Global Maltodextrin Market By Source (Corn-based, Wheat-based, Potato-based, Cassava-based, Others), By Grade (Food Grade, Pharmaceutical Grade, Others), By Form (Spray Dried Powder, Agglomerated), By Application (Food and Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics and Personal Care, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Maltodextrin Market size is expected to be worth around USD 5.2 Billion by 2034, from USD 3.5 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 4.0% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

Maltodextrin, a polysaccharide derived from starch sources like corn, potato, or wheat, is a versatile carbohydrate widely utilized in the food industry. It serves as a thickener, stabilizer, bulking agent, and carrier for flavors and nutrients, making it integral to products such as bakery items, beverages, dairy, and infant formulas.

The global maltodextrin market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand in food and beverage applications. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has approved various maltodextrin-based products, indicating a robust regulatory framework supporting its use. For instance, as of August 2023, FSSAI has approved numerous maltodextrin-containing products under its Non-Specified Food and Food Ingredients Regulations .

Government Initiatives india’s focus on biotechnology and food safety regulations supports the sustainable growth of the maltodextrin industry. The Department of Biotechnology’s annual report highlights the sector’s expansion, with the bio-economy growing eightfold from $10 billion to $80 billion over eight years, indicating a favorable environment for related industries.

Key Takeaways

• Maltodextrin Market size is expected to be worth around USD 5.2 Billion by 2034, from USD 3.5 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 4.0%.
• Corn-based maltodextrin held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 58.2% share.
• Food Grade held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 69.5% share.
• Spray Dried Powder held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 72.3% share.
• Food and Beverages held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 87.4% share.
• North America emerged as the leading region in the global maltodextrin market, capturing a substantial 43.8% share, equivalent to approximately USD 1.5 billion.

By Source

Corn-based Maltodextrin dominates with 58.2% share in 2024 due to its high starch yield.

In 2024, corn-based maltodextrin held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 58.2% share. This leadership is mainly due to the abundant global availability of corn and its high starch content, which makes extraction and conversion into maltodextrin more efficient and economical. Corn is a primary raw material in countries like the United States, China, and India, where large-scale corn farming ensures consistent supply and price stability.

Additionally, corn-based variants are widely accepted across industries including food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed, thanks to their neutral taste, good solubility, and non-GMO options. With governments in major producing countries supporting maize production through subsidies and R&D programs, manufacturers continue to prefer corn over alternative sources. This strong preference and established supply chain kept corn-based maltodextrin ahead of other sources in 2024.

By Grade

Food Grade Maltodextrin leads with 69.5% share in 2024 driven by rising processed food demand.

In 2024, Food Grade held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 69.5% share. This strong lead is mainly due to the growing use of maltodextrin in processed food products like snacks, soups, sauces, and baked goods. Food manufacturers prefer food-grade maltodextrin because it improves texture, increases shelf life, and blends easily with other ingredients.

Its neutral flavor and high solubility make it a versatile additive across a wide range of edible applications. As consumer demand for convenient, packaged foods grows—especially in urban areas—companies are expanding their use of food-grade maltodextrin in ready-to-eat meals and nutritional products. Regulatory approvals from global food safety authorities also help drive its widespread usage in 2024, giving it a clear edge over pharmaceutical and industrial grades.

By Form

Spray Dried Powder dominates with 72.3% share in 2024 due to its fine texture and easy mixing.

In 2024, Spray Dried Powder held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 72.3% share. This leading form is widely used because of its fine particle size, high solubility, and longer shelf life. Food and beverage manufacturers prefer spray dried powder as it dissolves quickly and mixes smoothly in liquids, making it ideal for instant drinks, baby foods, and powdered supplements. It also offers better flow properties and packaging convenience, which reduces production issues. Industries favor this form for its consistent quality and easy blending with other ingredients. Its stable nature during storage and transport adds further value, helping it stay ahead of other forms like agglomerated or granular types in 2024.

By Application

Food and Beverages lead with 87.4% share in 2024 thanks to heavy use in daily products.

In 2024, Food and Beverages held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 87.4% share. This massive share comes from the widespread use of maltodextrin in everyday food items like sauces, snacks, dairy, confectionery, instant soups, and beverages. Its ability to improve mouthfeel, thicken textures, and extend shelf life makes it a go-to ingredient for food producers. It’s also valued for its clean taste and quick solubility, making it perfect for powdered drinks, energy products, and low-calorie foods. With rising demand for processed and packaged foods across both urban and rural markets, especially in developing regions, the food and beverage sector continued to rely heavily on maltodextrin throughout 2024.

Key Market Segments

By Source

• Corn-based
• Wheat-based
• Potato-based
• Cassava-based
• Others

By Grade

• Food Grade
• Pharmaceutical Grade
• Others

By Form

• Spray Dried Powder
• Agglomerated

By Application

• Food and Beverages
  • Baked goods
  • Confectionery
  • Dairy products
  • Beverages
  • Convenience foods
  • Others
• Pharmaceuticals
  • Excipient in Drug Formulations
  • Nutritional Supplements
• Cosmetics and Personal Care
  • Skincare products
  • Haircare products
• Others

Drivers

Rising Processed Food Consumption Fuels Maltodextrin Demand

One of the key drivers behind the growth of the maltodextrin market is the increasing global consumption of processed foods. Maltodextrin, known for its versatility as a thickener, filler, and stabilizer, is extensively used in processed food products to enhance texture, shelf life, and flavor.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global per capita dietary energy availability increased by 35% between 1961 and 2021, from 2,200 to 2,980 calories per person per day. This rise reflects a significant shift towards processed and energy-dense foods in many countries. The FAO also notes that ultra-processed foods accounted for 7% of globally traded calories and 12% of food imports in high-income countries in 2021, highlighting their growing presence in the global food supply .

In India, the government’s focus on boosting the food processing sector through initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) aims to modernize infrastructure and reduce food wastage. Such programs not only enhance the availability of processed foods but also increase the demand for food additives like maltodextrin.

Furthermore, the proliferation of supermarkets and the expansion of e-commerce platforms have made processed foods more accessible to consumers worldwide. This accessibility, combined with changing lifestyles and the demand for convenience, continues to drive the consumption of processed foods, thereby fueling the maltodextrin market.

Restraints

Health Concerns Over Maltodextrin Consumption

One significant factor restraining the growth of the maltodextrin market is the increasing awareness and concern regarding its potential health impacts. While maltodextrin is widely used as a food additive due to its functional properties, recent studies have raised questions about its effects on human health.

Research indicates that maltodextrin may contribute to intestinal inflammation and disrupt gut microbiota balance. A study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) highlights that maltodextrin consumption can impair the intestinal mucus barrier and promote endoplasmic reticulum stress, leading to exacerbated intestinal inflammation.

Furthermore, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has conducted assessments on maltodextrin’s safety as a food additive. While EFSA has not imposed restrictions, it emphasizes the need for ongoing evaluation of food additives to ensure consumer safety.

These health concerns have led to increased scrutiny from health-conscious consumers and advocacy groups, potentially influencing purchasing decisions and prompting manufacturers to seek alternative ingredients. As awareness grows, the demand for clean-label products and natural alternatives may pose challenges to the maltodextrin market’s expansion.

Opportunity

Rising Demand for Functional Foods and Beverages

The global maltodextrin market is experiencing significant growth, primarily driven by the increasing demand for functional foods and beverages. Functional foods, which offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, are becoming increasingly popular among consumers seeking healthier lifestyle choices. Maltodextrin, a polysaccharide derived from starch sources like corn, wheat, and cassava, plays a crucial role in these products due to its versatility and functional properties.

The Asia-Pacific region, particularly countries like China and India, is witnessing a surge in demand for functional foods. This is driven by rapid urbanization, changing dietary habits, and increased health awareness among consumers. In India, for instance, the growing middle-class population is leading to higher consumption of processed and convenience foods, thereby boosting the demand for ingredients like maltodextrin.

Government initiatives in various countries are also supporting this trend. For example, the Indian government’s focus on promoting the food processing industry through schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) is encouraging the production and consumption of value-added food products. Such initiatives are creating a favorable environment for the growth of the maltodextrin market.

Trends

Shift Towards Clean-Label and Non-GMO Maltodextrin

A notable trend in the maltodextrin market is the increasing consumer demand for clean-label and non-GMO products. This shift is driven by growing health consciousness and a preference for natural ingredients in food products. Consumers are scrutinizing product labels more closely, seeking transparency and simplicity in ingredient lists.

Manufacturers are responding by reformulating products to meet these preferences. For instance, there’s a move towards sourcing maltodextrin from non-GMO corn and other natural starches. This trend aligns with the broader clean-label movement, which emphasizes minimal processing and the absence of artificial additives.

The demand for clean-label maltodextrin is also influencing supply chains. Producers are investing in sustainable and traceable sourcing practices to ensure the integrity of their products. This includes adopting environmentally friendly production methods and ensuring compliance with non-GMO certifications.

Regional Analysis

In 2024, North America emerged as the leading region in the global maltodextrin market, capturing a substantial 43.8% share, equivalent to approximately USD 1.5 billion. This dominance is primarily driven by the United States.

The region’s robust food and beverage industry significantly contributes to this market leadership. Maltodextrin is extensively used in processed foods, sports nutrition products, and pharmaceutical formulations. The growing consumer demand for low-calorie and fast-digesting carbohydrates has further fueled market expansion.

Additionally, the increasing popularity of clean-label and non-GMO products has prompted manufacturers to develop organic and plant-based maltodextrin variants. This shift aligns with health-conscious consumer preferences and has led to strategic partnerships between suppliers and food companies aiming to meet the evolving demands.

Key Regions and Countries

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

Key Players Analysis

ADM is a global leader in agricultural processing and food ingredient manufacturing. The company produces maltodextrin primarily from corn, catering to various industries including food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. ADM’s extensive global network and focus on sustainability have solidified its position in the maltodextrin market.

Agrana Group, headquartered in Austria, specializes in producing sugar, starch, and fruit preparations. The company offers maltodextrin derived from corn and wheat, serving the food and beverage industry. Agrana’s commitment to innovation and quality has made it a significant player in the European market.

Avebe is a Dutch cooperative that focuses on potato-based ingredients. The company produces maltodextrin from potato starch, offering non-GMO and clean-label solutions. Avebe’s emphasis on sustainability and innovation has strengthened its presence in the maltodextrin market.

Top Key Players in the Market

• ADM
• Agrana Group
• Avebe
• Cargill
• Grain Processing Corporation
• Gulshan Polyols
• Ingredion
• Lehmann Food Ingredients
• Matsutani America
• Nowamyl
• Roquette
• Tate and Lyle
• Tereos
• ZhuchengDongxiao Biotechnology

Recent Developments

In 2024, Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) reported net earnings of $1.8 billion, with adjusted net earnings of $2.3 billion. ADM’s extensive operations and commitment to innovation have solidified its position as a key player in the industry.

In 2024, Agrana’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in its investment of €23 million to expand technical starch production capacity at its Gmünd facility, aiming to meet the growing demand for high-quality starch products.

Report Scope