Market Analysis and Insights:
The market for Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) was valued at approximately USD 4,976 million in 2022, and it is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.87% from 2022 to 2032, reaching an estimated value of USD 8,714 million in 2032.
The increasing consumer preference for processed and convenient food products is a significant driver of the monosodium glutamate (MSG) market.
With busy lifestyles, consumers are increasingly turning to ready-to-eat meals, canned goods, and snacks, which commonly include MSG for flavor enhancement. The expansion of the foodservice industry further boosts the market as restaurants and fast-food chains frequently use MSG to improve the taste and aroma of their dishes. Rising disposable incomes and evolving dietary trends in economies like Asia-Pacific are also driving the demand for MSG. Moreover, the increasing use of MSG in plant-based and vegan food options is contributing to market growth. However, health-conscious consumers are showing a preference for clean label products and natural flavors, which could present a challenge to the MSG market. Nevertheless, advancements in technology and product innovation, such as the development of low-sodium and organic MSG formulations, are expected to generate favorable opportunities for market players and support growth in the foreseeable future.
Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) Market Scope :
Metrics | Details |
Base Year | 2023 |
Historic Data | 2018-2022 |
Forecast Period | 2024-2032 |
Study Period | 2018-2032 |
Forecast Unit | Value (USD) |
Revenue forecast in 2032 | USD 8,714 million |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 5.87% during 2022-2032 |
Segment Covered | By End-user Industry, By Application,By Region. |
Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa |
Key Players Profiled | Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Fufeng Group Limited, Vedan International (Holdings) Limited, Meihua Holdings Group Co., Ltd., Ningxia Eppen Biotech Co., Ltd., KYOWA HAKKO BIO CO., LTD., Shandong Linghua Monosodium Glutamate Incorporated Company, Qingdao Century Longshine Food Co., Ltd., Shandong Qilu Group Co., Ltd., and Lotus Health Industry Holding Group Co., Ltd. |
Market Definition
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) serves as a taste amplifier added to a variety of foods to elevate their flavor profile. Comprised of sodium salt and the amino acid glutamic acid, MSG mirrors the natural occurrence of glutamic acid in foods such as tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms.
Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) serves as a prominent food additive utilized extensively to elevate the flavor profile in various culinary applications. Its key role involves stimulating taste receptors and augmenting the inherent taste of dishes, thereby rendering them more delectable and appealing. Despite the absence of definitive scientific proof indicating harmful effects of MSG, certain individuals might encounter mild symptoms like headaches or facial flushing post-consumption. It is important to underscore that such reactions are infrequent and tend to manifest only with excessive intake. Nonetheless, MSG continues to be a vital component in numerous food products, enhancing flavor and ensuring a gratifying dining experience for consumers.
Key Market Segmentation:
Insights On Key End-user Industry
Food Processing Industry
The Food Processing Industry is expected to dominate the Global Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) Market. The food processing industry is projected to dominate the global MSG market due to its widespread use as a flavor enhancer in various food products. MSG is frequently incorporated into processed foods like snacks, soups, sauces, and seasonings to enhance taste and flavor. The escalating desire for convenient and processed foods, coupled with the growing preference for umami flavor, is propelling the expansion of the food processing sector. Moreover, the expanding population, urbanization trends, and evolving lifestyles are amplifying the consumption of processed foods, consequently driving up the demand for MSG. As a result, the food processing industry is anticipated to be the dominant part in the global MSG market, capturing the largest market share and driving its growth.
Pharmaceutical Industry
The pharmaceutical industry is another key part that plays a significant role in the global MSG market. MSG is used as a stabilizer and excipient in certain pharmaceutical products, including tablets, capsules, and oral suspensions. It helps enhance the taste and acceptability of medicines, especially those with an unpleasant or bitter taste. The pharmaceutical industry is increasingly recognizing the significance of MSG due to several factors, including the rising incidence of chronic diseases, the expansion of pharmaceutical research and development endeavors, and the growing need for dosage forms that are convenient for patients. However, while the pharmaceutical holds potential, it is not expected to dominate the global MSG market compared to the food processing industry.
