Market Forecast By Regions (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa), By Application (Herbicides, Rubber Products, Plasticizers, Food Preservatives, Others), By End Use Industry (Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Food & Beverage, Agriculture, Others) And Competitive Landscape
Product Code: ETC160030 | Publication Date: Feb 2022 | Updated Date: Jan 2025 | Product Type: Report | |
Publisher: 6Wresearch | No. of Pages: 300 | No. of Figures: 90 | No. of Tables: 30 | |
Report Name | Propionic Acid Market report |
Forecast period | 2025-2031 |
Forecast Size | USD 2.1 billion by 2031 |
CAGR | 5.8% |
Growing Sector | Food & Beverage and Agriculture |
The Propionic Acid Market report thoroughly covers the market by regions, applications, and end-use industries. The report provides an unbiased and detailed analysis of the ongoing market trends, opportunities in high-growth areas, and key market drivers, helping stakeholders align their strategies with the current and future dynamics of the propionic acid industry.
The Propionic Acid Market was valued at USD 1.4 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 2.1 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.8%. This growth is fueled by increasing demand for food preservatives, herbicides, and animal feed additives, particularly in emerging economies. The compound’s role as a crucial additive in extending food shelf life and ensuring feed quality has been pivotal in its widespread adoption across various industries.
Propionic acid is gaining significant traction due to its versatile applications across the food & beverage, agriculture, and pharmaceutical industries. Its primary usage in food preservation, particularly in bread and bakery products, addresses concerns about food wastage and quality. Additionally, the agriculture sector extensively employs propionic acid in herbicides and feed preservatives to enhance crop yields and livestock productivity. Rising awareness about food safety and the increasing adoption of sustainable farming practices are further driving market expansion.
According to 6Wresearch, the Propionic Acid Market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period 2025-2031. The rising demand for food preservation solutions is one of the primary drivers of the propionic acid market. With increasing food production and concerns over food security, there is a growing emphasis on minimizing food wastage and extending product shelf life. Propionic acid is a critical component in this regard, especially in bakery products where it inhibits mold growth without compromising product quality. The agriculture sector also significantly contributes to the market’s growth. Propionic acid is widely used in the production of herbicides and feed additives. As populations continue to rise, the pressure on agricultural productivity has never been greater. Farmers and agricultural companies are turning to advanced solutions like propionic acid to protect crops from weeds and ensure feed quality for livestock, further driving its adoption. This trend is reflected in the Propionic Acid Market Growth.
However, the market faces challenges such as stringent regulatory environments regarding chemical usage in food and agriculture. These regulations often necessitate extensive testing and compliance, increasing production costs for manufacturers. Additionally, the rising trend toward natural and organic food products may limit the usage of synthetic chemicals like propionic acid in certain markets. Another challenge is raw material price volatility. The production of propionic acid involves the use of petrochemical derivatives, making the industry susceptible to fluctuations in crude oil prices. These cost pressures can hinder the profit margins of manufacturers and impact market growth.
Sustainability and innovation are key trends shaping the Propionic Acid Market. The shift toward bio-based production methods is gaining traction as companies aim to reduce their carbon footprint and align with sustainability goals. Bio-based propionic acid not only addresses environmental concerns but also meets the rising demand for cleaner and safer chemicals in food and agricultural applications. Another notable trend is the increasing adoption of propionic acid in the pharmaceutical and personal care industries. Its antimicrobial and antifungal properties make it a valuable ingredient in producing medications and cosmetic products. This diversification of applications is expanding the market’s reach beyond traditional sectors, offering new growth opportunities.
The food & beverage industry presents significant investment opportunities for the propionic acid market. As consumer demand for processed and packaged foods grows, manufacturers are likely to increase their reliance on propionic acid to ensure product quality and shelf life. Investments in expanding production capacities and developing advanced formulations tailored to specific food products will yield substantial returns. Similarly, the agriculture sector offers lucrative prospects for investors. With the emphasis on sustainable farming practices, there is a growing demand for efficient and eco-friendly herbicides and feed preservatives. Investing in the development of bio-based propionic acid tailored for agricultural applications can help meet these demands while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
Leading players in the Propionic Acid Market include BASF SE, Dow Inc., Perstorp Holding AB, Eastman Chemical Company, and Daicel Corporation. These companies dominate the market through continuous innovation, strategic collaborations, and a focus on expanding their product portfolios to cater to diverse industries.
Government regulations play a crucial role in shaping the propionic acid market. In the food sector, regulatory authorities have set stringent guidelines for the use of chemical additives. Propionic acid manufacturers must ensure compliance with food safety standards, including permissible limits and labelling requirements, to maintain consumer trust and meet legal obligations. Similarly, the agriculture sector is governed by strict regulations regarding the use of chemical inputs in farming. These regulations are designed to promote sustainable farming practices and minimize environmental impact. Manufacturers are required to meet these standards while demonstrating the safety and efficacy of their products. Environmental regulations are another significant factor influencing the market. Governments worldwide are advocating for the reduction of carbon emissions and the use of eco-friendly chemicals. This has encouraged manufacturers to invest in the production of bio-based propionic acid and adopt cleaner production processes. In the pharmaceutical industry, propionic acid usage is regulated by health authorities to ensure the safety and efficacy of drugs and personal care products. Companies must navigate these regulatory frameworks to expand their market presence and build consumer confidence.
