Global Silk Protein Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In April 2019, Givaudan, a prominent market player in the global cosmetics, fragrances & flavors market announced the acquisition of AMSilk, a company that utilizes genetic engineering for the production of silk protein (from spiders).

• In June 2023, a coconut supplier launched a new shredded coconut stuffing product, catering to the bakery and confectionery industries.

The global silk protein market is segmented by type into fibroin and sericin, each possessing unique properties and applications. Fibroin, the structural core protein of silk, is valued for its strength, biocompatibility, and impressive mechanical properties. It is widely used in the textile industry to enhance fabric quality, adding durability and a lustrous sheen. In the cosmetics and personal care industry, fibroin is incorporated into skincare and haircare products for its ability to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance. Its applications in the pharmaceutical sector include drug delivery systems and tissue engineering, where its biocompatibility and biodegradability are highly advantageous.

Sericin, the glue-like protein that surrounds fibroin fibers, offers excellent moisturizing and antioxidative properties. In the cosmetics and personal care industry, sericin is popular for its ability to retain moisture and protect the skin, making it a common ingredient in creams, lotions, and hair treatments. Its natural antioxidant properties help in preventing skin aging and damage from environmental stressors. In the pharmaceutical industry, sericin's biocompatibility and wound healing properties are leveraged in developing biomedical products. Additionally, sericin is used in dietary supplements due to its beneficial effects on skin health and overall well-being.

When segmented by application, the cosmetics and personal care industry emerges as a major consumer of silk proteins. Silk proteins are favored for their ability to enhance skin texture, moisture retention, and elasticity. They are used in a wide range of products, from anti-aging creams to shampoos and conditioners, capitalizing on their natural, luxurious appeal.

In the pharmaceuticals sector, silk proteins are gaining traction for their potential in drug delivery and tissue engineering. The biocompatibility and biodegradable nature of silk proteins make them suitable for creating scaffolds for tissue regeneration and as carriers for controlled drug release. This application is particularly relevant in advanced medical treatments and regenerative medicine.

The dietary supplements market is another growing segment, where silk proteins are valued for their health benefits. These supplements often highlight the protein’s ability to improve skin health, boost hydration, and support overall wellness. The natural and bioactive properties of silk proteins appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for effective, natural supplements.

Lastly, in the textile industry, silk proteins are used to enhance fabric quality, providing a luxurious feel and increased durability. The incorporation of silk proteins into textiles not only improves the aesthetic qualities of the fabric but also adds functional benefits such as increased strength and resistance to wear and tear.

Global Silk Protein Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Silk Protein Market has been segmented by Type, Application and Geography.

Global Silk Protein Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Silk Protein Market has been segmented by Type into Fibroin and Sericin.

Fibroin is the structural core protein of silk, renowned for its exceptional strength, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. These attributes make it a valuable component in several industries. In the textile industry, fibroin is highly sought after for its ability to enhance the quality and durability of fabrics, adding a luxurious sheen and feel. It is particularly prized in high-end fashion and functional textiles where durability and aesthetic appeal are crucial. Additionally, in the cosmetics and personal care industry, fibroin is incorporated into a variety of skincare and haircare products. Its ability to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance makes it a popular ingredient in anti-aging creams, moisturizers, and shampoos. The pharmaceutical sector also leverages fibroin's biocompatibility and biodegradability for innovative applications such as drug delivery systems and tissue engineering. Here, fibroin’s properties facilitate the development of scaffolds for tissue regeneration and controlled drug release mechanisms, aligning with the advancements in medical treatments and regenerative medicine.

Sericin, the other primary type of silk protein, is known for its excellent moisturizing and antioxidative properties. Sericin acts as a natural glue, enveloping fibroin fibers in silk, and is utilized extensively in the cosmetics and personal care industry. Its ability to retain moisture and protect the skin makes it a key ingredient in creams, lotions, and hair treatments. Sericin's natural antioxidant properties help prevent skin aging and damage from environmental factors, making it a staple in products aimed at enhancing skin health and appearance. In the pharmaceutical industry, sericin is valued for its wound healing and biocompatible properties, which are harnessed in the development of biomedical products. Additionally, sericin finds application in dietary supplements, where its beneficial effects on skin health and overall well-being are highlighted. These supplements cater to health-conscious consumers seeking natural and effective ways to improve their skin condition and general health.