Cosmetics Industry
The cosmetics industry also utilizes MSG in certain cosmetic products, primarily for its skin conditioning properties. MSG is utilized in cosmetics to enhance their texture and feel, thereby enhancing the overall user experience. This ingredient is commonly incorporated into skincare items like moisturizers, lotions, and creams to impart a smoother and more pleasant sensation upon application. However, the use of MSG in cosmetics is relatively limited compared to its use in the food processing industry. Hence, the cosmetics industry is not anticipated to dominate the global MSG market.
Livestock Industry
The livestock industry is not expected to dominate the global MSG market. While MSG may find some application as an animal feed additive to enhance palatability, its usage is relatively smaller compared to the other parts. The primary focus of MSG remains in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Therefore, the livestock industry is not likely to hold a dominant position in the global MSG market.
Insights On Key Application
Preservatives
Preservatives play a crucial role in the Global Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market. These preservatives are poised to lead the market, driven by the growing need for food preservation and the extension of shelf life. Preservatives help prevent spoilage, inhibit the growth of microorganisms, and maintain the quality of MSG products for a longer duration. As consumers are becoming more health-conscious and demanding natural and organic food products, preservatives that meet these criteria are gaining significant traction. With the growing adoption of MSG in various food applications, the demand for preservatives is expected to increase, making it the dominating part in the market.
Additives
Additives are an essential part of the Global Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market. While they contribute to enhancing the flavor, color, and overall sensory experience of food products, their dominance in the MSG market is not as prominent as preservatives. Additives have a supporting role in the market, as they complement the taste of MSG and enhance the appeal of the final food products. The demand for additives is shaped by various factors, including the increasing popularity of convenience foods and ongoing innovation in flavor enhancement methods. Although additives play a crucial role, they are not expected to dominate the MSG market in the same way as preservatives.
Acidity Regulators
Acidity regulators have a specific function in the Global Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market. They help control and adjust the pH levels of food products that contain MSG. While acidity regulators are an integral part of the overall food industry, their dominance in the MSG market is relatively lower compared to preservatives. The demand for acidity regulators is closely linked to the applications where MSG is predominantly used, such as sauces, seasonings, and snacks. However, since acidity regulators serve a specific purpose and are not as widely used across all food categories, they are not expected to dominate the MSG market.
Flavor Enhancers
Flavor enhancers play a significant role in the Global Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market, as they contribute to the overall taste and flavor profile of food products. However, their dominance in the market is not as prominent as preservatives. While MSG itself is a flavor enhancer, other additives and ingredients also contribute to the enhancement of taste and flavor. Flavor enhancers are widely used in the food industry, but their dominance in the MSG market is limited due to the presence of other parts like preservatives that have a more pivotal role. Although flavor enhancers have their importance, they are not expected to dominate the MSG market to the same extent as preservatives.
Insights On Key Sales Channel
Online
Online sales are poised to dominate the global Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market, driven by the expanding reach of the internet and the proliferation of e-commerce platforms. The convenience of online shopping appeals to consumers, offering them access to a diverse array of products and the ability to compare prices effortlessly.Moreover, online platforms offer competitive pricing, discounts, and home delivery, further attracting consumers towards online shopping. As a result, the online sales channel is projected to dominate the global MSG market, catering to the demand of tech-savvy and convenience-seeking consumers.
Offline (Brick and Mortar Stores)
While the online sales channel is expected to dominate the global MSG market, the offline still holds significance. Offline sales encompass transactions conducted at physical retail establishments like supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty retailers. These brick-and-mortar stores provide customers with the opportunity for in-person shopping, allowing them to physically inspect and choose products.Additionally, some consumers prefer to buy MSG products from traditional stores due to trust, immediacy, and the ability to seek assistance from sales personnel. Despite the growth of online sales, offline sales remain an important part within the global MSG market, particularly for consumers who prefer the traditional shopping experience.
