KSA Beta Glucan Market Outlook to 2028

KSA Beta Glucan Market Overview

• The KSA beta-glucan market is a growing sector, driven by increasing demand for natural and organic products that reflects the global beta glucan market size, which was valued at 538 million in 2023. The growing factors are increasing health consciousness among consumers, the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, and the expanding application of beta glucan in food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products.
• The key players in the KSA beta-glucan market are Kerry Group, Tate & Lyle PLC, Koninklijke DSM N.V., Cargill, Incorporated and Ohly GmbH. These companies are focusing on expanding their product portfolios, strategic partnerships, and acquisitions to strengthen their market position.
• In 2023, Kerry Group announced the opening of a new production facility in Saudi Arabia aimed at increasing the supply of high-quality beta glucan to meet the growing demand in the region. This facility is expected to enhance the company’s ability to serve local markets more efficiently, reducing lead times and improving supply chain reliability.
• Riyadh is currently the leading city in the KSA Beta Glucan market. This dominance is attributed to the city’s higher health awareness, better access to health products, and a larger population base that is inclined towards health and wellness products.

KSA Beta Glucan Market Segmentation

The KSA beta glucan market can be segmented by various factors like application, source and region.

By Application: The KSA beta glucan market is segmented by application into food & beverages, pharmaceuticals and personal care. In 2023, the Food & Beverages segment holds the dominant market share due to the increasing incorporation of beta glucan in functional foods and beverages aimed at improving immune health and reducing cholesterol levels.

By Source: The KSA beta glucan market is segmented by source into cereal, yeast, and mushroom. In 2023, cereal-derived beta glucan holds the largest share due to its high availability and the extensive research supporting its health benefits. The use of cereal sources such as oats and barley are well-established in the food industry, contributing to their dominant position.

By Region: The KSA beta glucan market is segmented by region into north, east, west and south. In 2023, the Eastern region dominates the market due to its robust industrial base and higher disposable income among residents. The presence of major urban centers and better access to healthcare products also contribute to the region's leading position.

KSA Beta Glucan Competitive Landscape

• In 2023, DSM announced a new partnership with a local Saudi company to enhance the production capacity of beta glucan. This collaboration aims to meet the growing demand and improve the supply chain efficiency within the region.
• In 2024, Tate & Lyle introduced a new range of beta glucan-enriched products, focusing on enhancing the nutritional profile of everyday foods. This development is expected to attract a wider consumer base looking for functional foods.

KSA Beta Glucan Market Analysis

KSA Beta Glucan Market Growth Drivers

• Increasing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: The rising incidence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders is significantly driving the demand for beta glucan in KSA. In 2023, according to the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes in Saudi Arabia was over 4 million.
• Expansion of Functional food and beverage sector: In 2024, the functional food market in Saudi Arabia is supported by the growing consumer awareness of health benefits associated with these products. Beta glucan is a key ingredient in this segment, used to enhance the nutritional profile of various food and beverage products, thereby driving its demand.
• Raising demand for natural and organic products: In 2023, the organic food market in KSA is reflecting the growing preference for natural ingredients. Beta glucan, being a natural polysaccharide, aligns perfectly with this trend, leading to its increased utilization in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products.

KSA Beta Glucan Market Challenges

• Competition from Alternative Ingredients: Beta glucan faces stiff competition from other functional ingredients such as inulin and oligosaccharides. In 2023, the functional ingredient market in Saudi Arabia saw an increase in demand for inulin, which is often preferred for its prebiotic properties. This competition affects the market share and growth potential of beta glucan.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Stringent regulatory requirements pose a challenge to the beta glucan market in KSA. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has stringent guidelines for the approval and marketing of functional food ingredients. In 2024, several local manufacturers faced delays in product approvals, affecting their market entry and expansion plans.

KSA Beta Glucan Market Government Initiatives

• National Health Campaigns: The Saudi government has launched various health campaigns to promote healthy eating habits and the consumption of functional foods. In 2024, the "Healthy Life" campaign, focusing on educating the public about the benefits of ingredients like beta glucan. Such initiatives are expected to boost market demand.
• Support for Agricultural Sector: The Saudi government is also supporting the agricultural sector to increase the domestic production of raw materials used for beta glucan extraction. In 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture provided funding to farmers cultivating barley and oats, key sources of beta glucan. This initiative is expected to enhance the supply chain and reduce dependency on imports.

KSA Beta Glucan Market Future Outlook

The KSA beta glucan market is poised for significant growth over the next five years, driven by increasing demand for farmers awareness towards technology, health awareness, organic and healthy lifestyle adoption.

KSA Beta Glucan Future Market Trends

• Growth in Pharmaceutical Applications: The pharmaceutical application of beta glucan is set to expand significantly. By 2028, investment in research and development of beta glucan-based pharmaceuticals is projected to reach around USD 40.5 million, according to the Saudi Pharmaceutical Society. This investment will focus on developing new beta glucan-based drugs for managing cholesterol, diabetes, and immune-related disorders.
• Sustainability and Clean Label Trends: By 2028, it is estimated that 60% of new beta glucan products will carry clean label claims, reflecting consumers' preference for natural and transparent ingredients. This shift will be supported by regulatory frameworks and industry standards promoting sustainability. The Saudi Green Initiative highlights that consumer awareness and demand for sustainable products are on the rise, encouraging manufacturers to adopt cleaner and more transparent production practices.