Industrial Starch Market Size
Market Overview
| Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
| Market Size (2025) | USD 60.30 Billion |
| Market Size (2030) | USD 78.44 Billion |
| Growth Rate (2025 - 2030) | 5.40% CAGR |
| Fastest Growing Market | Asia-Pacific |
| Largest Market | North America |
| Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0. |
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Industrial Starch Market Analysis
The Industrial Starches Market size is estimated at USD 60.30 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 78.44 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The industrial starches market is experiencing significant transformation driven by the growing emphasis on sustainable and bio-based materials. The production capacity of bio-plastics reached 1,286 million metric tons in 2022 for bio-based/non-biodegradable materials and 1,053 million metric tons for biodegradable materials, highlighting the increasing adoption of starch-based alternatives. Major bio-plastics players like BASF and Novamont have launched highly sustainable solutions for fresh-food packaging, replacing hard-to-recycle conventional plastics while increasing product shelf-life. This shift towards sustainable alternatives has led to increased investment in research and development of starch-based materials, particularly in applications such as packaging, consumer goods, and industrial products.
The food processing sector continues to be a major growth driver for industrial starches, with manufacturers focusing on developing clean label solutions to meet evolving consumer preferences. Modified starch derivatives with high tolerance to processing conditions are increasingly being incorporated in specialty applications, such as functional foods and pharmaceutical solutions. The industry has witnessed significant innovation in product development, with companies like Ingredion launching new clean label starches designed specifically for refrigerated and freeze-thaw stability in categories such as frozen meals, sauces, and yogurts. This trend has led to the development of specialized starch products that maintain functionality while meeting clean label requirements.
The paper and packaging industry represents a crucial application area for industrial starches, driven by increasing anti-plastic sentiments and sustainability initiatives. Starches are extensively utilized in the production and processing of paper bags, tissues, packaging papers, corrugating boards, and stationery products. The use of starch in paper manufacturing helps reduce costs by enabling increased use of fillers and recycled fibers, while also decreasing energy consumption in paper mills. Companies like Cargill have responded to this trend by launching innovative products such as C*iBond 25957, a high-performance cationic wet-end starch specifically designed for packaging paper applications.
The market is witnessing a significant shift towards organic and natural ingredients, particularly in food applications. Manufacturers are investing in developing new varieties of starches that meet organic certification requirements while maintaining functional properties. For instance, in 2023, several companies expanded their organic starch portfolios to include new sources such as potato, corn starch, and tapioca. The trend towards clean label products has prompted manufacturers to develop starches that can be labeled simply as 'corn starch' or 'corn flour' and are naturally gluten-free, addressing the growing consumer demand for transparent and natural ingredients in food products.
Industrial Starch Market Trends
Growing Food Processing Sector Globally
The global food processing sector has witnessed significant expansion across various segments, including fruits and vegetables, cereals, bakery and confectionery, pulses, oilseeds, dairy, carbonated beverages, and fruit juices. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for ready-to-eat and convenience food products, particularly in developed regions, owing to increasingly busy lifestyles and the rising working population. The most stimulating applications of industrial starches include high-value food processing, where commercial starches act as ideal binding agents in various applications, from coating papers to enhancing food textures.
The general health and wellness trend has provided the industrial starch market with a distinct direction for new product development, focusing on clean-label ingredients that exhibit enhanced functionality. Manufacturers are investing heavily in developing clean-label solutions due to growing consumer demand for natural and familiar ingredients. For instance, in March 2020, Tate & Lyle expanded its line of Claria clean-label starches with the launch of Claria Everlast, designed specifically to solve formulation challenges related to refrigerated and freeze-thaw stability in categories such as frozen meals, sauces, and yogurts. Similarly, Ingredion launched three new clean-label texturizing starches in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), which can be labeled simply as 'corn starch' or 'corn flour' and are naturally gluten-free.
Expanding Applications in the Bio-plastic Industry
The demand for renewable bio-polymers is experiencing substantial growth in the global market as these materials are increasingly considered viable alternatives to synthetic polymers. Modified starch, being one of the most abundant polymers in nature, with both its native and modified forms having wider food and non-food applications, has been extensively studied to augment its application in distinct industries. The bio-plastic industry has particularly benefited from starch-based innovations, as starch-based plastics are complex blends of starch with compostable polyesters. Production capacity data shows significant growth in both bio-based/non-biodegradable and biodegradable plastics, with biodegradable plastics reaching 1,053 million metric tons by 2022.
