Global Amino Acids Market Fuelled by Growing Burden of Chronic Diseases

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins which play a vital role in almost all biological processes. They form a crucial part in both human and animal nutrition and help in performing several functions in the body. Some of these functions include improving muscle strength, controlling blood sugar level, treating rectal and tinnitus diseases, boosting immunity, and fighting cancer and arthritis. Moreover, amino acids help in healing wounds and repairing tissues, primarily in muscles, skin, hair and bones. In recent years, a heightened demand for protein supplements has been witnessed due to factors including pollution caused by burning of fossil fuels and extensive use of fertilizers which prevent the body from getting enough supply of proteins. According to the latest report by IMARC Group, the global amino acids market size was estimated to be 8.5 Million Tons in 2017. Looking forward, the market volume is anticipated to reach 11 Million Tons by 2023, registering a CAGR of 4.4% during 2018-2023.

Increasing Consumption of Sports Supplements Propelling the Demand for Amino Acids

A rise in the consumption of sports supplements, such as nutrition bars, energy drinks and low carbohydrate foods, among athletes and bodybuilders has encouraged the manufacturers to introduce more protein-rich beverages and food products. Additionally, growing demand for nutrient-rich products among the health-oriented consumers has impelled the sales of amino acids worldwide. Further, amino acid supplements help in preventing several diseases such as nervous system dysfunction, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders and eye diseases which has increased their demand across the globe. Besides this, surging obesity rates among the young generation in both the developed and developing regions are anticipated to fuel the demand for dietary supplements, in turn, stimulating the market growth. Furthermore, the addition of amino acids to livestock feed results in the reduction of animal waste releases and absorption of crude protein, thereby increasing farm output.

Glutamic Acid Accounts for the Largest Share

There are different types of amino acids available including glutamic acid, lysine, methionine and others. Among these, glutamic acid represents the most popular type of amino acid, holding the majority of the total market share. It is largely employed as a protein source in health supplements, and as a flavour enhancer and pH regulator in processed foods. Further, lysine is utilised for preventing and treating cold sores, whereas methionine is majorly used in dietary supplements and animal feed for poultry and livestock.

Plant-Based Amino Acids: Most Popular Raw Material

Amino acids are generally derived from two sources, that is, plants and animals. Plant-based amino acids, which are obtained from nuts, seeds, whole grains and legumes, account for the majority of the global market share. Owing to the increasing shift towards sustainable or organic products, plant-based raw materials including corn, soybean and wheat are being preferred. In addition, the demand for these amino acids is witnessing a surge in a wide array of industries including food and beverage, infant formula, nutraceutical and healthcare due to an inclination towards naturally derived ingredients among the consumers. On the other hand, animal-based amino acids are extracted from meat, seafood, poultry, eggs and dairy products. They are easily absorbed in comparison to plant-based amino acids, owing to their similarity with the amino acids present in the human body.

Major End-Use Segments

· Animal Feed Industry

Protein-rich animal feed is witnessing a healthy demand across the globe owing to its ability to regulate metabolism in livestock and supplement the protein requirement of animals like cattle, broiler and pigs. As a result, the animal feed industry represents the leading end-use segment of amino acids, accounting for the majority of the total market share.

· Food Industry

Amino acids are majorly used in the food industry as a flavour enhancer in processed food applications including ready-to-consume snacks, soups, meals, etc. Apart from this, due to their antioxidant properties, amino acids are utilised for preserving fruit juices and are employed as low-calorie artificial sweeteners in soft drinks.

· Healthcare Industry

In the healthcare industry, amino acids are used in the prevention and treatment of a variety of illnesses ranging from different forms of cancers to HIV and hepatic failure. Besides this, they are considered vital for the production of proteins and antibodies as well as utilised for nutrition improvement in renal failure patients.

Asia Pacific Enjoys the Leading Position

According to the amino acids market report, Asia Pacific represents the largest region, holding the majority of the total share. This can be accredited to the increasing consumption of protein-rich foods on account of mounting income levels of the consumers, especially in China and India. Apart from Asia Pacific, some of the other regions include Europe, North America, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. Further, based on import and export data, the United States represents the leading importer and China is the largest exporter of amino acids.

The global amino acids market is fragmented in nature with the presence of a large number of both small and large manufacturers. Some of the key players operating in the market include Ajinomoto, Cargill, Amino, CJ CheilJedang and Archer Daniels Midland.

About IMARC Group: IMARC Group is a leading market research and consulting company that offers management strategy and market research worldwide. The company has done multiple projects on the amino acid industry, which has enabled the clients to successfully set up and expand their businesses. Some of the company’s offerings include:

• Market Research
• Plant setup
• Plant Expansion
• Marketing and sales
• Procurement and Distribution
• Innovation and Product Development