Taste Modulators Market Size, Share, Industry, Forecast and outlook (2024-2031)

Global Taste Modulators Market By Type (Sweet Modulators, Salt Modulators, and Fat Modulators, Others), By Form (Liquid, Solid), By Application (Food, Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Other Applications), and By Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa) – Share, Size, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2024 - 2031

Report Overview

Global Taste Modulators Market reached US$ 1.45 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 2.6 billion by 2031, growing with a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

The global taste modulators market has witnessed significant growth driven by the increasing consumer demand for enhanced flavor profiles and healthier product options. The demand is particularly evident in the food and beverage sector, where companies are seeking innovative solutions to improve taste, mouthfeel and overall product experience. 

The rise of health-conscious consumers has further accelerated the market's expansion, with a notable emphasis on organic and functional ingredients. The market's expansion is significantly driven by the increasing demand for effective taste modulation across diverse categories such as carbonated soft drinks, dairy, plant-based proteins and baking mixes. 

With a growing consumer preference for health-conscious products, there is an increased need for taste modulators that align with wellness trends. The shift is highlighted by the August 2024 launch of Organic Senses by Imbibe, which provides an organic alternative to conventional taste modulation solutions, catering to brands seeking organic certification. 

Furthermore, the trend towards healthier and better-for-you products has led to an increased focus on sugar reduction and taste enhancement. The integration of advanced modulators such as SweetSense and MakeSense has become essential for brands looking to optimize sweetness and mouthfeel while adhering to regulatory standards. Imbibe’s expertise in flavor documentation and regulatory compliance underscores the importance of navigating the complex landscape of product claims and certifications.

Market Scope

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Market Dynamics

Increasing Consumer Awareness About Health and Wellness

In 2024, the increasing consumer focus on health and wellness is driving notable growth in the global taste modulators market. Consumers are prioritizing cleaner eating habits, evidenced by a 67% rise in protein consumption and a 9% increase in plant-based food sales. The shift is prompting manufacturers to develop solutions that enhance flavor in plant-based and high-protein products, meeting the growing demand for healthier alternatives. 

The market is adapting to incorporate these natural sweeteners, reflecting a broader trend towards clean-label products. The surge in demand for low-sugar options, with 30% of consumers seeking reduced sugar content and the rising popularity of sugar substitutes such as stevia and agave, is influencing taste modulator formulations. 

Additionally, the increased consumption of energy drinks, driven by a 17% rise in caffeine-related searches and a 113% surge in high-caffeine product searches, is prompting innovations in taste modulators to accommodate higher caffeine levels while maintaining desirable flavor profiles. Overall, as consumers extend their health-conscious decisions, the market is experiencing growth driven by demand for natural, sustainable and clean-label solutions. The trend is fostering innovations aimed at enhancing flavor while aligning with evolving consumer preferences for health and sustainability.

Growing Demand for Low-Calorie and Low-Fat Products

The increasing consumer demand for low-calorie and low-fat products once targeted primarily at those with specific health conditions, has now become a mainstream trend. The shift is driven by a broader focus on weight management and healthier diets. Consequently, the food industry faces the challenge of developing these products with appealing sensory characteristics while maintaining competitive pricing and compliance with stringent health regulations.

The rising demand for low-calorie and low-fat ice cream is driving substantial growth in the global taste modulators market. Health concerns, including diabetes and lactose intolerance, alongside stringent regulatory standards, are pushing manufacturers to innovate with advanced emulsifiers and hydrocolloids. Solutions like Musim Mas’ MASBLEN 1401 play a crucial role in maintaining creamy texture while reducing calorie content. The shift towards healthier options is accelerating the market’s expansion as companies strive to balance sensory quality with health benefits.

High Cost of Production

The global taste modulators market is currently experiencing significant pressure due to high production costs, which have had a noticeable impact on market dynamics. As inflationary pressures continue to escalate, manufacturers face increased costs of raw materials and production processes. It has led to a strategic shift among companies towards innovations that offer cost-effective solutions while maintaining product quality.

The introduction of the CREMODAN GREENPRO 101 Modulator Enhanced System by IFF highlights a strategic response to these cost pressures. The new system is designed to address the challenge of rising production costs by allowing ice cream manufacturers to cut recipe costs by up to 25% and reduce the carbon footprint of ingredients by up to 30%. It combines an ice cream stabilizer system with advanced flavor-modulating technology, offering manufacturers to reformulate recipes swiftly and economically without compromising on indulgent quality.

The adoption of such innovative solutions is becoming increasingly crucial as high-quality brands face declining sales volumes. Consumers are shifting towards more affordable alternatives in response to elevated prices, highlighting the need for cost-efficient product enhancements. Consequently, the demand for taste modulators that can effectively balance cost reduction with sensory quality is likely to rise, influencing the broader market trends and competitive landscape.

Market Segment Analysis

The global taste modulators market is segmented based on type, form, application and region.

