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    Citric Acid Market

    ID: MRFR/F-B & N/1211-CR
    132 Pages
    Snehal Singh
    July 2023

    Citric Acid Market Research Report Information By Form (Anhydrous and Liquid), Function (Acidulant, Antioxidant, Preservative. and Flavoring Agent), Application (Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals & Nutraceuticals, Personal Care, and Others), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World) - Forecast Till 2030

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    Citric Acid Market Infographic
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    Citric Acid Market Summary

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the global Citric Acid Market was valued at USD 2,965.9 million in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 4,205.65 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.12% from 2023 to 2030. The market is driven by sustained demand from the food and beverage industry, where citric acid is widely used as a preservative, flavoring, and coloring agent. Its versatility extends to pharmaceuticals, personal care, and various industrial applications. The anhydrous segment dominated the market in 2021, contributing approximately USD 1,212.0 million, while the food and beverages segment accounted for 60-65% of the market share. Emerging markets are expected to fuel future growth due to rising incomes and urbanization.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    Key trends influencing the Citric Acid Market include:

    • Rising demand for processed foods and ready-to-drink beverages in developing countries.
    • Citric acid anhydrous is increasingly used in alcoholic beverages and carbonated soft drinks.
    • The food and beverages segment is expected to grow at a rate of 4.26% during 2022-2030.
    • North America held the largest market share in 2021.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2021 Market Size USD 2,965.9 million
    2023 Market Size USD 3,045.3 million
    2030 Market Size USD 4,205.65 million
    CAGR (2023-2030) 4.12%

    Major Players

    Key players in the Citric Acid market include ADM, Cargill, Tate & Lyle, Jungbunzlauer, and RZBC GROUP.

    Citric Acid Market Trends

    Sustained Demand from the Food & Beverage Industry

    Due to its many benefits, citric acid is used as an additive in a broad variety of products, including food, drinks, personal care products, cleansers and detergents, pharmaceutical products, clinical nutrition, feed, and pet food. When stored in its original, unopened bottle, citric acid maintains its chemical makeup and potency for at least five years. Because of its long storage life, it finds application as a preservative, flavoring, and coloring agent. As people learn more about the harmful effects of chemicals, they opt for organic products. The future of the citric acid industry is looking bright as a result.

    Demand for processed foods and ready-to-drink beverages has increased in developing countries due to factors such as rising incomes, urbanization, and busy lives. Therefore, emerging markets are expected to drive future growth in the citric acid market.

    Because of its versatility in the food industry, liquid citric acid, a rather weak organic acid, has found widespread use. Many industries use these ingredients due to their acidulant, preservative, antioxidant, and sequestrant properties. Many baby foods that have been processed include citric acid since it is beneficial to a baby's growth and development. It's also a key ingredient in many breakfast cereals and snack foods. In addition to its acidic properties, citric acid anhydrous is utilized as a sugar substitute in many desserts, frozen treats, and other foods.

    The production of dairy and meat substitutes has expanded in recent years, which may also increase the demand for citric acid anhydrous on the market. Citric acid anhydrous is commonly employed in producing alcoholic beverages and carbonated soft drinks due to its acidic characteristics. It's found in juices, syrups, ready-to-drink (RTD) tea and coffee, and various sports and energy drinks. Sales and revenues will likely rise as citric acid anhydrous finds more applications in the food & beverage industry.

    Rising Prevalence of RTD Beverages

    In addition to its sour uses, citric acid anhydrous is a common sweetener in many frozen and baked goods. Citric acid anhydrous may see growing demand on the market as the production of dairy and meat substitutes has expanded in recent years. Citric acid anhydrous is used extensively in producing alcoholic beverages and carbonated soft drinks due to its acidic characteristics. It's found in juices, syrups, ready-to-drink (RTD) tea and coffee, and other types of sports and energy drinks.

    The market for citric acid anhydrous is projected to expand in terms of sales and revenue due to the product's widespread application in the food & beverage industry.

    The market for citric acid is being influenced by the rising popularity of low-calorie, ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages. Reduced-calorie, ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages benefit cardiovascular health, the immune system, and energy levels. In July 2021, the American beverage conglomerate Molson Coors introduced a new watermelon hard seltzer drink called Vizzy. Watermelon juice and acerola super fruit, which comes in blueberry, kiwi, passionfruit, and mango flavors, are combined to make this antioxidant-rich drink. There is only one gram of sugar and 100 calories in each beverage.

