The global glucose market size was estimated at USD 42.9 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.0% from 2020 to 2028. The increasing demand for confectionery, soft drinks, and bakery products in the food and beverage sector—where glucose (dextrose) is widely used—is a key factor driving market expansion. Glucose plays a multifunctional role across various industries such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, personal care, and pulp and paper. It serves as a flavor enhancer, stabilizer, texture enhancer, humectant, adjunct, preservative, and coating and bulking agent, with one of its key properties being its ability to prevent sugar crystallization in confectionery products.

In the U.S., glucose syrup accounted for the largest revenue share in 2020. Due to the abundance of corn, corn starch is the primary source of glucose production in the country. The FDA classifies corn syrup as safe under regulation 21CFR184.1865, further supporting the growth of this segment.

Glucose and dextrose are chemically identical and often used interchangeably. Dextrose injections are medically prescribed for treating hypoglycemia and are also used to provide additional hydration and caloric intake to patients who are unable to consume sufficient fluids orally.

The diverse applications of glucose are a major contributor to its market growth. In the food and beverage industry, glucose functions as a sweetener, thickener, and moisture-retaining agent. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used in treatments for hypoglycemia, insulin overdose, acute alcohol intoxication, and hyperkalemia. In the cosmetic and personal care sector, glucose serves as a flavoring agent, humectant, and skin-conditioning agent in products like skincare, haircare, bath products, and makeup. Glucose has its demand across varied industry verticals such as food and beverages, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and personal care, and pulp and paper. It acts as a flavor enhancer, stabilizer, texture enhancer, humectants, adjuncts, preservative, and coating and bulking agent.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• North America: The U.S. led the North American market in 2020, driven by high consumer demand for sugar-based products and widespread use of corn syrup.
• Asia Pacific: The region dominated the global glucose market with a 38.7% revenue share in 2020 and is projected to maintain its leading position through 2028, fueled by rapid industrialization and a large consumer base.
• By Application: The food and beverages segment was the largest, accounting for 53.4% of total revenue in 2020. This dominance is expected to continue due to rising demand for processed and packaged food.
• By Product: The syrup segment held the highest share at 71.2% in 2020, and is expected to remain dominant. Liquid glucose is primarily derived from corn but can also be produced from other grains like wheat, rice, barley, potato, and cassava.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2020 Market Size: USD 9 Billion
• 2028 Projected Market Size: USD 6 Billion
• CAGR (2020-2028): 0%
• North America: Largest market in 2020

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The market is highly competitive as the products are widely available by a variety of local and global manufacturers. Leading companies are making possible efforts for the expansion of their share in the global as well as regional market by making investments in R&D through their dedicated centers.  Additionally, capacity expansion is also a prominent strategy seen in the market by the players in order to meet increasing demand across the industry verticals including F&B, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and personal care, and industrial fermentation.

The major players are continuously involved in the strategic development activities associated with Research and Development (R&D), mergers and acquisitions, and new product development, and capacity expansion. For instance, in July 2017, ADM has acquired France-based Chamtor SA, particularly to expand its global share in the starch and sweetener market. 

Key Players

• Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
• Ingredion Incorporated
• AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG
• Tate & Lyle PLC
• Cargill, Incorporated
• Roquette Frères
• Grain Processing Corporation
• Tereos S.A.
• Fooding Group Limited
• Global Sweeteners Holdings Limited

Browse Horizon Databook on Global Glucose Market Size & Outlook

Conclusion

The global glucose market is on a steady growth path, supported by increasing demand across diverse end-use industries. The food and beverage sector remains the key driver, but expanding applications in pharmaceuticals, personal care, and industrial uses are further strengthening the market outlook. With rising global health concerns and the continued shift towards processed and convenience foods, the glucose market is poised to maintain its momentum through 2028.