The starch industry stands as a vital pillar in the global food and industrial landscape, playing a pivotal role in the production of a wide array of products that impact consumer’s daily lives. Starch, a natural carbohydrate found abundantly in various plant sources, serves as a versatile and indispensable ingredient with applications ranging from culinary delights to industrial processes. From its humble origins as a basic foodstuff, the starch industry has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise, characterized by innovation, sustainability, and global reach. This dynamic sector encompasses an intricate web of agricultural practices, cutting-edge technology, and intricate chemical processes to extract and refine starch into its many valuable derivatives. The starch industry's journey can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where people discovered the utility of starchy plants such as corn, wheat, and potatoes for sustenance. Over centuries, this knowledge evolved, and by the 19th century, industrialization brought about significant advancements in starch processing techniques. The invention of machines like centrifuges and hydrocyclones revolutionized the production, making starch a ubiquitous ingredient in a wide range of food products. Beyond the culinary sphere, starch found its way into various industrial applications, such as paper manufacturing, textiles, and pharmaceuticals, thanks to its unique properties like gelling, thickening, and binding. Today, the starch industry has expanded its horizons even further, driven by growing consumer demands for natural and sustainable products. The emphasis on eco-friendly and renewable resources has led to innovations like biodegradable plastics made from starch-based polymers, bioethanol as an alternative fuel, and even applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Moreover, the quest for cleaner, more efficient production processes has pushed the starch industry towards adopting greener technologies, reducing waste, and optimizing resource use. This intersection of science, sustainability, and industry has transformed the starch sector into a critical player in the global effort to create a more environmentally responsible and economically viable future.
According to the research report, “Global Starch Market Research Report, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to cross USD 65 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 52.59 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow with 4.7% CAGR by 2023-28. The starch market is witnessing growth for several reasons, reflecting both its traditional applications and its evolving role in various industries. Starch is a fundamental ingredient in the food industry, used for its thickening, gelling, and texturizing properties. As the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for processed and convenience foods, where starch plays a crucial role in product formulation. Consumers are increasingly seeking clean-label products with simple and recognizable ingredients. Starch, especially native and unmodified starches, fits into this trend as a natural and familiar ingredient, replacing synthetic additives and emulsifiers. Starches like corn, potato, and tapioca are commonly used as gluten-free alternatives in food products. As gluten-free diets gain popularity, the demand for starches in gluten-free food formulations has risen. Rapid urbanization and busy lifestyles have led to an increased consumption of convenience foods and snacks, many of which contain starch-based ingredients. Starch provides the desired texture, crispness, and stability to these products. Growing economies in Asia, Latin America, and Africa are experiencing rising incomes and changing dietary habits. This shift toward more processed and Western-style diets is boosting the demand for starch-containing products. Starch is a versatile ingredient in various industrial sectors, including textiles, paper, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Its properties as a biodegradable and renewable resource make it appealing for sustainable alternatives in these applications. The starch industry plays a critical role in the production of biofuels, particularly bioethanol. Environmental concerns and government incentives for renewable fuels have driven growth in this sector.
The global starch market is segmented into five major regions including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America and Middle East & Africa. Among them, Asia-Pacific is leading the market with prominent market growth by the end of the forecast period. The Asia-Pacific region, especially countries like China, India, Thailand, and Indonesia, is a major producer of starch, primarily from cassava, rice, and corn. It is the largest starch-producing region globally. Asia-Pacific has a diverse starch market, with applications ranging from traditional foods to industrial sectors like textiles and pharmaceuticals. The region's growing population and urbanization drive demand. Asia-Pacific is experiencing a shift toward convenience foods and Western-style diets, increasing the demand for starch in processed food products. Sustainable and natural ingredient trends are also gaining momentum. On the other hand, Europe is a major producer of starch, primarily from wheat, corn, and potatoes. The European Union is a key player in the starch market. Starch is widely used in the European food industry, particularly for confectionery, bakery, and dairy products. The region also has a strong presence in the production of modified starches for various industrial applications. Sustainable and clean-label products are prominent trends in Europe. There is also a growing interest in biodegradable plastics made from starch-based polymers. North America, particularly the United States and Canada, is a significant producer of starch, primarily from corn. Corn starch is a key product, used extensively in food and industrial applications. The region has a robust demand for starch-based products in the food, beverage, and industrial sectors. High consumption of processed foods and the growth of the biofuel industry contribute to this demand. Clean label products, including non-GMO and organic starches, are gaining popularity. The development of specialty starches for niche applications is a notable trend.