    January 2024- Researchers have discovered that the application of an edible coating, especially by means of the innovative partial coating technique, is an effective strategy for extending the shelf life of tomatoes. Applying edible coating is an effective technique to increase fruit storability. In the research, partial coating, a novel coating technique, was utilized to enhance the shelf-life of tomato fruits. Coating materials were made by integrating four different concentrations of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs; 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 % [w/w] of starch) along with citric acid-crosslinked starch and recognized as biodegradable films before fruit application.

    Their chemical structures were proven with Raman and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The thermal stability, transparency, mechanical properties, morphology, water vapor permeability, and water sensitivity of the films were also investigated. Films with high concentrations of CNF showcased better mechanical, thermal, and barrier properties than those with low concentrations of CNF and the controls.

    The global citric acid market is poised for growth, driven by increasing demand across food and beverage sectors, as well as expanding applications in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, suggesting a robust trajectory for the industry.

    U.S. Department of Agriculture

    Citric Acid Market Drivers

    Market Growth Projections

    The Global Citric Acid Market Industry is expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years. With a projected market value of 3.07 USD Billion in 2024, the industry is on a path to reach 5.15 USD Billion by 2035. This growth is indicative of the increasing applications of citric acid across various sectors, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. The anticipated CAGR of 4.8% from 2025 to 2035 further underscores the market's potential for expansion. As industries continue to recognize the versatility and benefits of citric acid, the Global Citric Acid Market Industry is likely to thrive in the evolving economic landscape.

    Increased Use in Personal Care Products

    The Global Citric Acid Market Industry is also influenced by the rising incorporation of citric acid in personal care products. Its properties as a pH adjuster and natural preservative make it a valuable ingredient in cosmetics and skincare formulations. As consumers become more conscious of ingredient safety and sustainability, the demand for products containing citric acid is likely to increase. This trend aligns with the broader movement towards clean beauty, where brands are seeking to eliminate harmful chemicals. Consequently, the Global Citric Acid Market Industry may see a substantial uptick in demand from this sector, contributing to its overall growth.

    Technological Advancements in Production

    Technological advancements in the production of citric acid are poised to influence the Global Citric Acid Market Industry positively. Innovations in fermentation technology and bioprocessing techniques enhance the efficiency and yield of citric acid production. These advancements not only reduce production costs but also improve the overall quality of the product. As manufacturers adopt these technologies, the market is likely to experience accelerated growth, with a projected CAGR of 4.8% from 2025 to 2035. This growth trajectory indicates a strong potential for the Global Citric Acid Market Industry, as enhanced production methods meet the rising global demand.

    Expanding Applications in Pharmaceuticals

    The Global Citric Acid Market Industry is witnessing an expansion in its applications within the pharmaceutical sector. Citric acid is utilized as an excipient in drug formulations, enhancing the stability and solubility of active pharmaceutical ingredients. The growing emphasis on innovative drug delivery systems and the rise in chronic diseases necessitate the use of citric acid in various formulations. This trend is likely to contribute to the market's growth, as the pharmaceutical industry increasingly recognizes the benefits of citric acid. The anticipated growth in this sector further solidifies the position of citric acid within the Global Citric Acid Market Industry, potentially driving market value significantly.

    Rising Demand in Food and Beverage Sector

    The Global Citric Acid Market Industry experiences a notable surge in demand primarily driven by the food and beverage sector. Citric acid serves as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer, making it a preferred ingredient in various products such as soft drinks, candies, and sauces. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier and more natural food options, the utilization of citric acid is expected to grow. In 2024, the market is projected to reach 3.07 USD Billion, reflecting the increasing incorporation of citric acid in food formulations. This trend indicates a robust growth trajectory for the Global Citric Acid Market Industry, aligning with evolving consumer tastes.

    Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

    Sustainability trends are significantly impacting the Global Citric Acid Market Industry. As industries strive to adopt eco-friendly practices, citric acid, derived from natural sources like citrus fruits, aligns well with these initiatives. The growing preference for biodegradable and non-toxic ingredients in various applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care, is likely to bolster the demand for citric acid. This shift towards sustainability not only enhances the market appeal of citric acid but also positions it favorably in a competitive landscape. The commitment to sustainable practices may drive the market value to reach 5.15 USD Billion by 2035, reflecting the industry's adaptation to consumer expectations.

