Food Bleaching Agents Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

The Global Food Bleaching Agents Market Report Segments the Industry by Type (Azodicarbonamide, Hydrogen Peroxide, Ascorbic Acid, Chlorine Dioxide, and More ); Form (Powder, Liquid, Gas); Application (Bakery Products, Dairy Products, Oils and Fats, Sugar and Sweeteners, Others); and Geography (North America, South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Food Bleaching Agents Market Size and Share

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Food Bleaching Agents Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The food bleaching agents market, valued at USD 901.02 million in 2025, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.44%, reaching USD 1,174.43 million by 2030. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand from industrial baking, dairy products requiring extended shelf life, and starch modification processes, all of which rely on effective whitening and antimicrobial properties. Regulatory approvals for the use of hydrogen peroxide and chlorine dioxide in food applications, along with advancements in liquid dosing systems, are facilitating their widespread adoption. These developments align with the industry's shift toward cleaner label claims, as brands aim to meet consumer expectations for transparency and reduced additive usage. Producers are leveraging enzyme-bleach synergies to minimize additive levels, a strategy that not only addresses consumer concerns but also ensures operational efficiency. Additionally, investments in local hydrogen peroxide production facilities across the Asia-Pacific region are reducing reliance on imports, thereby strengthening the market's long-term competitiveness and ensuring a stable supply chain.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By type, hydrogen peroxide led with 43.18% of the food bleaching agents market share in 2024; ascorbic acid is projected to expand at 7.49% CAGR to 2030.
  • By form, powder commanded 41.34% share of the food bleaching agents market size in 2024, while liquid posted the highest CAGR at 7.67% through 2030.
  • By application, bakery products captured 37.18% of the food bleaching agents market size in 2024; dairy is advancing at a 7.85% CAGR to 2030.
  • By geography, Asia-Pacific held 34.72% revenue share in 2024; South America is the fastest-growing region at 7.71% CAGR through 2030.

Segment Analysis

By Type: Hydrogen Peroxide Leadership and Ascorbic Acid Innovation

In 2024, hydrogen peroxide retains its dominant 43.18% market share, driven by its exceptional versatility as both a bleaching agent and an antimicrobial compound. This adaptability makes it indispensable across a wide range of food processing applications. The FDA, under regulation 21 CFR 178.1005, permits the use of hydrogen peroxide solutions at concentrations of up to 35% for sterilizing food-contact surfaces, providing manufacturers with clear regulatory guidance and operational flexibility. Additionally, its approval for applications such as flour treatment and packaging sterilization highlights its technical reliability and regulatory acceptance. The EPA's exemption of hydrogen peroxide residues from tolerance requirements in food commodities, when used in sanitizing solutions, further underscores its safety and broad applicability. A key advantage of hydrogen peroxide is its decomposition into water and oxygen, offering significant environmental benefits over chlorine-based alternatives. As sustainability becomes a critical focus in food processing operations, hydrogen peroxide's eco-friendly profile strengthens its market leadership and ensures its continued dominance.

Ascorbic acid is projected to be the fastest-growing segment, with an impressive CAGR of 7.49% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is attributed to its dual functionality as a bleaching agent and antioxidant, which aligns with the increasing demand for clean-label formulations. The FDA's designation of ascorbic acid as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) provides manufacturers with confidence in its regulatory stability and consumer acceptance. Derived from natural sources and known for its vitamin C properties, ascorbic acid enables food processors to achieve effective bleaching while enhancing nutritional value, meeting consumer preferences for functional and natural ingredients. The FDA's food additive regulations under 21 CFR Part 172 further support its expanding applications beyond traditional bleaching roles. Research demonstrates ascorbic acid's effectiveness in preventing browning reactions during food processing, particularly when combined with citric acid, showcasing its technical advantages in specialized applications. Its compatibility with clean-label trends, coupled with its regulatory stability, positions ascorbic acid as a preferred alternative to synthetic bleaching agents, driving its rapid growth in the market.

