[196 Pages Report] The Konjac Market size was estimated at USD 1.19 billion in 2023 and expected to reach USD 1.29 billion in 2024, at a CAGR 8.61% to reach USD 2.12 billion by 2030.
Konjac is a perennial plant native to parts of Asia, primarily found in Japan, China, and Indonesia. It is renowned for its starchy corm, which is used to produce flour and jelly of the same name. Konjac is widely recognized for its applications in food products such as vegan gelatin substitutes, dietary supplements for weight management, and skincare products due to its hydrating properties. Growing utilization of konjac in the food & beverage industry, increasing demand for thickening, gelling, and stabilizing agents, and the prevalence of food allergies and intolerances propel market growth. However, regulatory hurdles, the potential hazards associated with the improper consumption of konjac products, and the availability of alternative products may hinder market growth. Nevertheless, expanding adoption of konjac powder in the cosmetic industry and rising demand for functional food and nutraceutical industries may possess potential avenues for market growth. Additionally, increasing consumer education and awareness about the health benefits of konjac, paired with advancements in sustainable cultivation methods, present significant growth opportunities.
In the APAC region, particularly in countries such as China and Japan, konjac has been a traditional food ingredient for centuries, leading to a developed market with a wide array of konjac-based products. This region witnessed high konjac production owing to optimal growing conditions and established farming practices. Consequently, several major companies and brands specializing in konjac products are based in Asia, making it a hub for innovation and exportation in the konjac market. In contrast, while the demand for konjac is growing in the Americas, particularly in the health and wellness sector, its production is relatively limited due to less favorable agricultural conditions and lesser historical prevalence. However, initiatives in the Americas are primarily focused on research into the health benefits of konjac and introducing products that meet the needs of health-conscious consumer. This includes investments in branding and marketing strategies that highlight the unique attributes of konjac products. The market is characterized by imports from APAC countries, and the presence of konjac is mainly in health food stores and as a component in dietary supplements. The scenario in the EMEA region presents a mix of the trends seen in APAC and the Americas. The inclination toward gluten-free and low-calorie products has escalated the demand for konjac-based products in European or African cuisines. The market here is growing, with a few Europe-based companies starting to specialize in konjac products, focusing on sustainable production and innovative food applications, while relying on raw konjac imported from APAC countries.
Konjac dietary fiber is extracted from the root of the konjac plant and is widely recognized for its health benefits, particularly in weight management and digestive health. It is a highly soluble fiber with an exceptional ability to absorb water, expanding to many times its original volume. Consuming promotes a feeling of fullness, reducing appetite and potentially aiding in weight loss. Additionally, konjac dietary fiber is beneficial for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and improving cholesterol profiles. It is a popular ingredient in functional foods and supplements to enhance overall health and well-being. Konjac flour is a fine, powdery substance made by drying and milling the corm of the konjac plant. It is a versatile gluten-free flour that functions as a natural thickener and can be used in various culinary applications, from baking to making noodles. Its near-zero calorie content makes it a preferred choice for low-carbohydrate and ketogenic diets. Konjac flour is also rich in glucomannan, a dietary fiber known for its positive effects on weight management, glucose regulation, and digestive health. With water-absorbing capabilities, consuming konjac flour with adequate hydration is essential. Konjac gum & gel are products derived from konjac flour and are primarily used in the food industry as thickeners, stabilizers, and emulsifiers. These products can absorb large quantities of water, forming gels of varying firmness. This unique property makes konjac gum & gel valuable ingredients in producing a wide range of food products, including jellies, vegan gelatin substitutes, and sauces, and it is used as a fat replacer in low-fat versions of traditional foods. Their natural origin and minimal caloric content also appeal to health-conscious consumers and those following special diets. Konjac chips, derived from thinly sliced and dried konjac plants, offer a unique culinary experience with their firm and chewy texture, making them a versatile ingredient upon rehydration. Primarily incorporated into an array of traditional Asian recipes, including hot pots, soups, and stir-fries, these chips enhance the gastronomic delight and serve as a testament to the rich culinary heritage from which they originate.
