The global astaxanthin market reached a valuation of USD 2.34 billion in 2023, with projections indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.1% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is driven by a rising demand for astaxanthin across various industries, including aquaculture, animal feed, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverages. Astaxanthin’s role in aquaculture is significant, where it is commonly used to enhance the coloration of species such as prawns, salmon, trout, and ornamental fish, increasing their market value. Additionally, astaxanthin offers numerous health benefits to aquatic animals, improving stress tolerance, performance, immune-related gene expression, reproductive capacity, survival rates, and disease resistance. To meet the rising demand in aquaculture, major industry players are focusing on product development and collaborative agreements.

Market growth is further supported by organizations that actively promote awareness of astaxanthin's diverse applications. For example, the Natural Algae Astaxanthin Association (NAXA) is influential in promoting, protecting, and educating the public on the benefits of natural astaxanthin across various industries. NAXA also supports relevant research and offers the NAXA Verification Seal to certify natural astaxanthin products.

To increase the penetration of natural astaxanthin-based products, companies are engaging in strategies such as new product launches and partnerships with influential players in related industries. For instance, Algalif partnered with Divi’s Nutraceuticals in May 2022 to release high-concentration astaxanthin beadlets called AstaBeads, targeting sports nutrition and healthy aging markets. Similarly, The Lubrizol Corporation launched ASTAGILE microcapsules in October 2020, focusing on enhancing cognitive and mental agility for both young and senior adults.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Astaxanthin Market

The astaxanthin market showcases a high degree of innovation, with companies developing novel formulations and sustainable production methods. For example, Sirio Europe (SIRIO) revealed in August, 2023, its plan to introduce two new softgel products targeting the pharmaceutical sector during the CPHI Barcelona 2023 event.

The astaxanthin market is also characterized by a high level of merger and acquisition (M&A) activity by the leading players In January 2022, ENEOS Corporation disclosed its acquisition of Ecocert Inputs Attestation, a globally recognized certification organization. This strategic move strengthens ENEOS' position in the astaxanthin market, particularly for Panaferd-AX. The merger reflects the company's commitment to quality and international standards, contributing to the evolution of the industry.

Product Segmentation Insights:

In 2023, dried algae meal or biomass dominated the market with a share of 25.26%. This significant share is attributed to its applications in biomass production for other forms, such as capsules and tablets, minimal downstream processing, convenient bulk production, and a higher demand for use as animal feed. New product launches in the sector, such as Solabia-Algatech Nutrition Ltd’s AstaPure Arava gummies in October 2022, highlight the growing demand for algal astaxanthin. Additionally, in May 2022, Algalif collaborated with start-up company Marea to create a biodegradable coating using residual algae biomass. These advancements are anticipated to support growth in this segment over the forecast period.

The softgel segment is expected to experience strong growth in the coming years, as softgels are widely favored by consumers for their convenience and suitability for the geriatric population. Veggie softgels, derived from modified cornstarch and glycerin, are particularly popular among nutraceutical companies due to their plant-based origin and minimal side effects. Regulatory approvals are further boosting this segment; for example, in September 2021, NextFerm Technologies obtained regulatory approval in the U.S. to market Astaferm, an innovative antioxidant in oil form for softgels.

These factors collectively contribute to the expansion of the global astaxanthin market across various segments and applications.

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