Global Lactic Acid Market Share, Size, Trends, Industry Analysis Report, By Source (Natural Lactic Acid, Synthetic Lactic Acid); By Application; By Region; Segment Forecast, 2024 - 2032
- Published Date:Jan-2024
- Pages: 116
- Format: PDF
- Report ID: PM1630
- Base Year: 2023
- Historical Data: 2019-2021
Report Outlook
The global lactic acid market was valued at USD 3.31 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.80% during the forecast period. Lactic acid, has gained importance in the past decade due to its potential as a precursor for heat-resistant polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastics, widely used in various applications such as textiles, automotive, packaging, and coatings. This comprehensive overview discusses the recent developments in the production of d-lactic acid, including the various microorganisms studied for its production, biotechnological methods such as batch, fed-batch, simultaneous saccharification, and fermentation, and continuous fermentation processes. The suitability of alternative substrates for fermentation and the benefits and drawbacks of product recovery and purification methods are also examined. The current industrial producers of lactic acid and the economic aspects of PLA are briefly mentioned.
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Lactic acid is an important platform chemical for the production of PLA and other value-added products, and it is naturally produced by various microbes, including bacteria, yeast, and fungi. Bacteria typically ferment C5 and C6 sugars into lactic acid through homo- or hetero-fermentation. Enzymes such as xylose isomerase, phosphoketolase, transaldolase, and l- and d-lactate dehydrogenases play a crucial role in the metabolic pathways of lactic acid production. However, metabolic engineering of microbial strains is often necessary to enable lactic acid production from other carbon sources. The production of d-lactic acid has gained attention due to the demand for thermostable PLA, but large-scale commercial production of d-LA is yet to be realized.
The use of thermophilic strains of Bacillus coagulans for homo-fermentation of lignocellulosic sugars to lactic acid under non-sterilized conditions has limitations due to the lack of genetic tools for metabolic engineering. Pretreatment of agricultural biomass to obtain fermentable sugars is a major challenge in using large amounts of biomass for lactic acid production. Genetic engineering of strains to tolerate acidic conditions and produce lactic acid at low pH could potentially reduce production costs by avoiding or minimizing the use of neutralizing agents during fermentation.
Recent research has focused on the fermentative production of optically pure lactic acid due to its high potential for applications in various fields. The increasing demand for biodegradable PLA materials as eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum-derived plastics has led to a global interest in lactic acid production. However, higher production costs have limited the widespread use of PLA, primarily due to the expensive cost of lactic acid. Therefore, improving lactic acid production and productivity, as well as reducing production costs through the use of inexpensive substrates, have become significant objectives. Several bioprocess techniques involving wild-type and/or engineered microbes have been employed to increase lactic acid production. This review will focus on the characteristics and metabolism of lactic acid producers in relation to fermentation.
In addition to costly pure sugars and food crops, this overview discusses alternatives such as dairy products, food and agro-industrial wastes, algal biomass, and inexpensive fermentative substrates like glycerol. The different fermentation strategies and modes that have been reported to enhance lactic acid production in terms of concentration, yield, and efficiency are summarized and compared. Immobilization and cell recycling methods for high-density fermentation are also discussed. Finally, improvements in recovery procedures and future outlook for lactic acid production are presented.
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Industry Dynamics
Growth Drivers
Global lactic acid is a versatile organic acid that has gained significant importance in various industries. Its applications in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical and personal care, and industrial sectors, along with its eco-friendly nature, have been driving its growth and industry importance. With the increasing consumer demand for natural and sustainable products, the demand for lactic acid is expected to continue to grow in the foreseeable future.
the key growth drivers for lactic acid is its widespread use in the food and beverage industry. Lactic acid is used as a food additive, preservative, flavor enhancer, and pH regulator in a wide range of food and beverage products. It is commonly used in dairy products, bakery goods, meat and poultry, confectionery, and beverages, among others. The growing consumer demand for natural and clean label food products has fueled the demand for lactic acid as it is considered a natural and eco-friendly alternative to other food additives.
Another important industry where lactic acid has gained significance is the pharmaceutical and personal care industry. Lactic acid is used in the production of various pharmaceutical and personal care products due to its antimicrobial properties, moisturizing properties, and ability to enhance the bioavailability of certain drugs. It is used in the production of topical creams, lotions, oral care products, and medical dressings, among others. The increasing awareness about the benefits of using natural and sustainable ingredients in pharmaceutical and personal care products has contributed to the growing demand for lactic acid.
Furthermore, lactic acid is also used in industrial applications such as bioplastics, textiles, leather, and detergents, among others. It is used as a raw material for the production of polylactic acid (PLA), which is a biodegradable and renewable bioplastic used in packaging, disposable cutlery, and other plastic products. The growing environmental concerns and regulations promoting the use of sustainable materials have led to increased demand for lactic acid in the production of bioplastics.
In addition to its wide range of applications, lactic acid is also considered an important industry due to its eco-friendly nature. Lactic acid is produced by the fermentation of renewable feedstocks such as corn, sugarcane, and other plant-based sources, making it a sustainable and renewable option compared to other petrochemical-based acids. The growing emphasis on sustainability and the increasing adoption of bio-based products have further boosted the demand for lactic acid in various industries.
Report Segmentation
The market is primarily segmented based on source, application , and region.
By Source |
By Application |
By Region |
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The Natural Segment is Expected to Witness the Fastest Growth During the Forecast Period
The natural segment of the lactic acid market is projected to experience the fastest growth in the coming years. Lactic acid is a versatile organic acid used in a wide range of applications, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial applications. It is also used as a biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based products.
