Spirulina Extract Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Powder, Tablet and Capsule and Liquid), By Application (Food and Beverage, Nutraceuticals, Animal Feed, Cosmetics and Personal Care and Others), and Regional Forecast to 2034

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SPIRULINA EXTRACT MARKET OVERVIEW

The global Spirulina Extract market size was USD 0.66 billion in 2025 and is projected to touch USD 1.33 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.05% during the forecast period.

The United States Spirulina Extract market size is projected to be USD 228.75 million in 2025, the European Spirulina Extract market size is projected to be USD 170.95 million in 2025, and the Chinese Spirulina Extract market size is projected to be USD 178.51 million in 2025.

Extral is an extremely concentrated food material of Spirulina, a blue-green alga-cyanobacterium (technically a cyanobacterium) of spiraling forming waves in form, long history of usage as an element of food which is spirally shaped. It is harvested through the extraction of the bioactive components of the dried Spirulina biomass, and the product that is derived is meant to contain proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and pigments, and these are basically chlorophyll and phycocyanin. There are food supplements containing spirulina, which is also used as a functional food and even as a cosmetic; its potential health effects (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing) are considered. It is also common in its nutritional value and can be used in many ways; therefore, researched and sold everywhere.

The fastest growth of veganism, the growing popularity of clean-label products and the increased demand for natural health supplements can be distinguished as the most influential trends. It has, in turn, contemplated the spirulina extract, which is also rich in proteins, vitamins B1, B2, B3, iron and antioxidants like phycocyanin as the proper supplement capable of enhancing immunity, detox, and is also anti-inflammatory. Also, the manufacturers are exploring functional beverages and fortified products and exploring new frontiers such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America due to their booming nutraceutical market.  

COVID-19 IMPACT

The Spirulina Extract Industry had a Mixed Effect Due to supply chain disruption during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to the market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The COVID-19 pandemic had an immediate impact on the market of spirulina extracts because of the lockdown, logistical issues, and the lack of laborers in the cultivation and processing of microalgae. Despite the slowed supply chains recorded at the beginning of 2020, it did not take long before a rise was recorded on account of heightened health consciousness and the utilization of immune-enhancing products. Spirulina supplemented its line of immunity-boosting supplements, which allowed it to maintain its gains in the market since the closure of 2021. Moreover, the online trading sphere experienced a record increase in demand for diet supplements like spirulina to offset the losses through conventional trading.

LATEST TRENDS

Growing Health and Sustainability Trends to Drive Market Growth

Growing awareness of sustainability and health-conscious lifestyles is driving the spirulina extract market as consumers are gradually abandoning traditional sources of protein-based mostly on animals (moreover, animal products are associated with environmental degradation) in favor of sustainable superfoods. Spirulina extract, which has a very high eco-efficiency profile in terms of its production, compared to other protein crops in that it needs far less fertile land and water to grow, fits into the sustainability narrative and also accords well with the world's ESG targets. The compound adds to its popularity because it is a natural ingredient that is rich in chlorophyll, non-GMO, and free of allergens. Spirulina extracts are being added to more and more functional beverages, energy bars and smoothies because they are anti-inflammatory, antioxidants and anti-fatigue. Various new card and FMCG brands have introduced spirulina-infused products targeting sportsmen, millennials, and those who prefer beneficial performance. Also, governments and other non-governmental organizations are championing the production of spirulina as one of the long-term food security programs and as one of the strategies to eliminate malnutrition. An example is the spirulina author farming initiated by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to boost rural employment and nutritional immunity.

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SPIRULINA EXTRACT MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on Type, the global market can be categorized into Powder, Tablet and capsule and Liquid

• Powder: The most popular form is that which was appreciated as the most versatile dietary supplement, functional foods, beverages, and, not to forget, a natural coloring agent, as it engages high protein and high pigment components.

• Tablet and Capsule: A popular form of supplements because it can be taken easily, with a correctly dosed amount each time, this form is popular with health-conscious customers in immune, energy and wellness supplements.

• Liquid: One of the fastest and growing segments, liquid extracts are highly valued because of the ease of absorption and integration of functional drinks, skincare and cosmetic formulation.

