Lutein supplement is dietary supplement that contain lutein, a naturally occurring carotenoid that is found in various fruits and vegetables, such as kale, spinach, and broccoli. Lutein is known for its antioxidant properties and has been linked to several health benefits, including improving eye health, reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration, and improving skin health. This is concentrated in the macula, a small area in the retina of the eye, and has been shown to protect the eyes from oxidative stress and blue light damage. In addition, this is also used to promote cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Furthermore, this is often used to improve cognitive function and support a healthy immune system. Lutein has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function in older adults and may also support the body's natural defense against infections and disease.
The lutein supplements market has been driven by various factors that have contributed to its growth. For example, the increasing ageing population, rising disposable income, and growing awareness about the health benefits of lutein supplements have been major drivers of the market. In addition, the National Eye Institute recommends this for individuals at risk of age-related macular degeneration, which has contributed to the growing demand for lutein supplements. Another factor in this market is the increasing focus on personalized nutrition. Consumers are increasingly interested in tailoring their diets and supplement regimens to their individual needs, leading to a rise in demand for lutein supplements that meet specific health needs, such as improving eye health or reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration. This market is also being driven by growth factors, such as the increasing prevalence of age-related eye diseases, and the rising demand for dietary supplements.
The demand for lutein is expected to increase due to factors such as its use as a natural colorant in food and beverage applications, as well as in animal feed additives. In addition, government initiatives for diabetes and heart problems are expected to drive product demand, particularly in emerging economies with a growing elderly demographic. For instance, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted by the CDC has reported an increase in the consumption of dietary supplements among adults in the U.S. Furthermore, the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act has created regulations for dietary supplements, ensuring their safety and efficacy for consumers. According to the U.S. VMHS Survey, around 40% of the lutein market is driven by dietary supplements for various diseases, while consumers aged over 65 accounts for about 36% of unit consumption. Increasing consumer awareness of preventative healthcare is also driving demand, aided by the availability of information online.
Despite the growth opportunities, the lutein supplement market may face certain challenges in the form of potential side effects such as rashes, stomach cramps, hives, and facial swelling, as well as breathing problems, which can impact consumer demand. Overconsumption of lutein supplements may also lead to yellowing of the skin, further deterring potential consumers. In addition, the use of the lutein is not authorized in infant formula, which could limit the market's profitability in the upcoming years. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, lutein is not an approved ingredient in infant formula, which can hamper the growth of this market.
Key developments and launches to the lutein supplements market- In September 2021, OmniActive Health Technologies launched Nutritears, a proprietary blend of ingredients designed to treat occasional dry eyes, in the U.S..
- In June 2021, OmniActive Health Technologies unveiled Integrative Actives, a platform enabling the delivery of multiple actives into smaller, more concentrated doses in June 2021. Nutritears, a lutein and zeaxanthin product, was the first product created through the platform. This launch represents a significant advancement in the delivery of active ingredients for the nutraceutical industry.
Segment Overview:By category: The lutein supplement market is divided into plain, and flavored. The plan category is the dominating segment due to its high usage in pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements. It is widely used in the manufacturing of vitamins and dietary supplements as a natural ingredient for vision support, which is one of the major applications of lutein. In addition, the plain category is also preferred by consumers who are looking for a clean label with no added flavors or sweeteners.
Furthermore, the flavored category is the fastest-growing segment in this market. This is attributed to the increasing demand for products with a better taste and flavor. Manufacturers are introducing a variety of flavored lutein supplements in the market to cater to the changing preferences of consumers. The use of natural and organic flavors in these supplements is gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers.
By form: The market is categorized into capsules, soft gels, gummies, and others. Gummies are the fastest-growing form. As gummies are reportedly seeing a surge in popularity as a convenient and tasty alternative to traditional capsules and soft gels. This trend is being driven by factors such as increasing demand for supplements that are easy to take and incorporate into daily routines, as well as growing interest in supplements that target eye health. Moreover, capsules and soft gels both are currently the most popular form of lutein supplements in many markets. This is likely due to several factors, such as ease of use, convenience, and familiarity with consumers. Capsules and soft gels are also generally easy to manufacture and have a longer shelf life compared to other forms of supplements.
By distribution channel: The market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, speciality stores, online and others. online sales are currently the fastest-growing distribution channel for lutein supplements markets. The rise of e-commerce has made it easier for consumers to purchase health supplements from the comfort of their homes, and online sales channels offer a wider range of products and prices than brick-and-mortar stores. This has made online distribution a key focus for many companies in this industry.
Supermarkets and hypermarkets hold the major share. supermarkets and hypermarkets are still popular choices for many consumers, as these channels offer convenience and a wide range of products under one roof. Speciality stores may also be a popular choice for consumers looking for specific types of supplements or personalized advice.
Based on the region: North America dominates the market share in the lutein supplement market due to the increasing presence of major industry players in the U.S. and Canada. Manufacturers in the region are also focusing on expanding their brand positioning beyond ingredient-focused products to boost consumer appeal. In addition, the growing concentration of vitamin, herbal, and mineral supplement services in the region are expected to bolster market growth over the forecast period. According to a report by the National Institutes of Health, nearly 60% of Americans use dietary supplements, including lutein, highlighting the significant growth potential for the market in the region. In addition, government initiatives to promote health and wellness, coupled with the rising awareness of preventive healthcare among consumers, are contributing to the growth of the market in the region.
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to be the fastest-growing segment in the lutein supplement market, with increasing consumer awareness about the benefits of lutein supplements, a growing ageing population, and rising disposable incomes driving the market growth. According to a report by the Asian Development Bank, the elderly population in Asia is expected to reach almost 1.3 billion by 2050, which presents a significant growth opportunity for this market in the region. In addition, the growing demand for natural and organic dietary supplements and the increasing adoption of Western dietary habits are also contributing to the growth of the lutein supplement market in the Asia-Pacific region.
Competitive analysis and profiles of the major players in the lutein supplement market include such as, Anhui Ruisen Biological Technology Co. Ltd., BASF, Bausch + Lomb, Chr. Hansen, California Gold Nutrition, DSM, Allied Biotech Corporation, Kemin Industries, Microbo, Nature’s Bounty, Natural Factors USA, Nature's Way Brands, NOW Foods, OmniActive Health Technologies Ltd., PHYSICIAN'S CHOICE, Phyto Nutraceutical, Puritan's Pride, Inc., Solaray, Solgar Inc., Sundown, Swanson Health, and Tianjin Pharmaland.
Key Market Segments
- By Category
- By Form
- Capsules
- Softgels
- Gummies
- Others
- By Distribution Channel
- Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- Specialty Stores
- Online
- Others
- By Region
- North America
- Europe
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- UK
- Russia
- Rest of Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- Australia
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
- LAMEA
- Brazil
- South Africa
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
- Argentina
- Rest of LAMEA
Key Market Players
- Nature's Way Brands
- California Gold Nutrition
- PHYSICIAN'S CHOICE
- NOW Foods
- Puritan's Pride, Inc.
- Swanson Health
- Natural Factors USA
- Nature’s Bounty
- Bausch + Lomb
- Solgar Inc.