The future of the Propionic Acid Market lies in technological innovation and sustainability. The development of bio-based production methods will not only address environmental concerns but also reduce dependency on petrochemical derivatives. This shift toward sustainable practices is expected to redefine the market landscape, offering new growth opportunities for companies willing to invest in R&D. The rising demand for propionic acid in emerging economies is another key driver of future growth. As countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America continue to industrialize, the need for efficient food preservation and agricultural solutions will increase. Companies that establish a strong presence in these markets will benefit from the growing demand and expanding applications. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing technologies will play a pivotal role in driving market growth. The adoption of efficient production processes and innovative formulations will help manufacturers overcome challenges related to cost and regulatory compliance, enabling them to remain competitive in a dynamic market. Finally, the diversification of propionic acid applications beyond traditional sectors will ensure sustained growth. The pharmaceutical and personal care industries, in particular, are expected to emerge as significant contributors to market expansion, driven by the compound’s unique antimicrobial properties and versatility.
The report offers a comprehensive study of the following market segments and their leading categories:
According to Ashutosh, Senior Research Analyst at 6Wresearch, The food & beverage segment is expected to dominate the propionic acid market, reaching a market size of USD 1.3 billion by 2031. The demand for processed foods is rapidly increasing as consumers seek convenience, leading to a higher requirement for effective preservatives. Propionic acid is widely used in bakery products, dairy items, and beverages to extend shelf life and prevent microbial growth. The growing focus on food safety and the preference for natural preservatives are contributing to the segment's growth. Additionally, regulatory support and advancements in food preservation technologies are expected to further bolster market expansion.
The pharmaceutical industry is expected to witness substantial growth in the propionic acid market, with a projected market size of USD 600 million by 2031. This growth is attributed to the increasing use of propionic acid in the formulation of medications and personal care products. It is particularly valued for its antimicrobial and preservative properties, which make it essential in various drug formulations, such as antifungals and antibiotics. The rising demand for pharmaceutical products in emerging markets, along with ongoing advancements in drug development, will drive the adoption of propionic acid. Its use in improving the stability and shelf life of pharmaceutical products is also a key factor in this growth.
Asia Pacific is anticipated to dominate the propionic acid market, with a market share of over 40% by 2031. The region’s rapid industrialization and urbanization are driving the demand for propionic acid in various applications, including food processing, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. China and India are leading the market in terms of consumption, with their rapidly expanding food processing and agricultural sectors. Additionally, the growing middle class in these countries is increasing the demand for processed foods, which in turn is boosting the need for preservatives. The region's strong manufacturing base and low-cost production capabilities further support its dominance in the market.
The market report covers a detailed analysis of the following market segments:
1 Executive Summary |
2 Introduction |
2.1 Key Highlights of the Report |
2.2 Report Description |
2.3 Market Scope & Segmentation |
2.4 Research Methodology |
2.5 Assumptions |
3 Global Propionic Acid Market Overview |
3.1 Global Regional Macro Economic Indicators |
3.2 Global Propionic Acid Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 & 2031F |
3.3 Global Propionic Acid Market - Industry Life Cycle |
3.4 Global Propionic Acid Market - Porter's Five Forces |
3.5 Global Propionic Acid Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Regions, 2021 & 2031F |
3.6 Global Propionic Acid Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Application, 2021 & 2031F |
3.7 Global Propionic Acid Market Revenues & Volume Share, By End-use Industry, 2021 & 2031F |
4 Global Propionic Acid Market Dynamics |
4.1 Impact Analysis |
4.2 Market Drivers |
4.3 Market Restraints |
5 Global Propionic Acid Market Trends |
6 Global Propionic Acid Market, 2021 - 2031 |
6.1 Global Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By Application, 2021 - 2031 |
6.2 Global Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By End-use Industry, 2021 - 2031 |
7 North America Propionic Acid Market, 2021 - 2031 |
7.1 North America Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By Application, 2021 - 2031 |
7.2 North America Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By End-use Industry, 2021 - 2031 |
8 Latin America Propionic Acid Market, 2021 - 2031 |
8.1 Latin America Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By Application, 2021 - 2031 |
8.2 Latin America Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By End-use Industry, 2021 - 2031 |
9 Europe Propionic Acid Market, 2021 - 2031 |
9.1 Europe Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By Application, 2021 - 2031 |
9.2 Europe Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By End Use Industry, 2021 - 2031 |
10 Asia Pacific Propionic Acid Market, 2021 - 2031 |
10.1 Asia Pacific Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By Application, 2021 - 2031 |
10.2 Asia Pacific Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By End Use Industry, 2021 - 2031 |
11 Middle East Propionic Acid Market, 2021 - 2031 |
11.1 Middle East Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By Application, 2021 - 2031 |
11.2 Middle East Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By End-use Industry, 2021 - 2031 |
12 Africa Propionic Acid Market, 2021 - 2031 |
12.1 Africa Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By Application, 2021 - 2031 |
12.2 Africa Propionic Acid Market, Revenues & Volume, By End Use Industry, 2021 - 2031 |
13 Global Propionic Acid Market Key Performance Indicators |
14 Global Propionic Acid Market - Opportunity Assessment |
14.1 Global Propionic Acid Market Opportunity Assessment, By Regions, 2021 & 2031F |
14.2 Global Propionic Acid Market Opportunity Assessment, By Application, 2021 & 2031F |
14.3 Global Propionic Acid Market Opportunity Assessment, By End Use Industry, 2021 & 2031F |
15 Global Propionic Acid Market - Competitive Landscape |
15.1 Global Propionic Acid Market Revenue Share, By Companies, 2024 |
15.2 Global Propionic Acid Market Competitive Benchmarking, By Operating and Technical Parameters |
16 Company Profiles |
17 Recommendations |
18 Disclaimer |