By Application

Based on application, the global market can be categorized into Food and Beverage, Nutraceuticals, Animal Feed, Cosmetics and Personal Care and Others

• Food and Beverage: A key application, the extract of spirulina is a clean-label natural pigment that delivers nutritional benefits and is used in a wide variety of applications, such as smoothies, snacks and functional beverages

• Nutraceuticals: A favorite of immunity-boosting, anti-oxidant and wellness products, and of the rising interest in health and disease prevention around the world.

• Animal Feed: It is gaining popularity, especially in aquaculture and in livestock, where its high protein level and pigment advantages (e.g. beneficial pigments in fish and poultry growth and coloration) prevail.

• Cosmetics and Personal Care: Polluted in its antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory qualities, spirulina is gaining popularity in skin care, hair care and as a spa product.

• Others: Includes special applications in the pharmaceutical industry, and in agriculture (such as biofertilizers), and specialized veterinary applications: a growing interest in non-traditional applications

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market dynamics include driving and restraining factors, opportunities and challenges stating the market conditions.

Driving Factors

Rising Demand for Plant-Based and Vegan Protein Sources Boosts the Market

A factor in the Spirulina Extract market growth is the growing need for plant sources, and vegan protein is creating an excellent increase in the business because customers want sustainable, healthy, and nutrient-rich protein sources other than animal products. With high protein content and essential amino acids content, Spirulina is suited to the needs of health-conscious customers as well as diet-restricted ones. With the rising production of spirulina extract used in foods, drinks, and dietary supplements as consumer demands solidify to meet modern health, environmental, and ethical issues, the manufacturers of food-based products and drinks are adding spirulina extract to create new markets and meet consumer demands. This has led to higher adoption and innovation of product offerings that are tailoring the growth of the market, making spirulina a market leader in the provision of vegan sources of protein.

Rising Demand for Nutrient-Rich Natural Ingredients Expands the Market

Spirulina, due to its high protein content (up to 60-70 per cent by BW), chlorophyll, beta-carotene, and essential amino acids, has become a common component of dietary supplements, functional food, and nutraceuticals. The rising consumer trend of turning towards consuming plant-based proteins as well as superfoods, coupled with rising cases of malnutrition in emerging economies, is supporting a steady market growth. Consumption of spirulina extract has grown 14 per cent over the past year in the food and beverage industry, especially using it in smoothies, energy bars, and juices fortified with it.

Restraining Factor

High Price Point and Limited Consumer Awareness Potentially Impede Market Growth

The market of spirulina extract is promising, but is out by its high costs and low recognition among consumers. Aggressive production and processing expenses imply that the prices become expensive and may not be affordable to the consumer in the respective markets, especially in the developing markets. Also, the existing potential consumers do not know much about the health benefits of spirulina, how it is used and whether it exists in the market or not. This unawareness inhibits the expansion of the demand and limits the penetration of the market. The barriers can limit the adoption on a large scale unless they are accompanied by a powerful educational campaign and cost-cutting measures, which are needed to unlock the potential of the market even in the face of the increasing popularity of plant-based and nutrient-dense supplements.

Cosmeceuticals and Food Colorant Sectors Create Opportunity for the Market

Opportunity

Cosmeceuticals and food colorants are major sources of expansion of the spirulina extract market, as they take advantage of the natural and nutritious content of the product. The mixture of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying capacity makes spirulina a prominent ingredient in cosmeceuticals to be used in anti-aging, skin-rejuvenating formulations and productions and products that fight against acne as well, complying with the ever-increasing request of using clean and sustainable skincare products.

In the meantime, food colorant manufacturers take advantage of their bright blue-green colors to act as a substitute for synthetic food dyes that have fertile origins. As consumers grow more willing to use natural ingredients and label cleaner products, spirulina extract can also be used in an increasing number of beverages, confectionery, and dairy products, providing opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers to make significant profits in both industries.

Quality and Standardization Issues Could Be a Potential Challenge for Consumers

Challenge

Retailers faced with quality and standardization problems may pose a major challenge to consumers in the spirulina extract industry. The results of the nutritional value and purity of spirulina products may vary tremendously among manufacturers, because of differing cultivation, environmental and processing conditions. Various standards may lead to the contamination of products, leading to the presence of heavy metals, bacteria, or microcystins that increase safety concerns.

