The global lecithin market size is estimated to reach USD 1.07 billion in 2030 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% from 2025 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. One of the primary reasons is the rising awareness around health and wellness. Lecithin is known for its benefits, particularly in supporting cardiovascular health, improving brain function, and aiding digestion. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek natural ingredients, the demand for lecithin has increased in dietary supplements and functional foods. Its natural origin from sources like soy, sunflower, and egg yolks makes it a popular choice for health-focused products.
Another major factor contributing to the expansion of the market is the increasing demand for clean-label products. Today’s consumers are more inclined toward food products with minimal and recognizable ingredients, avoiding artificial additives. Lecithin fits well into this trend as a natural emulsifier used in a variety of processed foods like chocolates, baked goods, and dairy products. This growing preference for cleaner ingredient lists is pushing manufacturers to use lecithin, ensuring that product quality, texture, and shelf life are maintained without the use of synthetic additives.
The rise of the plant-based food industry has also been instrumental in driving the market growth. As more people adopt plant-based and vegan diets, lecithin derived from non-animal sources such as soybeans and sunflower seeds has gained traction. This plant-based lecithin is preferred by manufacturers targeting vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-sensitive consumers, expanding its use in food and beverages. Similarly, the cosmetics industry is seeing increased demand for lecithin due to its moisturizing and skin-nourishing properties. It is commonly used in skincare products like creams and lotions, particularly in the natural and organic beauty segments.
The growth of the cosmetics and personal care industry has also contributed to the rising demand for lecithin. Lecithin is valued not only for its emulsifying properties in food but also for its ability to enhance the texture and stability of various cosmetic formulations. As consumers increasingly look for products that prioritize skin health and natural ingredients, lecithin is becoming a popular choice among manufacturers of creams, lotions, and other personal care items. This diversification of applications across multiple industries solidifies lecithin's position in the market, making it a crucial ingredient in the formulation of innovative and appealing products across both the food and cosmetic sectors.
Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Lecithin Market Report
North America is expected to witness growth at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2025 to 2030. The growing popularity of plant-based diets and products in North America has increased the demand for lecithin, especially non-GMO and sunflower lecithin, which is widely used in vegan and vegetarian food formulations for its emulsifying properties.
Based on source, the sunflower lecithin segment is expected to grow st a CAGR of 10.9% from 2025 to 2030. Sunflower lecithin is a non-GMO alternative to soy lecithin, which is often genetically modified. Additionally, it is free from common allergens like soy, making it a preferred choice for health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions.
Based on end use, the convenience foods market are expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.9% from 2025 to 2030. The growing trend of plant-based and health-conscious convenience foods has fueled the demand for lecithin, particularly non-GMO and sunflower varieties, which are used to maintain the texture and emulsification in vegan and healthier food options.
Based on form, the powdered lecithin segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.8% from 2025 to 2030. Powdered lecithin has a longer shelf life and greater stability compared to liquid lecithin, making it an attractive choice for manufacturers in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries. This property ensures that products maintain their quality over time, thereby driving product demand.
Grand View Research has segmented the global lecithin market based on source, end use, form, and region:
Lecithin Source Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Soy
Sunflower
Rapeseed
Others
Lecithin End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Convenience Foods
Bakery
Confectionary
Pharmaceuticals & Personal Care
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Animal Feed
Industrial
Other
Lecithin Form Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Liquid
Powder
Granules
Lecithin Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
UK
France
Italy
Spain
Asia Pacific
China
India
Japan
Australia & New Zealand
South Korea
Central & South America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East & Africa
South Africa
List of Key Players in the Lecithin Market
Cargill, Inc.
ADM
Lipoid GmbH
Bunge Limited
American Lecithin Company
Global River Food Ingredients
DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
Stern-Wywiol Gruppe GmbH & Co. KG
Haneil Soyatech Pvt. Ltd.
NOW Foods
"The quality of research they have done for us has been excellent..."