Gelatin Market Size, Share, Forecast, & Trends Analysis by Type (Type A, Type B), Source (Animal, Plant), Function (Stabilizers, Gelling Agents), Application (Food & Beverages, Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals)—Global Forecast to 2031

Gelatin Market Size & Forecast

The Gelatin Market is projected to reach $7.46 Billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 7% during the forecast period 2024–2031. The growth of this market can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing application of gelatin in the pharmaceutical industry, growing demand for functional and convenience food and beverage products, rising demand for clean-label products, and athletes aiding the consumption of gelatin-based products. However, safety concerns and the limited acceptance due to cultural restrictions are restraining the growth of this market.

Moreover, the use of gelatin in fortified confectionery & sports nutrition products is expected to generate significant growth opportunities for the stakeholders in the gelatin market. On the other hand, insufficient technologies to extract and process gelatin pose a major challenge to market growth. The latest trends in the gelatin market are rising focus on health and wellness and the use of gelatin in medical and biomedical applications.

Gelatin Market Growth Drivers

Increasing Application of Gelatin in the Pharmaceutical Industry Driving Market Growth

Gelatin is being highly used in the pharmaceutical industry as a versatile polymer due to its key functional properties, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, low cost, and availability of exposed chemical groups. In the pharmaceutical industry, gelatin is used for encapsulating medications, vitamins, and other active ingredients. Gelatin serves as an excellent excipient in pharmaceutical formulations, aiding in the encapsulation and controlled release of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Gelatin has a variety of applications in the production of capsules, soft gels, and tablets, where it offers stability, bioavailability, and biocompatibility, thereby ensuring the efficacy and safety of pharmaceutical products. This increased adoption of gelatin in the pharmaceutical sector has spurred the growth of the gelatin market as pharmaceutical companies seek high-quality, reliable ingredients for their drug formulations.

Furthermore, with continuous research and innovation, gelatin-based delivery systems are being optimized to improve drug solubility, release kinetics, and targeted delivery, catering to the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical market. As pharmaceutical companies increasingly recognize the benefits offered by gelatin in enhancing drug efficacy and patient compliance, the demand for this versatile ingredient is expected to soar, driving significant growth in the gelatin market in the coming years.

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Rising Demand for Clean Label Products Boosts Market Growth

Consumers are increasingly conscious of the ingredients in their food, beverages, and personal care products, seeking transparency and simplicity. Gelatin, derived from natural animal collagen, aligns perfectly with this trend. Its reputation as a clean, natural ingredient without synthetic additives appeals to health-conscious consumers. As a result, manufacturers are leveraging gelatin's clean label status to meet consumer demands, reformulating products to include gelatin and promoting its natural origins on their packaging.

This shift toward clean-label products is not just confined to the food and beverage industry but extends to pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals as well. Gelatin's natural composition and multifunctional properties make it an ideal ingredient for capsules, gummies, and health supplements, which are increasingly marketed as clean-label options. The global move towards healthier and more transparent consumption habits created a robust demand for gelatin, encouraging its adoption across various industries. Thus, the rising demand for clean-label products supports the growth of the gelatin market.

Gelatin Market Trends

Rising Focus on Health and Wellness

Gelatin, known for its rich protein content and unique amino acid profile, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, including improved joint health, skin elasticity, and digestive support. This has led to a surge in demand for gelatin in health supplements, functional foods and beverages designed to enhance overall well-being. Companies are capitalizing on this trend by developing innovative gelatin-based products that cater to specific health needs, such as collagen supplements aimed at promoting youthful skin and strong joints.

Moreover, the wellness trend extends to the beauty and personal care industry, where gelatin is used for its anti-aging and skin-rejuvenating properties. Products such as beauty gummies and skincare supplements are becoming increasingly popular, tapping into the consumer desire for convenient and effective health solutions. The versatility of gelatin, combined with its natural origin, makes it an attractive ingredient for health and wellness-focused products. As more consumers prioritize their health and seek out natural, functional ingredients, the demand for gelatin is expected to continue its upward trajectory, driving growth and innovation in the market. This trend highlights the importance of gelatin as a multifunctional ingredient that meets the evolving needs of health-conscious consumers globally.