Moreover, product labels and their certification may confuse consumers, as well as cause their mistrust. There is a higher tendency of variation in product reliability, and consumers cannot easily check to determine effectiveness or compare products. Quality check and standardization will be important to assure consumers when the demand increases.

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SPIRULINA EXTRACT MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

• North America

The market of spirulina in North America is experiencing a steady growth sample because of the assimilation of information about healthier and durable food substances. The growing popularity of the traditional diet, the rise of interest in natural sources of colorants in the food processing and beverages industry, and the high health and wellness trends can be viewed as the factors that drive the growth of the market. The United States is the regional market, which is complemented by the influence of fine manufacturing technologies and the high demand of consumers for dietary supplements. Also, the increased use of cosmetic and personal care necessities is augmenting market prospects. Formation of strategic alliances and sustained investments in R&D are boosting the strength of North America in the international market. The United States Spirulina Extract Market is a robust market owing to the rising customer concern about health and well-being, and the rising demand for natural and plant-based supplements. Blending of spirulina in nutritional supplements, functional food, and beverages is enabled by the nutritional richness of spirulina, which contains an impressive amount of protein. The trend of veganism and plant-based diets is also increasing, proving that it is capable of stimulating the growth of the market.

• Europe

The European Spirulina extract market is booming as a result of being concentrated on natural, organic and eco-friendly products. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has regulatory recommendations to use spirulina in food and food supplements, which promotes its increased use. Germany, France, and the UK are leading in terms of demand, backed by their growth in demand for protein-rich and immune-boosting superfoods. Additionally, the clean-label trend and consciousness regarding dietary health also led to the high market demand. Strong distribution networks, sustainability intentions, and algae agricultural innovations make Europe one of the leaders of the spirulina extract business.

• Asia

The Asia-Pacific region is the largest producer and consumer of spirulina extract, with a major Spirulina Extract market share. This is mainly because of conventional patterns of use, and not unfavorable climatic conditions favoring the production of algae. In 2023, China and India had combined production of more than 60 per cent of the world's production of spirulina each, facilitated by the expanses of aquaculture production facilities and with government incentives. The total spirulina biomass produced in China was around 12,000 tons in 2023, which promoted many export activities. Growth in the middle-income, a rise in the population that is becoming more conscious of nutritional supplements, enhances the spirulina extract in the country.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Industry Players Shaping the Market Through Innovation and Market Expansion

Major industry participants are having a significant impact in the Spirulina extract market by conducting research and development and improving product quality, expanding their application services, and as well as satisfying the rising consumer demand for natural products and sustainable health supplement products. Business organisations are enhancing the levels of production and joining strategic alliances to build up their presence in the world markets. Improvements in extraction methods and product formulations are making wider usage in the food, beverage, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, consumer awareness is rising with increasing marketing due to the benefits of the superfood as far as health is concerned. All those efforts are leading to the growth of markets and their competitiveness on the global level.  

List Of Top Spirulina Extract Companies

• Cyanotech (China)
• DDW The Color House (U.S.)
• Parry Nutraceuticals (India)
• Dongtai City Spirulina Bio-Engineering (China)
• Sensient Technologies Corporation (U.S.)
• Naturex SA (U.S.)
• DIC Corporation- Earthrise Nutritionals (Japan)
• Now Health Group (U.S.)
• Chr. Hansen AS (Denmark)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

September 2024: SimpliiGood, a leading name in the spirulina market, announced its plans to launch its spirulina-based smoked salmon in Europe in early 2025. The company is known for its wide range of spirulina-based products that comply with the clean label trend.  

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The Spirulina Extract market is poised for a continued boom, pushed by Growing Health and Sustainability, the Rising Demand for Plant-Based and Vegan Protein Sources, and the Rising Demand for Nutrient-Rich Natural Ingredients. Despite challenges, which include Quality and Standardization Issues, the demand for Cosmeceuticals and Food Colorant Sectors supports marketplace expansion. Key industry players are advancing via technological upgrades and strategic marketplace growth, enhancing the supply and attraction of Spirulina Extract.