South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina, is a significant producer of starch, mainly from cassava. Corn starch production is also noteworthy in the region. The starch market in South America is influenced by the food and beverage industry, as well as the ethanol/biofuel sector. Cassava starch is a staple in regional cuisines. Sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions, including starch-based bio-plastics, are gaining traction. The biofuel industry, particularly in Brazil, drives demand for starch. South America, particularly Brazil, is a key player in the global ethanol market, contributing to high demand for corn starch. There's also a trend toward cassava-based starch for both food and industrial applications. However, starch production in this region is relatively lower compared to other regions. Cassava is a primary source of starch in some African countries. Starch is utilized in traditional foods and various industrial applications. In some countries, starch is used in local dishes and as a thickening agent. The region is gradually recognizing the potential of starch in food processing and industrial sectors. As economies develop, there may be opportunities for starch market growth. Australia and New Zealand are notable starch producers, primarily from wheat and corn. Starch finds applications in food processing, including baked goods, snacks, and dairy products. Oceania is adopting clean-label trends, emphasizing natural and non-GMO starch ingredients. The region is also exploring starch-based materials for sustainable packaging. Some African countries are making efforts to modernize their agricultural practices, potentially leading to increased starch production. There's also growing interest in the use of indigenous crops for starch extraction.
Conventional starches are derived from traditional sources such as corn, wheat, potatoes, tapioca, and rice. Corn starch is one of the most widely produced and utilized conventional starches globally, owing to its versatility and wide range of applications. Conventional starches are used extensively in the food and beverage industry as thickeners, stabilizers, and texturizing agents. They are vital in the production of processed foods, dairy products, baked goods, and snacks. Additionally, conventional starches find application in various industrial sectors, including paper, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. While conventional starches remain popular, there is a growing trend toward cleaner labels. Consumers are increasingly looking for products made with simple, recognizable ingredients, which has led to an interest in native and non-GMO conventional starches. Modified conventional starches are in demand for specific industrial applications, such as paper sizing and adhesive production. These modified starches offer improved functionality and performance. As gluten-free diets gain traction, conventional starches, especially those derived from corn and potatoes, are used to replace wheat flour in various gluten-free products. Organic starches are produced from organically grown sources like organic corn, organic wheat, and organic potatoes. Organic farming practices exclude the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Organic starches cater to consumers seeking organic and clean-label products. They are primarily used in the organic food industry, where they serve as thickeners, binders, and stabilizers in organic sauces, soups, baby food, and other organic processed foods. Organic starches are also used in organic snacks and gluten-free organic products.
The global starch market is diverse, with various sources of starch used for different applications. Starch can be derived from a wide range of plants and sources. Corn starch is one of the most widely produced starches globally. It is primarily sourced from maize or corn. Corn starch production is particularly prominent in regions like the United States, China, and Europe. Corn starch has a broad range of applications in the food industry as a thickener, stabilizer, and texturizer. It is used in products such as soups, sauces, dairy, and baked goods. In addition, it plays a significant role in industrial sectors, including paper, textiles, and ethanol production. The demand for non-GMO and organic corn starch is on the rise, driven by clean-label and sustainability trends. Modified corn starches are also developed for specific industrial applications. Cassava starch is derived from cassava root, a tropical plant. It is commonly produced in regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America. Cassava starch is a staple in many tropical cuisines, used as a thickener and binder in various dishes. It is also utilized in the paper, textile, and pharmaceutical industries. Cassava starch is gaining attention as a gluten-free and versatile ingredient. Sustainable cassava farming practices are being promoted to ensure a stable supply. However, potato starch is extracted from potatoes. Europe, particularly the Netherlands, is a significant producer of potato starch. Potato starch is known for its high clarity and neutral taste, making it suitable for applications in the food industry, including soups, sauces, and gluten-free products. It is also used in adhesives, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. The clean-label trend has boosted the use of potato starch in processed foods, as it is a natural and recognizable ingredient.
