Overview of the ascorbic acid (vitamin C) market [Global Report]

Ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, is a nutrient widely used in many industries, including pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics and animal feed. Its role as an antioxidant and essential nutrient for disease prevention, along with its growing applications in healthcare and personal care, continues to drive the market worldwide. This report provides insights into the current status of the ascorbic acid market in 2024, its regional dynamics, emerging trends and future projections to 2030.

Market dynamics

The global ascorbic acid market is expected to reach approximately US$2.4 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2023. Several factors are driving this growth:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has increased global health awareness, leading to increased demand for immune-boosting supplements, of which vitamin C is an important ingredient . Consumers are more focused on preventive health measures, resulting in continued high demand for vitamin C supplements in both developed and developing regions.
• The market for functional foods and beverages is growing rapidly. These products are fortified with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, including vitamin C. Europe, in particular, has seen an increased demand for natural, clean-label food products in which vitamin C serves as a natural preservative and antioxidant.
• The pharmaceutical industry remains the largest consumer of ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is used in a variety of preparations, including immune-boosting supplements, effervescent tablets and injectable solutions. The pharmaceutical sector is expected to account for more than 60% of the market by the end of 2024, driven by growing demand for health supplements.
• In the food industry, ascorbic acid is widely used as a preservative and fortifier in processed foods and beverages. This is particularly relevant in Europe and North America, where clean label trends are driving demand for natural preservatives. Ascorbic acid’s ability to prevent oxidation and extend the shelf life of products such as fruit juices, jams and cold cuts makes it an important ingredient in many products.
• The use of ascorbic acid in animal feed is growing, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, which is a world leader in animal feed production. Vitamin C in animal feed increases growth performance, improves health and helps animals cope with stress. The sector continues to grow, particularly in China and India, where there is a strong emphasis on livestock productivity.

Regional analysis

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China, accounts for almost 40% of global market revenues. China is the largest producer of vitamin C, benefiting from profitable large-scale production. The region’s dominance is also driven by high demand for fortified foods and dietary supplements. Countries such as India and Japan have seen rising vitamin C consumption due to an increasing focus on preventing micronutrient deficiencies and promoting health. India, in particular, has seen increasing demand for vitamin C in pharmaceuticals and animal feed.

Europe

Countries such as Germany, the UK and France are leading the demand due to intensive R&D in pharmaceuticals and a high preference for clean label food products. The role of ascorbic acid as a natural preservative and antioxidant is important to meet stringent European Union food safety and nutrition standards.

USA and Canada

In the US and Canada, there is an increasing emphasis on health and well-being, which has led to increased consumption. The pharmaceutical industry in North America remains a significant driver, and vitamin C is widely used in immune-boosting products, particularly post-pandemic. In addition, the food and beverage industry is embracing ascorbic acid as a natural additive, aligned with consumer demand for healthier and more natural dietary choices.

Middle East and Africa

Although smaller in comparison to other regions, the Middle East and Africa have seen a steady increase in demand for ascorbic acid. The main drivers in this region are the feed and food processing industries, where vitamin C is used to improve livestock health and preserve food products. The growing emphasis on agriculture and food security in these regions provides further growth opportunities.

Trends and future projections

Several trends are expected to shape the future growth of the ascorbic acid market until 2030. New production methods, such as microbial fermentation, are making vitamin C production more efficient and sustainable. These innovations not only reduce production costs, but also increase the quality and availability of ascorbic acid, which in turn supports market growth.

With increasing consumer demand for transparency in food ingredients, especially in Europe and North America, there is a growing preference for natural preservatives such as ascorbic acid. The clean label movement has been a significant driver of demand, especially in the food and beverage sector, where synthetic additives are being replaced by natural alternatives.

The use of vitamin C in cosmetics is growing rapidly due to its strong antioxidant properties and ability to promote collagen synthesis. Vitamin C is increasingly used in anti-ageing and skin-brightening products, particularly in serums, creams and face masks. This trend is expected to continue as consumer interest in skincare products with proven health benefits increases.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a sustained focus on immune health, with vitamin C playing a key role in preventive health strategies. Continued demand for vitamin C supplements is expected to remain strong, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, as consumers prioritise long-term immune support.

Growth in the animal feed industry, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, will continue to drive demand for ascorbic acid. With the increasing focus on livestock productivity and health, vitamin C is becoming an important component of animal nutrition. This trend is particularly strong in emerging economies, where agriculture is a significant sector.

Global Reports from Foodcom S.A.

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