Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In August 2021, Amyris, Inc. launched Rose Inc., a clean color cosmetics brand. The products’ non-comedogenic formulas are developed with proprietary bioengineered and sustainably-sourced ingredients, including squalene and hemisqualane.
• In April 2020, Amyris, Inc. launched the squalene-based hand sanitizer named Pipette under its No Compromise Pipette baby care branded products. The hand sanitizer contains 65% USP plant-based ethyl alcohol, glycerin, and Amyris, Inc.’s sugarcane-derived squalene (for moisturizing benefit).
• In May 2023, Amyris, Inc. signed an exclusive license agreement with British specialty chemicals company Croda International Plc, ("Croda") for the supply of sustainable squalene.
• In July 2023, SOPHIM launched a moisturizing and soothing massage oil. It helps in restoring the skin’s lipidic film, creating a protective barrier that preserves your epidermis from external aggression.
• In June 2023, SOPHIM launched a moisturizing foot mask. The ingredients in this formulation restores the lipid barrier for long-lasting protection against external aggressors and dryness.

The global animal-sourced squalene market is segmented by source, with key categories including shark liver oil, olive oil, amaranth seed, and other plant sources. Shark liver oil has historically dominated the market due to its high squalene content and relatively low extraction costs. However, ethical concerns and sustainability challenges have led to a gradual shift towards plant-based sources like olive oil and amaranth seed, which are increasingly preferred by environmentally conscious consumers and industries. This trend aligns with the rising demand for sustainable and cruelty-free products globally.

By application, the market caters to various sectors, including cosmetics, food supplements, and healthcare. The cosmetics segment, particularly skin care, is the largest consumer of squalene, given its exceptional moisturizing and anti-aging properties. It is also extensively used in hair care and fragrances. In healthcare, squalene is valued for its potential in cancer treatment, heart disease management, and skin health improvement. Meanwhile, food supplements leverage squalene for its antioxidant and immune-boosting benefits, contributing to the segment's steady growth.

The market is further segmented by end-use industries, with cosmetics and personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food and dietary supplements being the primary drivers. Cosmetics and personal care dominate due to high demand for natural and effective ingredients in skin care products. The pharmaceutical segment is expanding as research highlights squalene’s potential therapeutic benefits. The food and dietary supplement industry is also witnessing growth, propelled by consumer awareness of health and wellness trends, particularly in developed economies.

Geographically, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. Europe and North America lead in consumption due to advanced cosmetics and healthcare industries, as well as a preference for sustainable sourcing. The Asia Pacific region, however, is emerging as a significant player, driven by rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and expanding beauty and health sectors. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East and Africa present growth opportunities, albeit at a slower pace, due to rising awareness and gradual industrial developments in these regions.

Global Animal-sourced Squalene Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market has been segmented by Source, Application, End-use Industries and Geography.

Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market, Segmentation by Source

The Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market has been segmented by Source into Shark Liver Oil, Olive Oil, Amaranth Seed, and Other Plant Sources.

The global animal-sourced squalene market is categorized based on its source, with shark liver oil being one of the primary contributors. Shark liver oil has historically been the predominant source of squalene due to its high yield and efficiency in extraction. It is widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries for its antioxidant and hydrating properties. However, the ethical and environmental concerns surrounding shark fishing have led to increasing scrutiny and regulatory measures, influencing the market dynamics for this segment.

In addition to animal sources, plant-based alternatives like olive oil and amaranth seed are gaining traction. Olive oil-derived squalene is popular due to its sustainable and ethical sourcing, aligning with consumer preferences for eco-friendly products. Amaranth seed, another promising source, is appreciated for its high squalene content and its use in cosmetics and dietary supplements. These plant-based options are increasingly being adopted as viable alternatives to shark liver oil, driven by the demand for cruelty-free and vegan-friendly products.

The market also includes other plant sources, which collectively contribute to diversifying the supply chain. These include rice bran, sugarcane, and wheat germ, among others. The growing inclination toward alternative sources is fostering innovation and investment in extraction technologies to maximize yield and quality. This trend reflects the industry's broader shift toward sustainable and ethical sourcing practices while maintaining product efficacy and consumer trust.

Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market has been segmented by Application into Cosmetics, Food Supplements and Healthcare.

The cosmetics segment, animal-sourced squalene is highly valued for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties. It is widely used in skincare products such as creams, serums, and lotions, where it enhances skin hydration and elasticity. Its ability to improve the texture and appearance of the skin makes it a popular ingredient in both high-end and mass-market beauty products. The demand for squalene in cosmetics is driven by consumers' increasing preference for natural and effective ingredients in their personal care routines.

In the food supplements segment, animal-sourced squalene is utilized for its potential health benefits, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. As a dietary supplement, it is often marketed for its ability to support overall health and wellness. Squalene supplements are used to improve immune function, boost energy levels, and support cardiovascular health. The growing consumer awareness of health and wellness and the trend towards incorporating natural supplements into daily diets contribute to the increasing demand for squalene in this category.

The healthcare segment includes applications of animal-sourced squalene in pharmaceuticals and medical products. It is used as an adjuvant in vaccines to enhance immune responses, making it a critical component in the development of effective immunizations. Additionally, squalene's potential therapeutic properties are being explored for various health conditions, such as its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The expansion of research and development in the healthcare sector, combined with the need for advanced medical treatments, drives the demand for squalene in this segment. Each application area highlights the versatility of animal-sourced squalene and its significant role in enhancing both personal and public health.

Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market, Segmentation by End-use Industries

The Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market has been segmented by End-use Industries into Cosmetics and Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, and Food and Dietary Supplements.

The global animal-sourced squalene market caters to several end-use industries, each driving demand based on specific applications. The cosmetics and personal care industry is a significant contributor, leveraging squalene for its emollient and moisturizing properties. Its ability to enhance skin texture and provide a natural glow makes it a preferred ingredient in skincare products, including creams, lotions, and anti-aging formulations. The increasing consumer preference for natural and sustainable products further boosts the demand for squalene in this sector.

In the pharmaceutical industry, squalene is valued for its potential health benefits, particularly in enhancing immune response. It is a key ingredient in adjuvants used in vaccines, where it helps improve the body’s immune reaction to the antigen. Moreover, its antioxidant properties contribute to research and development efforts aimed at discovering new therapeutic applications. The growing focus on vaccine development and advancements in medical research positions the pharmaceutical sector as a vital market for squalene.

The food and dietary supplements industry also represents a promising segment for animal-sourced squalene. It is incorporated into nutritional supplements due to its reputed ability to support cardiovascular health and boost energy levels. The rising consumer awareness of wellness and preventive healthcare fuels the demand for dietary products enriched with squalene. This trend aligns with the increasing adoption of supplements as a part of daily health regimens, making this industry an important contributor to the market’s growth.

Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

In North America, the demand for animal-sourced squalene is driven by its widespread use in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. The region’s advanced healthcare sector and high consumer interest in premium skincare products contribute significantly to the market. North America’s stringent regulations and emphasis on product quality and safety also influence the market, as consumers and manufacturers seek high-purity squalene for various applications.

Europe represents a key market for animal-sourced squalene, with strong demand stemming from its robust cosmetics and personal care sector. European consumers place high value on natural and effective ingredients, which drives the demand for squalene in skincare and anti-aging products. Additionally, Europe’s established pharmaceutical industry utilizes squalene in vaccine adjuvants and other medical applications. The region’s regulatory environment is characterized by strict standards, which ensures that animal-sourced squalene meets high safety and quality requirements.

In the Asia Pacific region, the market for animal-sourced squalene is experiencing growth due to increasing industrial activities and rising consumer spending on personal care products. The region's expanding middle class and growing awareness of skincare benefits are fueling demand for squalene in cosmetics and health supplements. The Middle East and Africa, although smaller markets compared to North America and Europe, are showing interest in squalene due to its use in traditional medicine and personal care products. Latin America, with its emerging markets, is also witnessing growth as economic development and consumer interest in health and beauty products increase, contributing to the expanding regional demand for animal-sourced squalene.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers:

• Cosmetic Demand
• Pharmaceutical Uses

• Health Benefits- Animal-sourced squalene offers a range of health benefits that significantly impact the global market. One of its most notable benefits is its antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce cellular damage caused by free radicals. This antioxidant activity is believed to contribute to overall health by supporting the body’s defense against chronic diseases and age-related conditions. The inclusion of squalene in dietary supplements and health products is often highlighted for its potential to promote cellular health and longevity.