Use of Gelatin in Medical and Biomedical Applications

Gelatin is increasingly utilized in various medical fields, including drug delivery systems, wound care, and tissue engineering. Its ability to form hydrogels makes it an excellent medium for controlled drug release, enhancing the efficacy and targeting of therapeutic agents. Additionally, gelatin-based materials are widely used in wound dressings and regenerative medicine, where they support cell growth and tissue regeneration.

The biomedical research community is exploring the potential of gelatin in the development of novel medical devices and bioprinting technologies. Gelatin's compatibility with biological tissues and its capacity to mimic the extracellular matrix make it a valuable material for 3D bioprinting, which is revolutionizing the creation of complex tissue structures and organs. This application is significant in regenerative medicine and personalized healthcare, where there is a demand for customized implants and tissue scaffolds. The expanding use of gelatin in these cutting-edge medical and biomedical applications is not only driving market growth but also paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in healthcare, solidifying gelatin's position as a vital component in the future of medical science.

Gelatin Market Opportunity

Use of Gelatin in Fortified Confectionery & Sports Nutrition Products Generating Growth Opportunities for Market Players

The incorporation of gelatin in fortified confectionery & sports nutrition products is generating significant growth opportunities in the gelatin market. Gelatin's unique gelling properties, high protein content, and ability to enhance texture make it an ideal ingredient for fortified candies and gummies enriched with vitamins and minerals, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking both indulgence and nutritional benefits.

In the sports nutrition sector, gelatin-based products, such as protein bars, recovery drinks, and collagen supplements, are gaining popularity among athletes and fitness enthusiasts for their potential benefits in muscle recovery and joint health. This dual application in both fortified confectionery & sports nutrition not only aligns with current health trends but also drives innovation and demand, solidifying gelatin's position as a versatile and valuable ingredient in the global market.

Gelatin Market Analysis: Key Findings

By Type: In 2024, the Type A Segment to Dominate the Gelatin Market

Based on type, the gelatin market is segmented into type A and type B. In 2024, the type A segment is expected to account for the larger share of above 54.5% of the gelatin market. The large market share of this segment can be attributed to its wider usage in the food & beverage industry and the high nutritional composition of type A gelatin. In the food industry, type A gelatin improves the texture and mouthfeel of the products. It also provides a smooth and creamy texture to desserts, confectionery items, dairy products, and meat products. These factors contribute to the high adoption of type A gelatin.

Moreover, it is also projected to witness the highest growth rate of 7.4% during the forecast period of 2024–2031.

By Source: In 2024, the Animal Segment to Dominate the Gelatin Market

Based on source, the gelatin market is segmented into animal and plant. In 2024, the animal segment is expected to account for the larger share of above 91.2% of the gelatin market. The large market share of this segment can be attributed to the increasing usage of animal-sourced gelatin in various food & beverage applications and its abundant availability and low cost. Moreover, the rising demand for dietary supplements globally on account of the shifting inclination of consumers toward a healthy and protein-rich diet is expected to further increase the adoption of animal-sourced gelatin.

However, the plant segment is projected to witness the highest growth rate of above 7.6% during the forecast period of 2024–2031. This segment's high growth is mainly due to the increasing prevalence of vegan culture around the world, rising health consciousness, and growing environmental and ethical concerns.

By Function: Thickeners Segment to Witness Highest Demand During the Forecast Period

Based on function, the gelatin market is segmented into stabilizers, thickeners, gelling agents, and other functions. In 2024, the stabilizers segment is expected to account for the largest share of above 40.6% of the gelatin market. The large market share of this segment can be attributed to the need for improved texture, consistency, and shelf life of food & beverage products. As consumers increasingly seek high-quality products with superior sensory attributes, manufacturers are incorporating stabilizers to enhance the stability and performance of gelatin-based formulations. Stabilizers help maintain the desired viscosity, prevent phase separation, and improve the overall mouthfeel of products such as dairy items, desserts, and confectioneries.