Insights on Regional Analysis:
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the Global Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market. This region has a significant demand for MSG due to its wide use in Asian cuisines, especially in countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea. The culinary traditions of these countries heavily incorporate MSG as a flavor enhancer. Furthermore, the Asia Pacific region experiences a growing population and increasing disposable income, leading to higher consumption of processed and convenience foods, which frequently contain MSG. With a strong market presence and increasing demand, Asia Pacific is likely to dominate the MSG market globally.
North America
North America has a significant market for MSG, but it is not expected to dominate the global market. MSG is commonly used in various processed foods and snacks in the North American market, especially in the United States. In North America, the consumption of MSG is comparatively lower than in the Asia Pacific region. Additionally, there is a rising preference among consumers for natural and organic food products, which could potentially affect the demand for MSG in this region. Therefore, while North America has a notable market for MSG, it is not likely to dominate the global market.
Latin America
While Latin America possesses a moderate market for MSG, it is not projected to dominate the global market. Consumption of MSG in Latin American countries like Brazil and Mexico remains relatively lower compared to the Asia Pacific region. However, there is a growing demand for convenience and processed foods in the region, which may drive the growth of the MSG market. Additionally, the increasing influence of international cuisine and food trends in Latin America may contribute to the consumption of MSG. Nevertheless, Latin America is unlikely to dominate the global MSG market.
Europe
Europe holds a significant market for MSG, but it is not anticipated to dominate the global market. While MSG is commonly utilized in various European cuisines, particularly in countries like France, Italy, and the United Kingdom, its consumption in Europe remains relatively lower compared to Asia Pacific. Additionally, there is a growing trend towards clean-label and natural food products in Europe, which could affect the growth of MSG in this region. As a result, while Europe has a notable market for MSG, it is not likely to dominate the global market.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa have a moderate market for MSG, but it is not expected to dominate the global market. The consumption of MSG in this region is relatively lower compared to Asia Pacific. Additionally, traditional Arabic cuisine, which forms a significant part of the region's food culture, does not rely heavily on MSG as a flavor enhancer. However, with increased urbanization and the influence of Western food trends, there is a growing demand for processed and convenience foods in the Middle East & Africa, which may drive the growth of the MSG market. Nonetheless, Middle East & Africa are unlikely to dominate the global MSG market.
Company Profiles:
Prominent entities within the worldwide Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) industry wield substantial influence in stimulating market advancement and upholding superior product standards and ingenuity by way of their robust research and development endeavors, production capabilities, and well-established distribution channels. These entities are instrumental in shaping the course of industry trends and norms while engaging proactively in marketing and promotional campaigns to broaden their market presence.
Leading companies in the Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market consist of Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Fufeng Group Limited, Vedan International (Holdings) Limited, Meihua Holdings Group Co., Ltd., Ningxia Eppen Biotech Co., Ltd., KYOWA HAKKO BIO CO., LTD., Shandong Linghua Monosodium Glutamate Incorporated Company, Qingdao Century Longshine Food Co., Ltd., Shandong Qilu Group Co., Ltd., and Lotus Health Industry Holding Group Co., Ltd.
COVID-19 Impact and Market Status:
The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the worldwide market for Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) have resulted in shifts in demand because of supply chain interruptions and evolving consumer trends.
The global Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns and strict social distancing measures have led to a decrease in the demand for MSG products. The closure of restaurants, cafes, and other foodservice establishments has particularly affected the consumption of MSG, a common flavor enhancer in these sectors. Disruptions in global supply chains caused by limitations on international trade have resulted in a scarcity of raw materials necessary for MSG production. Consequently, prices have risen, further negatively impacting the market. However, as some countries begin to ease restrictions and allow businesses to reopen, the situation is gradually improving. It is anticipated that the MSG market will slowly recover as the world moves towards economic recovery, although the pace of this recovery may vary depending on local conditions and consumer preferences.
Latest Trends and Innovation:
- In February 2021, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., a leading manufacturer of MSG, announced a partnership with Vizzario Inc. to develop personalized food products using artificial intelligence (AI).
