Chitosan Market

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Chitosan Market is accounted for $15.89 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $53.20 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 22.3% during the forecast period. Chitosan is a natural biopolymer derived from chitin, which is found in the shells of crustaceans like shrimp and crabs. It is a white, odourless, and biodegradable substance commonly used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and cosmetics. Chitosan is valued for its ability to act as a fat binder, antimicrobial agent, and natural preservative. Due to its biocompatibility, it is widely used in medical applications, such as wound healing and drug delivery systems.

According to The National Fisheries Development Board, in India, total fish production during 2020 was estimated to be 12.60 million metric tons, of which nearly 65% was from the inland sector and about 50% of the total production was from culture fisheries, constituting about 6.3% of the global fish production.

Market Dynamics: 

Driver: 

Increasing use in food and beverage industry

Chitosan is valued for its natural preservative properties, helping extend shelf life and maintain food freshness without the need for synthetic chemicals. Additionally, it serves as a fat substitute in low-calorie, fat-free food items, satisfying the increased demand from consumers for healthier options. Furthermore, chitosan has been used into functional foods and nutritional supplements due to its capacity to bind fats and aid in weight management. The use of chitosan in food packaging and formulations is developing dramatically due to consumer preferences for natural, sustainable ingredients and the increased emphasis on health and wellness.

Restraint:

High production costs

The extraction of chitosan from crustacean shells requires a complex process involving demineralization, deacetylation, and purification, which increases production expenses. Additionally, the need for specialized equipment and technology to ensure quality and consistency adds to the cost. The reliance on raw materials, such as shrimp and crab shells, can also create supply chain challenges, further driving up prices. These high production costs make chitosan products more expensive compared to synthetic alternatives, limiting its market penetration in cost-sensitive applications, particularly in industries like food, packaging, and pharmaceuticals.

Opportunity:

Rising applications in pharmaceuticals

Chitosan is increasingly used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxic nature. It plays a crucial role in drug delivery systems, particularly in controlled-release formulations, helping to improve the bioavailability of drugs. Additionally, chitosan is utilized in wound healing products, as it accelerates tissue regeneration and has antimicrobial properties. Its ability to bind fat and lower cholesterol also makes it a key ingredient in weight management supplements. As the demand for natural, effective, and sustainable solutions in pharmaceuticals rises, chitosan's versatility is expanding its applications in this sector.

Threat:

Lack of consumer awareness

Lack of customer knowledge on the uses and advantages of chitosan is a major obstacle in the industry. Despite chitosan's extensive use in sectors like food, medicine, and agriculture, many consumers are not aware of its potential health advantages, which include lowering cholesterol, helping people lose weight, and acting as a natural preservative. Its adoption is restricted by this ignorance, especially in developing nations where consumers might not be aware of its applications in functional foods or nutritional supplements. To increase its market presence and stimulate growth, chitosan must educate customers about its benefits, including its environmental advantages and its adaptability in a variety of applications.

Covid-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the chitosan market. On one hand, the disruption in global supply chains affected the availability of raw materials, leading to delays in production and higher costs. On the other hand, the increased focus on health and wellness during the pandemic boosted the demand for natural ingredients like chitosan, particularly in dietary supplements and immune-boosting products. Additionally, the growing use of chitosan in health-related applications, such as wound healing and drug delivery, saw an uptick due to its antimicrobial properties. Overall, the pandemic highlighted the importance of sustainable, natural solutions, benefiting the market in the long term.

The food grade segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The food grade segment is estimated to be the largest, driven by its natural, safe, and versatile properties. As consumers become more health-conscious, food-grade chitosan is increasingly used as a fat replacer, preservative, and dietary supplement, especially in weight loss products. Its ability to bind fats and reduce cholesterol levels further boosts its popularity in functional foods. Additionally, the rising preference for natural and sustainable ingredients in food processing supports the growing adoption of food-grade chitosan across the global food industry.

The agriculture segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The agriculture segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period, due to its natural biopesticide, plant growth-promoting and soil-enhancing properties. Chitosan is used to protect crops from fungal diseases, improve crop yield, and stimulate plant growth, making it an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. As sustainable farming practices gain momentum and environmental regulations tighten, chitosan’s role in organic farming and pest management becomes increasingly important. Its biodegradability and safety make it a preferred option for eco-conscious farmers, driving its adoption in the agricultural sector.

Region with largest share:

Asia Pacific is expected to have the largest market share during the forecast period due to growing demand for natural and sustainable products in food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. The region’s large seafood industry provides a steady supply of chitin, a key raw material for chitosan production. Increasing awareness of health benefits, such as weight management and cholesterol reduction, also fuels market growth. Additionally, the rising focus on eco-friendly and organic farming practices, along with government regulations supporting sustainable agricultural inputs, drives the adoption of chitosan in the region.

