Blood Meal Market – Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity and Forecast, Segmented By Application (Animal Feed, Agriculture, Others), By Source (Porcine Blood, Poultry Blood, Ruminant Blood), By Region and Competition, 2019-2029F

Market Overview

Global Blood Meal Market was valued at USD 2.19 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to project steady growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 3.52% through 2029. The global blood meal market is a significant segment within the broader animal nutrition and feed ingredient industry. It involves the production and trade of blood meal, a valuable byproduct derived from the blood of slaughtered animals. Blood meal is known for its high protein content and essential nutrient profile, making it a sought-after ingredient for various applications, primarily in animal and pet food production.

The global blood meal market is a dynamic and growing segment of the animal nutrition industry. Its key drivers include increasing demand for animal feed and the expansion of the pet food industry, while challenges and future trends are shaping its trajectory. This market plays a pivotal role in providing nutritious and sustainable solutions for animal and pet nutrition.

Key Market Drivers

Increasing Demand for Animal Feed

The increasing demand for animal feed is a crucial market driver for the growth of the global blood meal market. The world's population is steadily growing, particularly in emerging economies. As more people enter the middle class, their demand for animal protein, such as meat, eggs, and dairy products, is increasing. This phenomenon has a direct impact on the livestock and poultry industries, which require high-quality animal feed to meet the nutritional needs of animals raised for food production.

Protein is a fundamental nutrient required for the growth and well-being of animals. Blood meal, derived from the blood of slaughtered animals, is exceptionally rich in protein, containing approximately 80-85% protein content. This makes it an ideal ingredient for formulating animal feeds, as it provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle development, milk production (in dairy cattle), and egg laying (in poultry). Blood meal is not only rich in protein but also highly digestible. This means that animals can efficiently absorb and utilize the nutrients it contains. In comparison to some other protein sources, blood meal has a high biological value, which contributes to better growth rates and feed conversion efficiency. The demand for more efficient and cost-effective animal farming practices is pushing the need for superior-quality feeds, making blood meal a sought-after component.

As concerns about the use of synthetic additives, including antibiotics and growth hormones, in animal feed continue to grow, there is a shift towards more natural and sustainable nutrition solutions. Blood meal aligns with this trend as it is a natural byproduct of the meat processing industry, making it a suitable source of essential nutrients without the need for synthetic additives. This trend is especially important in markets with stricter regulations on antibiotic and chemical use in animal farming. The well-being of animals has become a prominent concern for both consumers and producers. Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining animal health and preventing diseases. Blood meal, with its high protein content and essential amino acids, supports the health and vitality of animals, which, in turn, reduces the need for disease control measures. This is particularly relevant in the poultry and swine industries, where blood meal can enhance the immune system and overall health of the animals.

Rising Awareness of Nutritional Benefits

The rising awareness of the nutritional benefits of blood meal is a significant market driver contributing to the growth of the global blood meal market. The awareness of the crucial role of nutrition in animal health and productivity has been steadily increasing. Both livestock and pet owners are becoming more conscious of the importance of providing animals with balanced and high-quality diets. Blood meal, as a protein-rich and nutrient-dense feed ingredient, is gaining recognition for its ability to meet the nutritional needs of various animals.

Blood meal is renowned for its high protein content, typically ranging from 80% to 85%. This protein is of exceptional quality, as it contains all essential amino acids in the right proportions required for optimal growth and development in animals. This completeness and balance of amino acids make blood meal an attractive option for formulating animal feeds. Animals need protein not only for growth but also for maintaining overall health. Blood meal, as a rich source of protein, contributes to improved feed conversion ratios, faster growth rates, and enhanced muscle development in livestock and poultry. Additionally, it aids in the production of high-quality meat, milk, and eggs. Livestock and poultry raised on diets incorporating blood meal often exhibit better health and reduced susceptibility to diseases, which further underscores its nutritional benefits.

The rising awareness of the potential health risks associated with the use of synthetic additives in animal feed, such as antibiotics and growth hormones, has led to a shift towards more natural and sustainable nutrition solutions. Blood meal aligns with this trend as a natural and minimally processed byproduct of the meat industry, reducing the need for synthetic additives to achieve desired nutritional outcomes. This appeal to the eco-conscious and health-conscious consumer contributes to the demand for blood meal. The increasing popularity of organic and natural food products extends to animal agriculture. Animal feed labeled as "organic" or "natural" often incorporates ingredients like blood meal to assure consumers of the product's high nutritional quality and purity. This labeling and marketing strategy resonate with consumers seeking healthier and more sustainable options for their animals.

Expansion of the Pet Food Industry

The expansion of the pet food industry is a noteworthy market driver contributing to the growth of the global blood meal market. Pet ownership is on the rise globally, driven by changing lifestyles and demographics. As more people choose to keep pets, their emotional attachment to these animals has increased. This humanization of pets has led to a heightened focus on their well-being, including their nutrition. Pet owners are increasingly inclined to provide the best possible diets for their furry companions.

