Sorbitol Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028 Segmented By Product Type (Liquid, Crystal), By Application (Oral Care, Vitamin C, Diabetic & Diabetic Food & Beverage, Surfactant, Others), By End User (Personal Care, Chemical, Pharmaceutical, Others), By Region and Competition

Market Overview

Global Sorbitol Market has valued at USD 1.82 Billion in 2022 and is anticipated to project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 4.55% through 2028. Sorbitol is a type of carbohydrate known as a sugar alcohol, which is soluble in water and naturally occurs in many fruits and vegetables. It is commonly used as a sugar substitute in food and beverages, providing sweetness, texture, and moisture retention. Sorbitol is considered a nutritive sweetener as it provides dietary energy. Additionally, it finds applications in pharmaceuticals as a sugar substitute and in cosmetics as a humectant. The growing concern for health has led to the promotion of sorbitol usage, particularly for enhancing the shelf life of products. The increasing awareness of the negative effects of an unhealthy diet and the rise in health issues associated with sugar consumption are driving market growth. The demand for organic cosmetics and the utilization of sorbitol in various sectors are expected to contribute to market expansion in the future. Due to the impact of COVID-19 on the supply chain, manufacturers' plans and investments have been disrupted, resulting in reduced sugar demand and affecting the sugar industry. This, in turn, has driven the demand for sorbitol. Furthermore, the modern generation's heightened consciousness about health and preference for health-enhancing products have led to increased interest in low-calorie and low-sugar food options, which drives the demand for sorbitol. Consumer perception regarding the benefits of natural ingredients is also driving market growth. Additionally, sorbitol is being utilized in the production of biofuels, which are renewable fuels derived from plant or algae material or animal waste. The market for sorbitol is expected to grow as health concerns and the demand for healthy products in a healthy lifestyle continue to rise. The increasing prevalence of diabetes has also contributed to the demand for sorbitol in the food industry. However, excessive consumption of this supplement may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, and its potential laxative effects can negatively impact sales growth. It is advisable to consult a doctor before consuming sorbitol to avoid potential side effects. Nevertheless, the positive effects of sorbitol on oral health and blood sugar management outweigh these limitations. Adherence to international quality standards and regulations is crucial for the sorbitol business. The uncertainty surrounding side effects can pose a challenge for the market. The growing demand for the food and beverage industry in emerging markets presents significant opportunities for sorbitol. Fluctuations in the cost and supply of sugar also create opportunities for this substitute. In developed countries, health-conscious consumers are dedicated and well-informed, driving the demand for low-calorie food and, consequently, the demand for sorbitol. As it contains fewer calories than regular sugar, sorbitol is preferred as a sugar substitute by many health-conscious consumers. The consumption of sorbitol will continue to generate demand across various applications globally.

Key Market Drivers

Growing Demand of Sorbitol in Food & Beverage Industry

With the increasing focus on health-consciousness, consumers are actively searching for low-calorie alternatives in their food and beverages. Sorbitol presents itself as a sugar substitute that provides a sweetness profile akin to sugar, while significantly reducing calorie intake. Its low glycemic index renders it suitable for individuals’ managing diabetes or adhering to a low-sugar diet. Food and beverage manufacturers are progressively incorporating sorbitol into their products to meet the growing demand for reduced-calorie options. The prevalence of diabetes and other metabolic disorders has stimulated the market for sugar-free and diabetic-friendly food and beverages. Sorbitol, as an exceptional sugar substitute that adds sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels, finds extensive use in various sugar-free products like candies, chocolates, baked goods, gums, and beverages targeted towards diabetic consumers. The expanding market for these specialized food and beverage products has driven the demand for sorbitol. Not only does sorbitol serve as a sweetener, but it also offers functional properties that enhance the taste and texture of food and beverages. It acts as a humectant, retaining moisture and preventing product dryness, thereby proving valuable in confectioneries, frozen desserts, and baked goods, where it helps maintain freshness and prolong shelf life. Furthermore, sorbitol contributes to product smoothness and mouthfeel, elevating overall sensory appeal. Another notable aspect of sorbitol is its prebiotic properties, serving as a nourishing source for beneficial gut bacteria. Given the increasing interest in gut health and its impact on overall well-being, this feature has gained significant attention in recent years. Additionally, sorbitol is non-cariogenic, meaning it does not promote tooth decay. As consumers prioritize oral health, the use of sorbitol as a sugar substitute in oral care products and sugar-free gums has experienced substantial growth. The demand for sorbitol in the food and beverage industry is further fueled by continuous product innovations. Manufacturers invest in research and development to explore new formulations and applications for sorbitol. These innovations range from blending sorbitol with other sweeteners to enhance taste profiles, to formulating sorbitol-based functional ingredients with specific properties to meet diverse consumer needs. Such advancements contribute to the expansion of the global sorbitol market.

