Flavor Enhancer Market Size, Share, Opportunities, And Trends, By Types (Acidulants, Glutamates, Nucleotides, Others), By Form (Liquid, Powder, Others), By Source (Natural, Synthetic), By Application (Natural Animal Feed, Food And Beverage, Pet Food), And By Geography - Forecasts From 2025 To 2030

Flavor Enhancer Market Size:

The flavor enhancer market is expected to grow from USD 13.690 billion in 2025 to USD 17.698 billion in 2030, at a CAGR of 5.27%.

Flavor Enhancer Market Highlights:

• Convenience Foods: Rising demand for processed foods drives flavor enhancer adoption.
• Citrus-Based Enhancers: Increasing use of natural citrus-derived flavor enhancers.
• Consumer Trends: Growing dining-out culture boosts flavor enhancer market expansion.
• Health Consciousness: Shift toward natural, healthier flavor enhancer options accelerates.

Flavor Enhancer Market Trends:

Flavor enhancers are often used to improve the taste and texture of the food item. The demand for flavor enhancers is increasing in the market, owing to the increased global expansion of the processed food sector. Furthermore, the increased demand among consumers for exotic food and beverages and the rising market for fusion-based food flavors are also increasing, giving the flavor enhancer market an opportunity to grow. Some of these flavor enhancers are also used for health benefits purposes, and various companies are adding new products to their portfolio. For instance, in March 2022, Flavor-Chem and Orchidia Flavors launched a citrus-based flavor with six true-to-fruit flavors that offer additional health benefits. Many health-conscious people are consuming flavor enhancers due to these properties. Hence, in the projected period, the flavor enhancer market will grow significantly due to these developments.

Moreover, the regions of the Asia Pacific are witnessing demand for natural animal feed and food and beverages. There has been increased consumption of ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and processed foods in this region that rely on flavor enhancers. Further, there has been a rising consumption of processed and packaged foods. The top importers of Glutamic acid and its salts are Japan with US$185.833 million, Thailand with US$121.724 million, Indonesia with US$118.691 million, and Malaysia with US$103.187 million in 2023. Glutamate is used as a flavor enhancer in foods and enhances the savory flavors imparted by glutamic acid, which occurs naturally in proteinaceous foods.

Flavor Enhancer Market Drivers:

• Increasing consumption of processed food

There is a sharp increase in the consumption of processed food among the younger generations, and that is indirectly affecting the increased demand for flavor enhancers. These flavor enhancers provide a unique taste to food and beverages. Additionally, with an increasing trend and promotion of healthy lifestyles among people, the demand for natural flavor enhancers is expected to experience a rise in the projected period.

The increasing demand for clean-label products can also be attributed as one of the reasons for the natural flavor enhancer market growth. The rising demand for clear transparent labeling and increased focus on plant-based products is also aiding the flavor enhancer market growth. Flavor enhancer manufacturers also produce seasonal flavors, and with the increased number of health-conscious people, the manufacturers have started paying more attention to the manufacturing of flavors made from fruits and vegetables. Hence, in the projected period, the market for natural flavor enhancers is expected to grow.

In 2023, the top importers of crispbread were the United States with 7,571,990 Kg, Sweden with 9,414,030 Kg, France with 7,795,960 Kg, and Norway with 10,388,600 Kg, according to the World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS). Bread is considered an ultra-processed food. There is increased consumption of bread in these countries and many parts of Europe. Hence, in the coming years, these factors will increase the market growth of flavor enhancers. 

• Growth in revenue generated by bread manufacturers

According to the government of Canada, George Weston Ltd and Grupo Bimbo SAB de CV are two of the largest baked goods producers in the country. The sales in 2021 were US$783.0 million and US$ 787.0 million, in 2021. Bread is considered an ultra-processed food. The increased consumption of bread is seen in countries such as Canada, the United States, and many parts of Europe. Hence, in the coming years, these factors are expected to increase the market expansion for flavor enhancers.