In response to the growing demand for high-quality pet food, the pet food industry has seen a shift towards premium and specialized products. Pet owners are willing to invest in premium diets that cater to the specific dietary needs of their pets. Blood meal, with its rich protein content and nutrient profile, is being incorporated into premium pet food formulations as a valuable ingredient to enhance the nutritional quality of these products. Blood meal is known for its nutrient density, containing essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are not only beneficial for pet health but also enhance the palatability of pet foods. Palatability is crucial in pet food, as it affects consumption and, consequently, the intake of essential nutrients. The inclusion of blood meal helps meet these nutritional and palatability requirements.

The pet food market includes various categories, such as dog food, cat food, and specialized diets for specific pet needs (e.g., senior pets, puppies, and pets with allergies or sensitivities). Blood meal can be incorporated into formulations for these different categories, making it a versatile ingredient in the pet food industry. Dogs and cats have specific dietary requirements, including high protein content and amino acid balance. Blood meal, as a rich source of protein with a complete amino acid profile, aligns well with these requirements. It helps in meeting the dietary needs of both carnivorous and omnivorous pets, making it a valuable ingredient in pet food formulations.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices

"Sustainable and eco-friendly practices" is a pivotal market driver for the growth of the global blood meal market. This driver is closely linked to the broader shift towards environmentally responsible and ethical business practices. Sustainable practices in the food and agriculture industry emphasize minimizing waste. Blood meal is derived from the blood of slaughtered animals, which would otherwise be treated as a waste product. The utilization of blood as a valuable byproduct demonstrates a commitment to reducing waste and efficiently using all parts of an animal in the meat production process.

Reducing the carbon footprint of the meat production chain is a key element of sustainability. Blood meal's use as an eco-friendly ingredient aligns with this objective. By repurposing blood into a useful product like animal feed, it helps to minimize the environmental impact associated with waste disposal and the production of synthetic additives that could be used in feed formulations. The traceability of ingredients in animal feed and pet food is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability. The use of blood meal, a byproduct of the meat industry, provides a transparent and traceable source of nutrients. Consumers and businesses seeking sustainability and eco-friendliness value this source attribution in their products.

As part of sustainable and eco-friendly practices, there is a growing push to reduce the use of synthetic additives in animal feed. Blood meal's natural composition and nutritional richness help reduce reliance on synthetic additives, such as antibiotics and growth promoters. This reduction aligns with eco-conscious and health-conscious consumer preferences. Sustainability extends to animal welfare, and the use of high-quality feed ingredients like blood meal is seen as a way to support ethical and humane animal agriculture practices. By providing animals with a balanced and nutritious diet, it contributes to their well-being, reducing the need for interventions and promoting ethical treatment.

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Key Market Challenges

Regulatory and Safety Concerns

Regulatory challenges can significantly impede the growth of the global blood meal market. Blood meal is derived from the blood of slaughtered animals, and ensuring its safety and compliance with various health and safety regulations is critical.

Ensuring that blood meal is free from contaminants and zoonotic diseases (diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans) is a priority. Regulatory bodies have strict standards for the production and handling of animal byproducts to mitigate potential health risks. Meeting regulatory requirements often involves extensive testing and certification processes, which can be time-consuming and costly for producers. Failure to meet these standards can result in product recalls and market disruptions. Regulations governing the use of animal byproducts in feed can vary from one region to another and may change over time. Keeping up with evolving regulations can pose a challenge for manufacturers and exporters.

Environmental and Ethical Concerns

Environmental and ethical considerations can also pose challenges to the growth of the blood meal market. As consumers and businesses become more ecologically and ethically conscious.

While blood meal utilization can be seen as a sustainable practice, concerns may arise over the environmental impact of large-scale meat production, including issues related to water usage, greenhouse gas emissions, and land use. This could influence consumer perceptions and regulatory actions. Ethical concerns related to animal agriculture practices can impact the market. Some consumers and animal welfare organizations may oppose the use of animal byproducts in feed, leading to public relations challenges and potential restrictions. The emergence of alternative protein sources, such as plant-based and insect-based feeds, presents a challenge to the traditional use of blood meal. These alternatives may be perceived as more environmentally friendly and ethically sound, potentially reducing demand for blood meal.

Market Competition and Price Volatility

Blood meal competes with synthetic additives and other natural protein sources, such as soybean meal and fishmeal. The relative price, availability, and nutritional characteristics of these alternatives can impact the demand for blood meal. The price of blood meal can be influenced by the overall meat industry's dynamics. Fluctuations in meat prices and production volumes can affect the availability and pricing of blood meal, impacting its cost-effectiveness as a feed ingredient. Challenges in the supply chain, such as disruptions in meat processing or transportation, can affect the availability of blood meal. These disruptions can lead to price volatility and market instability. Access to international markets can be restricted due to trade barriers, tariffs, and competition with local feed ingredients. Gaining and maintaining market access can be a challenge for exporters of blood meal.