The Surging Demand for Sweet Modulators

The sweet modulators segment is expected to be the dominant segment in type holding an approximate market share of 45% during the forecast period. The global taste modulators market is seeing increased demand for sweet modulators, driven by growing health concerns linked to high-sugar diets. As obesity, cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes become more prevalent, consumers are seeking healthier alternatives that offer the sweetness they desire without the associated health risks.

Innovations in natural sweet modulation, such as dihydrochalcone derivatives, are addressing this need effectively. These compounds enhance sweetness while improving overall taste profiles by modulating attributes like acidity, bitterness and mouthfeel. Their natural origin from plant extracts further supports the shift towards health-conscious, flavor-enhancing solutions in food and beverage products.

The demand for sweet modulators is rapidly increasing as companies seek to balance health benefits with an appealing taste experience. Sweet modulators, including IFF FLAVORFIT, are gaining traction for their ability to enhance the sweetness of products without relying on traditional sugars or artificial sweeteners. Modulators address key challenges such as taste masking, mouthfeel enhancement and overall sensory experience. 

Market Geographical Share

Rising Demand For Taste Modulators In North America

North America is expected to be the dominant region in the global taste modulators market holding an approximate market share of 36% during the forecast period. In North America, food and beverage companies face the growing challenge of creating products that cater to increasingly health-conscious consumers while maintaining rich, appealing flavors. The complexity in consumer preferences has driven a heightened demand for taste modulators—innovative technologies that enhance and balance flavors in response to evolving market needs.

To address this demand, the industry is turning to advanced flavor science and modulation techniques. One notable development is the launch of FlavorModulation.com by T. Hasegawa USA. The platform provides comprehensive insights into the art and science of flavor enhancement, offering valuable information on how to effectively harmonize and optimize flavors. 

In November 2021, Kerry launched Tastesense Sweet Organic Certified, the first organic-certified sweet modulator in US beverage market. Zero-calorie solution enhances the sweet taste and mouthfeel of organic-certified beverages, including sparkling waters, low- to no-sugar drinks and alcoholic beverages. Kerry's innovation addresses the market trend towards organic beverages, offering a comprehensive solution that enhances overall flavor while supporting clean label claims.

Market Competitive Landscape 

The major global players in the market include Kerry Group plc., ADM, Ingredion, T. Hasegawa USA Inc., Dsm-Firmenich, Givaudan, Döhler GmbH, Synergy, Sensient Technologies Corporation and FCI Flavors.

Russia-Ukraine War Impact Analysis

The Russia-Ukraine war has significantly disrupted global food and energy markets, with severe consequences for the global taste modulators market. Both Russia and Ukraine play crucial roles in the global supply of key agricultural commodities, minerals and fertilizers, which are essential inputs in the production of taste modulators. The war has exacerbated existing supply chain challenges, already strained by the COVID-19 pandemic and adverse weather conditions, leading to heightened market volatility and increased production costs.

As a result of these disruptions, the availability and pricing of raw materials for taste modulators have been directly affected. The surge in global agricultural commodity prices, particularly for grains and other essential crops, has put upward pressure on the costs associated with producing taste modulators. It has led to price increases across the industry, which, in turn, could be passed on to end consumers. The uncertainty surrounding future harvests and the ongoing geopolitical instability further compound these challenges, creating a highly volatile market environment.

By Type

• Sweet Modulators
• Salt Modulators
• Fat Modulators
• Others

By Form

• Liquid
• Solid

By Application

• Food
  • Bakery and Confectionery
  • Dairy Products
  • Snacks and Savory Products
  • Meat, Poultry and Seafood
  • Other Food Products
• Beverages
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages
  • Alcoholic Beverages
• Pharmaceuticals
• Other Applications

By Region

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of South America
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • Rest of Asia-Pacific
• Middle East and Africa

Key Developments

• In April 2024, Kerry Group introduced Tastesense Salt, an innovative solution designed to significantly reduce sodium content in snacks such as potato chips and pretzels without compromising their salty flavor. Kerry emphasizes the importance of sodium reduction not only as a brand priority but as a broader commitment to sustainable nutrition, aligning with consumer demand for healthier snacking options.
• In April 2023, Doehler entered into a strategic partnership with Ixora Scientific to advance the commercialization of natural taste modulators derived from botanicals. The collaboration will leverage Ixora’s research capabilities and Doehler’s extensive resources in flavor creation and application. 
• In November 2021, Flavorchem introduced "Taste Mod," a high-performance flavor modulator specifically designed to mask the off-notes of plant-based proteins. The new ingredient addresses the growing consumer demand for clean, nutritious products with great taste. The modulators are vegan, kosher and non-GMO and can be labeled as "natural flavor" on product ingredient lists.

Why Purchase the Report?

• To visualize the global taste modulators market segmentation based on type, form, application and region as well as understand key commercial assets and players.
• Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development. 
• Excel data sheet with numerous data points of the taste modulators market with all segments.
• PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.
• Product mapping available as Excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global taste modulators market report would provide approximately 62 tables, 54 figures and 219 pages.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers/ Buyers
• Industry Investors/Investment Bankers
• Research Professionals
• Emerging Companies