- In October 2020, Vedan International (Holdings) Limited, a major player in the MSG market, acquired the assets of Ajinomoto's MSG plant in Taiwan, strengthening the company's market presence in the region.
- In January 2020, Vedan International (Holdings) Limited announced the completion of its MSG capacity expansion project, increasing its production capacity by 30% to meet growing market demand.
- In November 2019, Fufeng Group Limited, a prominent producer of MSG, entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with Fidelity International to enhance its research and development capabilities, aiming to further innovate its MSG products.
- In June 2019, Meihua Holdings Group Co., Ltd., a leading MSG manufacturer, introduced a new production line equipped with advanced technology to enhance product quality and efficiency.
- In December 2018, Fufeng Group Limited acquired 100% equity interest in BioSun (Shanghai) Biochemical Co., Ltd., a producer of high-quality MSG, expanding its product portfolio and strengthening its position in the market.
- In October 2018, Vedan International (Holdings) Limited announced a collaboration with Nanjing Yinxiang Group Co., Ltd., a prominent producer of food ingredients, to develop new MSG applications in the food industry.
Significant Growth Factors:
Growth drivers of the Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) industry comprise rising consumer preference for convenient food items and the increasing global appeal of Asian culinary traditions.
The Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market is experiencing significant growth due to various key drivers. Firstly, the rising consumer inclination towards convenient and processed food items is boosting the demand for MSG as a flavor enhancer. This is mainly because MSG has the capability to amplify and enrich the natural tastes of food, making it a favored option among food producers. Secondly, the increasing urbanization and evolving lifestyles have resulted in a rise in the consumption of packaged and ready-to-eat meals, thereby increasing the need for MSG as a component in these products.
Additionally, the growing recognition of the advantages of utilizing MSG for enhancing taste and reducing sodium levels in food is propelling market expansion. Moreover, the increasing disposable income and evolving dietary preferences of consumers, particularly in developing nations, are fostering the growth of the MSG market. With these nations witnessing economic progress, there is a growing demand for processed and convenient food items, creating a conducive market scenario for MSG. Additionally, the expansion of the food and beverage sector and the proliferation of fast-food restaurants globally are also contributing to the expansion of the MSG market. These establishments prioritize offering consistent and flavorful food items, making the use of MSG an essential component in their operations.
Restraining Factors:
The Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) market faces a notable impediment in the form of restricted consumer adoption stemming from apprehensions regarding possible negative effects on health.
The Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) industry is experiencing various factors that hinder its progression. Consumer worries about potential adverse health effects linked to MSG consumption, such as headaches and allergies, have influenced a shift towards natural and organic food choices that typically exclude MSG. Moreover, the availability of healthier options like low-sodium or reduced MSG alternatives has dissuaded consumers from buying products containing MSG. Stringent government regulations and labeling requirements have imposed challenges on manufacturers striving to meet compliance standards. The perception of MSG as an artificial additive has also impacted consumer purchasing behavior. The increasing popularity of home-cooked meals and preference for fresh ingredients have further reduced demand for processed foods with MSG. Despite these impediments, the MSG sector harbors growth potential. Manufacturers could enhance transparency in labeling, educate consumers on the benefits of MSG, and innovate formulations to attract health-conscious buyers. By addressing consumer apprehensions, embracing sustainable practices, and adapting to evolving market trends, the MSG industry can surmount these obstacles and capitalize on new avenues for advancement and progress.
Key Segments of the Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) Market
End-User Industry Overview
• Pharmaceutical Industry
• Food Processing Industry
• Cosmetics Industry
• Livestock Industry
Application Overview
• Preservatives
• Additives
• Acidity Regulators
• Flavor Enhancers
Sales Channel Overview
• Online
• Offline
Regional Overview
North America
• US
• Canada
• Mexico
Europe
• Germany
• France
• U.K
• Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• Rest of Asia Pacific
Middle East and Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Rest of Middle East and Africa
Latin America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America