Propionic Acid Market Size Analysis Report - Market Share, Forecast Trends and Outlook (2025-2034)

The global propionic acid market volume reached approximately 476.39 KMT in 2024 . The market is further projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.30% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a volume of 659.12 KMT by 2034 .

Global Propionic Acid Market Growth

Propionic acid refers to naturally occurring carboxylic acid that has an unpleasant and pungent smell. It is readily absorbed through the skin as well as the gastrointestinal tract. The decomposition of various amino acids and oxidation of fatty acids containing the odd number of carbon atoms, results in the formation of propionic acid.

The rising consumption of packaged foods owing to increasing lifestyle complexities and convenience offered by the products is bolstering the propionic acid market growth as the acid acts as a flavouring agent and preservative in different types of packaged foods. The usage of propionic acid as a preservative can be attributed to its antibacterial properties and the ability to prevent the growth of moulds bolstering the demand of the propionic acid market.

Global Propionic Acid Market Analysis

The increasing prevalence of diseases and the expansion of the pharmaceutical sector are providing lucrative growth opportunities to the propionic acid market. Profens, propionic acid derivative drugs, including ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen, and flurbiprofen, act as analgesics and antipyretics, among others.

The propionic acid market dynamics and trends are growing due to the increasing demand for feed, driven by the higher consumption of livestock products such as eggs, meat, and milk. Propionic acid plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety and quality of stored feed.

Global Propionic Acid Industry Outlook

As per industry findings, the global consumption of propionic acid in 2023, was led by EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) with the highest consumption, followed by North America and Mainland China. Asia/Oceania regions also contribute significantly, while Central/South America shows a smaller share. This distribution underscores the importance of EMEA and North America in the propionic acid market, driven by their extensive industrial and agricultural applications. Mainland China’s substantial consumption reflects its large-scale manufacturing and food preservation needs further driving the propionic acid market revenue.

As per WITS data, in 2023, India exported a total of 305,420 kg of propionic acid, its salts, and esters. The largest volume of exports was to Mexico, amounting to 1,225,720 kg. The United States followed with 674,300 kg. Other significant export destinations included China with 213,494 kg and South Korea with 189,427 kg.

According to the IFIF, global animal feed production reached 1,245 million tonnes in 2022, highlighting the industry's significant scale. China led the way with 261 million tonnes of compound feed production, asserting its sector dominance. The USA followed with 240 million tonnes, reflecting strong agricultural and livestock sectors that bolster the propionic acid market revenue.

The propionic acid industry growth is driven by the EU's production of 150 million tonnes, marking it as a key player. Other major producers included Brazil (82 million tonnes), India (43 million tonnes), and Mexico (40 million tonnes), each showing robust regional agricultural practices. Additionally, Russia (34 million tonnes), Vietnam (26 million tonnes), and Argentina (26 million tonnes) made notable contributions, while the Middle East and Africa combined for 75 million tonnes, indicating growing markets.

Extensively utilised as a preservative in food, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

• Increased use in agriculture and animal feed to inhibit mould and bacterial growth enhances propionic acid market demand.
• Propionic acid is biodegradable and less harmful than other preservatives, attracting environmentally conscious buyers.

Potential adverse health effects may deter some consumers and limit its applications.

• Significant manufacturing and raw material expenses can restrict profitability and market expansion.
• Strict regulations and approval processes in various countries can slow down market entry and growth.

Expansion into emerging regions with burgeoning food and agriculture sectors offers ample growth of the propionic acid market opportunities.

• Creating new applications and products, such as sustainable preservatives, can generate new revenue streams.
• The growing preference for sustainable and natural products aligns with propionic acid's eco-friendly nature, fostering propionic acid market growth.

The presence of substitute preservatives and antimicrobials can decrease propionic acid market share.

• Strong competition from established companies and new entrants can affect pricing and profitability.
• Global economic changes and supply chain disruptions can impact production and distribution.

Key Players in the Global Propionic Acid Market and their Strategic Initiatives

BASF SE

• Expanded its bio-based propionic acid production.
• Achieved multiple certifications including ISO 9001.

The Dow Chemical Company

• Invested in advanced manufacturing technologies.
• The propionic acid demand growth is bolstered by the company's substantial market share in North America and Europe.

Eastman Chemical Company

• launching new formulations to meet diverse industry needs.
• Strengthened its global footprint with strategic acquisitions and partnerships.

OQ Chemicals GmbH

• Committed to sustainability, implementing eco-friendly production processes.
• Certified with ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety.

Global Propionic Acid Industry Segmentation

Global Propionic Acid Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments

Market Breakup by Type

• Herbicides
• Food Preservatives
• Chemical Intermediates
• Others

Market Breakup by End Use

• Agriculture
• Food and Beverage
• Personal Care
• Pharmaceutical
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

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

Propionic Acid Market Share

Food and beverages are expected to account for a significant propionic acid market share owing to the increased utilisation of the product in baked goods and bread as a food preservative for inhibiting the growth of bacteria and moulds. Propionic acid is also used to provide nutty flavour and holes in Swiss cheese.

The growth of the propionic acid market is supported by its ability to enhance hydrogen production during fermentation. When used in low concentrations alongside acetic acid, propionic acid promotes citric acid production, thereby improving the overall fermentation rate.

Leading Companies in the Propionic Acid Market

The companies offer innovative solutions across sectors such as packaging, infrastructure, and consumer care. They supply a wide range of products, including chemicals, plastics, and advanced materials.

• BASF SE
• The Dow Chemical Company
• Eastman Chemical Company
• OQ Chemicals GmbH
• Perstorp Holding AB
• Otto Chemie Pvt. Ltd.
• Impextraco NV
• Shanghai Jianbei Organic Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Others

Propionic Acid Market Report Snapshots

Propionic Acid Market Size

Propionic Acid Market Growth

Propionic Acid Market Analysis

Propionic Acid Market Share

Propionic Acid Companies