Global Industrial Starch Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In November 2021, Ingredion launched sustainable barrier starch-FILMKOTE 2030 for high-performing oil and grease resistance in food service packaging in the United States and Canada. This helps manufacturers to replace fluorochemicals with a sustainable alternative.
• In April 2021, Cargill Inc. announced its plans to expand its specialty tapioca starch offerings for the Asia Pacific region. Cargill partnered with Starpro, the food-grade tapioca starch producer in Thailand. With this, it plans to expand in the Asia-Pacific region in order to support the product processing requirements of food manufacturers and the expectations of consumers.
• In January 2021, Tate & Lyle, a global provider of food and beverage solutions and ingredients, announced the expansion of its line of tapioca-based starches. The expansion includes the launch of new REZISTA MAX thickening starches and BRIOGEL gelling starches.

The global industrial starch market is categorized by types such as corn starch, potato starch, and tapioca starch, each serving distinct roles in various industries. Corn starch holds the largest share in the market due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and extensive application in the food and beverage sector, as well as in the production of paper and textiles. Potato starch, known for its high purity and thickening properties, is gaining popularity in industries requiring high-quality, refined starch. Tapioca starch, derived from cassava, is increasingly used in food products and is favored for its gluten-free characteristics, which align with the growing demand for healthier food ingredients.

The market is also segmented by source, including corn, cassava, potato, wheat, and others. Corn-based starch remains the dominant source due to its widespread cultivation and cost efficiency. Cassava, primarily used to produce tapioca starch, is growing in demand, particularly in Asia Pacific and Latin American countries, driven by the expanding food and beverage industry. Potato starch, while less widely used compared to corn, is favored in specialty applications such as the production of biodegradable packaging. Wheat starch, though a smaller segment, is utilized in specific applications like the manufacturing of noodles and other processed foods.

In terms of application, the food and beverage sector holds the largest share, owing to the demand for starch in products like baked goods, snacks, sauces, and dairy. Starch is a crucial ingredient in food processing due to its binding, thickening, and gelling properties. The paper, cardboard, and corrugating industry also represents a significant portion of the industrial starch market, as starch is used for adhesive formulations and surface coating. In textiles, starch is primarily employed in finishing processes to provide rigidity and smoothness to fabrics, contributing to its ongoing demand in the textile industry.

Geographically, North America and Europe are mature markets for industrial starch, with a high concentration of starch production facilities and significant consumption in food, paper, and pharmaceutical industries. Asia Pacific is anticipated to witness the fastest growth, driven by the expanding population, increasing disposable income, and growing demand for processed foods. The Middle East and Africa and Latin America are also experiencing moderate growth, with the industrial starch market expanding due to increased consumption in food applications and the availability of raw materials like cassava and corn. These regions are expected to contribute significantly to the overall market growth in the coming years.

Global Industrial Starch Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Industrial Starch Market has been segmented by Source, Types, Application and Geography.

Global Industrial Starch Market, Segmentation by Source

The Global Industrial Starch Market is segmented by Source into Corn, Cassava, Potato, Wheat, and Others.

The global industrial starch market is primarily segmented based on the source of the starch, with major categories including corn, cassava, potato, wheat, and others. Corn is one of the dominant sources due to its widespread availability and cost-effectiveness. Starch derived from corn is used in a variety of industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, due to its versatility and functional properties such as thickening and binding.

Cassava is another significant source, especially in regions like Africa and Asia, where it is a staple crop. Cassava-based starch is increasingly being used in the food and beverage industry, particularly in gluten-free products, as well as in biofuel production. The unique properties of cassava starch, such as its resistance to retrogradation, make it a popular choice for specific industrial applications.

Potato and wheat starches are also important contributors to the market. Potato starch is known for its high viscosity and is commonly used in the food industry, particularly in the production of processed foods. Wheat starch, on the other hand, is often used in bakery products and other food formulations, but it faces challenges in certain regions due to gluten-related concerns. Other sources of starch, such as rice and sorghum, contribute to niche applications in food, paper, and textile industries.

Global Industrial Starch Market, Segmentation by Types

The Global Industrial Starch Market is segmented by Types into Corn Starch, Potato Starch, and Tapioca Starch.

Corn starch is widely used due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness, making it a staple in food processing, paper manufacturing, and adhesive production. It offers properties such as thickening and gelling, which are crucial for various industrial applications.

Potato starch, known for its high viscosity and clarity, is another significant segment. It is predominantly used in the food industry for its thickening and binding properties and in pharmaceuticals and textiles. Its superior gel strength and resistance to breakdown under heat make it ideal for specialty applications.

Tapioca starch, derived from cassava, is valued for its neutral flavor and excellent binding properties. It is primarily utilized in the food industry for gluten-free and low-fat products, as well as in the production of biodegradable plastics. Its unique characteristics cater to specific needs in the food and non-food sectors, expanding its market presence.

Global Industrial Starch Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Industrial Starch Market is segmented by Application into Food and Beverage, Paper, Cardboard and Corrugating, and Textiles.

In the Food and Beverage sector, starch is used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and binder, enhancing the texture and consistency of various products. Its versatility in food processing makes it a crucial ingredient for numerous consumables.

In the Paper, Cardboard, and Corrugating industries, starch serves as an adhesive and coating agent, improving the quality and strength of paper products. It helps in achieving better printability and resistance to water and grease, making it indispensable for the production of durable and high-quality paper goods.

For the Textiles sector, starch is used in the sizing process to strengthen fibers and improve fabric appearance. It enhances the texture and finish of textiles, contributing to the durability and performance of garments and other fabric-based products. Its role in these diverse applications highlights the widespread importance of starch across various industrial sectors.

Global Industrial Starch Market, Segmentation by Geography

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

Global Industrial Starch Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The Global Industrial Starch Market is segmented by geography into key regions including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Each region presents unique opportunities and challenges influenced by local economic conditions, regulatory environments, and industry demand.

North America is a significant market for industrial starch, driven by the robust food and beverage sector and advanced technological developments in starch processing. The region's demand is also supported by stringent food safety standards and innovations in product applications.

Europe displays a diverse industrial starch market with substantial usage in food, paper, and textile industries. The region's focus on sustainability and regulatory constraints influences product developments and market dynamics, promoting growth in eco-friendly starch solutions.

Asia-Pacific represents the largest and fastest-growing market, fueled by rapid industrialization, expanding food and beverage industries, and increasing consumer demand. Countries like China and India are pivotal due to their large manufacturing bases and rising applications of industrial starch in various sectors.