Major bio-plastics players are actively developing sustainable solutions for various applications, particularly in the packaging sector. For instance, BASF and Novamont have both launched highly sustainable solutions for fresh-food packaging through two major compostable cling film breakthroughs. BASF SE offers certified compostable ecovio material, while Novamont provides MATER-BI material, both replacing hard-to-recycle conventional plastics like polyethylene (PE) while increasing product shelf-life. Materials made of MATER-BI are obtained through pioneering proprietary technologies using potato starch, cellulose, vegetable oils, and their combinations. The market has also witnessed increased participation from start-ups, such as India-based Hi-Tech International, which introduced a plant-based bio-compostable polymer made from tapioca starch that can replace single- and multiple-use plastic products.
Segment Analysis: By Type
Starch Derivatives and Sweeteners Segment in Industrial Starches Market
The starch derivatives and sweeteners segment dominates the industrial starches market, holding approximately 73% of the market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the segment's extensive applications across various industries, particularly in food and beverages. The segment's growth is primarily attributed to the rising demand for functional food products, clean-label requirements, and the need for cost reduction in production processes. The confectionery and beverage industry accounts for the major share of consumption, while functional food applications are showing promising growth rates. Modified starches from this segment are increasingly being used for thickening and stabilizing food products, especially in sauces and processed foods, demonstrating their versatility and importance in modern food processing.
Native Segment in Industrial Starches Market
The native starch segment is projected to be the fastest-growing segment in the industrial starches market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 6% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is driven by the increasing demand for clean-label and natural ingredients across various industries. Native starches are gaining popularity due to their natural origin and minimal processing, making them ideal for clean-label products. The segment's growth is further supported by their applications as binding, thickening, and gelling agents that offer freeze-thaw stability and moisture retention properties. Manufacturers are actively developing new native starch products to cater to the growing demand for natural ingredients, particularly in organic and clean-label food products, contributing to the segment's rapid expansion.
Segment Analysis: By Source
Corn Segment in Industrial Starches Market
The corn starch segment dominates the industrial starches market, holding approximately 70% of the market share in 2024. This significant market position is attributed to corn's versatility and wide-ranging applications across various industries. Corn starch serves as a primary ingredient in food processing, particularly in the production of sweeteners, modified starches, and other derivatives. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by the extensive cultivation of corn in major markets like the United States and China, ensuring a stable supply chain. Additionally, the increasing demand for corn-based starches in the paper and packaging industry, coupled with its cost-effectiveness compared to other sources, continues to drive its market leadership position.
Cassava Segment in Industrial Starches Market
The cassava starch segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the industrial starches market, projected to grow at approximately 8% during 2024-2029. This remarkable growth is driven by increasing adoption in various applications, particularly in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Cassava starch is gaining popularity due to its excellent thickening characteristics, high level of purity, and cost-effectiveness as a raw material. The segment's growth is further propelled by the rising demand for gluten-free and clean-label products, where cassava starch serves as an ideal ingredient. Additionally, technological advancements in cassava starch processing and increasing investments in production capabilities, particularly in Southeast Asian countries, are contributing to its rapid market expansion.
Remaining Segments in Industrial Starches Market by Source
The remaining segments in the industrial starches market include potato starch, wheat starch, and other sources, each serving unique industrial applications. Potato starch is particularly valued in the food industry for its neutral taste and superior binding properties, making it essential in various food applications. Wheat starch, despite concerns about gluten content, maintains its significance in specific industrial applications, especially in the paper and textile industries. Other sources, including rice and various alternative starches, continue to play a crucial role in meeting specialized industry requirements and addressing specific regional preferences. These segments collectively contribute to the market's diversity and help meet the varying needs of different industrial applications.
Segment Analysis: By Application
Food Segment in Industrial Starches Market
The food segment continues to dominate the industrial starches market, commanding approximately 56% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the extensive use of starches in various food applications, including bakery products, convenience foods, confectionery, and processed meats. The segment's growth is primarily fueled by increasing consumer demand for processed and convenience foods, particularly in developing regions. Native and modified starches are widely utilized as thickening agents, stabilizers, and texturizers in food products, while clean-label starches are gaining prominence due to growing consumer preference for natural ingredients. Additionally, the rising demand for gluten-free products and functional foods has created new opportunities for starch manufacturers to develop innovative solutions that cater to these specific dietary requirements.