    Market Segment Insights

    Segment Insights

    Citric Acid Form Insights

    Based on Form, the Citric Acid Market segmentation includes anhydrous and liquid. The anhydrous segment held the majority share in 2021 contributing to around a market value of USD 1,212.0 million of citric acid industry revenue. The anhydrous segment accounted for the market share of 54.74% in 2021 and is projected to register a CAGR of 4.40% during the forecast period.  

    Figure 2: Citric Acid Market, By Form, 2022 & 2030 (USD Million)

    Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

    Citric Acid Function Insights

    Based on Function, the Citric Acid Market segmentation includes acidulant, antioxidant, preservative, and flavoring agent. The acidulant segment held the majority share in 2021 contributing to around ~35-40% of the Citric Acid industry revenue.

    Citric Acid Application Insights

    Based on the Application, the global Citric Acid industry market data has been categorized as food & beverages, pharmaceuticals & nutraceuticals, personal care, and others. The food & beverages segment accounts for the largest market share of ~60-65% in 2021. The segment is expected to register a growth rate of 4.26% during 2022-2030.

    Get more detailed insights about Citric Acid Market Research Report - Global Forecast till 2030

    Regional Insights

    By Region, the study segments the market into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. North America Citric Acid market has held the largest market share among the region in the Ctric acid market.

    The major countries studied are the US, Canada, Mexico, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, China, India, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, South America, the Middle East, and Africa.

    Figure 3: CITRIC ACID MARKET SHARE BY REGION, 2022 & 2030 (USD Million)

    CITRIC ACID MARKET SHARE BY REGION, 2022 & 2030 (USD Million)

    Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    The high competition among the players has encouraged the players to produce advanced materials which could be unique in the market and have multiple applications. The various technologies and processes used are different for different companies. Thus, mergers & acquisitions and product development between various companies help them to develop new and innovative techniques and processes with better efficiency and higher performance expansion and new product development in last 3 years were the most widely employed growth strategies amongst many market players to capture maximum market share.

    ADM (Archer-Daniels-Midland Company) exposes the ability of nature to provide access to nutrition across the globe. A pioneer in developing sustainable solutions for agriculture, energy, and bio-based substitutes for materials and fuels currently produced from petroleum products, the Company is a global leader in sustainable human and animal nutrition. It is also one of the world's top corporations for agricultural origination and processing. It serves various products for food, beverages, health, wellness, and more under four business segments, viz. Ag Services and Oilseeds, Carbohydrate Solutions, Nutrition, and Other. Citric acid is offered under the nutrition segment.

    ADM transforms natural materials into everyday meals, renewable and sustainable industrial goods, renewable fuels, various food and beverage components and solutions, supplements, food for pets and animals, and more. More than 70 different nations have consolidated subsidiaries of the company. It has various R&D facilities across the globe. It has a geographical presence in the US, Switzerland, the Cayman Islands, Brazil, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and other global regions.

    Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG, Basel (Jungbunzlauer) Is one of the world's leading manufacturers of biodegradable ingredients of natural origin. Citric acid, gluconates, lactics, specialty salts, sweeteners, and biogums are all produced by the firm for use in various industrial applications, including those in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, cleaning, laundry, and cosmetic industries. More than 130 nations are served by the company's four production facilities, three located in Europe (France, Germany, and Austria) and one in Canada. Additionally, it has sales offices in the Netherlands, India, Japan, Singapore, Mexico, the United States, and Mexico.

    In 2021, the company's yearly revenues will surpass USD 1,058.18 million.

    In 2023, QWIN, a well-known supplier of premium hemp-derived goods, unveiled their new THC-A line, which includes vape pens, flower strains, and the most recent Tropic Punch flavour of Delta 9 syrup.

    For'strengthening' hair in 2023, L'Oreal Paris' Elvive Bond Repair line has received a lot of praise. Customers adore the results on their hair from the new Elvive Bond Repair line, which is sulphate-free and powered by Citric Acid Complex. It is touted as a less expensive alternative to Olaplex.

    2020 saw the release of PhexxiTM (lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate), the first and only non-hormonal prescription vaginal gel, which Evofem Biosciences, Inc. announced would be used as an on-demand method to prevent pregnancy in females with reproductive potential.