Konjac is an emulsifier that facilitates oil and water phases in food and cosmetic products. The emulsifying property of konjac is crucial in achieving uniform texture, preventing separation, and enhancing product stability and shelf life. Konjac provides a barrier on the surface of foods or pharmaceuticals, protecting against oxygen, bacteria, and moisture as a film former. Film-forming capability is paramount in extending product shelf life, improving food safety, and maintaining drug efficacy. Konjac is a potent gelling agent capable of forming thermally reversible or irreversible gels at specific concentrations and conditions. The gelling capability of konjac makes it a vegan gelatin substitute for producing jelly-like foods and contributing to the texture of dairy alternatives. Konjac maintains a uniform dispersion of ingredients in products as a stabilizer, preventing settling or separation. Konjac ensures consistent texture and quality in beverages, sauces, and ice creams, enhancing consumer experience. As a thickener, konjac can substantially increase the viscosity of a liquid without altering its other properties. Thickener functionality is widely utilized in the food industry to improve mouthfeel and consistency in soups, sauces, creams, and non-food applications, including cosmetics and personal care products.
In the chemical industry, konjac glucomannan (KGM) is prized for its natural origin, biodegradability, and versatility as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. Its applications span from the production of biodegradable films to environmentally friendly adhesives. KGM's exceptional water absorption and retention capabilities make it an innovative ingredient in developing sustainable products. One of the most popular applications of konjac is in the production of fruit jelly candies. The ability of konjac to form firm and chewable gels at room temperature makes it an ideal gelling agent for these sweets. Konjac-based jellies are appreciated for their unique texture and lower calorie content, offering a healthier alternative to traditional gelatin-based candies. Konjac noodles, or shirataki noodles, are a low-calorie, low-carbohydrate alternative to traditional noodles. Made from konjac flour, these noodles are translucent and gelatinous, with a slightly chewy texture. They are particularly popular among individuals following ketogenic, diabetic, and gluten-free diets, offering a satisfying noodle experience without the high starch content of traditional pasta. Similar to noodles, konjac pasta offers a health-conscious alternative to conventional wheat-based pasta. It's highly appreciated by consumers seeking to reduce their calorie and carbohydrate intake without giving up on their favorite dishes. Konjac pasta's ability to absorb flavors makes it a versatile ingredient in various culinary applications, from classic Italian to contemporary fusion dishes. Konjac rice is a substitute for traditional rice, providing a minimal-calorie, minimal-carb option for health-minded individuals and those on restrictive diets. Konjac rice has a neutral taste and uses the flavors of accompanying dishes, making it a versatile meal component while promoting better health and weight management. In the pharmaceutical sector, konjac's high fiber content and ability to form easily digestible, non-toxic gels have been utilized in various applications. These include its use as a laxative, as a component in weight loss supplements, and as a carrier for drug delivery systems. Its natural properties support the development of products to improve gastrointestinal health and aid in dietary management. For konjac-based products, business-to-business (B2B) distribution involves sales to retailers, wholesalers, and professionals in the health and wellness sectors. Wholesale distributors specialize in buying large quantities of goods and distributing them to retailers, other businesses, or professionals in smaller quantities. Business-to-consumer (B2C) distribution for konjac-based products is designed to reach the end consumer directly, providing a variety of purchasing options tailored to individual needs.