Food Bleaching Agents
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Form: Powder Stability and Liquid Precision

In 2024, powder formulations dominate the market with a 41.34% share, primarily due to their superior storage stability and cost-effective transportation. These characteristics make them highly appealing to large-scale food processors focused on enhancing operational efficiency. The powder form's resistance to degradation during storage and handling ensures consistent performance, a critical factor for industrial applications requiring long-term reliability. Additionally, FDA regulations mandate clear labeling for powder formulations, ensuring proper identification and safe usage. The reduced weight and volume of powders compared to liquid formulations significantly lower shipping costs, benefiting global supply chains. Furthermore, powder bleaching agents often eliminate the need for cold storage, simplifying logistics and reducing operational expenses for food processors. Their compatibility with automated dosing systems not only ensures precise application but also maintains the stability advantages that underpin their market leadership.

Liquid formulations, on the other hand, are projected to grow at the fastest rate, with a 7.67% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. This growth reflects the increasing demand from manufacturers for precise dosing capabilities and automated application systems. Liquid formulations enable advanced dosing systems that can dynamically adjust bleaching agent concentrations in real-time, aligning with specific product requirements and processing conditions. Their superior mixing properties and ability to achieve uniform distribution are particularly advantageous for consistent bleaching outcomes in food processing. Additionally, liquid formulations integrate seamlessly with continuous processing systems and automated quality control measures, driving their rapid adoption in modern food manufacturing facilities. The ability of liquid bleaching agents to provide precise pH control and facilitate real-time reaction monitoring further enhances process optimization and ensures consistent product quality, making them a preferred choice for manufacturers.

By Application: Bakery Leadership Challenged by Dairy Growth

In 2024, bakery products hold the largest application share at 37.18%, underscoring their critical reliance on bleaching agents to maintain consistent flour quality and enhance the visual appeal of baked goods. These agents perform essential functions in flour treatment, including modifying protein content, improving dough handling properties, and extending shelf life. The sector has also seen significant advancements, such as enzyme-bleach synergy technologies, which address the growing demand for clean-label products while maintaining performance. As consumer expectations for uniform texture, volume, and appearance in bakery products continue to rise, bleaching agents remain indispensable for ensuring consistency and efficiency in large-scale production processes.

Dairy products represent the fastest-growing application, with a projected CAGR of 7.85% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is driven by the increasing importance of product aesthetics and shelf life in a highly competitive retail environment. As consumers prioritize visually clean and fresh-looking dairy products, manufacturers are increasingly adopting food-grade bleaching agents to preserve product appearance throughout complex and extended distribution networks. Additionally, advancements in dairy processing technologies, such as the development of extended shelf-life milk and plant-based dairy alternatives, are further driving the demand for specialized bleaching formulations. This growth trajectory aligns with broader trends in premiumization and product differentiation, as manufacturers strive to meet evolving consumer preferences and stand out in the market.

Food Bleaching Agents Market
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Geography Analysis

In 2024, Asia-Pacific holds a dominant 34.72% market share, attributed to its extensive food processing operations and the rapid shift in consumer preferences toward convenience and premium food products. China is experiencing significant growth in food manufacturing, driven by robust domestic demand and favorable government policies that support the sector. Similarly, India is witnessing a surge in processed food consumption, fueled by urbanization and changing dietary habits. The region's consistent growth over recent years is underpinned by increasing industrialization and the expansion of the middle-class population. Government-backed initiatives and foreign investments are strengthening food supply chains and enhancing processing capacities, which, in turn, are driving the demand for food-grade additives such as bleaching agents. The expansion of global food brands in Asia-Pacific further underscores the region's scalability in production and the growing emphasis on product consistency and visual appeal in processed food offerings.

South America is emerging as the fastest-growing region, with a projected CAGR of 7.71% from 2025 to 2030. Brazil leads the region with a USD 233 billion food processing sector in 2024, focusing on high-value export markets[3]Source: United States Department of Agriculture, "Food Processing Ingredients Annual", www.usda.gov. The region's emphasis on innovation, particularly in plant-based and clean-label products, is creating opportunities for advanced bleaching technologies that meet international quality standards and cater to evolving consumer preferences. Argentina's strong agricultural processing base adds further growth potential as the country seeks to enhance the value of its commodity exports and expand its footprint in global food markets. South America's competitive edge in agricultural raw materials, coupled with improving processing infrastructure, positions the region as a key driver of demand for bleaching agents.

North America and Europe, as mature markets, are undergoing significant transformations driven by regulatory changes and the growing demand for clean-label products. These shifts are increasing the need for advanced bleaching solutions that comply with stringent safety and quality standards. The FDA's March 2025 GRAS rule reform, which mandates enhanced safety documentation for new food ingredients, highlights the region's leadership in food safety. In Europe, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive is influencing purchasing decisions by prioritizing suppliers with strong sustainability credentials, reflecting the growing importance of environmental compliance. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa are showing potential for growth as food processing infrastructure develops and consumer preferences evolve. However, market penetration in these regions remains limited compared to more established markets, presenting opportunities for future expansion.

Food Bleaching Agents Market
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Competitive Landscape

The global food bleaching agents market is moderately fragmented, comprising a mix of multinational chemical manufacturers and regional players competing across industrial and clean-label formulations. Leading companies such as BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, and Brenntag SE dominate the market with established product portfolios, including hydrogen peroxide and benzoyl peroxide, which cater to industrial-scale applications. Simultaneously, newer entrants are gaining momentum by focusing on natural and enzyme-based alternatives, aligning with the increasing consumer preference for clean-label and sustainable solutions. Market differentiation is primarily driven by compliance with stringent food safety regulations and advancements in eco-friendly, residue-free bleaching technologies. This competitive environment fosters moderate pricing power while driving continuous innovation and specialization in niche segments to meet evolving consumer and regulatory demands.

Regulatory compliance has become a pivotal factor in shaping competitive strategies within the market. Companies are significantly investing in robust safety documentation, quality management systems, and supply chain transparency to meet the dynamic requirements of regulatory authorities such as the FDA and EFSA. The hydrogen peroxide contamination outbreak in 2024, which peaked at 26 reported cases before declining to 7 by early 2025, highlighted the critical importance of stringent quality systems. Firms with advanced safety protocols and transparent supply chains were better equipped to mitigate risks and maintain consumer trust, gaining a competitive edge during the crisis. This incident underscored the growing emphasis on regulatory adherence as a key determinant of market success and resilience.

Innovation in food bleaching technologies continues to accelerate, as demonstrated by recent patent activity in areas such as corn flour bleaching methods and advanced starch modification techniques. These advancements highlight the industry's dedication to R&D and its focus on addressing emerging market demands. Significant opportunities exist in developing sustainable production methods, exploring enzyme-bleach synergy applications, and creating specialized formulations for emerging food categories. As regulatory frameworks evolve to promote cleaner and safer processing technologies, the industry's proactive response to regulatory changes and safety concerns has driven consolidation trends. Companies are increasingly pursuing scale advantages and technical expertise to navigate the complexities of compliance, ensuring their competitiveness and long-term growth in a rapidly transforming market landscape.

Food Bleaching Agents Industry Leaders

  1. BASF SE

  2. Evonik Industries AG

  3. Spectrum Chemical Mfg. Corp.

  4. Brenntag SE

  5. Arkema S.A

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
 BASF, Aditya Birla Chemicals, Evonik, Solvay, Nouryon,  Spectrum Chemical Manufacturing Corp, Engrain, Akzonobel
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Recent Industry Developments

  • March 2025: Nouryon has launched its new Eka® HP Puroxide™, a hydrogen peroxide product with a low carbon footprint. According to the brand, this product continues the company's legacy of offering high-purity, food-grade hydrogen peroxide solutions that are ideal for use as food bleaching agents, particularly in the processing of flour, starch, and oat hulls.
  • January 2025: Evonik and Fuhua have established a joint venture in Leshan, Sichuan Province, to produce specialty-grade hydrogen peroxide for applications including solar panels, semiconductors, and food packaging, with production set to begin in the first half of 2026. The new company, Evonik Fuhua New Materials, combines Evonik’s peroxide expertise and Fuhua’s local infrastructure, following a license agreement for a 200,000-ton hydrogen peroxide megaplant that will supply the venture.
  • June 2024: Nuberg EPC has secured a contract to design, engineer, procure, and construct a state-of-the-art hydrogen peroxide plant for PT Sulfindo Adiusaha (PT Hidrogen Peroxida Indonesia) in Banten, Indonesia, with a production capacity of 40,000 metric tons per annum and a targeted completion timeline of 21 months.
  • April 2024: Evonik Industries AG, as part of its "Way to GO2" initiative, introduced a carbon-neutral hydrogen peroxide in Europe. This product is specifically certified to support customers in reducing Scope 3 emissions, aligning with sustainability goals, while ensuring high bleaching performance remains uncompromised.

Table of Contents for Food Bleaching Agents Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4. MARKET LANDSCAPE

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Market Drivers
    • 4.2.1 Increasing demand for processed and packaged foods
    • 4.2.2 Technological advancements in bleaching processes
    • 4.2.3 Rising demand for bleached flour in fast food and quick-service restaurants
    • 4.2.4 Broad applications in bakery, confectionery, and dairy industries
    • 4.2.5 Enzyme-bleach synergy reducing additive use in industrial bakeries
    • 4.2.6 Growing use of bleaching agents in starch and derivative production
  • 4.3 Market Restraints
    • 4.3.1 Stringent food safety and additive regulations
    • 4.3.2 Growing preference for clean-label and additive-free products
    • 4.3.3 Health concerns over chemical residues in bleached foods
    • 4.3.4 Risk of nutrient degradation in over-processed bleached foods
  • 4.4 Supply Chain Analysis
  • 4.5 Regulatory Outlook
  • 4.6 Porter's Five Forces
    • 4.6.1 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.6.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
    • 4.6.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.6.4 Threat of Substitute Products
    • 4.6.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE)

  • 5.1 By Type
    • 5.1.1 Azodicarbonamide
    • 5.1.2 Hydrogen Peroxide
    • 5.1.3 Ascorbic Acid
    • 5.1.4 Chlorine Dioxide
    • 5.1.5 Calcium Peroxide
    • 5.1.6 Benzoyl Peroxide
    • 5.1.7 Others
  • 5.2 By Form
    • 5.2.1 Powder
    • 5.2.2 Liquid
    • 5.2.3 Gas
  • 5.3 By Application
    • 5.3.1 Bakery Products
    • 5.3.2 Dairy Products
    • 5.3.3 Oils and Fats
    • 5.3.4 Sugar and Sweeteners
    • 5.3.5 Others
  • 5.4 By Geography
    • 5.4.1 North America
    • 5.4.1.1 United States
    • 5.4.1.2 Canada
    • 5.4.1.3 Mexico
    • 5.4.1.4 Rest of North America
    • 5.4.2 South America
    • 5.4.2.1 Brazil
    • 5.4.2.2 Argentina
    • 5.4.2.3 Colombia
    • 5.4.2.4 Chile
    • 5.4.2.5 Peru
    • 5.4.2.6 Rest of South America
    • 5.4.3 Europe
    • 5.4.3.1 Germany
    • 5.4.3.2 United Kingdom
    • 5.4.3.3 Italy
    • 5.4.3.4 France
    • 5.4.3.5 Netherlands
    • 5.4.3.6 Poland
    • 5.4.3.7 Belgium
    • 5.4.3.8 Sweden
    • 5.4.3.9 Rest of Europe
    • 5.4.4 Asia-Pacific
    • 5.4.4.1 China
    • 5.4.4.2 India
    • 5.4.4.3 Japan
    • 5.4.4.4 Australia
    • 5.4.4.5 Indonesia
    • 5.4.4.6 South Korea
    • 5.4.4.7 Thailand
    • 5.4.4.8 Singapore
    • 5.4.4.9 Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • 5.4.5 Middle East and Africa
    • 5.4.5.1 South Africa
    • 5.4.5.2 Saudi Arabia
    • 5.4.5.3 United Arab Emirates
    • 5.4.5.4 Nigeria
    • 5.4.5.5 Egypt
    • 5.4.5.6 Morocco
    • 5.4.5.7 Turkey
    • 5.4.5.8 Rest of Middle East and Africa