Flavor Enhancer Market Segmentation Analysis:

• By source, the natural segment is rising considerably

The flavour enhancer market, by source, is categorized into natural and synthetic. The natural flavor enhancers segment is on an upward trajectory due to rising consumer demand for clean-label and minimally processed food products, along with health and wellness trends. Consumers are looking for healthier alternatives that replace synthetic additives, thereby creating a shift toward natural ingredients. Health-related consciousness concerning artificial additives and preservatives equally stands in favour of natural ingredients.

Emerging markets are experiencing an increase in premium and convenience food products owing to augmented levels of disposable income and urbanization, with natural flavor enhancers mainly used to enhance taste and quality. The newly released United Nations dataset states that, by 2050, the urbanization movement of people from rural areas to urban centers with global population growth may lead to an influx of almost 2.5 billion people into cities, with almost 90 percent of that increase concentrated in Asia and Africa. India is predicted to have 416 million new urbanites by 2050, China will have 255 million, and Nigeria will have 189 million.

Moreover, food manufacturers are focusing on natural flavor enhancers to meet consumer demand for unique yet authentic flavors. These enhancers bear taste, not tainting health or quality, and companies are developing innovative technologies to mimic natural taste, prompting market growth.

For instance, in June 2023, food and beverage flavor manufacturer T. Hasegawa USA revealed the introduction to the North American market of flavor enhancer technologies HASEAROMA™ and ChefAroma™. They aim to design food and beverage products with an authentic taste by ensuring a faithful replication of nature's flavors. Improvements in the technologies will yield a better taste for natural flavor enhancers, thus increasing the demand for these natural flavor enhancers.

• The food & beverage segment is expected to lead the market growth

The flavor enhancer market, by application, is segmented into natural animal feed, food and beverages, and pet foods. The demand for natural and organic ingredients is a primary driver for the increasing food and beverage flavor enhancement market. The market is valued for clean-label consumerism and recognizable ingredients with contemporary identities. The induction of technology for processed and convenience foods is gaining its peak due to the challenging demand for ready-to-eat meals. This is crucial to maintaining consistent flavor nuances in mass-produced foods, including packaged meals, snacks, frozen foods/meals, and saucy foods.

According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), packaged food sales in Canada were recorded at Can$77,578.3 million in 2033. Further, the retail sale for package food goods was recorded at Can$80,861.7 million in 2024, and the estimate for 2028 for retail sales is Can$97,401.1 million, which records a CAGR of 4.7% during this timeframe.

Moreover, according to the latest estimates from WHO, salty snacks in India were consumed at a rate of 20% in 2023 and will rise by 28%, on an optimistic scenario, in 2032, and 27% in 2032 on a realistic scenario.

Moreover, the cooperation between foremost market players and food and beverage manufacturers is rising and formulated to create awareness of flavor preferences and trends that lead to better solutions for the production of flavors as per consumer preferences.

In May 2024, FlavorSum, a North American flavor house, launched an interactive 'Choose Your Flavor Adventure' web platform to help understand better the expectations that customers have of flavor. The platform is a full online flavor lexicon with educational aspects to help formulators build their taste objectives and move forward with the product development agenda quickly. It describes hundreds of adjectives depicting specific flavor profiles, thus allowing formulators to dig deeper into flavor nuances and choose specific notes for their flavor systems. The company’s certified chemists can utilize these data details to formulate samples and project briefs and collaborate to produce diverse flavor profiles.

These Key market players' innovative platforms could significantly enhance food and beverage formulators' efficiency, innovation, and collaboration in the flavor enhancer market.

By type, the glutamate segment is expected to lead the market expansion

The flavor enhancer market is segmented by type into acidulants, glutamates, nucleotides, and others. The glutamate segment, led by monosodium glutamate (MSG), holds the largest market share due to its unparalleled ability to enhance umami flavors, making it a staple in processed foods, snacks, and Asian cuisine. MSG is widely utilized in products such as ready-to-eat meals, soups, and savory snacks, as it amplifies savory profiles, improving consumer sensory experiences. The global demand for glutamates is particularly large in the Asia-Pacific region, where culinary traditions heavily incorporate umami flavors, and the rise of fast-food and convenience food sectors further fuels market growth. This dominance is supported by the ingredient’s versatility and cost-effectiveness in large-scale food production, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers aiming to deliver consistent flavor profiles.

