1 Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Size (Value) and CAGR (2024-2033)
In 2024, the global Propylene-Glycol Alginate market was valued at USD 404.87 million, with a CAGR of 4.53% from 2024 to 2033.
Propylene-Glycol Alginate is made by deep processing of alginic acid extracted from natural seaweed. Propylene-Glycol Alginate is commonly used as emulsifier, stabilizer and thickener in the production process of various products.
Figure Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Size (M USD) and CAGR 2024-2033

2 Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Drivers
One of the most significant driving forces for the Propylene-Glycol Alginate market is the rising demand from the food and beverage sector. PGA is widely used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickener in various food products, including dairy products, beverages, and baked goods. Its ability to enhance texture, improve shelf-life, and maintain product stability makes it an essential ingredient in modern food manufacturing. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier and more functional foods, the demand for natural and effective additives like PGA continues to grow. For instance, in the production of yogurt and acidic milk beverages, PGA helps maintain a smooth texture and prevents separation, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers.
Another key driver is the versatile nature of Propylene-Glycol Alginate, which allows it to be used across multiple industries. Beyond the food and beverage sector, PGA is also utilized in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. In the pharmaceutical industry, it serves as a stabilizer and thickener in various formulations, while in cosmetics, it helps control viscosity and improve the texture of products like creams and lotions. This wide range of applications ensures that the demand for PGA remains robust across different market segments.
The global population is projected to continue growing, leading to an increased demand for food and beverage products. This demographic trend directly impacts the demand for food additives like Propylene-Glycol Alginate. Additionally, rising disposable incomes in emerging economies allow consumers to spend more on premium and functional foods, further driving the market for PGA. As people become more health-conscious and seek out nutritious and convenient food options, the need for additives that enhance product quality and functionality will remain strong.
3 Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Risks
One of the primary risks associated with Propylene-Glycol Alginate is the potential for side effects when it comes into direct contact with the skin. Reports suggest that PGA may cause allergic reactions, nausea, eye irritation, and other adverse effects. These side effects can limit its application in the cosmetics industry, where skin contact is inevitable. Additionally, concerns about the compound’s potential impact on kidney and liver function may lead to regulatory scrutiny and consumer hesitation, posing a significant challenge for market expansion.
The production of Propylene-Glycol Alginate involves the extraction of alginic acid from seaweed, which can have environmental implications. Increasingly strict environmental regulations regarding wastewater discharge, air emissions, and solid waste management are placing additional burdens on manufacturers. Compliance with these regulations can significantly increase production costs and operational complexities. For example, companies may need to invest in advanced pollution control technologies to meet environmental standards, which can affect their profitability and competitiveness.
The cost of raw materials, particularly alginic acid and propylene oxide, is a critical factor affecting the Propylene-Glycol Alginate market. Fluctuations in the prices of these raw materials can directly impact production costs and, consequently, the market price of PGA. Volatility in raw material prices can be driven by factors such as changes in global supply and demand dynamics, natural disasters affecting seaweed harvests, and geopolitical issues influencing the supply of propylene oxide. Manufacturers must manage these price risks effectively to maintain profitability and stability in the market.
4 Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Sales and Share by Type in 2024
Capsule-type Propylene-Glycol Alginate is characterized by its solid, granular form. It is typically used in applications where a stable and consistent form is required. This type is particularly popular in the food and beverage industry, where it serves as a thickener and stabilizer in products like yogurt, salad dressings, and baked goods. Its solid form makes it easier to handle and incorporate into manufacturing processes, contributing to its dominant market share.
The Capsule type is expected to account for 13,905.1 tons in 2024. This type represents the majority of the market, holding a significant share due to its widespread use in various industrial applications. Capsule-type PGA is particularly favored for its stability and ease of handling in manufacturing processes.
Oral Liquid-type Propylene-Glycol Alginate is a liquid form of the compound, designed for applications where a more fluid consistency is needed. This type is commonly used in pharmaceutical formulations, such as syrups and suspensions, where its liquid form allows for better dispersion and mixing. It is also used in certain food products that require a liquid additive to achieve desired textures and consistencies. The growing demand for liquid pharmaceuticals and specialized food products is driving the market for Oral Liquid-type PGA.
The Oral Liquid type is anticipated to reach 2,965.2 tons in 2024. Although it holds a smaller market share compared to the Capsule type, Oral Liquid PGA is gaining traction due to its unique properties and suitability for specific applications, such as in pharmaceuticals and certain food products.
Table Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Sales and Share by Type in 2024
Type | Market Sales (Tons) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
Capsule | 13905.1 | 82.42% |
Oral Liquid | 2965.2 | 17.58% |
5 Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Sales and Share by Application in 2024
Thickener: This application is projected to account for 4,130.1 tons of the market. Thickeners are essential in various industries, particularly in food and beverage manufacturing, where they enhance the texture and consistency of products like yogurt, salad dressings, and sauces. PGA’s ability to increase viscosity without altering other properties makes it an ideal thickening agent.
Stabilizer: The stabilizer application is expected to reach 6,673.2 tons in 2024. Stabilizers prevent changes in the physical state of products, ensuring that they maintain their form and quality over time. In the food industry, PGA is used to stabilize emulsions and suspensions, preventing separation and sedimentation. This application is crucial in products like beverages, dairy products, and baked goods.