Global Silk Protein Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Silk Protein Market has been segmented by Application into Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry, Pharmaceuticals, Dietary Supplements and Textile Industry.

In the cosmetics and personal care industry, silk proteins are highly valued for their ability to enhance skin and hair health. These proteins are incorporated into a wide range of products, including anti-aging creams, moisturizers, shampoos, and conditioners. The natural amino acids in silk proteins help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance, making them a popular choice for premium skincare and haircare formulations. Their moisturizing and protective properties are particularly beneficial in products designed to combat skin aging and damage from environmental stressors. This segment drives significant demand for silk proteins as consumers increasingly seek natural and effective beauty solutions.

The pharmaceutical sector is another major application area for silk proteins, capitalizing on their biocompatibility and biodegradability. In this industry, silk proteins are used to develop advanced drug delivery systems and tissue engineering scaffolds. Their ability to create biocompatible matrices makes them ideal for controlled drug release and targeted delivery applications. Additionally, silk proteins are utilized in tissue regeneration efforts, where their properties support the development of scaffolds that promote cell growth and tissue repair. The ongoing research and innovation in medical treatments and regenerative medicine are propelling the demand for silk proteins in this sector.

In the dietary supplements market, silk proteins are appreciated for their health benefits, particularly in improving skin health and overall wellness. These supplements often emphasize the protein’s natural and bioactive properties, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The beneficial effects of silk proteins on skin hydration and condition make them a sought-after ingredient in supplements aimed at enhancing beauty from within. As consumers continue to prioritize natural and effective health products, the dietary supplements segment is expected to contribute to the growth of the silk protein market.

The textile industry also significantly benefits from silk proteins, which are used to enhance fabric quality and durability. The incorporation of silk proteins into textiles provides a luxurious feel and increased strength, making fabrics more resistant to wear and tear. This application is particularly valuable in high-end fashion and functional textiles, where both aesthetic appeal and performance are important. Silk proteins contribute to the creation of premium textiles that combine beauty and functionality, supporting the expansion of this market segment.

Global Silk Protein Market, Segmentation by Geography

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

Global Silk Protein Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

In Europe, the demand for shiitake mushrooms is influenced by a strong culinary tradition and the rising interest in exotic and nutritious foods. Countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and France are key markets where shiitake mushrooms are used extensively in various dishes. The European market is also bolstered by a significant number of organic and specialty food stores that cater to health-conscious consumers. Additionally, the region's stringent regulations on food safety and quality ensure a steady demand for high-quality shiitake mushrooms.

Asia-Pacific represents the largest and fastest-growing market for shiitake mushrooms, primarily driven by China and Japan, where these mushrooms have been a staple in traditional cuisine for centuries. The region's long history of mushroom cultivation and consumption, coupled with increasing exports to Western markets, fuels its dominant position. Moreover, the rising disposable income and urbanization in emerging economies such as India and South Korea contribute to the growing market. Innovations in cultivation techniques and government support for agricultural practices further enhance production and distribution in this region.

In Latin America, the shiitake mushroom market is expanding gradually, with countries like Brazil and Mexico leading the way. The increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with shiitake mushrooms and the growing trend of adopting diverse culinary ingredients are driving the market. However, challenges such as limited cultivation infrastructure and the need for better distribution networks may slow growth compared to other regions.

The Middle East and Africa region represents a nascent but promising market for shiitake mushrooms. The rising awareness of healthy eating habits and the increasing popularity of international cuisines are key factors driving demand. Countries like South Africa and the United Arab Emirates are emerging markets where shiitake mushrooms are gradually being incorporated into the local diet. Despite challenges related to cultivation conditions and supply chain infrastructure, the market holds potential for significant growth with investments in technology and agricultural practices.

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

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers :

• Rising demand for natural and organic ingredients
• Technological advancements in silk protein extraction

• Increasing application in cosmetics and personal care - The increasing application of silk proteins in the cosmetics and personal care industry is a significant driver of the global silk protein market. Silk proteins, particularly fibroin and sericin, are prized for their unique properties that offer numerous benefits for skin and hair health. In skincare products, silk proteins are valued for their ability to enhance skin hydration and elasticity. Their natural amino acids help to improve the skin’s texture and appearance, making them popular ingredients in moisturizers, anti-aging creams, and serums. The proteins form a protective barrier on the skin, which helps to retain moisture, leading to a smoother and more radiant complexion. Additionally, their antioxidant properties help protect the skin from environmental damage and premature aging, further boosting their appeal in skincare formulations.

