Mannosylerythritol Lipids Market By Type (Synthetic Mannosylerythritol Lipids, Natural Mannosylerythritol Lipids), By Application (Personal Care & Cosmetics, Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture, Industrial), By End-User Industry (Cosmetics & Skincare, Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture, Household Care), and By Form (Powder, Liquid); Global Insights & Forecast (2023 – 2030)

As per Intent Market Research, the Mannosylerythritol Lipids Market was valued at USD 3.8 Billion in 2024-e and will surpass USD 6.3 Billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 7.6% during 2025-2030.

The Mannosylerythritol Lipids (MEL) market is witnessing strong growth due to the rising demand for natural and biodegradable surfactants in various industries such as personal care, food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. Derived from renewable sources, these bio-based surfactants are an essential ingredient in a wide range of applications owing to their mildness, eco-friendliness, and effectiveness. As consumers and industries increasingly prioritize sustainability, the demand for MEL, particularly natural variants, is expected to continue its upward trajectory.

Mannosylerythritol lipids are known for their unique properties, including the ability to stabilize emulsions, reduce irritation, and maintain skin hydration. These features make them highly sought-after in personal care products like lotions, shampoos, and facial cleansers. Moreover, the growing awareness around environmental impacts has accelerated the trend toward the adoption of bio-based ingredients, driving innovation in both synthetic and natural MEL production. The market’s expansion is further supported by technological advancements in production processes, making these surfactants more affordable and accessible across multiple industries.

Type Segment Is Largest Owing to Synthetic Mannosylerythritol Lipids

In the Type segment, Synthetic Mannosylerythritol Lipids dominate the market, primarily because of their superior cost-efficiency and large-scale production capabilities. Synthetic MEL are generally produced through chemical processes that are faster and less resource-intensive compared to natural alternatives. As a result, they are often favored in large-volume applications, especially in the industrial and agricultural sectors, where performance and affordability are key factors.

The widespread use of synthetic MEL can be attributed to their high purity and the consistent quality that can be achieved through controlled manufacturing processes. These characteristics make them ideal for use in products that require stable emulsions and high surfactant performance. Additionally, synthetic MEL can be tailored to meet specific requirements in various formulations, from personal care products to industrial cleaning agents, driving their preference in many industries.

Application Segment Is Fastest Growing Owing to Personal Care & Cosmetics

The Personal Care & Cosmetics application segment is the fastest growing within the Mannosylerythritol Lipids market. Increasing demand for natural and gentle ingredients in beauty and skincare products is a major factor behind this growth. MEL, particularly those derived from natural sources, are prized for their mildness on the skin and their ability to provide superior moisturizing, anti-aging, and soothing effects. With consumers increasingly seeking sustainable and non-toxic beauty products, MEL are finding their place in a variety of personal care formulations.

MEL are commonly used in a wide array of cosmetics, such as cleansers, moisturizers, shampoos, and makeup removers. Their excellent emulsifying properties help ensure that oil-based and water-based ingredients remain stable, enhancing product performance. As the clean beauty movement gains traction, the demand for MEL is expected to surge, making the personal care and cosmetics sector the fastest growing application for mannosylerythritol lipids.

End-User Industry Segment Is Largest Owing to Cosmetics & Skincare

The Cosmetics & Skincare segment is the largest end-user industry for Mannosylerythritol Lipids. The growing demand for high-performance, eco-friendly ingredients in skincare and beauty products drives this trend. Consumers are increasingly concerned with the sustainability of the products they use, especially in the cosmetics industry, which has traditionally relied on synthetic ingredients. The move toward more natural and biodegradable ingredients has accelerated the adoption of MEL in this sector.

Cosmetics and skincare products benefit from the mild, non-irritating properties of MEL, making them suitable for sensitive skin and a wide range of formulations. Their ability to enhance hydration, promote skin barrier function, and stabilize emulsions makes them a critical component in facial creams, sunscreens, and haircare products. With the continued emphasis on cleaner, safer, and more sustainable ingredients, the cosmetics and skincare industry is expected to remain the largest end-user industry for Mannosylerythritol Lipids.

Form Segment Is Fastest Growing Owing to Liquid Mannosylerythritol Lipids

The Liquid Mannosylerythritol Lipids form is the fastest growing segment in the market. Liquid MEL offer several advantages, such as ease of incorporation into liquid formulations and the ability to provide a smooth, consistent texture. This makes them highly desirable in the cosmetics, food, and pharmaceutical industries, where liquid-based products are common. Furthermore, liquid MEL tend to have better solubility, which enhances their effectiveness in various applications.

Liquid MEL are particularly well-suited for formulations where a smooth texture and stability are crucial, such as in shampoos, body lotions, and facial serums. Their versatility and ease of use in liquid form make them an attractive option for formulators who need high-performing, stable ingredients. As consumer preference continues to shift toward more user-friendly and effective products, the demand for liquid mannosylerythritol lipids is expected to grow rapidly.

Region Segment Is Largest Owing to North America

North America is the largest region in the Mannosylerythritol Lipids market. The region’s strong demand for natural, bio-based ingredients, particularly in the personal care and food sectors, has positioned North America as the dominant market. Consumers in North America are increasingly inclined toward eco-friendly, non-toxic products, which has driven the demand for ingredients like MEL. The U.S. and Canada, in particular, have seen significant growth in the use of MEL in a range of applications, from skincare to food products.

North America is also home to several key players in the MEL market, who continue to innovate and expand their product offerings to cater to this growing demand. As regulatory standards in the region become more stringent regarding the use of synthetic chemicals in consumer products, the adoption of bio-based alternatives like MEL is expected to increase further, cementing North America’s position as the largest market for Mannosylerythritol Lipids.

Competitive Landscape and Leading Companies

The Mannosylerythritol Lipids market is characterized by the presence of several key players, including Evonik Industries AG, Cargill, Inc., Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd., and Solvay S.A., among others. These companies are focusing on expanding their production capacities and innovating new MEL formulations to cater to the growing demand for sustainable, eco-friendly ingredients. Research and development are critical components of the competitive strategy, with companies investing in improving extraction techniques and exploring new applications for MEL.

To stay competitive, companies are also engaging in strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions. The market is becoming increasingly fragmented, with both global giants and emerging players vying for market share. As consumer preference continues to evolve toward greener and more natural solutions, companies in the MEL market must continuously innovate and meet the demand for high-quality, sustainable products.

Recent Developments:

• Evonik Industries AG announces the expansion of its production capabilities for mannosylerythritol lipids to meet the growing demand for bio-based surfactants.
• Cargill, Inc. has launched a new line of mannosylerythritol lipids tailored for the cosmetics industry, focusing on improving the eco-sustainability of personal care products.
• Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd. has partnered with a leading skincare brand to develop innovative mannosylerythritol lipid-based emulsifiers for sensitive skin care.
• BASF SE introduces a new natural mannosylerythritol lipid product designed for the food industry, enhancing the texture and stability of plant-based food alternatives.
• Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. has received regulatory approval for a new mannosylerythritol lipid derivative, aimed at improving the performance of agricultural formulations.

List of Leading Companies:

• Cargill, Inc.
• Evonik Industries AG
• Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd.
• SABIC
• Clariant International Ltd.
• DSM Nutritional Products
• U.S. Biotech
• Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Jiangsu Boli Bioproducts Co. Ltd.
• Solvay S.A.
• BASF SE
• Lonza Group Ltd.
• Kraton Polymers
• Kuraray Co., Ltd.
• Huntsman Corporation

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