DIGESTIVE HEALTH PRODUCTS MARKET ANALYSIS

Global digestive health market size is estimated to be valued at US$ 52.47 Bn in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 92.27 Bn by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% during the forecast period 2023-2030.

The growing awareness regarding the importance of dietary supplements, probiotics, and functional foods is expected to drive the market. Increasing prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and colorectal cancer, is also driving the market growth.

The market is segmented into product type, indication, age group, distribution channel, end user, and region. By product type, the market is segmented into probiotics, prebiotics, digestive Enzymes, and others

Global Digestive Health Market Regional Insights

• North America is the largest market for digestive health products, accounting for 34% of the global market share in 2022. The region covers a large and affluent population with increasing awareness of the importance of digestive health. The region has a well-established healthcare infrastructure and a strong regulatory environment, which is conducive to the growth of the digestive health market.
• Asia Pacific is the second-largest market for digestive health products, accounting for 25% of the global market share in 2022. The region is expected to witness the fastest growth in the near future, which is driven by the rising prevalence of digestive disorders, increasing disposable incomes, and growing awareness of the importance of digestive health.
• Europe is the third-largest market for digestive health products, accounting for 20% of the global market share in 2022. The region covers large and aging population, which is at an increased risk of developing digestive disorders. The region has a strong regulatory environment and a well-established healthcare infrastructure, which is conducive to the growth of the digestive health market.

Figure 1. Global Digestive Health Market Share (%), By Region, 2023

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Global Digestive Health Market Drivers

• Increasing prevalence of digestive disorders: Digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are becoming increasingly common. Rising prevalence of these disorders is driving the demand for digestive health products and services. For instance, on October 4, 2023, according to National Centre of Biotechnology Information, the prevalence of digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) increases with age, particularly between the third and fifth decades of life.
• Growing aging population: Global population is aging rapidly, thus leading to a higher incidence of age-related digestive issues. Elderly individuals are more prone to digestive disorders, such as constipation, indigestion, and gastrointestinal cancers. This demographic shift fuels the demand for digestive health solutions. For instance, on 30Jun 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the national median age has increased by 3.4 years since 2000, with the largest single-year gain of 0.3 years occurring in 2021, bringing it to 38.8 years
• Changing lifestyle and dietary patterns: Modern lifestyles often involve unhealthy dietary habits, such as high intake of processed foods, sugars, and fats, as well as sedentary lifestyles. These factors contribute to digestive problems like obesity, gastrointestinal discomfort, and poor nutrient absorption. Consequently, individuals are seeking digestive health products and services to alleviate these issues.
• Increasing awareness of digestive health: There is a growing awareness among individuals regarding the importance of digestive health for overall well-being. People are becoming more proactive in managing their digestive health, thus seeking preventive measures and early treatment. This increased awareness and interest drive the demand for digestive health products and services. For instance, on July 2022, The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) prepared a report detailing current federal programming that directly or indirectly impacts food and nutrition insecurity and diet-related diseases as well as efforts to coordinate across federal agencies and between federal agencies and Tribal, state, and local governments

Global Digestive Health Market Opportunities

• Personalized nutrition and therapeutics: There is a growing focus on personalized medicine and nutrition, which presents opportunities for tailored digestive health solutions. Advancements in genetic testing, microbiome analysis and data analytics allow for personalized diagnostics, treatment plans, and dietary recommendations that are based on an individual's unique digestive profile. This approach can lead to more effective and targeted interventions.
• Expansion of probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics and prebiotics play a crucial role in maintaining gut health. There is an opportunity to develop a wider range of probiotic strains and prebiotic formulations that target specific digestive conditions. Combining probiotics and prebiotics with other ingredients like fibers, enzymes, and antioxidants can enhance their effectiveness and provide synergistic benefits.
• Integration of digital health technologies: Digital health technologies, such as mobile health apps, wearable devices, and telemedicine platforms, offer opportunities to improve digestive health management. These technologies can enable remote monitoring of symptoms, provide real-time feedback, offer personalized recommendations, and thereby enhance patient engagement. Integrating digital health solutions into the global digestive health market can improve convenience, accessibility, and patient outcomes.
• Expansion of digestive health services: The demand for comprehensive digestive health services is growing. This includes specialized clinics, diagnostic centers, and rehabilitation facilities dedicated to digestive disorders. Opportunities exist to expand these services, thus ensuring better access to diagnostics, treatment options, and ongoing care for patients with digestive health conditions.

Global Digestive Health Market Trends

• Increasing focus on gut microbiome: The role of the gut microbiome in digestive health has gained significant attention. Research continues to uncover the intricate relationship between gut bacteria, digestive disorders, and overall well-being. There is a growing emphasis on developing products and therapies that target the gut microbiome to promote a healthy digestive system.
• Demand for natural and clean label products: Consumers are increasingly seeking natural and clean label products in the digestive health market. They prefer products that are free from artificial additives, preservatives, and genetically modified ingredients. Manufacturers are responding to this demand by offering natural and organic digestive health products that align with clean label trends.
• Expansion of probiotics and fermented foods: Probiotics are widely recognized for their beneficial effects on digestive health. The market for probiotics is expanding, with a focus on developing strains with specific health benefits and improved efficacy. Fermented foods and beverages, which naturally contain probiotics, are gaining popularity as consumers look for convenient and tasty ways to support their digestive health.
• Rising interest in plant-based diets: Plant-based diets are becoming increasingly popular due to their perceived health and environmental benefits. These diets, rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, offer fiber and phytonutrients that promote digestive health. As a result, there is a growing market for plant-based digestive health products, including supplements, functional foods, and beverages.