Offline distribution channels for konjac products primarily include supermarkets and hypermarkets, health food stores, and specialty stores. These channels cater to consumers who prefer a tactile shopping experience, allowing them to physically inspect products before making a purchase. Supermarkets & hypermarkets remain the leading distribution points, offering a wide variety of konjac products. Consumers favor these outlets for their convenience and accessibility. Notable retailers in this segment include Walmart, Tesco, and Carrefour, which offer an extensive range of konjac noodles, rice, and flour. These outlets often feature konjac products from major manufacturers such as Miracle Noodle and Better Than Foods. Health food stores cater to a more health-conscious consumer base, offering high-quality konjac organic and non-GMO products. Stores such as Whole Foods Market in the United States and Holland & Barrett in the United Kingdom are prominent in this segment. Specialty stores focus on niche markets, providing specialized konjac products, such as vegan and gluten-free options. These outlets are crucial for consumers with specific dietary needs or preferences. The online distribution channel has seen significant growth, driven by the convenience of home shopping and a wider product selection. E-commerce platforms, brand websites, and health food online retailers are key components of this channel. E-commerce giants such as Amazon and eBay offer a vast assortment of konjac products from various brands and manufacturers. This channel is particularly popular for its convenience, competitive pricing, and extensive customer reviews. Manufacturers of konjac products increasingly sell directly to consumers through their websites. This direct-to-consumer approach offers advantages such as brand loyalty programs, detailed product information, and exclusive deals. Notable examples include the websites of Better Than Foods and Skinny Pasta, which have reported significant growth in direct online sales in 2023. Online health food retailers, such as Thrive Market in the US and iHerb globally, specialize in healthy and organic foods, including konjac products. These platforms cater to health-conscious consumers looking for certified organic and non-GMO konjac options, providing a curated selection that meets stringent health and safety standards.
The market dynamics represent an ever-changing landscape of the Konjac Market by providing actionable insights into factors, including supply and demand levels. Accounting for these factors helps design strategies, make investments, and formulate developments to capitalize on future opportunities. In addition, these factors assist in avoiding potential pitfalls related to political, geographical, technical, social, and economic conditions, highlighting consumer behaviors and influencing manufacturing costs and purchasing decisions.
The market disruption analysis delves into the core elements associated with market-influencing changes, including breakthrough technological advancements that introduce novel features, integration capabilities, regulatory shifts that could drive or restrain market growth, and the emergence of innovative market players challenging traditional paradigms. This analysis facilitates a competitive advantage by preparing players in the Konjac Market to pre-emptively adapt to these market-influencing changes, enhances risk management by early identification of threats, informs calculated investment decisions, and drives innovation toward areas with the highest demand in the Konjac Market.
The porter's five forces analysis offers a simple and powerful tool for understanding, identifying, and analyzing the position, situation, and power of the businesses in the Konjac Market. This model is helpful for companies to understand the strength of their current competitive position and the position they are considering repositioning into. With a clear understanding of where power lies, businesses can take advantage of a situation of strength, improve weaknesses, and avoid taking wrong steps. The tool identifies whether new products, services, or companies have the potential to be profitable. In addition, it can be very informative when used to understand the balance of power in exceptional use cases.
The value chain of the Konjac Market encompasses all intermediate value addition activities, including raw materials used, product inception, and final delivery, aiding in identifying competitive advantages and improvement areas. Critical path analysis of the <> market identifies task sequences crucial for timely project completion, aiding resource allocation and bottleneck identification. Value chain and critical path analysis methods optimize efficiency, improve quality, enhance competitiveness, and increase profitability. Value chain analysis targets production inefficiencies, and critical path analysis ensures project timeliness. These analyses facilitate businesses in making informed decisions, responding to market demands swiftly, and achieving sustainable growth by optimizing operations and maximizing resource utilization.
The pricing analysis comprehensively evaluates how a product or service is priced within the Konjac Market. This evaluation encompasses various factors that impact the price of a product, including production costs, competition, demand, customer value perception, and changing margins. An essential aspect of this analysis is understanding price elasticity, which measures how sensitive the market for a product is to its price change. It provides insight into competitive pricing strategies, enabling businesses to position their products advantageously in the Konjac Market.
The technology analysis involves evaluating the current and emerging technologies relevant to a specific industry or market. This analysis includes breakthrough trends across the value chain that directly define the future course of long-term profitability and overall advancement in the Konjac Market.