The global starch market is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of applications across various industries. Starch is a fundamental ingredient in the food industry. It is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and texturizer in a wide range of products, including soups, sauces, gravies, dressings, bakery items, confectionery, and dairy products. It also serves as a coating for fried foods and a binding agent in meat products. Starches like corn and potato are used in gluten-free products, meeting the needs of consumers with dietary restrictions. There is a growing interest in using starch-based packaging materials to reduce plastic waste. Starch finds extensive use in industrial sectors such as paper manufacturing, textiles, adhesives, and pharmaceuticals. It is used as a sizing agent in paper production, a binder in pharmaceutical tablets, and an adhesive in textiles and laminates. Ongoing research explores starch-based materials for 3D printing, creating biodegradable materials, and developing advanced biomaterials. However, Starch is used in textile processing as a sizing agent, providing stiffness and smoothness to fabrics. It aids in the weaving process and is later washed off. Starch is preferred over synthetic sizing agents due to its biodegradability and eco-friendly characteristics. Starch is used in cosmetic products for its absorbent properties, providing a matte finish in cosmetics like powders and foundations. Natural and clean-label cosmetics are driving the use of starch as a safe and biodegradable ingredient.
Starches serve a multitude of functions across industries, from enhancing food texture to improving the performance of industrial materials. Trends in the starch market include a growing demand for clean-label and non-GMO starches, as well as the development of sustainable and eco-friendly starch-based solutions to meet the evolving needs of consumers and industries alike. Starch is widely used as a thickening agent in the food industry. It imparts viscosity and texture to a variety of products, including soups, sauces, gravies, and puddings. Starch stabilizes emulsions and suspensions in the food and beverage industry, preventing separation or settling of ingredients in products like salad dressings, dairy products, and beverages. The trend towards clean labels has led to the use of starches as stabilizers instead of synthetic additives. Starch can form gels when heated and then cooled, making it valuable in the production of gelled desserts, pie fillings, and confectionery. Modified starches with precise gelling properties are developed to cater to specific product requirements. Also, starch enhances the texture of food products. It can make foods crispier, chewier, or creamier, depending on the application. Starch acts as a binding agent in food products like meat patties, sausages, and vegetarian meat alternatives, helping ingredients stick together. In industries like paper, textiles, and laminates, starch serves as an adhesive, binding layers together or improving the surface properties of materials. In the textile industry, starch is used for sizing, providing stiffness and smoothness to fabrics during weaving. It ensures yarns hold together during the manufacturing process. In pharmaceuticals, starch is used as disintegrate in tablets and capsules. It helps the tablet break down into smaller particles upon contact with moisture. High-quality, pharmaceutical-grade starches that meet regulatory requirements are in demand. In cosmetics, starch is used for its absorbent properties, reducing shine in products like powders and foundations. Starch-based materials are explored in 3D printing for their potential as biodegradable and sustainable printing materials.
Trade Shows and Exhibitions:
• Fi Europe & Ni (Food Ingredients Europe & Natural Ingredients) event is a major exhibition for the food and beverage industry, including starch and ingredient manufacturers. It offers opportunities for networking, discovering new ingredients, and staying updated on industry trends.
• IFT Food Expo (Institute of Food Technologists Food Expo) is one of the largest annual food science and technology events in the world. It attracts professionals from various industries, including starch manufacturers and suppliers.
• Food Ingredients China (FIC) is the largest food ingredients show in Asia. It provides a platform for starch industry players to showcase their products and services to the Asian market.
• Tapioca and Cassava Starch Expo is a specialized event focuses on tapioca and cassava starch, offering insights into the production, processing, and applications of these starches.
• PaperCon is an annual event for the paper and pulp industry, where starch is a critical component in papermaking. It provides opportunities for starch suppliers to connect with paper industry professionals.
• TEXTILE EXPO Uzbekistan exhibition is a platform for the textile industry, where starch is used as a sizing agent. It allows starch manufacturers to engage with textile producers and explore business opportunities.
• CPhI Worldwide (for Pharmaceutical Starches) is a prominent event for the pharmaceutical industry. It provides a platform for suppliers of pharmaceutical-grade starches to connect with pharmaceutical professionals.
• PLMA's Private Label Trade Show (for Private Label Starch Products) trade show focuses on private label products, including private label starch-based food products. It offers opportunities for manufacturers and retailers to collaborate.
• Pack Expo International (for Starch-Based Packaging Solutions) is a packaging industry trade show where starch-based packaging materials and solutions can be showcased.
