chlorella market. The large market share of this segment is mainly attributed to the properties and advantages of chlorella as an ideal health product that regulates immune effects and balances the body. Also, growing curiosity among customers about ‘healthy food’ or nutrition-rich food drives chlorella's demand in the nutraceutical industry.

Moreover, this segment is projected to register the highest CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period of 2024–2031. The growth of this segment is driven by the growing curiosity among customers about ‘healthy food’ or nutrition-rich food and the properties and advantages of chlorella as an ideal health product that integrates metabolism, balances the body, and regulates immune effects. Also, extracts of chlorella have possessed diverse antitumor, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities, which have gained a good reputation from consumers and ultimately drive demand for chlorella in the nutraceutical industry.

By Distribution Channel: In 2024, the Business-to-Business (B2B) Segment to Witness Highest Demand During the Forecast Period

Based on distribution channel, the chlorella market is segmented into business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C). In 2024, the business-to-business segment is expected to account for the largest share of 68.7% of the chlorella market. The large market share of this segment is mainly attributed to the huge purchase of bulk chlorella by various manufacturers, such as nutraceuticals, food and beverages, and animal feed, among others, for further product development (finished product).

However, the business-to-consumer segment is projected to register the highest CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period of 2024–2031. The growth of this segment is mainly attributed to factors such as the opportunity to engage directly with its consumers, get a better understanding of their needs, and deliver a tailored and personalized experience.

Geographical Analysis

Based on geography, the chlorella market is majorly segmented into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. In 2024, Europe is expected to account for the largest share of 38.0% of the chlorella market, followed by North America and Asia-Pacific. Europe's chlorella market is estimated to be worth USD 158.6 million in 2024. The large share of this region is mainly attributed to the rising demand for chlorella in cosmetic and personal care items; consumers willing to pay higher prices for more natural, less processed, and environment-friendly products; and growing attraction among consumers for natural food products. Additionally, the desire for a healthy life, changing food consumption patterns in favor of functional food, high disposable income, and an increase in various chronic diseases due to the growing aging population boost the demand for chlorella in the region.

Moreover, this region is slated to register the highest CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period of 2024–2031, mainly due to the growing vegetarian population, increasing demand for vegan cosmetics products, growing consumption of natural food products, and increasing spending on health and wellness products.

Chlorella Market: Key Companies

The report offers a competitive analysis based on an extensive assessment of the leading players’ product portfolios, geographic presence, and key growth strategies adopted in the last 3–4 years. Some of the key players operating in the chlorella market are Fuqing King Dnarmsa Spirulina Co., Ltd. (China), E.I.D. - Parry (India) Limited (A Subsidiary of M/S. Ambadi Investments Limited) (India), YUNNAN GREEN A BIOLOGICAL PROJECT CO., LTD. (Yunnan Spirin Biotechnology Co. Ltd) (China), JIANGSHAN COMP SPIRULINA CO.,LTD (China), Inner Mongolia Rejuve Biotech Co., Ltd. (China), Bluetec Naturals CO., LTD. (China), Taiwan Chlorella Manufacturing Company (TCMC) (Taiwan), Sun Chlorella Corporation (Japan), Roquette Klötze GmbH & Co. KG (Germany), Gong Bih Enterprise Co., Ltd. (Taiwan), Yaeyama Shokusan Co., Ltd. (Euglena Co Ltd) (Japan), Vedan Biotechnology Corporation (Taiwan), AlgoSource (France), Tianjin Norland Biotech Co., Ltd (China), Phycom BV (Netherlands), Allmicroalgae Natural Products S.A. (Portugal), Aliga Microalgae (Denmark), TAIWAN WILSON ENTERPRISE INC. (Taiwan), DAESANG Corporation (Korea), Seagrass Tech Private Limited, Plankton Australia Pty Limited (Australia), Hangzhou Ouqi Food Co., Ltd. (China), Far East Microalgae Industries, Co., Ltd.(FEMICO) (Taiwan), Qingdao Haizhijiao Biotechnology Co., Ltd (China), Pond Technologies Inc. (Canada), Necton S.A. (Portugal), and Astaxa GmbH (Germany).

Chlorella Industry Overview: Latest Developments from Key Industry Players

• In February 2023, Sun Chlorella relaunched its Astarella, formerly known as Megami, which has three additional functional claims.
• In August 2022, Aliga acquired Duplaco B.V. (Netherlands), a microalgae production facility, including its product portfolio and material rights. This acquisition will help Aliga increase its production capacity of white chlorella ingredients.
• In June 2021, Allmicroalgae partnered with Portugal Foods (Portugal) to strengthen and promote its international, commercial, and industrial network.

Chlorella Market Research Summary

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