The Europe lactic acid market accounted for US$ 250.23 million in 2019 and it is expected to reach US$ 525.86 million by 2027. It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.8% during 2020–2027.
Lactic acid is an organic acid produced during the process of fermentation. It is used in various industries including food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and biodegradable polymers. The multi-functionalities of lactic acid render its use in various industries. In the food & beverages industry, lactic acid is used as a preservative, curing agent, and flavoring agent. Surging demand for processed food in Europe is boosting the application of lactic acid in the food industry. In meat, poultry, & seafood products, it is majorly used as a decontaminant. In the personal care industry, lactic acid is mainly used in anti-ageing and skin lightening products as it treats hyperpigmentation and age spots. Lactic acid, an essential organic acid produced by lactic acid bacteria, finds application in various industries, such as food & beverages, textile, personal care & cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is naturally present in several foodstuffs. It is used in an extensive range of food applications, including bakery & confectionery products, dairy products, meat products, and beverages. Lactic acid is also used in the dairy industry in making cheese and yogurt. Lactic acid is used in food products, primarily as a pH regulator, preservative, and flavoring agent. Polylactic acid, an aliphatic polyester-based thermoplastic biopolymer, is majorly used for textile applications, including household as well as industrial wipes, diapers, and disposable garments. Furthermore, lactic acid is used to formulate cleansing products, shampoos, moisturizers, hair dyes, and other skin care and hair care products in the personal care & cosmetics industry.
Based on form, the Europe lactic acid market is segmented into dry and liquid. In 2019, the dry segment dominated the market and it is also projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The lactic acid powder refers to a natural L-lactic acid powder obtained from the fermentation of glucose. It is a mixture of lactic acid and L-calcium lactate. It is present as a white granule or powder of moderate and pure acidity, soluble in hot water and provide enhanced taste. It is also used as a food or feed additive; it can enhance the taste of food and prolong the shelf life of food. It is commonly used in frozen food, pasta, rice, pastry, feed, and other industries as a food flavor enhancer. It is suitable for the control of acidity of various solid and powdered foods. Its excellent pH value control and bacteriostasis capability would effectively inhibit the growth of microorganisms and prolong the shelf life of food. For instance, Mezzoni Foods produces dry lactic acid powder, which is formed by fermentation of lactic acid with non-GMO ingredients. The white powder is available in 25 lb polyethylene lined paper sacks.
The lactic acid market in Europe is segmented into Germany, France, the UK, Russia, Italy, and Rest of Europe. The functional properties of lactic acid and favorable government policies for the production of lactic acids—such as the European Commission's proposal for lactic acid as an 'extra' protection tool to minimize further trace microbial contamination of bovine carcasses—are likely to have a positive effect on the European lactic acid market over the forecast period. Besides, the higher purchasing power of the consumers and rising preference for nutritional products has propelled the demand for lactic acid in Europe. Rise in awareness about the benefits of lactic acid and increase in healthcare costs would also prove beneficial for the development of the lactic acid market in Europe. Further, transforming lifestyle trends and rising incidence of various diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hormonal issue, due to hectic lifestyles and harmful dietary habits promote the market growth of lactic acid in Europe. Besides, the key players in the region are continuously investing in the research & development activities for monitoring their product offerings. This is expected to escalate the market growth of lactic acid in the region.
Corbion; Cargill Inc.; Foodchem International Corporation; Galactic; Musashino Chemical Laboratory, Ltd.; Shandong Baisheng Biotechnology Co., Ltd.; Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG; and Henan Jindan Lactic Acid Technology Co., Ltd. are among the major players operating in the Europe lactic acid market.
The COVID-19 outbreak started in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. As of February 2021, Russia, the UK, France, Spain, Italy, and Germany are among the worst-affected countries in terms of COVID-19 confirmed cases and reported deaths. The pandemic is hindering economies and industries in various countries due to lockdowns, travel bans, and business shutdowns. Shutdowns in the food & beverages industry and disruptions in supply chains are limiting supplies of various products. Russia has the highest number of confirmed cases across Europe. The shutdown of many food processing plants during lockdown is restraining the growth of the lactic acid market in Europe.
The overall Europe lactic acid market size has been derived in accordance to both primary and secondary source. To begin the research process, exhaustive secondary research has been conducted using internal and external sources to obtain qualitative and quantitative information related to the market. Also, multiple primary interviews have been conducted with industry participants and commentators to validate data, as well as to gain more analytical insights into the topic. The participants who typically involved in the process include industry experts, such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, along with external consultants, such as valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the Europe lactic acid market.