Sorbitol Market Size, Share and Growth Analysis Report - Forecast Trends and Outlook (2025-2034)

The global sorbitol market attained a volume of about 2.74 MMT in 2024. Increasing awareness towards health has led to a greater demand for low-calorie foods which has, in turn, contributed to a steady growth of the global sorbitol market over the past few years. During the forecast period of 2025-2034, the industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.50% to reach 3.18 MMT by 2034.

Although a number of feedstock can be used for making sorbitol, the choice of feedstock mainly depends upon the total cost of production and the ease of availability in the region. Corn, cassava and wheat represent the most popular feedstock for sorbitol production.

Key Trends and Recent Developments

The sorbitol market is expanding driven by factors such as the increasing demand for sugar substitutes, growth in the personal care and cosmetics sectors, rising pharmaceutical applications, and a strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendly production methods.

January 2025

Iran's only sorbitol plant in West Asia resumed operations after a 26-year hiatus. Initially launched in 1995, it produced 7,500 tons of 70% liquid sorbitol annually. The plant closed in 1998 after Italian experts left and excessive imports led to its shutdown. Sorbitol, a sugar alcohol, is used in various food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.

July 2024

ENTOD Pharmaceuticals developed the EyeBS preservative system for eye drops, using an ionic buffer with borate, sorbitol, propylene glycol, and zinc. Unlike traditional preservatives, it avoids cytotoxic side effects, enhancing safety and comfort for patients, particularly those with chronic conditions like glaucoma. It aims to improve treatment adherence and outcomes.

February 2024

Gujarat Ambuja Exports commissioned a 100 TPD Sorbitol unit in Hubli, Karnataka, making it India’s largest Sorbitol manufacturer with a total capacity of 500 TPD across four locations. The company, which produces corn starch derivatives, soya products, and edible oils, reported a 22.88% rise in net profit and a 15.22% increase in sales for Q3 FY24.

March 2022

Sunar Misir launched Sunsorb® Sorbitol Powder, expanding its polyol portfolio with a new product produced using advanced technology in Turkey. This product, designed for sugar-free chewing gum, tableting, and pharmaceutical applications, offers excellent tableting properties. Sunsorb® is now exported to nearly 60 countries, with Sunar aiming for global growth in the sorbitol market.

Rising Demand for Sugar Alternatives is Driving Opportunities in the Sorbitol Market

With growing awareness around health and wellness, the demand for sugar substitutes like sorbitol is increasing. As people become more concerned about sugar's adverse effects, sorbitol is gaining traction in the food and beverage sectors, particularly in sugar-free and low-calorie options. Offering sweetness without the added calories, sorbitol is a preferred alternative for consumers seeking to reduce sugar intake. In January 2024, Ingredion Ventures supported Israeli startup Better Juice's technology, which reduces sugars in juices, incorporating sorbitol for enhanced sugar reduction.

Expansion in Personal Care and Cosmetics is Influencing Sorbitol Market Dynamics and Trends

Sorbitol is becoming a key ingredient in personal care and cosmetic products due to its moisture-retaining and stabilising abilities. It's commonly found in items like moisturisers, shampoos, and toothpaste, improving texture and hydration. The increasing consumer preference for natural, multifunctional ingredients in beauty and skincare is driving sorbitol's adoption. In May 2024, Escentric Molecules launched a body collection enriched with natural oils such as squalane, jojoba, and sorbitol, offering lasting hydration while featuring fragrances like Escentric 01, 02, 03, 04, and 05.

Growth in Pharmaceutical Applications is Driving Sorbitol Market Growth

Sorbitol is expanding its use in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the production of oral medications, syrups, and lozenges. Known for its non-toxic properties and stabilising effects, sorbitol is increasingly used as an excipient in sugar-free and low-sugar drugs. The rise in chronic diseases is driving demand for sugar-free medications, offering growth opportunities for sorbitol. In April 2022, Genexa introduced clean acetaminophen products, including Extra Strength and PM versions, which contain sorbitol and other clean ingredients, providing consumers with healthier alternatives in major retail stores like Walmart.

Sustainability and Eco-friendly Production is a Key Trend in the Sorbitol Market

Sustainability is becoming a prominent trend in the sorbitol market, with a focus on environmentally friendly production methods. Manufacturers are adopting renewable resources and green chemistry techniques to make sorbitol in a more eco-conscious manner. With increasing consumer demand and regulatory pressures for sustainable practices, this trend is fueling innovation and growth. In January 2023, Vedas Cure launched Vedas Vitaminerals Plus Syrup, which includes sorbitol syrup alongside vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health and promoting a sustainable, healthy lifestyle.

Sorbitol Market Segmentation

Sorbitol, a six-carbon sugar alcohol, occurs in plants naturally. It can also be synthesised through catalytic hydrogenation of D-glucose to produce D-sorbitol. Sorbitol has non-cariogenic and sweetening properties due to which it is used in toothpaste and oral care products, beverages, ice-creams, jams, syrups, candies, jellies, etc. It is also used as a laxative.

Market Breakup by Form

• Liquid
• Powder

Market Breakup by Application

• Pharmaceuticals
• Toothpaste
• Food & Beverages
• Cosmetics & Toiletries
• Industrial Surfactants
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Market Analysis

China was the greatest consumer of sorbitol with almost 40% of the world’s total consumption in 2016. Asia-Pacific remained the largest region for sorbitol industry in 2016 with more than half of the global industry share and is likely to maintain this position in years to come due to favourable government policies and greater FDI flows for pharmaceutical and personal care firms in India and China. The sorbitol market in North America and Europe is anticipated to exhibit steady growth in the forecasted years due to the growing home and personal care and food and beverage industry in the region followed by economies such as India, Thailand and Indonesia. Inconsistencies in price and supply of raw materials, side-effects due to over-consumption of sorbitol and international regulations are factors that may hinder the growth of sorbitol industry. A detailed analysis including the price movement and regional market scenario of the sorbitol feedstock such as corn, cassava, wheat, etc. is offered in this report.

Competitive Landscape

The sorbitol market key players specialise in a wide range of sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nutrition. These companies are committed to innovation, sustainability, and delivering high-quality products that enhance global well-being. With a strong focus on sustainability, they aim to promote environmentally responsible practices by using renewable resources and reducing carbon footprints. Their diverse product portfolios include starches, proteins, fibres, and other plant-derived ingredients, supporting industries in creating sustainable, nutritious, and functional products.

Roquette Frères

Headquartered in Lestrem, France, Roquette Frères was established in 1933. The company is a global leader in plant-based ingredients and solutions, specialising in sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Roquette is committed to innovation, sustainability, and providing high-quality ingredients for various industries worldwide.

Cargill, Incorporated

Founded in 1865 and headquartered in Minneapolis, United States, Cargill, Incorporated is a global leader in food, agriculture, and industrial sectors. The company focuses on providing essential services and products, including agricultural supply chain solutions, food ingredients, and health and nutrition offerings, aiming to enhance food security and sustainability.

Ingredion Incorporated

Ingredion Incorporated, established in 1906 and based in Westchester, United States, is a global ingredient solutions provider. Specialising in plant-based ingredients, Ingredion serves industries like food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. The company focuses on delivering innovative, sustainable solutions to meet the evolving needs of consumers worldwide.

ADM

Headquartered in Chicago, United States, ADM (Archer Daniels Midland Company) was founded in 1902. It is a leading global player in agriculture and food processing, offering products ranging from grain and oilseeds to nutrition and bioenergy solutions. ADM prioritises innovation, sustainability, and the global food supply chain.

Another key player in the sorbitol market report is Merck KGaA among others.