  In haircare, silk proteins are incorporated into shampoos, conditioners, and treatments to improve hair strength, elasticity, and shine. They help to repair damaged hair by filling in gaps in the hair cuticle, resulting in smoother and healthier-looking hair. The proteins also help to protect hair from further damage caused by styling, heat, and environmental factors. As consumers increasingly seek high-performance haircare products, the demand for silk protein-enriched formulations continues to rise.

  The growing trend towards natural and sustainable ingredients in the cosmetics and personal care industry is fueling the demand for silk proteins. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the ingredients in their beauty products and are favoring formulations that include bio-based and environmentally friendly components. Silk proteins, being naturally derived and biodegradable, align with these consumer preferences, driving their increased usage in clean beauty products.

Restraints :

• High production costs
• Limited raw material supply

• Complex extraction processes - The complex extraction processes involved in obtaining silk proteins present a significant challenge to the global silk protein market. Extracting silk proteins, particularly fibroin and sericin, from raw silk fibers is a meticulous and technically demanding procedure that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. This complexity stems from the need to maintain the integrity and functionality of the proteins throughout the extraction process.

  Firstly, the initial step of degumming involves removing sericin from the silk fibers to isolate fibroin. This process requires precise control of conditions such as temperature and pH to ensure that the fibroin is not degraded. Sericin, the outer layer protein, is often extracted through a hydrolysis process, which can be equally intricate. Maintaining the structural properties of sericin during extraction is crucial for its effectiveness in various applications.

  The subsequent purification and refinement steps add further complexity. These steps are essential to obtain high-purity silk proteins suitable for use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive applications. The purification process often involves multiple stages, including centrifugation, filtration, and dialysis, to remove impurities and achieve the desired protein concentration and quality.

  The scalability of these extraction processes poses another layer of challenge. While laboratory-scale extraction can be controlled more easily, scaling up to industrial production requires substantial investment in advanced technologies and infrastructure. Ensuring consistency in quality and yield at a larger scale is critical but difficult, often resulting in higher production costs.

Opportunities :

• Emerging markets
• Development of innovative silk protein formulations

• Expansion in the nutraceutical sector - The expansion of the nutraceutical sector offers promising opportunities for the global silk protein market. Nutraceuticals, which encompass dietary supplements, functional foods, and beverages with health benefits, are gaining substantial popularity as consumers become more health-conscious and seek natural, effective ways to enhance their well-being. Silk proteins, particularly fibroin and sericin, are being increasingly recognized for their potential health benefits, making them attractive ingredients in this burgeoning market.

  Silk proteins are known for their rich amino acid profile, which can contribute to various health benefits. In dietary supplements, silk proteins are marketed for their ability to improve skin health, promote hydration, and enhance overall wellness. The bioactive properties of silk proteins, such as their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, are particularly appealing in the nutraceutical sector. These properties help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to numerous chronic diseases and aging processes.

  The functional food and beverage segment also presents a significant growth avenue for silk proteins. Manufacturers are incorporating silk proteins into a variety of food products, such as energy bars, protein shakes, and fortified snacks, to enhance their nutritional value. The natural origin and bioavailability of silk proteins make them suitable for inclusion in these products, catering to the increasing consumer demand for natural and health-boosting ingredients. Additionally, silk proteins can add functional benefits to foods, such as improving texture and stability, further enhancing their appeal in the functional food market.

  The growing trend towards preventive healthcare and wellness is another factor driving the expansion of the nutraceutical sector and, consequently, the demand for silk proteins. Consumers are increasingly proactive about maintaining their health and are willing to invest in high-quality, natural products that offer tangible benefits. This shift in consumer behavior aligns well with the health-promoting properties of silk proteins, supporting their adoption in various nutraceutical formulations.

Key players in Global Silk Protein Market include :

• SILKTECH Biopharmaceuticals
• KISCO Ltd
• Zhejiang Jiaxin Silk Co., Ltd
• China Silk Corporation
• Sinosilk Co, Ltd,
• Caribbean Natural Products Inc.
• Vaxess
• Huzhou Aotesi Biochemical Co
• Wujiang Wanshiyi Silk Co. Ltd.

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