A significant development in the glutamate segment is the shift in consumer perception toward MSG, driven by educational campaigns and scientific validations of its safety. Historically, MSG faced scrutiny due to misconceptions about health risks. However, recent efforts by food organizations and regulatory bodies, such as the FDA, have emphasized its safety and natural presence in foods like tomatoes and cheese. This shift has led to greater consumer acceptance, particularly in Western markets, where MSG is now being incorporated into a wider range of products, including premium and health-focused brands. These campaigns have played a crucial role in reducing stigma, enabling manufacturers to market MSG-containing products more openly.

Innovation in glutamate formulations is another key driver, with manufacturers developing low-sodium MSG variants to address health-conscious consumer preferences. These variants maintain the umami-enhancing properties of traditional MSG while reducing sodium content, aligning with global trends toward healthier eating. For instance, advancements in production techniques have enabled the creation of MSG blends that deliver robust flavor with less sodium, catering to dietary restrictions and increasing market appeal. Such innovations are particularly relevant in markets like North America and Europe, where sodium reduction is a priority for food processors responding to public health guidelines.

Sustainability is also influencing the glutamate segment, with manufacturers embracing eco-friendly production methods to satisfy environmental and consumer demands. Recent advancements involve the utilization of renewable feedstocks, such as sugarcane molasses, in the fermentation processes that generate MSG. These sustainable practices minimize the environmental impact of glutamate production and attract eco-conscious consumers and brands that prioritize clean-label products. Furthermore, enhancements in fermentation technology have improved production efficiency, reduced costs, and facilitated scalability to address rising global demand. This commitment to sustainability reinforces the segment’s position as a leader in the flavor enhancer market.

Flavor Enhancer Market Geographical Outlook:

• North America is anticipated to be the fastest-growing market

The two main drivers of the flavor enhancer market's expansion in the North American region are rising personal disposable income and rising demand for low-fat, low-salt, and low-carbohydrate goods. Flavor enhancer market development factors include changing lifestyles, westernization, growing knowledge of the availability of naturally occurring and synthetically created flavor enhancers in emerging economies, and increased health consciousness among the populace.

• It is projected that the flavor enhancer market in the United States will grow steadily. 

Flavor enhancer, besides improving the overall taste of the food items, also reduces the amount of salt & seasoning required, thereby improving the overall dining experience. The demand for processed food items in the United States is witnessing a steady rise fueled by the change in consumer lifestyle and growing emphasis on taste, which impacts the overall buying decision. These factors will improve the demand for flavor enhancers in the country.

According to the 2024 Food & Health survey conducted by the International Food Information Council on 3,000 Americans to understand their consumption behavior and factors affecting buying decisions. Nearly 85% stated that taste is one of the major factors that impact their buying decision, while price remained the second most impactful concern.

Moreover, the constantly growing younger generation is also anticipated to drive the demand, as Gen Z & millennials constitute one of the major portions of the snack food consumption in the USA. As per the National Confectioners Association, in 2024, nearly 55% of millennials and Gen Z considered themselves savory snackers, while 65% admitted to creating varied snack combinations to increase the overall experience. 

Trends in the flavor enhancer industry follow those in the processed food industry, which includes a rising preference for high-end, all-natural, and health-conscious food options.

According to the US Department of Agriculture, with a 40% market share ($70 million in total items), the US is the main provider of flavor enhancers. In the United States, odoriferous compounds accounted for more than US$40 million in flavor-improving goods, while vegetable saps and hop extracts, which are frequently utilized by major brewers in Brazil, accounted for US$22 million.

Furthermore, in September 2021, the first collection in its new spice blends series, "Blends of the Americas," was made available by Olam Food Ingredients, a global pioneer in natural and sustainable ingredients and solutions. The 17 ready-to-use dry mixes provide food producers, food service providers, and retailers with an easy, clean-label method of developing dependable and genuine flavors.