Region with highest CAGR:

During the forecast period, the North America region is anticipated to register the highest CAGR. Chitosan is widely used in weight management supplements, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals due to its cholesterol-lowering and fat-binding properties. Furthermore, the increasing focus on environmental sustainability and the transition to eco-friendly packaging and farming methods is driving greater adoption of chitosan. The North American market also benefits from robust research and development activities, contributing to innovative chitosan applications in various industries, including food processing and biomedicine.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players profiled in the Chitosan Market include KitoZyme SA, Chitosan International, GTC Bio Corporation, Advanced Biopolymers, Primex EHF, Shanghai Jinchang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Green Chem, Heppe Medical Chitosan GmbH, Wako Chemicals USA, Inc., Merit Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Agratech, Taizhou Fuguo Biological Technology Co., Ltd., Tidal Vision, FMC Corporation, Nytt Biotech, Kraton Polymers, PT Biotech Surindo, ChitoTech, Jiangsu Nanjing G & D Pharmaceutical Co., and Shandong Jincheng Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

Key Developments:

In June 2024, KitoZyme has partnered with DPH Biologicals, a Belgium-based manufacturer of pharmaceutical-grade fungal chitosan, to develop and commercialize the first sustainably-sourced chitosan seed treatment technology for U.S. growers. 

In March 2022, MERIT CRO, Inc., a global clinical trial endpoint service provider focusing on the ophthalmic, respiratory, and oncology therapeutic areas, today announced the launch of its redesigned website.

Sources Covered:
• Crustaceans
• Shrimp
• Crab
• Krill
• Prawn
• Squid
• Lobster
• Fungi

Forms Covered:
• Powder
• Flakes
• Liquid

Grades Covered:
• Food Grade
• Industrial Grade
• Pharmaceutical Grade

Applications Covered:
• Pharmaceuticals
• Food and Beverages
• Agriculture
• Cosmetics and Personal Care
• Water Treatment
• Biomedical 
• Other Applications

Regions Covered:
• North America
o US
o Canada
o Mexico
• Europe
o Germany
o UK
o Italy
o France
o Spain
o Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
o Japan        
o China        
o India        
o Australia  
o New Zealand
o South Korea
o Rest of Asia Pacific    
• South America
o Argentina
o Brazil
o Chile
o Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa 
o Saudi Arabia
o UAE
o Qatar
o South Africa
o Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings: 
All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:
• Company Profiling
o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Chitosan Market is accounted for $15.89 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $53.20 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 22.3% during the forecast period. Chitosan is a natural biopolymer derived from chitin, which is found in the shells of crustaceans like shrimp and crabs. It is a white, odourless, and biodegradable substance commonly used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and cosmetics. Chitosan is valued for its ability to act as a fat binder, antimicrobial agent, and natural preservative. Due to its biocompatibility, it is widely used in medical applications, such as wound healing and drug delivery systems.

According to The National Fisheries Development Board, in India, total fish production during 2020 was estimated to be 12.60 million metric tons, of which nearly 65% was from the inland sector and about 50% of the total production was from culture fisheries, constituting about 6.3% of the global fish production.

Market Dynamics: 

Driver: 

Increasing use in food and beverage industry

Chitosan is valued for its natural preservative properties, helping extend shelf life and maintain food freshness without the need for synthetic chemicals. Additionally, it serves as a fat substitute in low-calorie, fat-free food items, satisfying the increased demand from consumers for healthier options. Furthermore, chitosan has been used into functional foods and nutritional supplements due to its capacity to bind fats and aid in weight management. The use of chitosan in food packaging and formulations is developing dramatically due to consumer preferences for natural, sustainable ingredients and the increased emphasis on health and wellness.

Restraint:

High production costs

The extraction of chitosan from crustacean shells requires a complex process involving demineralization, deacetylation, and purification, which increases production expenses. Additionally, the need for specialized equipment and technology to ensure quality and consistency adds to the cost. The reliance on raw materials, such as shrimp and crab shells, can also create supply chain challenges, further driving up prices. These high production costs make chitosan products more expensive compared to synthetic alternatives, limiting its market penetration in cost-sensitive applications, particularly in industries like food, packaging, and pharmaceuticals.

Opportunity:

Rising applications in pharmaceuticals

Chitosan is increasingly used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxic nature. It plays a crucial role in drug delivery systems, particularly in controlled-release formulations, helping to improve the bioavailability of drugs. Additionally, chitosan is utilized in wound healing products, as it accelerates tissue regeneration and has antimicrobial properties. Its ability to bind fat and lower cholesterol also makes it a key ingredient in weight management supplements. As the demand for natural, effective, and sustainable solutions in pharmaceuticals rises, chitosan's versatility is expanding its applications in this sector.

