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Based on source, the microbial enzymes segment dominated around USD 2.7 billion revenue in 2023. Microbial production offers scalability and lower production costs compared to plant and animal sources, making carbohydrases more accessible and competitively priced. Plant enzymes offer specific characteristics like thermostability and resistance to harsh processing conditions, crucial for certain applications like high-temperature baking or acidic beverage fermentation. Animal enzymes possess unique substrate specificities and digestive qualities, particularly important for niche applications like animal feed digestibility or pharmaceutical development.
Based on Source, the alpha-amylase segment accounted for 55% of the carbohydrase market share in 2023, due to its widespread use in food and beverage processing, particularly for starch hydrolysis in bakery, brewing, and sweetener production. Rising demand for gluten-free products and functional food innovations involving fiber utilization fuels the popularity of beta-glucanase.
Growing focus on biofuel production and biomass conversion, along with research into cellulosic ethanol, opens doors for cellulase-based applications. Blending different enzyme Sources in tailor-made cocktails is becoming increasingly common to optimize performance and target complex carbohydrate mixtures. This opens doors for innovative combinations and expands the application range for various enzyme Sources.
Based on application, the carbohydrase market from food & beverage sector is estimated to achieve over USD 1.9 billion in 2023. Alpha-amylase leads the charge for starch breakdown, while enzymes like xylanases improve dough handling and texture. Enzymes like phytase increase phosphorus availability in plant-based feeds, reducing reliance on animal sources and propelling its consumption for animal feed applications. Carbohydrases aid in drug synthesis and modification promoting the demand further upward.
China carbohydrase market size held over USD 490 million in 2023. China plays a leading role in global animal feed production, with carbohydrases being widely used to improve feed digestibility and nutrient utilization in livestock and poultry. The country boasts a massive and growing food and beverage industry, driving demand for carbohydrases in applications like bakery, beverages, and dairy products. The Chinese government prioritizes innovation in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, potentially boosting demand for specialized carbohydrases in these areas.