Algal Pigments Market Size - By Type (Beta-carotene, Fucoxanthin, Lutein, Chlorophyll, Phycocyanin, Astaxanthin, Phycoerythrin), By Form (Powder, Liquid), By Source (Microalgae, Macroalgae/Seaweed), Application & Global Forecast, 2023 – 2032

Algal Pigments Market Size

Algal Pigments Market size was valued at USD 323 million in 2022 and is anticipated to grow rapidly at 7.4% CAGR from 2023 to 2032, driven by the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental concerns. For instance, in December 2022, Vollebak, an innovative clothing brand, and Living Ink, a biomaterials company, joined forces to showcase a revolutionary T-shirt that utilizes black dye derived from algae instead of petroleum, creating a milestone in sustainable fashion.
 

The consumers and industries alike are striving to adopt eco-friendly practices and reduce their carbon footprint by opting for natural alternatives to synthetic pigments. Algal pigments not only provide vibrant and attractive colors but also come with additional benefits such as being rich in antioxidants and other bioactive compounds, making them appealing to health-conscious consumers.
 

The increasing applications of the product across a wide range of applications, including food & beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, along with its eco-friendly nature are pushing the industry growth. Moreover, advancements in extraction and purification techniques have made it easier to isolate and utilize pigments from algae efficiently, further creating a positive market outlook.
 

Algal Pigments Market Growth Drivers & Challenges

The inflowing investments by researchers and companies in biotechnology and genetic engineering to enhance pigment production in algae, resulting in higher yields and cost-effective processes, will stimulate the market growth. However, the production of algal pigments can be complex and resource-intensive, requiring specialized equipment and facilities, which ultimately drive up the overall costs. This limits the affordability of the product as compared to the synthetic alternatives.
 

Despite the environmental and health advantages, convincing users to switch from well-established synthetic alternatives can be challenging, particularly in a price-sensitive scenario. The high production costs and competition from synthetic colorants will continue to restrict the industry expansion to some extent in the coming years.
 

COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic led to disrupted supply chains, dampened demand, and caused economic uncertainty. As lockdowns and restrictions were implemented worldwide, industries such as food and beverages, cosmetics, and textiles experienced a slowdown, affecting the algal pigments market demand.
 

Moreover, logistical challenges and delays in international trade hindered the transportation of algal pigment products and raw materials, further hindering the industry growth. However, amid the pandemic, the focus on health and sustainability strengthened, leading to increased interest in natural and eco-friendly alternatives. In the post-pandemic era, the market is set to rebound, with the growing environmental awareness and sustainability encouraging product usage in various industries.
 

Algal Pigments Market Trends

The growing emphasis on circular economy and waste utilization is fueling the demand for algal pigments. As sustainability becomes a key focus for consumers and businesses, there is a rising interest in leveraging algae-based by-products and waste streams to extract valuable pigments. This not only minimizes environmental impact by reducing waste but also presents cost-effective opportunities for pigment production.
 

Additionally, the increasing collaboration between research institutions and private companies is fostering innovation in algal pigment applications, leading to the development of novel products across diverse sectors. Taking fashion for instance, companies such as Living Ink, Algaeing, and Mounid are leading the way in material innovation for fashion by offering carbon-negative, quick-to-produce alternatives to hazardous, petroleum-based inks, dyes, and textiles. With a renewed commitment to sustainable practices and continuous advancements in technology, the algal pigments industry is poised for growth over the forecast period.
 

Algal Pigments Market Analysis

The algal pigments market size from nutraceuticals application is expected to rise substantially through 2032, driven by the increasing focus on health & wellness. As per the data by Nutrition Business Journal, the supplements market achieved a total sales value of around USD 60 billion in 2021. Algal pigments are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds, making them highly suitable for nutraceutical products.
 

These pigments are being incorporated into dietary supplements, functional foods, and beverages to enhance their nutritional content and provide additional health benefits. As consumers become more conscious of their well-being and seek natural, plant-based alternatives, the demand for algal pigments for nutraceutical applications will keep soaring.
 

The powder algal pigments market accounted for over 60% of revenue share in 2022, due to its versatility and ease of use. Algal pigments in powder form offer extended shelf life and improved stability compared to liquid or gel-based counterparts, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. This form is particularly popular in the food & beverage sector for adding natural colors to products like beverages, confectioneries, and health supplements.
 

Additionally, the convenience and ease of handling of powdered form have also led to its adoption in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, where precise dosing and uniform dispersion are essential.
 

North America algal pigments market size dominated around USD 115 million in 2022. The well-established presence of key players in the region, along with ongoing R&D activities, has contributed to advancements in algal pigment production technologies. The diverse applications of the product in food & beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors have further accelerated market expansion.
 

According to the report published by Zippia, the U.S. pharmaceutical industry registered a revenue of USD 550 million in 2021. As North America continues to prioritize sustainability and healthcare, the algal pigments market in the region is projected to maintain its upward trajectory, offering ample opportunities for both established companies and new entrants.
 

Algal Pigments Market Share

Some of the notable companies in the algal pigments market are:

• BASF SE
• Chr. Hansen Holding A/S
• Cyanotech Corporation
• DDW The Color House
• DIC Corporation
• E.I.D. - Parry (India) Limited
• Naturex (part of Givaudan)
• Sensient Technologies Corporation
• FMC Corporation
• aDöhler GmbH.

These companies concentrate on strategic partnerships, new product launches, and commercialization efforts for market growth. Furthermore, they make huge investments in research & development to launch advanced products and gain maximum market revenue.
 

Algal Pigments Industry News

• In July 2023, Brevel, an Israeli startup, announced that it successfully concluded an USD 18.5 million seed round to scale up its algae-based ingredient manufacturing platform. The funding includes USD 8.4 million converted from grants and convertible loans, which were initially announced last year.
   

The algal pigments market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) & volume (Kilo Tons) from 2018 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Beta-carotene
• Fucoxanthin
• Lutein
• Chlorophyll
• Phycocyanin
• Astaxanthin
• Phycoerythrin

Market, By Form

• Powder
• Liquid

Market, By Source

• Microalgae
• Macroalgae/Seaweed

Market, By Application

• Food & Beverages
• Pharmaceuticals
• Cosmetics
• Aquaculture
• Nutraceuticals
• Others

The above information has been provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Egypt