The demand for natural and sustainable products is increasing globally, driven by factors such as rising consumer awareness and concerns about the environmental impact of chemicals and synthetic materials. This trend is also reflected in the lactic acid market, where the demand for natural and bio-based lactic acid products is growing rapidly.
The natural segment of the lactic acid market includes products that are produced through natural fermentation processes using renewable raw materials such as corn, sugarcane, and cassava. These products are biodegradable, non-toxic, and have a lower carbon footprint compared to their synthetic counterparts.
The food and beverage industry is the largest end-user of lactic acid, accounting for a significant share of the market. Lactic acid is used as a food additive to enhance flavor, preserve freshness, and as a pH regulator. The demand for natural and organic food and beverage products is growing rapidly, which is driving the demand for natural lactic acid.
In the personal care industry, natural lactic acid is used in a variety of applications such as skin care, hair care, and oral care products. It is used as a moisturizer, exfoliant, and pH regulator. The growing demand for natural and organic personal care products is expected to drive the demand for natural lactic acid in this industry.
The Biodegradable Plastics & Polymers Segment Accounted for the Largest Market Share in 2022
The biodegradable plastics and polymers segment has largest market in the global lactic acid market. Lactic acid is a key component in the production of biodegradable plastics and polymers, which are increasingly being used as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics.
The demand for biodegradable plastics and polymers is growing rapidly, driven by increasing environmental concerns and regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste and pollution. The biodegradable plastics and polymers segment accounted for the largest market share in the global lactic acid market in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years.
The Demand in North America is Expected to Witness Significant Growth in the Coming Year
The demand for lactic acid in North America is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years. Lactic acid is a versatile organic acid that is used in a wide range of applications, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial applications. The increasing demand for natural and sustainable products, along with growing concerns about the environmental impact of conventional chemicals and materials, is driving the growth of the lactic acid market in North America.
The food and beverage industry is the largest end-user of lactic acid in North America, accounting for a significant share of the market. Lactic acid is used as a food additive to enhance flavor, preserve freshness, and as a pH regulator. The growing demand for natural and organic food and beverage products is driving the demand for lactic acid in this industry.
In the personal care industry, lactic acid is used in a variety of applications such as skin care, hair care, and oral care products. It is used as a moisturizer, exfoliant, and pH regulator. The growing demand for natural and organic personal care products is expected to drive the demand for lactic acid in this industry in North America.
The pharmaceutical industry is also a significant end-user of lactic acid in North America. Lactic acid is used as an excipient in the formulation of drugs. The demand for natural and sustainable excipients is growing, which is expected to drive the demand for lactic acid in this industry.
Competitive Insight
Some of the major players operating in the global market include BASF SE, Cargill, COFCO, Corbion N.V., Danimer Scientific, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., FoodChem International, Galactic, Godavari Biorefineries, Henan Jindan Lactic Acid Technology Co. Ltd., Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG, Musashino Chemical Laboratory, Ltd., ProAgro GmbH, Spectrum, Chemicals, Sulzer, Teijin Limited, and Vigon International.
Recent Developments
- In 2021, International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) has introduced YO-MIX ViV, a line of products made with lactic acid bacteria culture, including ambient yogurt and other fermented drinks. The product range is primarily aimed at the Asia-Pacific market, with a strong emphasis on China.
- In 2021, LG Chem, a renowned chemical company with a diverse range of products, and ADM, a global provider of nutrition and bio solutions, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly explore the production of lactic acid in the US. The objective of this partnership is to cater to the increasing demand for a variety of plant-based products, including Lactic Acid and Polylactic Acid, which are used in the production of bioplastics and other plant-based solutionsTop of Form
- In 2021, Total Corbion PLA, a joint venture between Total and Corbion, has initiated the front-end engineering design phase for its upcoming Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) manufacturing plant in Grandpuits, France, which is expected to start operating in 2024 with a production capacity of 100,000 tonnes per year. Once completed, the facility will be the first of its kind in Europe, making Total Corbion PLA the world's leading provider of PLA and well-equipped to meet the growing demand for Luminy PLA resins.
Global Lactic Acid Market Report Scope
Report Attributes |
Details |
Market size value in 2024 |
USD 3.56 billion |
Revenue forecast in 2032 |
USD 6.50 billion |
CAGR |
7.80% from 2024 - 2032 |
Base year |
2023 |
Historical data |
2019 - 2021 |
Forecast period |
2024 - 2032 |
Quantitative units |
Revenue in USD billion and CAGR from 2024 to 2032 |
Segments covered |
By Source, By Application, By Region |
Regional scope |
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa |
Key companies |
BASF SE, Cargill, COFCO, Corbion N.V., Danimer Scientific, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., FoodChem International, Galactic, Godavari Biorefineries, Henan Jindan Lactic Acid Technology Co. Ltd., Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG, Musashino Chemical Laboratory, Ltd., ProAgro GmbH, Spectrum, Chemicals, Sulzer, Teijin Limited, and Vigon International. |
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FAQ's
The global lactic acid market size is expected to reach USD 6.50 billion by 2032.
Key players in the lactic acid market are BASF SE, Cargill, COFCO, Corbion N.V., Danimer Scientific, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., FoodChem International, Galactic, Godavari Biorefineries.
North America contribute notably towards the global lactic acid market.
The global lactic acid market expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period.
The lactic acid market report covering key segments are source, application , and region.