Global Citric Acid Market Size, Share, Trends, Analysis: By Form: Anhydrous, Liquid; By Application: Food and Beverages, Household Detergents and Cleaners, Pharmaceuticals, Others; Regional Analysis; Market Dynamics: SWOT Analysis, Porter’s Five Forces Analysis; Value Chain Analysis; Competitive Landscape; 2024-2032

Global Citric Acid Market Outlook

The global citric acid market size stood at a volume of around 2.70 million tons in 2023. The market is assessed to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach nearly 3.86 million tons by 2032.

Key Takeaways

• The global production of citric acid is currently estimated at 1.6 million tonnes annually, with 99% of this total being manufactured through microbial fermentation.

• In 2022, the leading importers of citric acid  were the United States, Germany, Mexico, India, and the Netherlands.

• About 99% of the global manufactured citric acid supply is typically produced using the black mould fungus, Aspergillus niger.

Citric acid is a weak organic acid that is naturally found in citrus fruits like lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits. Its chemical formula is C6H8O7. It is well-known for its sour taste and is commonly used as a flavour enhancer and preservative in food and beverages. Beyond its culinary uses, citric acid is also used in cleaning agents, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, often for its ability to adjust acidity or stabilise other ingredients.

The market is currently being driven by the growing application of citric acid in several food and non-food industries such as beverages, confectioneries, convenience foods, dairy, pharmaceuticals, personal care and cosmetics, detergents and cleansers, and feed, among others. The growing consumer demand for RTD (ready-to-drink) beverages and processed foods is significantly aiding the citric acid market growth.

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Key Trends and Developments

Citric acid's cross-sector applications; technological innovations; rapid urbanisation; and the use of citric acid in eco-friendly cleaning solutions are positively impacting the citric acid market expansion

Mar 1st 2024

Jungbunzlauer acquired AGI, a French company specialising in texturising solutions, to expand its portfolio in natural ingredient-based products.

Jan 24th 2024

Gadot Biochemical Industries launched Cal2Mag, a bone support blend of calcium and magnesium citrate, clinically shown to reduce arterial calcification risks.

Oct 2nd 2023

Biolage Professional introduced Bond Therapy, a salon haircare line combining citric acid and coconut oil to repair and strengthen over-processed hair.

May 4th 2023

Head & Shoulders unveiled BARE, a minimalistic anti-dandruff shampoo with only nine ingredients, offering effective scalp care and dandruff protection.

Increased Application of Citric Acid Across Different Sectors

Citric acid is widely used in food and beverage for preservation and flavour enhancement and is increasingly used in pharmaceuticals and personal care for its antioxidant and pH-adjusting properties.

Technological Advancements

Technological advancements, including green chemistry and tailored solutions, are poised to drive growth in the citric acid market in the forecast period.

Rising Demand for Citric Acid in Different Sectors

The citric acid market expansion is being aided by the increasing demand for the product in developing countries. This trend is attributed to several factors, including the growing middle class, rising disposable incomes, and shifting consumer preferences towards convenience foods and beverages.

Shift Towards Eco-friendly Cleaning Solutions

The trend towards eco-friendly cleaning products has made citric acid a preferred alternative to harsh chemicals due to its biodegradability and effectiveness in removing deposits.

Global Citric Acid Market Trends

The primary driver for the citric acid market growth is the booming global food and beverage industry. Citric acid's ability to naturally preserve food and enhance flavour continuity is indispensable, particularly in the manufacturing of soft drinks, fruit juices, and candies. Its demand is further reinforced by the rising consumer preference for food products with extended shelf lives and improved taste profiles.

In the pharmaceutical industry, citric acid is utilised for its properties as an acidulant, helping to stabilise active ingredients and adjust pH levels in medicines, making it essential for ensuring the effectiveness and stability of formulations. The growing pharmaceutical sector worldwide, supported by an ageing population and increasing healthcare spending, is driving the citric acid market expansion.

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Market Segmentation

“Global Citric Acid Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Form

• Anhydrous

• Liquid

Market Breakup by Application

• Food and Beverages

• Household Detergents and Cleaners

• Pharmaceuticals

• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Latin America

• Middle East and Africa

Increasing application of anhydrous citric acid owing to its advantageous and stable properties is aiding the market

Anhydrous citric acid, a dry, powdered form of citric acid that is favoured for its stability and ease of storage and handling, is commonly used across multiple industries. This form is especially popular in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cleaning products due to its concentrated properties. It is highly effective as a preservative, acidulant, and flavour enhancer, particularly in solid and dry formulations.

The food and beverage sector dominates the citric acid market share

The food and beverages sector represents the primary application for citric acid within the market. This compound is extensively utilised as a flavour enhancer, preservative, and acidulant across a diverse range of food products, such as soft drinks, candies, and baked goods. Its natural preservation qualities and ability to deliver a pleasing acidic flavour are essential, making it a vital ingredient in this industry.

Competitive Landscape

Major citric acid market players are increasingly adopting the latest technologies to enhance production capabilities

Archer Daniels Midland Company

Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) is a multinational food processing and commodities trading corporation. Founded in 1902, ADM is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The company operates more than 270 plants and 420 crop procurement facilities worldwide, where cereal grains and oilseeds are processed into products used in the food, beverage, nutraceutical, industrial, and animal feed markets globally.

Cargill, Incorporated

Cargill is one of the largest privately-held corporations in the United States in terms of revenue. It was founded in 1865 and is headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, USA. Cargill provides food, agriculture, financial, and industrial products and services throughout the world. With a vast network of operations that span several continents, Cargill is involved in various activities, including trading, purchasing, and distributing grain and other agricultural commodities.

Tate & Lyle PLC

Tate & Lyle PLC is a British-based global provider of ingredients and solutions to the food, beverage, and other industries. Founded in 1859, the company specialises in the production of sweeteners, starches, and other nutrition and biomaterial solutions. Tate & Lyle is headquartered in London, United Kingdom, and operates across a network of manufacturing plants around the world, focusing on innovation and sustainability in its products and processes.

Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG

Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG is a leading producer of biodegradable ingredients of natural origin. The company was founded in 1867 and is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland. Jungbunzlauer specialises in citric acid, xanthan gum, gluconates, lactates, and other speciality products, which are used in a wide range of industries, including food and beverage, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and more.

Other key players in the global citric acid market are COFCO, among others.

Many companies in the citric acid market are increasing their production capacities to meet the rising demand for citric acid in various industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. By upgrading existing plants or building new facilities, these companies can ensure a steady supply of citric acid to their global clientele.

Moreover, players in the market are adopting advanced fermentation technologies that enhance yield and reduce waste. Additionally, some are exploring the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to increase fermentation efficiency, although this approach is subject to regulatory approvals and public acceptance.

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Global Citric Acid Market Analysis by Region

The Asia Pacific holds a major portion of the global citric acid market share. This dominance can be attributed to several factors. Countries in the region, especially China and India, have experienced significant industrial growth, which includes the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics—all major users of citric acid.

Moreover, the growing middle class in these regions has led to increased demand for processed and convenience foods, where citric acid is often used as a preservative and flavouring agent.

Key Highlights of the Report

*At Expert Market Research, we strive to always give you current and accurate information. The numbers depicted in the description are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the final EMR report.