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Market Concentration
  • 6.2 Strategic Moves
  • 6.3 Market Ranking Analysis
  • 6.4 Company Profiles (includes Global-level Overview, Market-level Overview, Core Segments, Financials (if available), Strategic Information, Market Rank/Share, Products and Services, Recent Developments)
    • 6.4.1 BASF SE
    • 6.4.2 Evonik Industries AG
    • 6.4.3 Spectrum Chemical Mfg. Corp.
    • 6.4.4 Brenntag SE
    • 6.4.5 Arkema S.A
    • 6.4.6 The Carlyle Group (Nouryon)
    • 6.4.7 Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc.
    • 6.4.8 Kemira Oyj
    • 6.4.9 Hawkins, Inc
    • 6.4.10 Nelson-Jameson, Inc.
    • 6.4.11 Picarro, Inc.
    • 6.4.12 RX Chemicals
    • 6.4.13 CNJ Nature Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.14 Hodogaya Chemical Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.15 FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation
    • 6.4.16 Ataman Kimya
    • 6.4.17 Yolimex Sdn Bhd
    • 6.4.18 Airedale Group
    • 6.4.19 Sachlo
    • 6.4.20 DPA Laboratory

7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

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Global Food Bleaching Agents Market Report Scope

Global Food Bleaching Agents Market is segmented by type and application. On the basis of type, the market is segmented into azodicarbonamide, hydrogen peroxide, ascorbic acid, chlorine dioxide, and others. On the basis of application, the market is segmented into bakery products, flour, cheese, and others. Also, the study provides an analysis of the food bleaching agentsmarket in the emerging and established markets across the globe, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East & Africa.

By Type Azodicarbonamide
Hydrogen Peroxide
Ascorbic Acid
Chlorine Dioxide
Calcium Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide
Others
By Form Powder
Liquid
Gas
By Application Bakery Products
Dairy Products
Oils and Fats
Sugar and Sweeteners
Others
By Geography North America United States
Canada
Mexico
Rest of North America
South America Brazil
Argentina
Colombia
Chile
Peru
Rest of South America
Europe Germany
United Kingdom
Italy
France
Netherlands
Poland
Belgium
Sweden
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific China
India
Japan
Australia
Indonesia
South Korea
Thailand
Singapore
Rest of Asia-Pacific
Middle East and Africa South Africa
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
Nigeria
Egypt
Morocco
Turkey
Rest of Middle East and Africa
By Type
Azodicarbonamide
Hydrogen Peroxide
Ascorbic Acid
Chlorine Dioxide
Calcium Peroxide
Benzoyl Peroxide
Others
By Form
Powder
Liquid
Gas
By Application
Bakery Products
Dairy Products
Oils and Fats
Sugar and Sweeteners
Others
By Geography
North America United States
Canada
Mexico
Rest of North America
South America Brazil
Argentina
Colombia
Chile
Peru
Rest of South America
Europe Germany
United Kingdom
Italy
France
Netherlands
Poland
Belgium
Sweden
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific China
India
Japan
Australia
Indonesia
South Korea
Thailand
Singapore
Rest of Asia-Pacific
Middle East and Africa South Africa
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
Nigeria
Egypt
Morocco
Turkey
Rest of Middle East and Africa
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Key Questions Answered in the Report

What is the current size of the food bleaching agents market and how fast is it growing?

The market stands at USD 901.02 million in 2025 and is forecast to rise to USD 1,174.43 million by 2030, reflecting a 5.44% CAGR.

Which bleaching agent holds the largest share today?

Hydrogen peroxide leads with 43.18% of global revenue thanks to its dual bleaching and antimicrobial functions.

Why are liquid bleaching formulations gaining traction?

Liquid formats enable precise, automated dosing that reduces chemical use and fits seamlessly into continuous processing lines, driving a 7.67% CAGR.

Which application segment is expanding the quickest?

Dairy products are advancing at a 7.85% CAGR as processors use bleaching agents to improve visual appeal and extend refrigerated shelf life.

Page last updated on: July 10, 2025

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