Global Animal Glue Market Product Type(Gelatin-Based, Collagen-Based, Source, Hide Glue, Isinglass/Fish Glue, Bone Glue, Rabbit-Skin glue) Product Form(Liquid/Gel, Powder, Granules), Application(Furniture and Woodworking, Paper and Packaging, Construction, Footwear, Art and Craft, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The global Animal Glue Market size is expected to be worth around USD 536.1 Million by 2033, from USD 285.6 Million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2033.

The Animal Glue Market refers to the industry focused on producing and distributing adhesives derived from animal by-products, such as collagen extracted from bones, skins, and connective tissues of animals. These glues are often known as “hide glue” or “gelatin glue,” and they have been used for centuries in various applications due to their strong bonding properties and natural composition.

Animal glue is appreciated for its unique characteristics, including its ability to form a bond that can be reversible with heat and moisture, which is highly valued in fields like woodworking, bookbinding, and antique restoration. This reversible property allows for the easy repair and maintenance of valuable items without damaging the original materials.

In addition to traditional crafts, animal glue is used in applications such as laminating, sandpaper production, and even in some niche segments of the packaging and labeling industries. The market for animal glue is influenced by the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products, as it is a natural and biodegradable adhesive, contrasting with synthetic adhesives that can contain harmful chemicals.

However, the animal glue market faces challenges from the rise of synthetic adhesives, which often offer stronger, more durable, and water-resistant bonds. Despite this competition, the demand for animal glue remains stable in specific sectors that value its natural qualities and ease of application and removal.

The market is also impacted by trends in livestock production and the availability of raw materials, as these factors affect the cost and production capacity of animal glue. Globally, regions with strong agricultural and meat-processing industries are key suppliers of the raw materials needed for animal glue production.

Key Takeaways

• The Animal Glue Market is projected to grow from USD 285.6 million in 2023 to USD 536.1 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 6.5%.
• Gelatin-based animal glue held a dominant position in 2023 with a 54.6% share, widely used in pharmaceuticals, food, and photography.
• Granules led the market in 2023 with a 35.4% share, favored for ease of storage, handling, and extended shelf life.
• Furniture & Woodworking dominated the market in 2023 with a 33.4% share, valued for strong, durable bonds in antique restoration.
• Asia Pacific held a 40.3% market share in 2023, driven by high demand in woodworking, bookbinding, and restoration projects.

Product Type

In 2023, Gelatin-Based animal glue held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 54.6% share. This segment benefits significantly from its widespread use across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food, and photography, due to its excellent binding properties and non-toxic nature.

Gelatin-based glues are preferred for applications requiring a clear, colorless, and flexible bond, making them ideal for delicate tasks such as bookbinding and the preservation of historical documents.

Conversely, Collagen-Based glues, which form the other key segment of the market, are highly valued in woodworking and leatherworking due to their strong and durable bonds. These glues are derived primarily from animal hides and bones, making them robust adhesives suitable for heavy-duty applications.

While this segment holds a smaller share compared to gelatin-based glues, it is indispensable in industries that require high-strength adhesives capable of withstanding significant wear and tear.

By Source

In 2023, Hide Glue held a dominant market position in the Animal Glue Market, capturing more than a 36.4% share. This type of glue is derived from the collagen inside animal skins and is highly prized in woodworking and restoration projects for its strong bond and ease of use. Hide glue is especially valued for its ability to be reheated and modified, which is ideal for antique furniture repairs and musical instrument maintenance where reversibility is a key concern.

Isinglass, or Fish Glue, is another important segment, known for its historical use in conservation work, including paintings and delicate artifacts. It offers excellent clarity and is less reactive to moisture compared to other animal glues, which makes it suitable for precise and fine applications in art restoration.

Bone Glue is favored in heavy-duty applications such as bookbinding and box-making due to its rigid bond and long-lasting durability. Derived from animal bones, this glue type is utilized in industries requiring robust adhesive qualities that can withstand more stress and wear.

Rabbit-skin glue, traditionally used in gesso and art canvases, holds a niche market. It is noted for its flexibility and strength, making it a preferred choice among artists and conservators for preparing and sizing canvases and in other artistic applications where the quality of the adhesive plays a crucial role in the final product’s aesthetics and longevity.

Product Form

In 2023, Granules held a dominant market position in the Animal Glue Market, capturing more than a 35.4% share. This form is favored for its ease of storage and handling, making it highly popular among industrial users who require large quantities that can be efficiently transported and measured. Granules are also appreciated for their extended shelf life and reduced waste, as users can precisely control the amount needed for specific applications.

Liquid/Gel animal glues are also significant in the market, especially valued for their immediate usability in various applications ranging from woodworking to bookbinding. This form is preferred for tasks requiring a quick and strong bond without the preparation time needed for granules or powder.