Besides food & beverage items, flavor enhancers are also finding their way into other applications, such as pet food and animal feed products. With the improved strength of pet owners, the demand for qualitative food items with high texture and flavor will also pick up the pace. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, in 2024, the strength of households owing dogs stood at 59.8 million, whereas cats were owned by 42.22 million.  Likewise, as per the American Pet Product Association, in 2024, the estimated expenditure on pet food reached US$66.9 billion, representing a 3.9% growth over the preceding year’s expenditure.

 

However, the growing health concern and shift towards more organic sources has led to various policies and regulations being regulated by the governing authorities, limiting the usage of artificial flavor enhancers in the United States and hampering the overall market growth. 

Segmentation:

• By Type
  • Acidulants
  • Glutamates
  • Nucleotides
  • Others
• By Form
  • Liquid
  • Powder
  • Others
• By Source
  • Natural
  • Synthetic
• By Application
  • Natural Animal Feed
  • Food and Beverages
  • Pet Food
• By Geography
  • North America
    • USA
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • South America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Others
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • United Kingdom
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Others
  • Middle East and Africa
    • Saudi Arabia
    • South Africa
    • Others
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • Australia
    • India
    • Others

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1.  INTRODUCTION

1.1. Market Overview

1.2. Market Definition

1.3. Scope of the Study

1.4. Market Segmentation

1.5. Currency

1.6. Assumptions

1.7. Base, and Forecast Years Timeline

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY  

2.1. Research Data

2.2. Assumptions

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

3.1. Research Highlights

4. MARKET DYNAMICS

4.1. Market Drivers

4.2. Market Restraints

4.3. Porter’s Five Force Analysis

4.3.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers

4.3.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers

4.3.3. Threat of New Entrants

4.3.4. Threat of Substitutes

4.3.5. Competitive Rivalry in the Industry

4.4. Industry Value Chain Analysis

5. FLAVOR ENHANCER MARKET BY TYPE

5.1. Introduction

5.2. Acidulants

5.3. Glutamates

5.4. Nucleotides

5.5. Others

6. FLAVOR ENHANCER MARKET BY FORM

6.1. Introduction

6.2. Liquid

6.3. Powder

6.4. Others

7. FLAVOR ENHANCER MARKET BY SOURCE

7.1. Introduction

7.2. Natural 

7.3. Synthetic

8. FLAVOR ENHANCER MARKET BY APPLICATION

8.1. Introduction

8.2. Natural Animal Feed

8.3. Food and Beverages

8.4. Pet Food

9. FLAVOR ENHANCER MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

9.1. Introduction

9.2. North America

9.2.1. USA

9.2.2. Canada

9.2.3. Mexico

9.3. South America

9.3.1. Brazil

9.3.2. Argentina

9.3.3. Others

9.4. Europe

9.4.1. Germany

9.4.2. United Kingdom

9.4.3. France

9.4.4. Italy

9.4.5. Spain

9.4.6. Others

9.5. Middle East and Africa

9.5.1. Saudi Arabia

9.5.2. South Africa

9.5.3. Others

9.6. Asia Pacific

9.6.1. China

9.6.2. Japan

9.6.3. Australia

9.6.4. India

9.6.5. Others

10. COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT AND ANALYSIS

10.1. Major Players and Strategy Analysis

10.2. Market Share Analysis

10.3. Mergers, Acquisitions, Agreements, and Collaborations

11. COMPANY PROFILES

11.1. Bell Flavors & Fragrances

11.2. Firmenich S.A.I.C. y F. (Firmenich SA)

11.3. Lycored

11.4. Caldic B.V.

11.5. Givaudan SA

11.6. International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.

11.7. Ajinomoto Group

11.8. Corbion NV

11.9. Archer Daniels Midland Company

11.10. Angel Yeast Co.

Bell Flavors & Fragrances

Firmenich S.A.I.C. y F. (Firmenich SA)

Lycored

Caldic B.V.

Givaudan SA

International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.

Ajinomoto Group

Corbion NV

Archer Daniels Midland Company

Angel Yeast Co.