    With the introduction of its new makeup remover, cleaning balm, and anti-aging eye cream in 2022, CeraVe's expanding line of skincare products just became bigger. These products are made to be mild yet effective for all skin types.

    Key Companies in the Citric Acid Market market include

    Industry Developments

    • Q2 2025: Citric Acid Prices Surge in June 2025 Amid Supply Disruptions and Strong Demand In June 2025, global citric acid prices reached historic highs due to Chinese production shutdowns and Middle East geopolitical tensions, causing significant supply disruptions and allowing smaller producers to raise prices aggressively.

    Future Outlook

    Citric Acid Market Future Outlook

    The Global Citric Acid Market is poised for growth at 4.8% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by rising demand in food, pharmaceuticals, and biodegradable plastics.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Expand production capabilities to meet increasing demand in the food and beverage sector. Invest in R&D for innovative applications of citric acid in pharmaceuticals. Leverage sustainability trends by developing eco-friendly citric acid production methods.

    By 2035, the Citric Acid Market is expected to achieve substantial growth, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and industrial applications.

    Market Segmentation

    Citric Acid Form Outlook

    • Anhydrous
    • Liquid

    Citric Acid Function Outlook

    • Acidulant
    • Antioxidant
    • Preservative
    • Flavoring Agent

    Citric Acid Regional Outlook

    • {"North America"=>["US"
    • "Canada"
    • "Mexico"]}
    • {"Europe"=>["Germany"
    • "UK"
    • "France"
    • "Spain"
    • "Italy"
    • "Rest of Europe"]}
    • {"Asia-Pacific"=>["China"
    • "Japan"
    • "India"
    • "Australia and New Zealand"
    • "Rest of Asia-Pacific"]}
    • {"Rest of the World"=>["South America"
    • "The Middle East"
    • "Africa"]}

    Citric Acid Application Outlook

    • Food & Beverages
    • Pharmaceuticals & Nutraceuticals
    • Personal Care
    • Others

    Report Scope

    Attribute/MetricDetails
    Market Size 2021USD 2,965.9 Million
    Market Size 2023USD 3,045.3 Million
    Market Size 2030USD 4,205.7 Million
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)4.12% (2023-2030)
    Base Year2022
    Forecast Period2023-2030
    Historical Data2019-2021
    Forecast UnitsValue (USD Million)
    Report CoverageRevenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Segments CoveredForm, Function,  Application, and Region
    Geographies CoveredNorth America, Europe, Asia Pacific, R, and the Rest of the World
    Countries CoveredThe U.S, Canada, Mexico, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, China, India, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, South America, the Middle East, and Africa
    Key Companies ProfiledADM (U.S.), Cargill Incorporated (U.S.), Tate & Lyle (UK), Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG, Basel (Switzerland), Citribel NV (Europe), RZBC GROUP CO., LTD. (China), SHANDONG ENSIGN INDUSTRY CO.,LTD. (China), Huangshi Xinghua Biochemical Co.Ltd. (China), Gadot Biochemical Industries Ltd. (Israel), and Cofco (China)
    Key Market OpportunitiesClean Label Trend to Create Future Revenue-Generating Opportunities for ManufacturersEmerging Demand from Usage In Diverse Cosmetic Products & Formulations
    Key Market DynamicsStrategic Merger and Acquisition

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Snehal Singh
    Assistant Manager - Research

    High acumen in analyzing complex macro & micro markets with more than 6 years of work experience in the field of market research. By implementing her analytical skills in forecasting and estimation into market research reports, she has expertise in Packaging, Construction, and Equipment domains. She handles a team size of 20-25 resources and ensures smooth running of the projects, associated marketing activities, and client servicing.

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    FAQs

    What is the growth rate of the Citric Acid market?

    The Citric Acid market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.53% during the forecast period

    Which region held the largest market share in the Citric Acid market?

    North America held the largest share market in the Citric Acid market

    Who are the key players in the Citric Acid market?

    The key players include ADM (U.S.), Cargill Incorporated (U.S.), Tate & Lyle (UK), Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG, Basel (Switzerland), and Citribel NV (Europe)

    Which Citric Acid form led the Citric Acid market?

    Anhydrous is the leading segment in the Citric Acid market in 2021

    Which Function had the largest market share in the Citric Acid market?

    The acidulant segment accounted for the largest market share in the Citric Acid market in 2021.

    How much is the citric acid market ?

    The Citric Acid market is valued at USD 2,250.6 million in 2023

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