Powder form, while holding a smaller share, is crucial for specialized applications where precise mixture ratios are necessary. It allows for custom preparation of adhesives with specific properties tailored to unique requirements, such as varying drying times or viscosity levels, making it indispensable in restoration and fine arts.

Application

In 2023, Furniture & Woodworking held a dominant market position in the Animal Glue Market, capturing more than a 33.4% share. This application benefits from animal glue’s ability to form strong, durable bonds that are essential in fine furniture making and intricate woodworking. Its natural properties allow for easy reversibility and adjustments during the restoration and repair of antique furniture, making it a preferred choice among craftsmen and conservation experts.

The Paper and Packaging sector also heavily utilizes animal glue, particularly for its strong adhesion and non-toxic nature, which are critical in food packaging and premium paper products. This segment values animal glue for its ability to provide a clean bond without compromising the recyclability of paper.

In Construction, animal glue is used for its effectiveness in bonding materials like plywood and other composite wood products. Its use in this sector underscores its strength and reliability in building applications where a natural adhesive is required.

Footwear is another significant application area, where animal glue is applied in the lamination of leather and insoles, offering a flexible yet strong bond that enhances the durability of shoes.

Art and Craft applications showcase the versatility of animal glue, especially in delicate work such as painting restoration and bookbinding, where its gentle bonding capabilities are essential.

Key Market Segments

Product Type

• Gelatin-Based
• Collagen-Based

Source

• Hide Glue
• Isinglass/Fish Glue
• Bone Glue
• Rabbit-Skin glue

Product Form

• Liquid/Gel
• Powder
• Granules

Application

• Furniture & Woodworking
• Paper and Packaging
• Construction
• Footwear
• Art and Craft
• Others

Driving Factors

Rising Demand for Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Products

A major driver for the Animal Glue Market is the increasing global demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products. As environmental awareness grows and consumers become more conscious of the materials used in the products they purchase, there is a significant shift towards natural and less harmful substances. Animal glue fits well into this trend due to its biodegradable and non-toxic properties, making it an attractive alternative to synthetic adhesives, which often contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment.

Animal glue is made from natural, renewable sources—primarily the collagen found in the bones, skins, and connective tissues of animals. This not only makes it an environmentally friendly product but also helps in the efficient use of animal by-products, reducing waste in the meat processing industry. This aspect of sustainability is crucial for industries aiming to minimize their environmental impact and enhance their appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

The market for animal glue is also benefiting from its historical and traditional appeal in various applications such as bookbinding, woodworking, and restoration work, where the natural properties of the glue play a critical role in preserving the integrity and authenticity of artworks and furniture. The ability of animal glue to be reversibly heated and applied makes it uniquely suitable for such delicate tasks, further driving its demand among professionals in conservation and fine arts.

Moreover, the push for sustainability is not limited to consumer products but extends to industrial applications. Regulations and green mandates across various industries encourage the adoption of natural-based adhesives to reduce VOC emissions and improve workplace safety. Animal glue’s low VOC content makes it compliant with these regulations, boosting its adoption in industrial settings.

The revival of traditional techniques in crafts and the ongoing trend towards artisanal and handmade products provide additional momentum for the animal glue market. As people seek out authentic and traditionally made products, the appeal of using time-tested materials like animal glue grows, opening new market opportunities.

Restraining Factors

Competition from Synthetic Adhesives

A significant restraint facing the Animal Glue Market is the intense competition from synthetic adhesives. Synthetic adhesives, often derived from petroleum products, dominate the global adhesive market due to their high performance, durability, and versatility in a wide range of applications—from industrial manufacturing to everyday consumer goods. These adhesives are engineered to provide specific characteristics such as increased water resistance, faster setting times, and stronger bonds, features that are often challenging for natural adhesives like animal glue to match.

One of the main reasons for the preference for synthetic adhesives is their consistency and reliability in performance across varying environmental conditions. Unlike animal glue, which can be sensitive to moisture and temperature changes, synthetic adhesives maintain their integrity and effectiveness under a broader range of conditions and are less prone to degradation over time. This makes them particularly appealing in industries that require robust and long-lasting adhesion solutions, such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.

Furthermore, the scalability of synthetic adhesives supports mass production processes, catering to the high-volume demands of global industries. Their ability to be customized for specific tasks—such as being formulated to set quickly for assembly line applications or designed for transparency in electronics and glass installations—adds to their competitive edge.

Moreover, advances in chemical engineering continue to enhance the properties of synthetic adhesives, with innovations aimed at making them more environmentally friendly and reducing their reliance on volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This progress in synthetic adhesive technology is continually setting new standards for what adhesives can do, thereby putting additional pressure on the animal glue market.