The patent analysis involves evaluating patent filing trends, assessing patent ownership, analyzing the legal status and compliance, and collecting competitive intelligence from patents within the Konjac Market and its parent industry. Analyzing the ownership of patents, assessing their legal status, and interpreting the patents to gather insights into competitors' technology strategies assist businesses in strategizing and optimizing product positioning and investment decisions.
The trade analysis of the Konjac Market explores the complex interplay of import and export activities, emphasizing the critical role played by key trading nations. This analysis identifies geographical discrepancies in trade flows, offering a deep insight into regional disparities to identify geographic areas suitable for market expansion. A detailed analysis of the regulatory landscape focuses on tariffs, taxes, and customs procedures that significantly determine international trade flows. This analysis is crucial for understanding the overarching legal framework that businesses must navigate.
The regulatory framework analysis for the Konjac Market is essential for ensuring legal compliance, managing risks, shaping business strategies, fostering innovation, protecting consumers, accessing markets, maintaining reputation, and managing stakeholder relations. Regulatory frameworks shape business strategies and expansion initiatives, guiding informed decision-making processes. Furthermore, this analysis uncovers avenues for innovation within existing regulations or by advocating for regulatory changes to foster innovation.
The FPNV positioning matrix is essential in evaluating the market positioning of the vendors in the Konjac Market. This matrix offers a comprehensive assessment of vendors, examining critical metrics related to business strategy and product satisfaction. This in-depth assessment empowers users to make well-informed decisions aligned with their requirements. Based on the evaluation, the vendors are then categorized into four distinct quadrants representing varying levels of success, namely Forefront (F), Pathfinder (P), Niche (N), or Vital (V).
The market share analysis is a comprehensive tool that provides an insightful and in-depth assessment of the current state of vendors in the Konjac Market. By meticulously comparing and analyzing vendor contributions, companies are offered a greater understanding of their performance and the challenges they face when competing for market share. These contributions include overall revenue, customer base, and other vital metrics. Additionally, this analysis provides valuable insights into the competitive nature of the sector, including factors such as accumulation, fragmentation dominance, and amalgamation traits observed over the base year period studied. With these illustrative details, vendors can make more informed decisions and devise effective strategies to gain a competitive edge in the market.
New Hydrogel Removes Carbon Dioxide from Ambient Air
Researchers from MIT have pioneered a groundbreaking plant-based hydrogel for carbon capture, unveiling a promising solution for climate change mitigation by efficiently absorbing CO2 from concentrated and dilute sources. Utilizing a novel konjac glucomannan and hydroxypropyl cellulose composition, the researchers have engineered a sustainable carbon capture hydrogel film (SCCH) that showcases a hierarchically porous structure. [Published On: 2023-10-26]
Umami United Partners with Japanese Giant KENKO Mayonnaise to Introduce Plant-Based Egg Salad
Umami United, a Japanese food technology firm, revolutionized the plant-based food sector with its innovative plant-based eggs, meticulously designed to emulate the authentic taste, texture, and culinary performance of traditional eggs. Harnessing the culinary riches of traditional Japanese ingredients, the company ingeniously utilizes konjac flour and soy, renowned for their versatility and texture-enhancing properties, to craft an egg alternative that mirrors the distinctive elasticity and mouthfeel of cooked eggs. [Published On: 2023-10-24]
Moyu Launches Better-For-You Baked Good Applications with Konjac-based Mix
Moyu, a new baking mix brand, introduced a range of healthier baking options featuring konjac, a versatile and fibrous root vegetable primarily cultivated. Originating from China, konjac's commercial expansion began in Japan, where it has been innovatively incorporated into various products such as noodles, juices, mochi, and puddings, and as a base for plant-based seafood alternatives. This launch represented Moyu's commitment to providing better-for-you options in the American market, leveraging konjac's healthful properties to cater to the growing demand for wholesome and nutritious baked goods. [Published On: 2023-09-20]
The strategic analysis is essential for organizations seeking a solid foothold in the global marketplace. Companies are better positioned to make informed decisions that align with their long-term aspirations by thoroughly evaluating their current standing in the Konjac Market. This critical assessment involves a thorough analysis of the organization’s resources, capabilities, and overall performance to identify its core strengths and areas for improvement.