Increasing Adoption of Sorbitol in Personal Care Products and Maximizing the Shelf Life

The demand for personal care products is witnessing steady growth, driven by factors such as population growth, rising disposable income, and urbanization. This surge in demand has led to a significant increase in the use of sorbitol, an organic synthetic sweetener. Sorbitol finds applications in the manufacturing of oral-care products like toothpaste and mouth fresheners, with the FDA recognizing its benefits for oral health. Additionally, sorbitol is utilized as a prebiotic ingredient in skincare, offering hydration and moisturization properties. The COVID-19 pandemic has further boosted the demand for personal care and hygiene products, prompting major brands to prioritize purpose over profit. Consumers worldwide have shifted their preferences towards natural and skin-friendly products, driven by the desire to protect the environment. Consequently, manufacturers in the consumer goods industry are increasingly incorporating sorbitol into their cosmetics and personal care products, replacing Petrochemical-based mono Propylene glycol (MPG). Furthermore, sorbitol is also used by numerous food and beverage companies to create sugar-free products, while simultaneously raising awareness about diabetes. The demand for sorbitol is further propelled by the need to extend the shelf life of packaged products, leading to an increased adoption of sorbitol by retailers, hotels, restaurants, and cafes (horeca) chains, who are stocking a large variety of products to cater to consumer preferences.

Growth Demand of Sorbitol in Pharmaceutical Industry

Sorbitol possesses distinctive properties that render it an efficacious laxative, widely employed in the pharmaceutical industry for its constipation-alleviating capabilities. It acts as an osmotic agent, attracting water into the intestines and stimulating bowel movements. The demand for sorbitol in the pharmaceutical sector is consistently increasing due to its proven efficacy in treating constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, sorbitol serves as a versatile excipient in drug formulations. Excipients, which are non-active ingredients, are utilized in pharmaceutical products to enhance stability, solubility, and palatability. Sorbitol's aptitude to function as a humectant and stabilizer contributes to the formulation of tablets, syrups, suspensions, and other pharmaceutical dosage forms. Its presence ensures proper drug delivery, enhances patient compliance, and improves the overall effectiveness of medications. In addition to oral formulations, sorbitol finds applications in parenteral products, which are administered through routes other than the digestive tract. The properties of sorbitol, including its ability to act as a cryoprotectant and reduce the formation of ice crystals, make it invaluable for preserving the stability and integrity of biopharmaceuticals and injectable medications. As the demand for parenteral drugs and biologics continues to rise, the utilization of sorbitol in these applications is projected to experience significant growth. Children often necessitate medications in various forms, including liquid formulations. Sorbitol's sweet taste and non-cariogenic properties make it an ideal sweetening agent in pediatric medications. By incorporating sorbitol into liquid medications, pharmaceutical manufacturers can enhance palatability and increase patient acceptance, particularly among young children who may exhibit resistance to the consumption of bitter or unpleasant-tasting medicines. The demand for sorbitol in the pharmaceutical industry is further propelled by continuous innovations in excipient technologies. Manufacturers are investing in research and development endeavors to create pioneering excipients that amplify drug delivery, solubility, and stability. These advancements harness the unique properties of sorbitol and broaden its applications across diverse therapeutic areas, thereby contributing to the expansion of the global sorbitol market.

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Key Market Challenges

Substitutional Threat from Other Sweeteners and Shortages of Commodities

Cost-effectiveness poses a significant challenge in the sorbitol market. Many food and beverage manufacturers are transitioning towards cost-effective alternative sweeteners like erythritol, xylitol, lactitol, and mannitol for baking and food processing. These alternatives offer the same functionality as sorbitol, prompting hotels, restaurants, and cafes (horeca) chains to purchase artificial sweeteners to achieve profitability while maintaining productivity. Furthermore, global price fluctuations and the Russia-Ukraine war have disrupted commodity imports and supply chains, resulting in a shortage crisis. Additionally, increased crude oil prices have impacted transportation and procurement costs, directly affecting sorbitol manufacturing.

Fluctuations in Prices of Raw Materials

The prices of raw materials utilized in sorbitol manufacturing, such as cornstarch or glucose, are heavily influenced by fluctuations in crude oil prices. Crude oil serves as a primary feedstock for the production of specific raw materials used in the sorbitol manufacturing process. Any volatility in crude oil prices directly impacts the cost of these raw materials, leading to price fluctuations within the sorbitol market. The sorbitol market experiences intermittent fluctuations between supply and demand, which contribute to fluctuations in raw material prices. In the second quarter of 2023, for instance, the US market witnessed a significant decline in sorbitol prices due to these supply and demand dynamics. Factors such as shifts in consumer preferences, industry trends, and economic conditions can impact the demand for sorbitol and subsequently influence raw material prices. Fluctuations in raw material prices can directly affect manufacturing costs for sorbitol producers. When raw material prices increase, manufacturers may face higher production costs, impacting their profit margins. Conversely, when raw material prices decrease, manufacturers may need to adjust their pricing strategies to remain competitive in the market. These cost fluctuations present challenges for sorbitol manufacturers in maintaining stable pricing structures. Fluctuations in raw material prices can also impact the competitiveness of sorbitol compared to alternative products in the market. For instance, the availability of alternatives such as xylitol and stevia may hinder the growth of the sorbitol market. Excessive volatility in the prices of raw materials used in sorbitol production may create an opportunity for alternative sweeteners to gain market share. Thus, sorbitol manufacturers must closely monitor and manage raw material costs to remain competitive in such situations.