While animal glue remains preferred in niche markets and applications that value its natural and reversible properties, such as in antique restoration and fine woodworking, these markets are relatively small compared to the vast industrial applications dominated by synthetic adhesives. The challenge for the animal glue industry is to innovate and possibly expand its reach by improving the performance and environmental profile of its products to better compete with synthetic alternatives.

Growth Opportunities

Growth in Eco-Friendly Adhesive Demand

A significant opportunity for the Animal Glue Market is the increasing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable adhesives. As global awareness and commitment to environmental sustainability grow, consumers and industries alike are seeking natural alternatives to synthetic adhesives, which are often petroleum-based and can be harmful to the environment. Animal glue, derived from natural and renewable sources, positions itself as an eco-friendly solution that aligns with these green initiatives.

Animal glue is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it an attractive option for applications in industries such as woodworking, bookbinding, and conservation, where the environmental impact of materials used is a growing concern.

The trend towards sustainability is not just limited to small niche markets; major industries are also incorporating green practices into their operations, including reducing VOC emissions and minimizing their carbon footprint. Animal glue can meet these requirements due to its natural composition and minimal environmental impact compared to many synthetic adhesives.

Moreover, regulatory pressures are increasing on manufacturers to produce more environmentally friendly products. In regions with stringent environmental regulations, such as the European Union and North America, there is a push for industries to adopt sustainable materials. This regulatory environment presents a significant opportunity for the expansion of the animal glue market as a compliant and desirable option.

Additionally, the revival of traditional techniques and materials in crafts and other artisan sectors provides a unique market opportunity for animal glue. There is a growing appreciation for craftsmanship and high-quality, sustainable materials in luxury goods and fine arts, areas where animal glue has been historically valued.

The opportunity extends beyond just replacing synthetic adhesives. It includes the potential for innovation in how animal glues are processed and applied, making them more suitable for modern industrial applications while maintaining their ecological benefits. By investing in research and development, companies in the animal glue market can expand their product offerings and open new avenues for growth.

Trending Factors

Regional Analysis

In the Animal Glue market, the Asia Pacific region emerges as a dominant force, securing a substantial market share of 40.3%. Projections indicate that the market is poised to achieve a valuation of USD 115.09 million by the end of the forecast period. This growth is primarily fueled by robust adoption across critical sectors such as woodworking, bookbinding, and restoration of antiques.

Powerhouse economies in the region, including China, India, Japan, and South Korea, are driving this growth trajectory. These countries exhibit a notable increase in animal glue applications, reflecting rising demand for traditional and natural adhesive solutions in various industries and crafts.

Additionally, the region’s commitment to maintaining cultural heritage and the growing popularity of natural products further bolsters its position in the global animal glue market.

In North America, the animal glue market is experiencing steady expansion. This upward trend is driven by growing demand from the arts and crafts sector, along with industrial applications requiring natural adhesives. The region’s robust woodworking industry and advancements in eco-friendly adhesive technologies contribute significantly to the adoption of animal glues.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • The US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Russia & CIS
  • Rest of Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • ASEAN
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The Animal Glue Market features several key players, each contributing to the market’s growth and innovation through their unique strengths and strategic initiatives. Gelita AG is a leading player known for its high-quality gelatins and collagens, serving various industries including pharmaceuticals, food, and technical applications. Rallis India specializes in agrochemical products but also has a significant presence in the animal glue market, leveraging its extensive distribution network.

Kremer Pigmente is renowned for its high-purity, natural pigments and traditional adhesive products used in art restoration and conservation. LD Davis Glues & Gelatins is a major North American manufacturer focusing on eco-friendly, sustainable adhesive solutions for the packaging, bookbinding, and woodworking industries. African Glue Industries caters to diverse industrial applications across the African continent, emphasizing local sourcing and production.

McAdams Chemical Mfg Co. provides specialized adhesive products tailored for niche markets, maintaining a strong reputation for quality and reliability. Kerala Chemicals and Proteins is a prominent Indian company producing animal glues and gelatins for various industrial uses. Xiamen Gelken Gelatin Co Ltd. and Luohe Wulong Gelatin Co. Ltd. are significant Chinese players known for their high-quality gelatin products, serving both domestic and international markets. These companies drive the animal glue market by focusing on sustainability, innovation, and meeting diverse industrial needs.

Market Key Players

• Gelita AG
• Rallis India
• Kremer Pigmente
• LD Davis Glues & Gelatins
• African Glue Industries
• McAdams Chemical Mfg Co.
• Kerala Chemicals and Proteins
• Xiamen Gelken Gelatin Co Ltd.
• Luohe Wulong Gelatin Co. Ltd.

Recent Developments

For instance, in March 2023, Gelita introduced new collagen peptide ingredients approved for use in food supplements targeting skin health​​.

2023, Rallis India reported steady growth, with notable performance in the agricultural and industrial sectors.

Report Scope