Pharmaceutical Industry Segment in Industrial Starches Market
The pharmaceutical industry segment is emerging as the fastest-growing application area in the industrial starches market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 7% during 2024-2029. This robust growth is attributed to the increasing use of starches as excipients in pharmaceutical formulations, particularly in tablet manufacturing where they serve as binders, disintegrants, and fillers. The segment's expansion is further supported by the growing demand for pharmaceutical products globally, coupled with the development of specialized starch derivatives that offer enhanced functionality in drug delivery systems. The rise in research and development activities focusing on novel starch-based pharmaceutical applications, along with the increasing adoption of modified starches in controlled-release medications, is expected to drive continued growth in this segment.
Remaining Segments in Industrial Starches Market by Application
The paper industry segment represents a substantial portion of the industrial starches market, where starches play a crucial role in paper manufacturing processes as binding agents and surface coatings. The feed segment utilizes starches as essential ingredients in animal nutrition, contributing to improved feed efficiency and animal health. Other applications include the textile starch industry, where starches are used in fabric finishing and sizing operations, and the construction industry, where they serve as additives in building materials. These segments collectively demonstrate the versatility of industrial starches across various manufacturing processes, with each segment driven by specific industry requirements and technological advancements in starch modification techniques.
Industrial Starches Market Geography Segment Analysis
Industrial Starches Market in North America
North America represents a mature market for industrial starches, characterized by advanced manufacturing capabilities and diverse applications across the food, pharmaceutical, and paper industries. The United States dominates the regional landscape, followed by Mexico and Canada, with each country contributing uniquely to the market dynamics. The region's growth is driven by increasing demand for clean-label products, rising applications in the pharmaceutical sector, and continuous product innovations by key manufacturers.
Industrial Starches Market in the United States
The United States maintains its position as the largest market for industrial starches in North America, holding approximately 69% share of the regional market in 2024. The country's market is significantly influenced by the growing trend of gluten-free food products, supported by stringent government regulations regarding product labeling of gluten-free ingredients. The majority of modified starch in the United States is gluten-free, primarily derived from corn starch, waxy maize, and potatoes. The country's position is further strengthened by its status as the world's largest corn producer, providing a robust raw material base for starch production.
Industrial Starches Market in Mexico
Mexico emerges as the fastest-growing market in North America, with a projected growth rate of approximately 7% during 2024-2029. The country's market is experiencing rapid expansion due to increasing industrial applications and a growing food processing sector. The primary push factor for the Mexican market is the healthy paper packaging industry, which is set to grow exponentially. The key strategy adopted by major manufacturers in the region is the adoption of vertically integrated operations and cutting off transportation and processing costs, enabling end products to reach consumers at relatively lower prices.
Industrial Starches Market in Europe
Europe represents a significant market for industrial starches, with a well-established manufacturing base and a diverse application portfolio. The region's market is characterized by a strong presence in countries like Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Russia, and Italy. The market dynamics are shaped by increasing demand for clean-label ingredients, growing pharmaceutical applications, and a rising focus on sustainable production methods.
Industrial Starches Market in Germany
Germany leads the European industrial starches market, commanding approximately 16% of the regional market share in 2024. The German industry is primarily composed of small and medium-sized companies that have transformed from low-cost, high-volume production to high-quality manufacturing over recent decades. The country's market is highly driven by local players who sell a wide range of starches sourced from wheat starch, potato, corn starch, and other sources, with particular emphasis on organic and specialized starch products.
Industrial Starches Market in Italy
Italy demonstrates the highest growth potential in Europe, with an expected growth rate of approximately 6% during 2024-2029. The country's market is experiencing significant expansion in various applications, particularly in the food and beverage sector. The rising demand for clean-label starch and growing consumption of convenience foods have been key drivers for market growth. The country's strategic position in the European market and strong focus on product innovation contribute to its rapid growth trajectory.
