BEE PROPOLIS EXTRACT MARKET ANALYSIS

The global bee propolis extract market size is projected to reach US$ 905.3 Mn by 2030, from US$ 665.3 Mn in 2023, at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period 2023-2030.

Propolis is a resinous substance that honeybees collect from tree buds, sap flows, and other plant resins. They use it to seal cracks and gaps in their hives, and to protect the hive from bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Propolis has a variety of health benefits, including antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. It is also used to treat a variety of conditions, including colds, flu, allergies, and respiratory infections.

Bee Propolis Extract Market Regional Insights

• North America is the largest market for bee propolis extract, accounting for a market share of over 35% in 2023 The high demand for bee propolis extract in this region is driven by the increasing awareness of its health benefits, such as its ability to boost the immune system, fight infections, and reduce inflammation. The U.S. is the largest market for bee propolis extract in North America, followed by Canada.
• Europe is the second-largest market for bee propolis extract, accounting for a market share of over 25% in 2023. The increasing demand for natural and organic products is driving the growth of the bee propolis extract market in this region. Germany, France, and the U.K. are the major markets for bee propolis extract in Europe.
• Asia Pacific is the third largest market for bee propolis extract, accounting for a market share of over 20% in 2023. The growing demand for natural health products and dietary supplements is driving the growth of the bee propolis extract market in this region. China, India, and Japan are the major markets for bee propolis extract in AsiaPacific.

Figure 1. Global Bee Propolis Extract Market Share (%), by Region, 2023

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Bee Propolis Extract Market Drivers

• Health benefits of algae : The increasing awareness about the nutritional and medicinal properties of algae among health conscious consumers is positively impacting the demand for bee propolis. Algae is known to contain essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients that can boost immunity and overall wellness. Recent studies by food and agriculture organization (FAO) shows algae consumption grew by 12% between 2020-2022 as people looked for safe and natural sources of nutrition and medicine during the pandemic. Bee propolis, a natural plant resin collected by bees from tree buds and bark is found to contain high concentration of algae derived polyphenols, flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and healing abilities. For instance , A 2022 report by WHO states consumption of algae based foods and supplements grew exponentially in the last two years.
• Increase in demand for alternative proteins : The growing popularity of alternative proteins produced from plant and non-animal sources has created new opportunities for bee propolis in recent years. As more consumers adopt vegetarian, vegan or flexitarian diets aiming to reduce meat consumption for health or environmental reasons, demand is rising for natural ingredients that can replicate meat's texture and nutrition profile in plant-based products. Bee propolis extracts have shown promise in this area due to their gelling and emulsifying properties . Several major food brands have launched new lines of vegetarian burger patties, sausages and meatballs incorporating bee propolis For instance , as per 2021 report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, global production of plant-based and cultivated meat substitutes grew over 20% annually from 2015 to 2020.
• Algae as biofuel source : As research into sustainable and renewable fuel sources continues to ramp up, the use of algae as a promising biofuel feedstock has significantly increased over the past decade. Several countries and global organizations are heavily investing in algae-to-fuel technology development and commercialization efforts . As cultivation of algae for biodiesel production expands globally, it is contributing to increased demand for bee propolis. Algae farms require huge amounts of nutrients to grow the biomass needed for fuel extraction. Bee propolis, a resinous mixture that bees produce to seal holes in their honeycombs, has antioxidative and antibiotic properties that make it effective in promoting the growth and preventing microbial infections of algae cultures. With the rise in investment and production centered around algae biodiesel, beekeepers across regions like North America, Europe and Asia have reported growth in propolis orders from algae farm companies between 2020-2022 per national apiculture organization surveys.For instance , as per 2021 report of US Department of Energy it  has invested over $500 million since 2010 into algae biofuel research projects .
• Growth of nutraceuticals/superfoods market : The rise of the nutraceuticals and superfoods industry is fueling significant demand for bee propolis globally. Bee propolis, a resinous mixture that honey bees collect from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources, is seeing increased usage due to its diverse medicinal properties. Beekeepers have been obtaining propolis from hives for centuries to support human health and wellness. However, with growing consumer awareness about the link between diet and disease prevention, bee propolis is finding more applications in high-end functional foods and dietary supplements. For instance, statistics by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the dietary supplement sector in East Asia grew over 11% between 2018-2021, outpacing global expansion, as preventive healthcare gained prominence.

Bee Propolis Extract Market Opportunities

• Expansion in Emerging Markets : Emerging markets present a great opportunity for bee propolis companies to expand globally. With rising health consciousness and incomes, more consumers in developing nations are looking for natural remedies and supplements to support their wellness. Propolis, with its wide range of antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, has strong potential in these new markets. As traditional medicines continue to gain worldwide popularity, products featuring propolis could find a receptive customer base. For instance, Data from the World Bank shows healthcare expenditures are projected to rise substantially in emerging nations like India, Indonesia and Brazil through 2025.
• Innovative Product Development: Bee propolis is a compound created by honeybees by mixing saliva and beeswax with resins collected from tree buds, sap flows, or other botanical sources. It has long been recognized for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. However, propolis remains an underutilized natural resource. Innovative Product Development sees a great opportunity to further research and develop bee propolis into new consumer products. Propolis contains over 300 compounds including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other phytochemicals that have demonstrated considerable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, and antiviral properties in numerous peer-reviewed studies. With continued research efforts, these naturally occurring compounds could potentially be tailored and formulated into an array of health and wellness products.

For instance , The Global Organization for Honeybee Health reported in 2021 that propolis extracts showed effectiveness against influenza and herpes simplex viruses in vitro, suggesting future potential as natural antiviral agents.

• E-commerce and Direct-to-Consumer Platforms: Through targeted ads and comprehensive descriptions highlighting propolis' medicinal properties backed by research studies, companies can educate online shoppers on its health benefits and build trust in their products. Social media is a powerful tool to create brand awareness by highlighting real customer reviews and testimonials. Video content showcasing how propolis is extracted from bee hives in an eco-friendly manner can resonate well with conscious consumers. Various e-marketplaces like Amazon are ideal single-window outlets to access both national as well as international consumers. For instance , As per a 2021 report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, global B2C e-commerce sales surged from 16% to 19% of total retail sales during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Sustainability initiatives could present a great opportunity for bee propolis going forward. Propolis is a natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compound produced by bees to protect their hive. It has shown promising results as a natural preservative and alternative to certain chemicals. With global awareness of environmental protection on the rise, many consumers are actively looking to support products aligned with sustainability. Propolis could help address this need given its natural properties. Several factors indicate propolis is well-positioned to benefit from the sustainability trend. Research shows many consumers are concerned about the environmental and health impacts of synthetic compounds in personal care (Unilever, 2021). For instance , A 2020 World Bank report found the global natural and organic cosmetic industry grew by double digits annually.

 Bee Propolis Extract Market Trends

• Natural and Organic Skincare: With the rise of the clean beauty movement, consumers are gravitating towards natural and organic skincare products. Bee propolis extract, due to its beneficial properties for the skin, has been a trending ingredient in skincare formulations, particularly those addressing issues like acne, inflammation, and skin aging. For instance , as per NCBI report of  2020 propolis is highly effective in the treatment of Acne vulgaris. Researchers confirmed the limitation of occurrence of Cutibacterium acnes, i.e., a bacterium which plays a key role in acne vulgaris pathogenesis, after ethanol extract of propolis was applied to the skin. The ethanol extract of propolis inhibits also Staphylococcus epidermidis. Propolis is used to manufacture cosmetics for the skin with acne.
• Rise in Functional Foods: The growing awareness about health and wellness among consumers worldwide represents a great opportunity for bee propolis in functional foods market. Propolis, a resinous mixture that honey bees collect from tree buds, sap, shoots, and bark, has been used for centuries in folk medicine due its excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It helps support immune system, digestive health and may protect against heart disease and certain cancers.For instance, study published in European Journal of Nutrition in 2022 analyzed composition and bioactivity of propolis extracts incorporated in biscuits. It concluded these biscuits exhibited high antioxidant and antibacterial activities which can support gut health.
• Personalized Health and Wellness: The growing trend of personalized health and wellness is having a significant influence on the demand for bee propolis. Consumers are increasingly interested in natural health products that provide targeted benefits according to their specific needs and health conditions. Bee propolis Extract is gaining popularity as it offers tailored immune, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support. Bee propolis contains over 300 compounds including phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids and amino acids that have been shown in studies to support various health aspects. Research studies have found that certain compounds in propolis like galangin, chrysin and pinocembrin could help manage symptoms of arthritis, autoimmune diseases and heart health issues. As more research brings to light specific benefits of different components of propolis for different ailments, consumers are able to choose products enriched in those compounds. For instance, recent data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2021 found galangin-enriched propolis supplements significantly reduced inflammatory markers like CRP and TNF-alpha in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and spondylitis .
• Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: Sustainable and ethical sourcing practices are having a significant influence on the bee propolis market. Consumers are increasingly demanding transparency from brands regarding how their products are sourced and the social and environmental impacts of those practices. This shift is driving bee propolis producers to implement more sustainable standards throughout their supply chains. Many bee propolis companies are focusing on building direct relationships with beekeepers to ensure ethical treatment of bees. This helps protect bee populations that are vital for food production. Some producers are working with beekeepers in their local regions to obtain bee propolis, reducing the carbon footprint from transportation. They provide financial and technical support to help beekeepers adopt more sustainable methods. For instance, A 2021 survey conducted by a nonprofit environmental organization found that over 80% of U.S. consumers said they would be inclined to switch brands to one that uses sustainable sourcing practices, if prices were comparable.

Bee Propolis Extract Market Restraints

• Supply Chain Fluctuations: The bee propolis market has been facing significant challenges in maintaining a stable supply chain in recent years. As bee propolis is collected from bees' hives and depends entirely on bee colonies for its production, its supply is highly susceptible to external environmental factors. Climate change has led to increased instances of droughts, floods and erratic weather patterns around the world. This in turn is stressing bee populations and reducing their colony strength. According to data from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, around 25% of managed bee colonies in North and South America did not survive the winter of 2019-2020 due to severe weather conditions exacerbated by climate change. For instance, as per study published in the journal Nature Communications in 2022 reported a 16% decline in the global honeybee population from 1990 to 2020. The declining bee colony numbers mean reduced propolis production and availability

Counter balance: Sustainable bee farming practices and the establishment of stable relationships with apiaries can help ensure a continuous supply. Additionally, investing in research to improve propolis yields without endangering bee populations could prove advantageous .

• Regulatory Hurdles: Regulatory hurdles imposed on bee propolis are significantly restraining its market growth. Bee propolis is a natural resin collected by bees from tree bark and buds which is used in alternative medicine practices for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and immune-boosting properties. However, due to stringent regulations, bee propolis is still not recognized as a medicine in many countries and regions. It is categorized as a dietary supplement in many jurisdictions with strict norms around its sourcing, processing, and concentration of compounds.For instance, 2021 report of Apimondia (International Federation of Beekeepers' Associations), over 60% of bee propolis business is lost or forced informal due to inability to meet regulatory standards in Brazil, one of the top producers.

Counter balance: Building consumer trust through transparency, certification, and education can counter skepticism. Collaborating with healthcare professionals to advocate for the benefits of propolis could also increase consumer confidence.

• Standardization Issues: Standardization issues have posed a major challenge for the growth of bee propolis industry across many regions. As bee propolis comprises of a complex mix of plant resins, pollen, wax and other compounds collected by bees, its composition varies hugely depending on the local floral sources available to the bee species. This diversity in biological composition makes it difficult to establish universal standardization protocols for quality, purity and efficacy of bee propolis products.For instance, Data from the European Commission shows that over 50% of research projects on bee propolis between 2020-2022 faced difficulties in establishing reproducible results due to standardization challenges.

Counter balance: Development and adherence to strict quality control procedures can help in maintaining consistent product quality. Investments in technological advances for the standardized extraction .

• Potential Allergenic Reactions: Potential Allergenic Reactions have been one of the major restraining factors for the growth of bee propolis market globally. Bee propolis contains around 300 compounds out of which around 30 can potentially cause allergic reactions. Common compounds such as poplar pollen, birch pollen and exotic plant pollens found in propolis are known allergens, which can trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, red and itchy eyes in sensitive individuals.

For instance, study published in 2022 by European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, nearly 0.6% to 5% of general population reported having allergy to compounds found in propolis .

Counter balance: Development of hypoallergenic propolis products could open new market segments.

Analyst View

The global bee propolis extraction market is projected to grow moderately over the next five years. The market is driven by the various health benefits of propolis in nutrition and pharmaceutical applications. Properties like antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidants in propolis extract are increasing its demand. Europe currently dominates the bee propolis extraction market owing to high health awareness and traditional use of propolis in Eastern European countries. However, Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing market due to rising use of propolis in dietary supplements, functional foods and beverages in China, Japan and India.

The market growth can be restraint by the seasonal nature of propolis collection which depends on beekeeping. Extracting propolis requires specialist skills and tedious processing techniques which increases the cost of extraction. This high production cost poses a challenge for market growth. Opportunities lie in the increasing demand for natural and herbal products in North America and emerging countries of Latin America. The propolis market players could tap into these regions through overseas expansion.

Recent Developments

New product launches

• Comvita Propolis Mouthwash. This mouthwash is made with 100% New Zealand propolis extract and is clinically proven to kill 99.9% of plaque-causing bacteria. It also helps to freshen breath and reduce inflammation. Sustainably harvested from the pristine forests of New Zealand, Comvita Certified UMF Raw Manuka Honey is globally revered for its wellness benefits. Comvita is a New Zealand-based company that specializes in producing and selling natural health and wellness products, with a focus on Manuka honey, olive leaf, and propolis. The company was founded in 1974 and is publicly traded on the New Zealand Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol CVT. Comvita is the global leader in Manuka Honey and is committed to bringing premium Manuka Honey with the highest certifications and transparency . The company offers a range of sustainably harvested, premium offerings crafted with well-being in mind, including Manuka honey products, olive leaf extracts, and propolis products .
• Nature's Way Propolis Throat Spray. This spray is made with a blend of propolis extract, zinc, and vitamin C. It helps to soothe a sore throat, relieve coughs, and boost the immune system. The Nature's way is a Gujarat based food tech startup that aims to produce high-quality, natural, and traditionally made food products.
• Solgar Propolis Liquid. This liquid is made with 100% pure propolis extract and is suspended in a base of vegetable glycerin. It can be taken orally or applied topically to the skin. Solgar is a reputable and reliable vitamin brand that offers high-quality supplements. Solgar is a company that produces and sells natural health and wellness products, including supplements and vitamins. While Solgar offers a range of products, including royal jelly supplements, there is no specific mention of a "Solgar propolish" product in the search results. However, Solgar does offer propolis supplements, which are available in capsules and tablets.

Acquisition and partnerships

• In 2022, BeeZing acquired Bee Botanics, a leading supplier of bee propolis extract. This acquisition will help BeeZing to expand its product offerings and reach a wider audience.
• In 2021, NutraBio partnered with Beekeeper's Naturals to launch a new line of bee propolis products. This partnership will help NutraBio to expand its presence in the bee propolis extract market. NutraBio is a company that has been dedicated to providing top-quality, science-backed nutritional supplements for over two decades. The company offers a range of performance-driven and wellness supplements designed to assist individuals in achieving their fitness goals and supporting their overall health.
• Beekeepers Naturals is a company that offers natural health and wellness products made from bee-related ingredients, such as propolis, beeswax, and honey. The company's mission is to reinvent the medicine cabinet by creating clean, effective products powered by the beehive and backed by science.
• In 2020, Solgar acquired Nature's Way, a leading manufacturer of natural health products. This acquisition will help Solgar to expand its bee propolis extract product offerings. Solgar is a reputable and reliable vitamin brand that offers high-quality supplements. Solgar is a well-established company that has been committed to providing quality vitamins and supplements to support health and wellness for over 70 years. The company offers a wide range of products, including vitamins, minerals, and health supplements. Some of their popular products include multivitamins, minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, vitamin C supplements, omega-3 fish oil, and other health-focused products.

Figure 2. Global Bee Propolis Extract Market Share (%), by Packaging type, 2023

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Top companies in Bee Propolis Extract Market

• Comvita
• Bee Health
• Natural Life
• Manuka Health New Zealand
• Zhifengtang
• Wang’s
• Bricaas
• Baoshengyuan
• Zhonghong Biological

Definition: Propolis is a resin-like material made by bees from the buds of poplar and cone-bearing trees. Bees use it to build hives, and it may contain beehive byproducts. Propolis seems to help fight against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It might also have anti-inflammatory effects and help skin heal. Propolis is rarely available in its pure form. It's usually obtained from beehives. People commonly use propolis for diabetes, cold sores, and swelling and sores inside the mouth. It's also used for burns, canker sores, genital herpes, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using propolis for COVID-19.