Key Market Trends

Rising Demand for Sustainable and Ethical Ingredients

One significant trend driving the growth of the global blood meal market is the increasing demand for sustainable and ethical ingredients in animal and pet food. This trend is linked to a growing awareness of environmental issues, animal welfare concerns, and ethical considerations.

Consumers and businesses are increasingly seeking sustainable feed ingredients. Blood meal, derived from a byproduct of the meat industry, aligns with sustainability principles by repurposing a waste product, reducing food waste, and contributing to more environmentally responsible meat production. There is a growing emphasis on transparency and traceability in the supply chain. Consumers want to know the origin and source of the ingredients in their pet and animal foods. Blood meal's traceable and well-documented source as a byproduct of meat processing supports this demand for transparency. Ethical concerns about animal agriculture practices have led to the preference for feed ingredients that support humane and ethical treatment of animals. Using blood meal, a nutritious and balanced feed ingredient, can improve the well-being of animals and reduce the need for interventions or medications, aligning with ethical standards.

Expansion of the Pet Food Industry

The pet food industry is experiencing remarkable growth, driven by shifting demographics, changing consumer preferences, and the humanization of pets. The trend toward premium and specialized pet food products is increasing the use of high-quality ingredients like blood meal. Pet owners are willing to invest in superior pet diets that prioritize health and nutrition. Pet food formulations are increasingly focused on functional benefits, such as improved health, weight management, and specific dietary needs. Blood meal's high protein content and balanced nutrient profile are sought after for formulating health-based pet foods. Nutrient density is a key trend in the pet food industry. Blood meal's richness in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals makes it a valuable ingredient to enhance the nutritional quality of pet foods.

Research and Innovation in Animal Nutrition

Ongoing research and innovation in animal nutrition are contributing to the growth of the global blood meal market. Advances in nutrigenomics, the study of how nutrition affects gene expression, are leading to more precise and tailored animal nutrition. This approach is enhancing the formulation of feed products, including those that incorporate blood meal. As the quest for alternative protein sources intensifies, blood meal is gaining attention for its potential in providing sustainable and eco-friendly protein. Innovations in processing and formulation are expanding its use in various animal and pet food products. The concept of personalized nutrition for animals is emerging. This trend involves formulating feed to meet the specific needs of individual animals or breeds. Blood meal's adaptability and nutrient profile support these personalized nutrition efforts.

Segmental Insights

Application Insights

Based on the category of Application, the Animal Feed segment emerged as the dominant segment in the global market for Blood Meal in 2023. This is due to the increasing demand for protein-rich feed ingredients for livestock and poultry. Blood meal is a high-protein ingredient that is also relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for feed manufacturers. The increasing demand for meat and poultry products, which is driving the demand for animal feed. The rising cost of traditional protein sources, such as soy and fishmeal, which is making blood meal a more attractive option. The increasing awareness of the nutritional value of blood meal, which is leading to its wider adoption in animal feed formulations. These factors are expected to drive the growth of this segment.

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Regional Insights

Asia Pacific emerged as the dominant region in the global Blood Meal market in 2023, holding the largest market share in terms of value. Asia Pacific is home to the world's largest population and a rapidly growing middle class, leading to a high demand for protein-rich animal feed. The livestock industry in Asia Pacific is rapidly expanding, particularly in countries like China, India, and Vietnam, driving up the demand for blood meal as a feed ingredient. Farmers in Asia Pacific are becoming increasingly aware of the nutritional value and cost-effectiveness of blood meal, leading to its wider adoption in animal feed formulations. Several major blood meal producers are based in Asia Pacific, such as Gold Coast Rendering & Protein, Shandong Jinan Yatai Feed Co., Ltd., and Simco, further strengthening the region's market position.

Recent Developments   

• In May 2022, Darling Ingredients Inc., a global leader in transforming food waste into sustainable products and renewable energy, announced that it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire FASA Group, Brazil's largest independent rendering company. The acquisition is valued at approximately R$2.8 billion Brazilian Real in cash (equivalent to USD560 million USD based on current exchange rates), with adjustments post-closing and a contingent payment tied to future earnings growth. FASA Group operates 14 rendering plants, processing over 1.3 million metric tons annually, and is in the process of constructing two additional plants. The company employs around 2,400 staff members.

Key Market Players

• Darling Ingredients Inc.
• The Boyer Valley Company, Inc.
• West Coast Reduction Ltd.
• Allanasons Pvt Ltd
• Sanimax ABP Inc.
• The Fertrell Company
• Terramar SBH

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Blood Meal Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Blood Meal Market, By Application:

o   Animal Feed

o   Agriculture

o   Others

• Blood Meal Market, By Source:

o   Porcine Blood

o   Poultry Blood

o   Ruminant Blood

• Blood Meal Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Blood Meal Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Blood Meal market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).