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Technological strides over the past decade have birthed high-purity, bioavailable iron powders, enhancing their efficiency in food fortification. In tandem, companies are venturing into sustainable production methods for iron powders, aiming to shrink their carbon footprint and align with the global movement towards eco-friendly manufacturing. The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) noted a 20% increase in sustainable manufacturing practices in the iron powder industry.
As global business dynamics shift, there's a burgeoning demand for iron-fortified beverages and bakery items. While traditional food fortification remains dominant, the incorporation of iron powder into innovative categories like energy drinks and snack bars unveils fresh growth avenues for manufacturers. This aligns with the global ascent of functional foods, as consumers increasingly gravitate towards items boasting added health benefits.
Elemental iron powder segment was valued at USD 2.9 billion in 2023, and it is anticipated to expand to 6.6% of CAGR during 2024 to 2032. Elemental iron powder, known for its high bioavailability, is a preferred choice in food fortification, especially for combating iron-deficiency anemia. The market for this powder is witnessing steady growth, fueled by government mandates on food fortification in developing areas, notably in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Furthermore, with rising consumer awareness about iron deficiencies, there's an increasing demand for elemental iron powder in dietary supplements.
The food grade iron powder market from food fortification segment was valued at USD 2.2 billion in 2023 and gained a 6.5% CAGR from 2024 to 2032. Food fortification stands out as the primary application in the market. Around the world, governments are ramping up food fortification initiatives to address malnutrition and combat iron-deficiency anemia, especially in developing areas.
A notable trend propelling market demand is the fortification of staple foods—like flour, rice, and cereals—with iron powder. African nations and countries in South Asia, both grappling with high anemia rates, are at the forefront of embracing fortified food products. Given the backing of public health campaigns and international organizations, this momentum is poised to persist.
The food grade iron powder market from direct sales segment dominated around USD 2.8 billion in 2023 and gained a 6.4% CAGR through 2032. Large-scale buyers, including food manufacturers and government entities running mass food fortification initiatives, primarily rely on direct sales. Suppliers of food-grade iron powder frequently engage directly with these buyers, especially in areas with government mandates on iron fortification. Direct sales enable the customization of offerings, such as creating specific iron powder blends for food items or fortification standards. This approach is crucial in emerging markets, where substantial amounts of iron powder are essential for national health programs.
The U.S. food grade iron powder market is expected to hold USD 1.1 billion in 2023 and expected to grow at a 5.9% CAGR till 2032. In the U.S., food fortification and dietary supplements primarily drive the demand for elemental iron powder. As the nation battles iron-deficiency anemia, impacting a significant segment of its populace, the use of elemental iron powder in fortified cereals, flour, and other staple foods is on the rise.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces stringent guidelines on iron fortification in food, prompting manufacturers to opt for bioavailable forms, such as elemental iron, to comply with these standards.