The global specialized nutrition market, encompassing products tailored for specific dietary needs and lifestyles, is experiencing significant growth. Valued at $102.18 billion USD in 2024, itâs projected to reach a substantial $154.21 billion USD by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2%. This expansion is primarily driven by a heightened consumer awareness of health and wellness, a burgeoning elderly population with unique nutritional requirements, and the increasing accessibility of products via e-commerce.
A key driver is the rising demand for products within two significant segments: sports nutrition and elderly nutrition. Sports nutrition, catering to athletes and fitness enthusiasts, offers tailored solutions to enhance performance and recovery. The market includes protein powders, sports drinks, energy bars, and supplements designed to meet the strenuous demands of physical activity. The increasing popularity of fitness and participation in sports fuels this growth, as consumers actively seek products to support their lifestyles.
Elderly nutrition addresses the evolving dietary needs of an ageing population. As individuals age, their nutritional requirements shift, often necessitating products that account for age-related physiological changes. These products typically focus on providing essential nutrients, supporting cognitive function, and maintaining bone health. Fortified foods, nutrient-dense beverages, and supplements specifically designed for seniors are prominent examples. The expanding elderly population and increasing life expectancies are key factors driving this segment's growth.
Ingredient Focus:
Proteins and amino acids dominated the market in 2024, accounting for a 44.8% revenue share. These are crucial components in specialised nutrition, particularly for athletes and the elderly. Proteins support muscle repair and overall health, while easily digestible protein sources are vital for preventing muscle loss in older adults. Amino acids, like BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), are essential for muscle growth and recovery. The growing demand for targeted nutrition solutions continues to propel the adoption of protein and amino acid-based products. The prebiotics and probiotics segment is also anticipated to experience strong growth, with a projected CAGR of 9.0% from 2025 to 2030, driven by increasing awareness of their benefits for gut health and overall wellbeing.
Application Insights:
Elderly nutrition currently holds the largest application share, accounting for 66.9% of revenue in 2024. This reflects the global trend of an ageing population and the associated increase in demand for products that address age-related nutritional deficiencies. The sports nutrition application is also expected to experience robust growth, with a projected CAGR of 8.4% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is fueled by the rising popularity of fitness and the increased awareness of the benefits of sports nutrition.
Regional Performance:
North America held the largest regional market share in 2024 (40.2%), driven by high consumer awareness of health and wellness, coupled with a focus on preventive healthcare. The UK specialised nutrition market, a significant component of the European market, accounted for 19.6% of European revenue in 2024, exhibiting strong growth driven by rising consumer preference for health-boosting products and a shift toward plant-based options. Growth in the European market is further fuelled by a growing aging population and prevalence of chronic diseases. Other key regions like Asia-Pacific, particularly China and Japan, are showing rapid expansion due to rising disposable incomes, increasing urbanisation, and growing health consciousness.
In conclusion, the specialised nutrition market presents a significant opportunity for growth, particularly in the UK and other key markets worldwide. The continued focus on health and wellness, coupled with advancements in product innovation and increased accessibility, ensures the marketâs trajectory towards significant expansion in the coming years.