Industrial Starches Market in Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific region represents a dynamic market for industrial starches, with significant contributions from China, India, Japan, and Australia. The region's market is characterized by rapid industrialization, an expanding food processing sector, and increasing demand for modified starches across various industries. The market demonstrates strong growth potential driven by technological advancements and increasing investments in research and development.
Industrial Starches Market in China
China maintains its position as the dominant force in the Asia-Pacific industrial starches market. The country's market is significantly influenced by its large-scale starch production capabilities, particularly in potato starch, with major production concentrated in provinces like Heilongjiang, Ningxia, Gansu, and Inner Mongolia. The market is witnessing significant expansion in various applications, from food processing to industrial uses, supported by continuous investments in research and development.
Industrial Starches Market in Australia
Australia emerges as the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region. The country's market is experiencing rapid growth driven by increasing demand for corn starch and expanding applications in various industries. The surge in working hours and busy lifestyles of consumers has highly prompted the growth of convenience foods, subsequently driving the demand for industrial starches. The country's strategic focus on developing innovative starch products and expanding production capabilities contributes to its growth momentum.
Industrial Starches Market in South America
South America represents a growing market for industrial starches, with Brazil and Argentina as key contributors. Brazil emerges as the largest market in the region, benefiting from its significant cassava starch processing capabilities and growing food processing industry. Argentina demonstrates the fastest growth potential, driven by its robust food and beverage industry and increasing applications of industrial starches across various sectors. The region's market is characterized by increasing investments in technology updates and full utilization of local production capacities.
Industrial Starches Market in Middle East & Africa
The Middle East & Africa region shows promising growth potential in the industrial starches market, with South Africa and the United Arab Emirates as key markets. South Africa emerges as the largest market in the region, primarily engaged in the production of corn starch, both native and modified. The United Arab Emirates demonstrates the fastest growth, driven by increasing demand in the food and beverages industry and expanding applications across various sectors. The region's market is characterized by growing investments in production facilities and an increasing focus on meeting the rising demand for specialized starch products.
Industrial Starch Industry Overview
Top Companies in Industrial Starches Market
The industrial starches market is characterized by intense competition among major players like Archer Daniels Midland Company, Tate & Lyle PLC, Cargill Incorporated, and AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG. Product innovation remains the dominant strategy, with companies focusing heavily on developing clean-label ingredients, specialized starches for specific applications, and sustainable solutions. Operational agility is demonstrated through continuous investments in R&D facilities and innovation centers, enabling rapid response to changing market demands and customer preferences. Strategic partnerships and distribution agreements have become increasingly important, particularly for expanding geographical presence and leveraging local expertise. Companies are actively expanding their production capacities through facility upgrades and new plant establishments, while simultaneously investing in sustainable sourcing practices and process optimization to maintain a competitive advantage.
Fragmented Market with Strong Regional Players
The industrial starches market exhibits a fragmented structure with a mix of global conglomerates and regional specialists. Global players leverage their extensive R&D capabilities, diverse product portfolios, and strong distribution networks to maintain market leadership, while regional players capitalize on their local market knowledge and specialized product offerings. The market is witnessing increasing consolidation through strategic acquisitions and mergers, particularly in emerging markets, as companies seek to strengthen their market position and expand their product portfolios.
Market dynamics are shaped by the presence of both vertically integrated companies controlling the entire value chain and specialized manufacturers focusing on specific market segments. Merger and acquisition activities are primarily driven by the need to access new technologies, enter emerging markets, and achieve economies of scale. Companies are increasingly focusing on backward integration to secure raw material supplies and maintain quality control, while forward integration helps in better understanding end-user needs and developing tailored solutions.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the industrial starches market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate and adapt to changing market demands. Incumbents are focusing on developing proprietary technologies, expanding application-specific solutions, and strengthening their sustainability credentials to maintain market share. Investment in research and development, coupled with strategic partnerships with end-users, has become crucial for product development and market expansion. Companies are also emphasizing digital transformation and supply chain optimization to enhance operational efficiency and market responsiveness.
For contenders looking to gain ground, focusing on niche applications and underserved markets presents significant opportunities. The increasing demand for clean-label and sustainable products creates entry points for specialized players with innovative solutions. However, success requires careful consideration of end-user concentration in specific segments and the development of strong value propositions. Regulatory requirements, particularly regarding food safety and environmental sustainability, are becoming more stringent, making compliance capabilities a critical success factor. Companies must also address the growing threat of substitutes by emphasizing the unique properties and cost-effectiveness of modified starch and functional starch-based solutions.
