The global phytosterols market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of nearly 9.0% during the forecast period. The major factors contributing to the market growth include health benefits associated with plant sterols and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cancer and CVD. Plant sterols (phytosterols) are found in large quantity in foods such as seeds, vegetable oils, and nuts, to reduce bad cholesterol in the body and reduce the risk of heart diseases. In food products, phytosterols added to some kinds of margarine.

The US FDA enables manufacturers to claim that foods which consist of plant sterol esters can support to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Such rule is based on the conclusion of the FDA that plant sterol esters may decrease the risk of coronary heart disease by lowering blood cholesterol levels. There are several evidence that plant sterols support to lower cholesterol levels. However, there is no proof that long-term utilization actually reduces the risk of developing coronary heart disease.

Plant sterols can significantly reduce total and bad low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels by nearly 3% to 15% in people having high cholesterol who are following a cholesterol-lowering diet. These can be added in cereals, margarine, dairy products, and bread, or taken in the form of a pill. Research recommends that dose of nearly 2-3 grams daily reduces cholesterol the most. Therefore, it can be a suitable alternative for the prevention of CVD in patients who are obese and at high risk of developing CVD. Phytosterols are also useful for weight loss.

Further, some evidence suggests that plant sterols may reduce the risk of cancer. As per some human studies, people who consume the most plant sterols have a reduced risk of ovarian, stomach, breast, and lung cancer. Animal studies have also demonstrated that phytosterols may contain anticancer properties, supporting to slow the progression and spread of tumors. However, there is less evidence related to the role of phytosterols in lowering the risk of cancer. Rising demand for plant-based nutritional supplements is expected to offer enormous opportunity for the adoption of phytosterols to lower LDL and may prevent cancer. Phytosterol supplements are available over the counter and online in the gelatin capsule, capsule, and tablet forms.

Market Segmentation

The global phytosterols market is segmented into product and application. Based on the product, the market is classified into campesterol, beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and others. Based on application, the market is classified into food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and dietary supplements.

Beta-sitosterol Occupied Significant Share in the Product Segment

Based on product, in 2019, beta-sitosterol is anticipated to hold a significant share in the market. Owing to steroidal lipophilic nature, beta-sitosterol is found in several oils from vegetables and plants. It has gained the attention of scientists as it may affect cholesterol absorption. Beta-sitosterol is normally used for CVD, prevention of cancer, hypercholesterolemia, and modulating the immune system, as well as for cervical cancer, tuberculosis, hair loss, rheumatoid arthritis, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Beta-sitosterol is normally considered as a natural, safe, and effective nutritional supplement, with many potential benefits. It possesses antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, angiogenic, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory activities without major toxicity. Owing to these benefits, some nutraceutical preparations available on the market contain beta-sitosterol.

Global Phytosterols Market Share by Product, 2019 (%)

Regional Outlook

Geographically, in 2019, Europe is expected to witness significant share in the market owing to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and significant presence of major pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and dietary supplement manufacturers in the region. Expansion of plant sterols production is further anticipated to drive the market growth in the region. Asia-Pacific is estimated to witness potential growth during the forecast period owing to the emerging demand for plant-based alternatives and increasing obese population in the region. In addition, a significant rise in the demand for natural ingredients in cosmetics is further anticipated to propel the adoption of phytosterols in the region.

Global Phytosterols Market Growth, by Region 2020-2026

Market Players Outlook 

Some prominent players in the market include Archer Daniels Midland Co., Cargill Inc., BASF SE, Raisio Plc, and Bunge Ltd. Product launches, mergers and acquisitions, and partnerships and collaborations are some crucial strategies adopted by the market players to expand market share and gain a competitive advantage. For instance, in March 2018, Bunge Ltd. acquired a 70% ownership interest in IOI Loders Croklaan from IOI Corp. Berhad. This acquisition will enable to further strengthen the position of Bunge in business-to-business oil solutions with increased value-added capabilities and reach and scale across core geographies. The acquisition of Loders will support Bunge to offer a comprehensive range of offerings for customers, from core products to specialties, for B2B customers in the human nutrition, food processing, confectionery, industrial and artisanal bakery, and food service segments.

The Report Covers

• Market value data analysis of 2019 and forecast to 2026.
• Annualized market revenues ($ million) for each market segment.
• Country-wise analysis of major geographical regions.
• Key companies operating in the global phytosterols market. Based on the availability of data, information related to pipeline products, and relevant news is also available in the report.
• Analysis of business strategies by identifying the key market segments positioned for strong growth in the future.
• Analysis of market-entry and market expansion strategies.
• Competitive strategies by identifying ‘who-stands-where’ in the market.