Delray Beach, FL, Aug. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — According to MarketsandMarkets™, The report beta-glucan market size is projected to grow from $542 million in 2024 to $800 million by 2029, at a CAGR of 8.1%. This growth is being driven by the rising demand for natural food additives, the increasing use of beta-glucan in pharmaceuticals, and its emerging role in cosmetics and sustainable packaging solutions.
Beta-Glucan: A Versatile Industrial Ingredient
Known for its health benefits—boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and lowering cholesterol—beta-glucan is now gaining traction beyond traditional food and supplement applications. Industries are exploring innovative uses, such as eco-friendly alternatives in food packaging.
For instance, research published in the Journal of Applied Polymer Science (2020) demonstrated that beta-glucan-based films have promising mechanical strength, making them suitable as edible coatings for fresh produce to extend shelf life. Additionally, the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre has investigated using beta-glucan as a coating for paper-based packaging to improve water resistance and durability. Companies like Biopack have already introduced beta-glucan-based coatings, combining functionality with sustainability goals.
North America Leads the Market
The North American beta-glucan industry is expected to capture the largest share due to its extensive application across health-focused products. Key players in the region include Merck (US) and Lesaffre (US). Technological advancements have expanded beta-glucan’s applications in food and beverages, where it functions as a thickening agent, fat substitute, dietary fiber, and hypocholesterolemic agent.
Consumer trends toward low-calorie and low-fat foods, driven by rising obesity and cardiovascular concerns, are fueling demand for natural, health-promoting ingredients. Data from the CDC and the National Health and Nutrition Examination …