Industrial Starch Market Leaders
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AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG
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Archer Daniels Midland Company
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The Tereos Group
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Tate & Lyle
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Cargill Incorporated
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Industrial Starch Market News
- In November 2021, Ingredion launched sustainable barrier starch-FILMKOTE 2030 for high-performing oil and grease resistance in food service packaging in the United States and Canada. This helps manufacturers to replace fluorochemicals with a sustainable alternative.
- In April 2021, Cargill Inc. announced its plans to expand its specialty tapioca starch offerings for the Asia Pacific region. Cargill partnered with Starpro, the food-grade tapioca starch producer in Thailand. With this, it plans to expand in the Asia-Pacific region in order to support the product processing requirements of food manufacturers and the expectations of consumers.
- In January 2021, Tate & Lyle, a global provider of food and beverage solutions and ingredients, announced the expansion of its line of tapioca-based starches. The expansion includes the launch of new REZISTA MAX thickening starches and BRIOGEL gelling starches.
Industrial Starch Industry Segmentation
Industrial starch is derived from various natural sources such as wheat, corn, cassava, potato, and other sources. Industrial starch is extensively used in the paper industry during the manufacturing and coating process. The global industrial starch market is segmented by type into native and starch derivatives and sweeteners. Based on source, the market is segmented into corn, wheat, cassava, potato, and other sources. The market is segmented by application into food and beverage, feed, paper, pharmaceutical, and other applications. Also, the report provides global insights into the industrial starches market in the major economies across regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa. For each segment, the market sizing and forecasting have been done in value terms of USD million.
| By Type | Native | ||
| Starch Derivatives & Sweeteners | |||
| By Source | Corn | ||
| Wheat | |||
| Cassava | |||
| Potato | |||
| Other Sources | |||
| By Application | Food | ||
| Feed | |||
| Paper Industry | |||
| Pharmaceutical Industry | |||
| Other Applications | |||
| By Geography | North America | United States | |
| Canada | |||
| Mexico | |||
| Rest of North America | |||
| Europe | Spain | ||
| United Kingdom | |||
| Germany | |||
| Russia | |||
| France | |||
| Italy | |||
| Rest of Europe | |||
| Asia-Pacific | China | ||
| Japan | |||
| India | |||
| Australia | |||
| Rest of Asia-Pacific | |||
| South America | Brazil | ||
| Argentina | |||
| Rest of South America | |||
| Middle East and Africa | South Africa | ||
| United Arab Emirates | |||
| Rest of Middle East and Africa | |||
| Native |
| Starch Derivatives & Sweeteners |
| Corn |
| Wheat |
| Cassava |
| Potato |
| Other Sources |
| Food |
| Feed |
| Paper Industry |
| Pharmaceutical Industry |
| Other Applications |
| North America | United States |
| Canada | |
| Mexico | |
| Rest of North America | |
| Europe | Spain |
| United Kingdom | |
| Germany | |
| Russia | |
| France | |
| Italy | |
| Rest of Europe | |
| Asia-Pacific | China |
| Japan | |
| India | |
| Australia | |
| Rest of Asia-Pacific | |
| South America | Brazil |
| Argentina | |
| Rest of South America | |
| Middle East and Africa | South Africa |
| United Arab Emirates | |
| Rest of Middle East and Africa |
Industrial Starch Market Research FAQs
How big is the Industrial Starches Market?
The Industrial Starches Market size is expected to reach USD 60.30 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 5.40% to reach USD 78.44 billion by 2030.
What is the current Industrial Starches Market size?
In 2025, the Industrial Starches Market size is expected to reach USD 60.30 billion.
Who are the key players in Industrial Starches Market?
AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG, Archer Daniels Midland Company, The Tereos Group, Tate & Lyle and Cargill Incorporated are the major companies operating in the Industrial Starches Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Industrial Starches Market?
Asia-Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2025-2030).
Which region has the biggest share in Industrial Starches Market?
In 2025, the North America accounts for the largest market share in Industrial Starches Market.
What years does this Industrial Starches Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Industrial Starches Market size was estimated at USD 57.04 billion. The report covers the Industrial Starches Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Industrial Starches Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
