Strategic Analysis of the Global Markets for Lutein in Human Nutrition

This Frost & Sullivan research service titled Strategic Analysis of the Global Market for Lutein in Human Nutrition provides an overview of the market and includes a description of the key drivers, trends and restraints. The study also includes forecasts for revenues and unit shipments. In this research, Frost & Sullivan's expert analysts thoroughly the lutein market in Europe, the United States and Asia.

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Market Sectors

Expert Frost & Sullivan analysts thoroughly examine the following market sectors in this research:

By Geographical Region:

• Europe
• United States
• Asia

Market Overview

Proven Eye-health Benefits of Lutein Create Significant Growth Opportunities

The vast amount of scientific evidence supporting the eye-health benefits of lutein is the primary factor driving growth in the global market for lutein. Moreover, with the ageing population projected to increase dramatically, particularly in Europe and the United States, age-related health is a major concern, from the perspective of the ‘quality of life’ and also from the point of view of rising healthcare costs. Various independent research and trials have validated the benefits of lutein in maintaining eye-health and preventing age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), which affects millions of people worldwide. Studies such as the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) and the Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation Trial (LAST) provide a strong case for lutein and the financial benefits of preventive healthcare.

The lutein market is a classic example of how a manufacturer should develop a market. Exhaustive research, as well as extensive promotion and marketing efforts have helped manufacturers establish leading positions in the market. Manufacturers have also helped protect these positions by raising significant barriers to entry. However, these entry barriers are expected to weaken in the future and competition from Asian manufacturers is set to intensify. While prices have seen some fluctuations in 2006, the market is expected to remain extremely profitable. Revenues are likely to grow steadily, with the Asian market providing tremendous scope for growth. "The Asian market is ripe for development," notes Ashwin Sukumaran, Team Leader for Frost & Sullivan’s North American Food and Beverage Ingredients Practice. "Changing consumer attitudes, combined with the increasing purchasing power driven by economic growth are driving opportunities in this region."

Emphasis on Research Crucial to Widen Application Base of Lutein

The dietary supplements market, which is the major end-user application, is fast maturing, thus restricting the demand for lutein, particularly in western countries. "Over ninety per cent of lutein volumes are used in the dietary supplement application segment," says Sukumaran. "The dietary supplements industries are mature in Europe and the United States, exhibiting growth rates of 2 to 3 per cent per year."

Given this situation, manufacturers will need to invest more in research in potentially lucrative segments in order to boost the growth of the market further. Recent research into new application segments for lutein such as skin health is creating tremendous excitement in this industry. "Building a strong scientific case for the benefits of lutein in skin health will allow it to break into the high-growth cosmeceutical application segment and aid in propelling the market forward," adds Sukumaran.