The report delves into recent significant developments in the Konjac Market, highlighting leading vendors and their innovative profiles. These include Andi-Johnson Group, Avanscure Lifesciences Pvt. Ltd., Baoji Konjac Chemical Co., Ltd., BLG Group, Daesang Corporation, Everydaze by Kcosera Inc., FMC Corporation, Hubei Accord Konjac Biotechnology Co., Ltd., IA-Foods Co., Ltd., Ishibashi-ya Co. Ltd., Jiangsu Yiming Biological Technology Co., Ltd., Ketoslim Mo, Konjac Innov by NAH Foods Ltd., Konson Konjac, Miracle Noodle USA, Mitsubishi Shokuhin Co.,Ltd, NOW Foods, ORIHIRO Co., Ltd., San Syokuhin Co. Ltd., Shimizu Chemical Corporation, Slendier, The Konjac Sponge Company, Vital-Chem Zhuhai Co., Ltd., Wok Foods (Thailand) Co., Ltd., and Zhongshan Jolion Foodstuffs Co., Ltd..
This research report categorizes the Konjac Market to forecast the revenues and analyze trends in each of the following sub-markets:
- Product
- Chips
- Dietary Fiber
- Flour
- Gum & Gel
- Function
- Emulsifier
- Film Former
- Gelling Agent
- Stabilizer
- Thickener
- Application
- Chemical
- Chemical B2B
- Chemical B2C
- Food Products
- Fruit Jelly
- Fruit Jelly B2B
- Fruit Jelly B2C
- Noodles
- Noodles B2B
- Noodles B2C
- Pasta
- Pasta B2B
- Pasta B2C
- Rice
- Rice B2B
- Rice B2C
- Fruit Jelly
- Pharmaceuticals
- Pharmaceuticals B2B
- Pharmaceuticals B2C
- Chemical
- Distribution Channel
- Offline
- Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
- Specialty Stores
- Online
- Offline
- Region
- Americas
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Canada
- Mexico
- United States
- California
- Florida
- Illinois
- New York
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Texas
- Asia-Pacific
- Australia
- China
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Europe, Middle East & Africa
- Denmark
- Egypt
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Israel
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Nigeria
- Norway
- Poland
- Qatar
- Russia
- Saudi Arabia
- South Africa
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- Americas
- Market Penetration: This section thoroughly overviews the current market landscape, incorporating detailed data from key industry players.
- Market Development: The report examines potential growth prospects in emerging markets and assesses expansion opportunities in mature segments.
- Market Diversification: This includes detailed information on recent product launches, untapped geographic regions, recent industry developments, and strategic investments.
- Competitive Assessment & Intelligence: An in-depth analysis of the competitive landscape is conducted, covering market share, strategic approaches, product range, certifications, regulatory approvals, patent analysis, technology developments, and advancements in the manufacturing capabilities of leading market players.
- Product Development & Innovation: This section offers insights into upcoming technologies, research and development efforts, and notable advancements in product innovation.
- What is the current market size and projected growth?
- Which products, segments, applications, and regions offer promising investment opportunities?
- What are the prevailing technology trends and regulatory frameworks?
- What is the market share and positioning of the leading vendors?
- What revenue sources and strategic opportunities do vendors in the market consider when deciding to enter or exit?
- Preface
- Research Methodology
- Executive Summary
- Market Overview
- Market Insights
- Konjac Market, by Product
- Konjac Market, by Function
- Konjac Market, by Application
- Konjac Market, by Distribution Channel
- Americas Konjac Market
- Asia-Pacific Konjac Market
- Europe, Middle East & Africa Konjac Market
- Competitive Landscape
- Competitive Portfolio
- List of Figures [Total: 24]
- List of Tables [Total: 1088]
- List of Companies Mentioned [Total: 25]
- How big is the Konjac Market?
- What is the Konjac Market growth?
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