Emulsifier: The emulsifier segment is anticipated to account for 4,912.9 tons of the market. Emulsifiers are used to stabilize mixtures of immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, creating a homogeneous product. PGA’s emulsifying properties are particularly valuable in salad dressings, mayonnaise, and other food products where a stable emulsion is required.
Table Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Sales and Share by Application in 2024
Application | Market Sales (Tons) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
Thickener | 4130.1 | 24.48% |
Stabilizer | 6673.2 | 39.56% |
Emulsifier | 4912.9 | 29.12% |
Other | 1154.0 | 6.84% |
6 Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Size by Region in 2024
North America: North America is projected to have a market value of 113.82 million USD in 2024. This region has a well-established food and beverage industry, which drives the demand for PGA as a stabilizer and thickener. The presence of major food manufacturers and a focus on product innovation contribute to the region’s significant market share.
Europe: Europe is expected to reach a market value of 109.88 million USD in 2024. The region’s strong emphasis on food safety and quality, coupled with a robust pharmaceutical industry, supports the demand for PGA. European manufacturers are also at the forefront of adopting sustainable practices, which aligns with the natural origin of PGA.
Asia-Pacific: The Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to have the largest market value of 136.37 million USD in 2024. This region’s rapid economic growth, increasing disposable incomes, and expanding food and beverage industry drive the demand for PGA. Countries like China and Japan are major consumers of PGA, leveraging its properties in a wide range of applications, from dairy products to pharmaceuticals.
Figure Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market Size by Region in 2024

7 Major Players in Global Propylene-Glycol Alginate Market
7.1 Bright Moon Seaweed Group
Company Profile: Bright Moon Seaweed Group is a leading enterprise in the seaweed biotechnology industry, founded in 1968. The company is headquartered in China and has a global presence, focusing on the development and production of seaweed-based products. Bright Moon Seaweed Group is committed to leveraging marine resources to benefit human health, with a mission to become a global leader in seaweed-based solutions.
Business Overview: Bright Moon Seaweed Group specializes in the extraction and processing of alginic acid from seaweed to produce high-quality PGA. The company’s products are widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. With a strong emphasis on research and development, Bright Moon Seaweed Group continuously innovates to improve product quality and expand its application areas. The company’s manufacturing facilities are equipped with advanced technology, ensuring efficient production and high product standards.
Products Analysis: Bright Moon Seaweed Group’s PGA products are known for their strong acid resistance and excellent emulsifying properties. The company offers PGA in both powder and colloid forms, catering to diverse industrial needs. Its products are widely used as thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers in food products, pharmaceutical formulations, and cosmetic products. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation has made its PGA products a preferred choice for manufacturers worldwide.
Recent Financial Performance: In the most recent year, Bright Moon Seaweed Group reported a revenue of 142.90 million USD from PGA sales.
7.2 Kimica
Company Profile: Kimica is a renowned manufacturer of alginate products, founded in 1941. The company is headquartered in Japan and operates manufacturing facilities in Japan and Chile. Kimica is dedicated to producing high-quality marine biopolymers, including PGA, which are widely used in various industries. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has positioned it as a global leader in the alginate market.
Business Overview: Kimica specializes in the production of alginate products, with a focus on providing high-quality solutions for the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. The company’s PGA products are known for their stability and effectiveness in acidic environments, making them ideal for applications in food and beverage products. Kimica’s manufacturing processes adhere to stringent quality standards, ensuring consistent product quality and reliability.
Products Analysis: Kimica’s PGA products are designed to meet the diverse needs of its customers. The company offers PGA in various forms, including powder and colloid, to cater to different industrial applications. Kimica’s PGA is widely used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in products such as yogurt, salad dressings, and pharmaceutical formulations. The company’s continuous research and development efforts have led to the development of innovative PGA derivatives with enhanced properties, further expanding its market reach.
Recent Financial Performance: In the most recent year, Kimica reported a revenue of 85.43 million USD from PGA sales.
7.3 Shandong Jiejing Group
Company Profile: Shandong Jiejing Group is a leading enterprise in the food additives and marine biotechnology industry, founded in 1968. The company is headquartered in China and operates multiple manufacturing facilities across the country. Shandong Jiejing Group is dedicated to producing high-quality PGA and other seaweed-based products, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
Business Overview: Shandong Jiejing Group specializes in the production of PGA and other seaweed-derived products. The company’s products are widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, where they serve as thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers. Shandong Jiejing Group’s commitment to research and development has led to continuous improvements in product quality and the development of new applications for PGA. The company’s manufacturing facilities are equipped with advanced technology, ensuring efficient production and high product standards.
Products Analysis: Shandong Jiejing Group’s PGA products are known for their excellent emulsifying properties and stability in acidic environments. The company offers PGA in both powder and colloid forms, catering to diverse industrial needs. Its products are widely used in food products, pharmaceutical formulations, and cosmetic products, where they enhance texture, stability, and shelf-life. The company’s continuous innovation efforts have led to the development of new PGA derivatives with enhanced properties, further expanding its market reach.
Recent Financial Performance: In the most recent year, Shandong Jiejing Group reported a revenue of 16.08 million USD from PGA sales.