Global Digestive Health Market Restraints

• Lack of awareness and understanding: Despite growing awareness, many individuals still have limited knowledge about digestive health and the importance of maintaining a healthy digestive system. This lack of understanding can result in delayed diagnosis, underreporting of symptoms, and reduced demand for digestive health products and services.
• Fragmented regulatory landscape: The regulatory landscape governing digestive health products and supplements can be complex and fragmented. Varying regulations across different regions and countries create challenges for manufacturers in terms of compliance, product claims, and market entry. This can hinder the development and distribution of innovative digestive health solutions.
• Limited reimbursement coverage: In some healthcare systems, reimbursement coverage for digestive health treatments and interventions may be limited. This can affect patient access to necessary diagnostic tests, therapies, and specialized healthcare providers, particularly in cases of chronic digestive disorders. Limited reimbursement can also impact the affordability of digestive health products and services.
• Side effects and safety concerns: Certain digestive health products, including medications and supplements, may carry the risk of side effects and safety concerns. Adverse events associated with some treatments can impact consumer confidence and create regulatory challenges. Ensuring the safety and efficacy of digestive health products is crucial to maintaining trust and market growth.

Counterbalance: The increasing prevalence of digestive disorders globally has led to a higher demand for digestive health products and the ongoing trend towards health and wellness, including a focus on preventive healthcare, has also fueled the market.

Global Digestive Health Market Analyst Viewpoint

Global digestive health market continues to show promising growth opportunities over the next five years. Some of the key drivers of this market include rising incidences of gastrointestinal disorders, increasing healthcare awareness among consumers and growing adoption of probiotic supplements. With busy lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits becoming common, issues pertaining to digestive health have seen a rise globally. the growth of geriatric population prone to digestive illnesses will further aid the expansion of this industry.

However, lack of awareness about digestive health issues in some developing nations and social stigmas associated with disorders like IBS or acid reflux may act as a restraint. High prices of new innovative products and medicinal therapies can deter certain cost-conscious customers as well. Nevertheless, growth in Asia Pacific region is expected to surpass other regions due to improving access to healthcare and rise in disposable incomes in populous nations such as India and China. The developing nations in Asia and Latin America present immense untapped opportunities for industry players.

Manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development (R&D) to develop advanced drugs and novel probiotic formulations for faster results. There is also focus on herbal and Ayurvedic products for digestive remedies. Online retailing has become a major sales channel with growing internet accessibility. Companies should look at end-to-end digital solutions and strategic tie-ups for sustained growth in the future.

Recent Developments

New product launches

• In 2021, IFF launches new milk product enzyme in the US. The enzyme, called LactoFerm LBC, is designed to help break down lactose in milk, thus making it easier for people with lactose intolerance to digest.
• In 2020, Sanofi (multinational pharmaceutical and healthcare company) to launch Diorabyota as a replacement for its previous product. Diorabyota is a probiotic that is designed to help improve gut health and reduce the risk of diarrhea.
• In August 2023, Herbalife Nutrition launches new line of digestive health products. The new line includes probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes.

Acquisition and partnerships

• In 2022, GI Alliance (GIA), a private equity-backed gastroenterology platform, acquired Digestive Health Specialists, the largest independent practice in Missouri.
• Also in 2022, GI Alliance (GIA) acquired Gastroenterology Consultants, a U.S.-based practice with nine physicians and six advanced practice providers
• In 2021, Unio Health Partners, a healthcare services company, acquired Insite Digestive Health Care, a digestive health practice in the Midwest

Figure 2. Global Digestive Health Market Share (%), By Product Type, 2023

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Top Companies in Global Digestive Health Market

• Nestlé SA
• Danone SA
• Procter & Gamble Co.
• The Kraft Heinz Company
• Bayer AG
• Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd.
• Chr. Hansen Holding A/S
• Align Technology, Inc.
• Sanofi SA
• Pfizer Inc.
• The Clorox Company
• Reckitt Benckiser Group plc.
• DSM Nutritional Products Ltd.
• Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
• The Nature's Bounty Co.

*Definition: Global digestive health market refers to the commercial sector encompassing products, services, and treatments focused on promoting and maintaining a healthy digestive system. It includes a wide range of products such as probiotics, prebiotics, digestive supplements, digestive enzymes, fiber-based products, and diagnostic tests for various digestive disorders. The market also includes healthcare services provided by healthcare professionals specializing in gastroenterology and related fields, as well as pharmaceuticals and therapeutic interventions targeted at digestive health conditions. The primary goal of the global digestive health market is to support optimal digestive function, alleviate digestive disorders, and improve overall gastrointestinal well-being.