Threat:

Lack of consumer awareness

Lack of customer knowledge on the uses and advantages of chitosan is a major obstacle in the industry. Despite chitosan's extensive use in sectors like food, medicine, and agriculture, many consumers are not aware of its potential health advantages, which include lowering cholesterol, helping people lose weight, and acting as a natural preservative. Its adoption is restricted by this ignorance, especially in developing nations where consumers might not be aware of its applications in functional foods or nutritional supplements. To increase its market presence and stimulate growth, chitosan must educate customers about its benefits, including its environmental advantages and its adaptability in a variety of applications.

Covid-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the chitosan market. On one hand, the disruption in global supply chains affected the availability of raw materials, leading to delays in production and higher costs. On the other hand, the increased focus on health and wellness during the pandemic boosted the demand for natural ingredients like chitosan, particularly in dietary supplements and immune-boosting products. Additionally, the growing use of chitosan in health-related applications, such as wound healing and drug delivery, saw an uptick due to its antimicrobial properties. Overall, the pandemic highlighted the importance of sustainable, natural solutions, benefiting the market in the long term.

The food grade segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The food grade segment is estimated to be the largest, driven by its natural, safe, and versatile properties. As consumers become more health-conscious, food-grade chitosan is increasingly used as a fat replacer, preservative, and dietary supplement, especially in weight loss products. Its ability to bind fats and reduce cholesterol levels further boosts its popularity in functional foods. Additionally, the rising preference for natural and sustainable ingredients in food processing supports the growing adoption of food-grade chitosan across the global food industry.

The agriculture segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The agriculture segment is anticipated to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period, due to its natural biopesticide, plant growth-promoting and soil-enhancing properties. Chitosan is used to protect crops from fungal diseases, improve crop yield, and stimulate plant growth, making it an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. As sustainable farming practices gain momentum and environmental regulations tighten, chitosan’s role in organic farming and pest management becomes increasingly important. Its biodegradability and safety make it a preferred option for eco-conscious farmers, driving its adoption in the agricultural sector.

Region with largest share:

Asia Pacific is expected to have the largest market share during the forecast period due to growing demand for natural and sustainable products in food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. The region’s large seafood industry provides a steady supply of chitin, a key raw material for chitosan production. Increasing awareness of health benefits, such as weight management and cholesterol reduction, also fuels market growth. Additionally, the rising focus on eco-friendly and organic farming practices, along with government regulations supporting sustainable agricultural inputs, drives the adoption of chitosan in the region.

Region with highest CAGR:

During the forecast period, the North America region is anticipated to register the highest CAGR. Chitosan is widely used in weight management supplements, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals due to its cholesterol-lowering and fat-binding properties. Furthermore, the increasing focus on environmental sustainability and the transition to eco-friendly packaging and farming methods is driving greater adoption of chitosan. The North American market also benefits from robust research and development activities, contributing to innovative chitosan applications in various industries, including food processing and biomedicine.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players profiled in the Chitosan Market include KitoZyme SA, Chitosan International, GTC Bio Corporation, Advanced Biopolymers, Primex EHF, Shanghai Jinchang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Green Chem, Heppe Medical Chitosan GmbH, Wako Chemicals USA, Inc., Merit Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Agratech, Taizhou Fuguo Biological Technology Co., Ltd., Tidal Vision, FMC Corporation, Nytt Biotech, Kraton Polymers, PT Biotech Surindo, ChitoTech, Jiangsu Nanjing G & D Pharmaceutical Co., and Shandong Jincheng Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

Key Developments:

In June 2024, KitoZyme has partnered with DPH Biologicals, a Belgium-based manufacturer of pharmaceutical-grade fungal chitosan, to develop and commercialize the first sustainably-sourced chitosan seed treatment technology for U.S. growers. 

In March 2022, MERIT CRO, Inc., a global clinical trial endpoint service provider focusing on the ophthalmic, respiratory, and oncology therapeutic areas, today announced the launch of its redesigned website.

Sources Covered:
• Crustaceans
• Shrimp
• Crab
• Krill
• Prawn
• Squid
• Lobster
• Fungi

Forms Covered:
• Powder
• Flakes
• Liquid

Grades Covered:
• Food Grade
• Industrial Grade
• Pharmaceutical Grade

Applications Covered:
• Pharmaceuticals
• Food and Beverages
• Agriculture
• Cosmetics and Personal Care
• Water Treatment
• Biomedical 
• Other Applications

Regions Covered:
• North America
o US
o Canada
o Mexico
• Europe
o Germany
o UK
o Italy
o France
o Spain
o Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
o Japan        
o China        
o India        
o Australia  
o New Zealand
o South Korea
o Rest of Asia Pacific    
• South America
o Argentina
o Brazil
o Chile
o Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa 
o Saudi Arabia
o UAE
o Qatar
o South Africa
o Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2022, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings: 
All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:
• Company Profiling
o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances