MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE MARKET ANALYSIS

Microcrystalline Cellulose Market Size and Trends

The global microcrystalline cellulose market is estimated to be valued at USD 1.38 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.24 Bn by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2024 to 2031.

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The microcrystalline cellulose market is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. This is attributed to factors such as rising demand from the pharmaceutical industry and increasing applications in food and beverage products. Additionally, the widespread use of microcrystalline cellulose as an excipient in tablets as well as its property to enhance processability is also driving its demand across various industries. Furthermore, shifting consumer preferences towards low fat and sugar food products is boosting the adoption of microcrystalline cellulose as a bulking and anti-caking agent.

Rise in use of microcrystalline cellulose as excipient in pharmaceutical industry

The growing pharmaceutical industry worldwide has led to a significant rise in the demand for microcrystalline cellulose. Microcrystalline cellulose is widely used as a key excipient or inactive ingredient in most solid oral dosage formulations such as tablets and capsules. It acts as a disintegrant, diluent, glidant, and binding agent in the manufacturing process of several drugs. The excellent flow and compression properties of MCC ensure the uniform filling of capsules and uniform densities in tablet manufacturing. Its inertness and compatibility with most drugs also makes it a favored excipient. With lifestyle diseases and chronic conditions on the rise, pharmaceutical R&D activities have increased substantially in recent years. Several new drug molecules are in the clinical trial and approval process. This has augmented the demand for supporting excipients from drug manufacturers. Moreover, the regulatory norms are also getting stricter regarding the quality and safety of excipients used in drugs. Microcrystalline cellulose complies with the stringent pharmacopeial standards and excipient quality guidelines prescribed by regulatory bodies like the U.S. FDA and EMA. This provides assurance to drug makers and boosts the preference for MCC over alternative excipients. The leading global players in MCC production are continuously enhancing their production capacities and technical capabilities to cater to the growing needs of the pharmaceutical industry, therefore growing pharmaceuticals industry is expected to drive the market growth. For instance, according to date by Invest India in 2022, The Indian pharmaceutical industry has grown at an average rate of 9.47% from 2018 to 2022, reaching USD 42.34 billion.

Microcrystalline cellulose is used as a bulking agent, stabilizing agent, anti-caking agent and emulsifier in various food products. MCC helps improve texture, prevents crystallization of sugars, and maintains uniform appearance in canned foods, desserts, and dressings. It is also utilized as a fat substitute or flour extender in keto friendly and low calorie foods. The booming food processing industry and changing consumer preferences have fueled innovations in ready-to-eat and convenient food categories. Low carb, sugar free, vegan, and gluten free foods are in high demand nowadays. Microcrystalline cellulose caters well to the formulation requirements of such niche product segments. Its multi-functionality as a versatile ingredient enables replacement of various artificial additives in foods.