However, the thickeners segment is projected to witness the highest growth rate of above 7.8% during the forecast period of 2024–2031. This growth is driven by thickeners’ ability to improve a liquid's viscosity without changing its inherent characteristics. The demand for thickeners is anticipated to rise as the food sector expands in the Asia-Pacific region as a result of rising population and per capita income levels in countries like China and India.

By Application: In 2024, the Food & Beverages Segment to Dominate the Gelatin Market

Based on application, the gelatin market is segmented into food & beverages, personal care, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and other applications. In 2024, the food & beverages segment is expected to account for the largest share of above 51.3% of the gelatin market. The large market share of this segment can be attributed to vast applications of gelatin across the food & beverages industry due to its unique gelling and surface behavior properties. These properties are crucial for achieving the desired texture, consistency, and quality in various food products.

However, the nutraceuticals segment is projected to witness the highest growth rate of above 8.2% during the forecast period of 2024–2031. This segment's high growth is mainly attributed to the growing focus on health and wellness, rising demand for nutraceutical products, and growing popularity of natural and functional ingredients.

Geographical Analysis

By Geography: In 2024, Europe to Dominate the Gelatin Market

In 2024, Europe is expected to account for the largest share of above 39.2% of the gelatin market, followed by North America, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Europe’s significant market share can be attributed to several key factors, including the growing health and wellness concern, rising aging population, and the increasing gelatin demand from end-use industries, such as food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, among others. Moreover, the high demand for convenience food products in the region also surges the demand for gelatin, as it is largely being used in convenience food products.

However, Asia-Pacific is slated to register the highest growth rate of above 8.5% during the forecast period. The high growth of this regional market is driven by the increasing number of food manufacturers and the prevailing food processing industry, particularly in China and India, rapid population growth, increasing incidences of chronic diseases, rising awareness of nutrition and personal well-being, steady pace of industrialization, high spending on personal care products, and abundant availability of raw material for gelatin manufacturing.

Gelatin 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 gelatin market are Rousselot (A Part of Darling Ingredients Inc.) (Netherlands), Weishardt (France), GELITA AG (Germany), Nitta Gelatin Inc. (Japan), ITALGEL S.p.A. (Italy), Lapi Gelatine S.p.a. (Italy), Tessenderlo Group NV (Belgium), Trobas Gelatine B.V. (Netherlands), Ewald-Gelatine GmbH (Germany), Juncà Gelatines SL (Spain), Gelnex (Brazil), Shanghai Al-amin Biotech Co, Ltd (China), India Gelatin & Chemicals Ltd. (India), C.J. Gelatine Products Limited (India), and Luohe Wulong Gelatin Co. Ltd. (China).

Gelatin Industry Overview: Latest Developments from Key Industry Players

• In April 2023, GELITA launched a fast-setting gelatin that can be used to produce fortified gummies.
• In December 2022, Rousselot, the health brand of Darling Ingredients, received a U.S. patent (No. 11,490,634) from the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office, protecting its intellectual property for SiMoGel, a gelatin technology that eliminates the need for starch-based gummy production.
• In November 2022, PB Leiner (Belgium), a subsidiary of the Tessenderlo Group, launched TEXTURA Tempo Ready. It is 100% pure gelatin that requires much less handling (no high sheer required, a very broad temperature range, no reagents needed, etc.) and saves producers and home consumers alike up to 50% of their time.
• In May 2022, Rousselot, the health brand of Darling Ingredients, launched Quali-Pure HGP 2000, a new endotoxin-controlled, pharmaceutical-grade gelatin specifically designed for vaccines and wound healing applications.

Gelatin Market Research Summary

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