Food amino acids are organic compounds that form the building blocks of proteins and play essential roles in various biological functions, including hormone synthesis and immune response. Studies indicate that the central nervous system (CNS) requires various amino acids, found in protein-rich foods, to function properly. They are classified into three types: essential, non-essential, and conditionally essential. Essential amino acids must be obtained from the diet, non-essential amino acids are synthesized by the body, and conditionally essential amino acids are needed in specific situations, like illness or stress.
According to Extrapolate, the global food amino acids market is expected to reach $11.02 million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4%. This growth is fueled by the rising demand for functional and immunity-boosting food products, as more people adopt healthy lifestyles and prioritize protein intake.
Top-Ranked Food Amino Acids Companies of 2024
Here's a brief overview of the leading companies shaping the market landscape and their recent developments:
1. Ajinomoto Co. Inc.
Ajinomoto is a global leader in amino acid production, offering a wide range of amino acid products for various applications in the food industry. The company provides high-quality amino acids and innovative solutions. Ajinomoto has been focusing on sustainability initiatives, including reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly production methods.
Ajinomoto launched an amino acid supplement in October 2021 that is backed by a clinical trial and an RCT to reduce the risk of cognitive decline in middle-aged and older, healthy individuals who are experiencing memory loss.
2. Kyowa Hakko Bio Co. Ltd.
Kyowa Hakko Bio specializes in the production of high-quality amino acids and related products for the food and beverage industry. It is known for its advanced technology and commitment to research and development.
Kyowa Hakko Bio has been investing in new production facilities to meet the growing demand for amino acids worldwide. Kyowa Hakko Bio Co. introduced Steria Performance, a novel amino acid blend that includes the amino acid L-citrulline, in April 2017.
3. CJ CheilJedang Corporation
CJ CheilJedang is a major player in the food amino acids market, offering a diverse portfolio of amino acid products for food and beverage manufacturers. They are known for their strong research capabilities and focus on product innovation. CJ CheilJedang has been expanding its presence in international markets through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.
4. Amino GmbH
Amino GmbH specializes in amino acid production and is known for its expertise in providing customized solutions for the food industry. They focus on quality and innovation, catering to the specific needs of their customers. Amino GmbH has been investing in research and development to introduce new amino acid products with enhanced functionalities.
5. Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
ADM is a global leader in agricultural processing, including amino acid production for the food industry. It offers a wide range of amino acid products and is known for its commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing. ADM has been investing in sustainable farming practices and expanding its portfolio of plant-based amino acids to meet the growing demand for plant-based foods.
6. Evonik Industries AG
Evonik is a leading supplier of specialty amino acids and amino acid derivatives for food and nutrition applications. The company is gaining traction in the market due to its innovative products and sustainable solutions. Evonik has been focusing on developing new amino acid formulations for functional foods and dietary supplements to address specific health concerns.
7. Prinova Group LLC
Prinova offers a wide range of amino acid products and customized solutions for food and beverage manufacturers. The company is renowned for its expertise in ingredient sourcing and product development. Prinova, a well-known producer of amino acids, established a new production plant in Australia in August 2019 to increase its footprint in Asia Pacific.
8. Daesang Corporation
Daesang Corporation is a leading manufacturer of food amino acids and other ingredients, serving customers worldwide. The company is widely recognized for producing top-notch goods and being dedicated to meeting client needs. Daesang Corporation has been investing in new production facilities and technologies to improve efficiency and product quality.
9. Sigma-Aldrich Corporation (Merck KGaA)
Sigma-Aldrich is a prominent supplier of biochemicals, including amino acids, for research and industrial applications in the food sector. The company offers a wide range of amino acid products with high purity and consistency. Expanding its research endeavors, Merck KGaA engaged in cooperation with Absci in January 2022 to use the Bionic Protein non-standard amino acid technology in the development of custom enzymes intended for biomanufacturing applications.
10. Meihua Holdings Group Co. Ltd.
Meihua Holdings Group specializes in the production of amino acids and related products for the food, feed, and pharmaceutical industries. It has gained popularity for its advanced production facilities and strict quality control measures. Meihua Holdings Group has been focusing on expanding its international presence and investing in research and development to introduce new amino acid products with enhanced functionalities.
What Makes Plant-Based Protein a Major Trend in the Food Amino Acids Market?
The growing demand for plant-based protein sources is emerging as a key trend, driven by increasing consumer interest in health, sustainability, and ethical considerations. As more individuals adopt vegetarian and vegan diets, the need for high-quality, plant-derived amino acids has surged. This shift is not only influenced by personal health choices but also by heightened awareness of environmental issues and animal welfare. Plant-based proteins, including amino acids from sources like soy, pea, and rice, are gaining popularity due to their lower environmental impact compared to animal-based proteins.
Additionally, advancements in food technology have improved the taste, texture, and nutritional profiles of plant-based products, making them more appealing to a broader audience. This trend is further supported by the growing functional food and beverage market, where amino acids are used to enhance the nutritional value of products aimed at health-conscious consumers. Consequently, manufacturers are increasingly investing in research and development to innovate and expand their offerings of plant-based amino acid products, meeting the rising demand and aligning with global sustainability goals.
Final Thoughts
Food amino acids play a crucial role in nutrition and overall health. These essential building blocks of protein are necessary for various bodily functions, including muscle repair, hormone synthesis, and immune system support. With the increasing demand for functional foods and clean-label ingredients, the importance of amino acids in the food industry is only expected to grow. As consumers become more aware of the nutritional value of their food choices, manufacturers are likely to continue innovating and incorporating amino acids into a wide range of products to meet these evolving preferences. By understanding the significance of food amino acids and their impact on health and wellness, individuals can make informed decisions to support their overall well-being.