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements in Production

Continuous research and development efforts are dedicated to enhancing sorbitol production processes. Utilizing advanced technologies enables manufacturers to optimize their production lines, resulting in improved efficiency and productivity. For example, the implementation of automated systems and control technologies enables better monitoring and regulation of the production process, ensuring consistent quality and higher yields. Technological advancements have significantly improved the quality and purity of sorbitol production. State-of-the-art equipment and innovative processes help minimize impurities and ensure the production of high-quality sorbitol. The use of advanced filtration techniques, precise temperature control, and purification methods contribute to the production of sorbitol with superior characteristics, meeting the stringent quality requirements of various industries. Advancements in production technologies also facilitate the scaling up of sorbitol production capacities. With the increasing demand for sorbitol across various applications, manufacturers are investing in advanced equipment and facilities to expand their production capabilities. This scalability enables them to meet the growing market demand while maintaining product quality and consistency.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

In 2022, the Sorbitol market was dominated by liquid segment and is predicted to continue expanding over the coming years. Liquid sorbitol is extensively utilized as a crucial component in the food and beverage industry. It serves as an organic and ideal food additive for producing diabetic fruit jam and peanut butter. The majority of sorbitol is derived from corn starch syrup, although it can also be obtained from pome and stone fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, and prunes. Furthermore, liquid sorbitol plays a vital role in the production of medicines like syrups, emulsion ointments, and gelatin capsules. Its exceptional flow properties and consistent mixing concentration contribute to maintaining a constant tablet weight. The diverse applications of sorbitol across various sectors are propelling revenue growth in this segment.

Application Insights

In 2022, the Sorbitol market was dominated by Diabetic & Diabetic Food & Beverage segment and is predicted to continue expanding over the coming years. Sorbitol undergoes gradual metabolism in the body, exhibiting a comparatively low absorption rate. As a result, it aids in preventing abrupt surges in blood sugar levels. Moreover, the delayed absorption of sorbitol may diminish the probability of inducing sudden gastrointestinal discomfort or complications in individuals with diabetes, who frequently experience heightened sensitivity in their digestive systems.

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Regional Insights

The Asia Pacific region has established itself as the leader in the Global Sorbitol Market. The growth in the region is being driven by factors such as increasing population, disposable income, and domestic demand for packaged food and consumer products. According to the United Nations (UN), the Asia Pacific region is home to approximately 60% of the world's population. With its prominence as a major hub for food and beverage product export, the demand for such products is experiencing exponential growth in line with global trade volume. These macro-economic trends indicate a large-scale expansion of the FMCG industry, with the demand for sorbitol products poised to accelerate further alongside overall economic developments across the region. Furthermore, various governments in the Asia Pacific region are implementing trade boosting initiatives to foster export-oriented businesses, thereby creating significant opportunities across manufacturing industries.

Recent Developments

• In 2021, US-based food processor Cargill is planning to acquire the bio-industrial business of the British specialty chemical manufacturer Croda for approximately USD 1 billion. This strategic move signifies Cargill's continued expansion into biobased chemicals across Europe, Asia, and the Netherlands.
• In 2021, Archer Daniels Midland Company, a global leader in nutrition and agricultural origination and processing, has announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Sojaprotein, a prominent European provider of non-GMO soy ingredients based in Chicago.
• On March 10, 2022, Sunar Misir, a Turkey-based manufacturer of sweeteners and functional ingredients, introduced a new addition to its product lineup, Sunsorb. This sugar-free product has been specifically formulated for the production of food and beverage items. With the rising global demand, the company is focused on expanding its manufacturing presence in various regions.
• In 2020, Ingredion entered into a strategic distribution agreement with Batory Foods. This collaborative effort strengthens Ingredion's presence in Southern California and aids food and beverage manufacturers in obtaining the necessary ingredients for their products, facilitating their entry into the market.

Key Market Players

·         American International Foods, Inc.

·         Cargill Incorporated

·         Gulshan Polyols Ltd.

·         Merck KGaA

·         Ecogreen Oleochemicals GmbH

·         Qinhuangdao Lihua Starch Co., Ltd.

·         Ingredion Incorporated

·         Kasyap Sweeteners, Ltd.

·         DuPont Inc.

·         SPI Pharma, Inc.

Report Scope:

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

• Global Sorbitol Market, By Product Type:

o   Liquid

o   Crystal

• Global Sorbitol Market, By Application:

o   Oral Care

o   Vitamin C

o   Diabetic & Diabetic Food & Beverage

o   Surfactant

o   Others

• Global Sorbitol Market, By End User:

o   Personal Care

o   Chemical

o   Pharmaceutical

o   Others

• Global Sorbitol Market, By Region:

o   North America

o   Asia Pacific

o   Europe

o   Middle East & Africa

o   South America

Competitive Landscape

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

Available Customizations:

Global Sorbitol Market report with the given market data, Tech Sci 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).

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