Lactic acid is an organic acid produced during the process of fermentation. It is used in various industries including food & beverages, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and biodegradable polymers. The multi-functionalities of lactic acid render its use in various industries. In the food & beverages industry, lactic acid is used as a preservative, curing agent, and a flavoring agent. Surging global demand for processed food is boosting the application of lactic acid in the food industry. In meat, poultry, & seafood products, it is majorly used as a decontaminant. In the personal care industry, lactic acid is mainly used in anti-ageing and skin lightening products as it treats hyperpigmentation and age spots.
MULTI-FUNCTIONALITIES OF LACTIC ACID INFLUENCE THIS MARKET GLOBALLY
Lactic acid holds multiple functionalities as it is used as a catalyst, food emulsifier, and substitute for toxic chemicals, and plastics. Lactic acid plays an indispensable role as a catalyst in the processing of various industrial products. The use of lactic acid as a substitute for toxic chemicals and plastics, especially in food & beverages and pharmaceuticals, is bolstering the market growth of lactic acid. Lactic acid is usually preferred over synthetic chemicals in the food & beverage sector, as they alter the flavor and texture of products while enhancing their shelf life. Lactic acid is used to produce cheese flavors in the dairy industry. Furthermore, in the brewing industry, lactic acid promotes starch conversion in beer, hence increasing the yield. In the baking industry, lactic acid helps control the dough’s acidity and enhances the shelf life of baked products. Additionally, lactic acid is also used to produce emulsifiers such as calcium and sodium stearoyl lactylates, which function as dough conditioners. Hence, the lactic acid’s multi-functionalities are the prime factor anticipated to drive the lactic acid market growth during the forecast period.
Some of the major key players operating in the global lactic acid market include Corbion, Cargill Inc., Foodchem International Corporation, Galactic, Henan Xinghan Biotechnology, Musashino Chemical Laboratory, Ltd., Shandong Baisheng Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG, Henan Jindan Lactic Acid Technology Co., Ltd., and Vigon International, Inc among many others. The major players in the lactic acid market are focusing on strategies such as mergers and acquisitions and research and development to increase the geographical presence and consumer base globally.
