Food thickeners market to reach $22.3 billion by 2031

The global food thickeners market is projected to grow from $13.1 billion in 2021 to $22.3 billion by 2031, driven by demand for convenience foods and functional ingredients. Starch remains the dominant segment, while Europe leads the market and beverages are expected to grow fastest.

Why it matters: - Food thickeners are used to improve viscosity, texture, stability, taste, flavor, appearance, mouthfeel, and shelf life. - The market’s growth reflects broader demand for convenience and processed foods, along with consumer interest in dietary and health-oriented meals. - Food thickeners can also help replace high-fat oils and creams in recipes.

What happened: - The global food thickeners market was valued at $13,085.2 million in 2021. - The market is projected to reach $22,336.8 million by 2031. - The forecast implies a compound annual growth rate of 5.6% from 2022 to 2031. - The report covers the market by type, source, application, and region. - Allied Market Research published the report on June 26, 2026. - The report is available as a 170-page PDF report sample.

The details: - Starch accounted for more than two-thirds of market share in 2021. - Starch remained the dominant type segment in 2020 and is expected to keep that lead through the forecast period. - Plant-based ingredients accounted for nearly 60% of revenue, followed by animal and microbial sources. - Dairy and frozen dairy was the largest application category by value. - Beverage applications are expected to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period. - Europe led the global market in 2021 and is expected to retain its dominance through 2031. - The market includes applications in bakery, confectionery, sauces, dressings, marinades, gravies, beverages, dairy and frozen desserts, and convenience and processed food. - The type segments are starch, protein, and hydrocolloid. - The source segments are plant, animal, and microbial. - The report lists key players including Archer Daniels Midland, Cargill, DuPont, Ingredion, Kerry Group, CP Kelco, Darling Ingredients, Tate & Lyle, Ashland Specialty Ingredients, and TIC Gums. - The market faces pressure from price fluctuations in food thickeners. - High R&D costs associated with production may also restrain growth.

Between the lines: - The dominance of starch and plant-based sources suggests buyers still favor familiar, scalable ingredients over newer alternatives. - Beverage growth points to more demand for texture and stabilization in drinks, especially as formulators adapt products to changing consumer preferences. - Health consciousness is creating room for innovation, but cost volatility remains a barrier for producers.

What's next: - Demand for convenience food and processed food is expected to remain a primary growth driver through 2031. - Health-conscious product development is likely to open new opportunities for market players. - Price swings and R&D spending will likely continue to shape competitive strategies. - More information is available in the company's purchase inquiry page.