PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887227
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887227
The global folic acid market continues to expand, driven by rising nutritional awareness, increased government fortification mandates, and a growing prevalence of anemia worldwide. According to the latest market data, the industry was valued at USD 728.46 million in 2024, is projected to reach USD 770.42 million in 2025, and is expected to grow significantly to USD 1,158.42 million by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 5.97% during the forecast period. In 2024, North America led the global market with a 38.89% share, fueled by strong fortification programs and high demand for folate-enriched products.
Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9, plays a critical role in red blood cell formation and preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy. As humans cannot store folate, supplementation and fortified foods have become essential, especially in developing regions with high deficiency rates. Natural sources include leafy greens, bananas, and meats; however, synthetic folic acid remains widely preferred due to affordability and easy integration into diverse applications.
Market Drivers
One of the primary drivers of the folic acid market is the global rise in anemia cases, particularly among pregnant women, adolescent girls, and young children. According to the World Health Organization, regions such as Southeast Asia and Africa recorded extremely high anemia rates in 2023-83 million children and 244 million women in Southeast Asia and over 200 million women and children in Africa combined. These alarming statistics continue to propel demand for folic acid-infused supplements and fortified foods to combat vitamin deficiencies.
Government initiatives promoting mandatory fortification also significantly contribute to market expansion. Countries such as the U.S., Canada, and Malaysia enforce folic acid fortification in staple foods including flour and cereals to improve public health outcomes. As more nations adopt similar policies, global consumption of Vitamin B9 is expected to rise sharply between 2025 and 2032. This increasing awareness and accessibility generate sustained growth for the market.
Market Restraints
Despite strong industry momentum, the market faces challenges due to potential side effects related to excessive folic acid intake. High consumption levels may lead to stomach ulcers, rashes, reduced appetite, or-in severe cases-heightened risks of cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers. These health concerns reduce consumer willingness to use supplements without medical guidance, slightly restraining market penetration in some regions.
Market Opportunities
Ongoing advancements in biotechnological production of folic acid present major opportunities for manufacturers. New methods such as microbial fermentation enable cost-efficient, sustainable production with reduced chemical waste, aligning with global sustainability goals. Additionally, improved food fortification techniques allow Vitamin B9 to be added to beverages, cereals, and flours without degrading its nutritional value. As innovation enhances efficiency and reduces costs, market players are positioned for profitable expansion through 2032.
By Source
The synthetic folic acid segment dominated in 2024, driven by its low cost, convenient extraction, and widespread availability. Natural folate sources accounted for 11% of the market due to higher production costs and complex extraction processes.
By Application
In 2024, food & beverages maintained the largest market share, supported by regulatory mandates and rising fortification awareness. The nutraceuticals segment accounted for 20.01% share in 2024, while pharmaceuticals recorded the fastest-growing demand and are projected to obtain 30% of the market share in 2025, owing to their significant role in treating anemia and supporting prenatal health.
North America
North America remained the top regional market with a value of USD 288.26 million in 2024, supported by strong government mandates and high cases of iron deficiency. The U.S. is expected to reach USD 189.60 million in 2025 with rising adoption of prenatal supplements and fortified foods.
Europe
Europe is forecasted to reach USD 204.28 million in 2025, driven by a health-conscious population and rising consumption of fortified foods among aging demographics. Germany, France, and the U.K. continue to be key contributors.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific exhibits the highest CAGR and is projected to reach USD 166.10 million in 2025, supported by government-mandated fortification, growing disposable income, and expanding e-commerce distribution. China is expected to hit USD 64.13 million, Japan USD 33.24 million, and India USD 24.05 million in 2025.
South America & Middle East & Africa
South America is projected to record USD 66.19 million in 2025, while the UAE market in the Middle East & Africa is estimated to reach USD 7.57 million, boosted by increased supplement imports and growing health awareness.
Conclusion
Growing from USD 728.46 million in 2024 to USD 1,158.42 million by 2032, the global folic acid market is poised for strong expansion. Rising anemia cases, strict government fortification mandates, innovation in production technologies, and increasing prenatal supplementation will remain the key drivers shaping the market's future.
Segmentation By Source
By Application
By Region