  Squalene is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in managing conditions associated with inflammation. By reducing inflammation, squalene may help alleviate symptoms related to joint discomfort, cardiovascular issues, and other inflammatory disorders. This benefit is particularly valued in the healthcare sector, where squalene's role in supporting joint health and cardiovascular function is explored through various formulations and therapeutic applications.

  In the realm of immune support, animal-sourced squalene is utilized as an adjuvant in vaccines, enhancing their effectiveness by stimulating a stronger immune response. This application underscores squalene’s role in improving vaccine efficacy, which is crucial for public health and disease prevention. Its potential to boost the immune system further extends to its use in supplements designed to enhance overall immune function and resilience, contributing to its growing popularity in the health and wellness market.

Restraints:

• Ethical Concerns
• Regulatory Restrictions

• Sustainability Issues- Sustainability issues in the Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market are primarily centered around the environmental and ethical implications of sourcing practices. Animal-sourced squalene is derived from shark liver oil, and the extraction of squalene from sharks raises significant concerns about the conservation of marine species. Many shark species are already threatened or endangered, and the demand for squalene contributes to the pressure on their populations. Overfishing and habitat destruction further exacerbate the decline of these species, leading to calls for more sustainable sourcing practices and the protection of marine biodiversity.

  Another critical sustainability concern is the ethical impact of animal-sourced squalene production. The use of animal products, particularly from vulnerable species like sharks, has sparked debates about animal welfare and the ethics of utilizing wildlife for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. Ethical considerations drive the demand for alternative sources of squalene, such as plant-based or synthetic alternatives, which can provide similar benefits without compromising animal welfare or biodiversity.

  The environmental footprint of squalene production presents sustainability challenges. The processes involved in extracting and processing squalene from animal sources can have adverse environmental effects, including pollution and habitat disruption. As a result, there is a growing emphasis on developing and adopting sustainable practices within the industry. This includes efforts to reduce the environmental impact of production, enhance the traceability of sourced materials, and support the development of more sustainable alternatives to animal-sourced squalene.

Opportunities:

• Health Benefits
• Cosmetic Applications

• Pharmaceutical Demand- Pharmaceutical demand for animal-sourced squalene is a critical segment of the global market, driven primarily by its use as an adjuvant in vaccines. Squalene's role in vaccine formulation is significant because it enhances the immune response, making vaccines more effective. By stimulating the immune system, squalene helps ensure that vaccines produce a stronger and more lasting protective effect. This is particularly important for developing vaccines against various diseases, where improving efficacy is crucial for public health.

  In addition to its use in vaccines, squalene is explored for its potential therapeutic applications in the pharmaceutical industry. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it a candidate for research into treatments for various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer. Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly interested in harnessing these properties to develop novel drug formulations and therapies, thereby expanding the range of squalene’s applications beyond immunization.

  The pharmaceutical demand for squalene is also influenced by the ongoing advancements in medical research and development. As new therapeutic areas are explored and the need for effective treatments grows, the demand for high-quality squalene as a pharmaceutical ingredient increases. Furthermore, regulatory support and a focus on improving healthcare outcomes drive investment in research and the development of new applications for squalene. This evolving landscape highlights the growing importance of animal-sourced squalene in advancing medical science and addressing global health challenges.

Key players in Global Animal-sourced Squalene Market include:

• Amyris, Inc (US)
• SOPHIM (France)
• Merck KGaA (Germany)
• Kishimoto Special Liver Oil Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Empresa Figueirense De Pesca (Portugal)
• Arbee (India)
• Cibus (US)
• Otto Chemie Pvt. Ltd. (India)
• Arista Industries (US)
• Oleicfat s.l. (Spain)

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis