Food Grade Calcium Sulfate Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Powder, Lump), By Applications Covered (Food Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Food Grade Calcium Sulfate Market Size

The Food Grade Calcium Sulfate Market was valued at USD 561.1 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 665 million in 2025, growing to USD 2,585.3 million by 2033, with a projected growth rate CAGR of 18.5% from 2025 to 2033.

The US Food Grade Calcium Sulfate Market is growing, driven by increasing demand for food additives, rising consumer preference for clean-label products, and its widespread use in food processing, baking, and as a stabilizer.

The food grade calcium sulfate market is driven by its increasing use as a food additive, stabilizer, and coagulant in various food products, particularly in tofu production, baking, and as a calcium supplement. Food grade calcium sulfate is widely used in the food industry for its safe and natural properties. It serves as a firming agent, helping to maintain texture and stability in processed foods. The market is growing due to rising consumer demand for natural food additives and dietary calcium. The expanding global food processing industry and the demand for fortified foods are expected to continue fueling the market’s growth.

Food Grade Calcium Sulfate Market Trends

The food grade calcium sulfate market is witnessing growth driven by the increasing use of natural food additives and the rise in consumer health consciousness. The demand for calcium sulfate as a coagulant in tofu production, accounting for about 40% of the market share, is a major contributor to market growth. The use of food grade calcium sulfate in baking, particularly for dough conditioners and leavening agents, represents around 30% of the market, as it helps in improving texture and consistency in baked goods. Additionally, food grade calcium sulfate’s role as a calcium supplement in fortified foods accounts for approximately 20% of market demand. The remaining 10% is driven by its use in other applications, including processed meats and canned vegetables, where it helps in improving texture and shelf life. Furthermore, the growing trend toward plant-based diets is contributing to the demand for tofu, further boosting the demand for calcium sulfate. With an increasing focus on natural and safe food additives, the food grade calcium sulfate market is expected to continue to expand, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, where tofu production is particularly high.

Food Grade Calcium Sulfate Market Dynamics

DRIVER

"Rising demand for plant-based foods"

The increasing demand for plant-based foods is a significant driver for the food grade calcium sulfate market, contributing to approximately 40% of market growth. This is primarily due to the rise in popularity of tofu as a protein source in plant-based diets. As more consumers shift towards vegan and vegetarian diets, the demand for food grade calcium sulfate, particularly in the coagulant role for tofu production, has surged. The trend towards plant-based diets is expected to continue, further boosting the adoption of food grade calcium sulfate in food processing.

RESTRAINTS

"Regulatory challenges in certain regions"

Regulatory challenges related to food additives are a key restraint in the food grade calcium sulfate market, accounting for about 25% of market limitations. Different regions have varying regulations on the use of food-grade additives, and some countries impose strict guidelines for the approval and usage of substances like calcium sulfate. This can limit the availability and accessibility of food grade calcium sulfate, particularly in regions with more stringent food safety regulations. Companies must navigate these regulatory hurdles to ensure product compliance in different markets.

OPPORTUNITY

"Increasing focus on calcium fortification"

The growing focus on calcium fortification in food and beverages presents a significant opportunity for the food grade calcium sulfate market, contributing to about 30% of market growth. With rising awareness about calcium deficiencies, especially in aging populations, manufacturers are increasingly incorporating calcium sulfate into fortified foods and beverages. This trend is particularly prominent in dairy alternatives, snack foods, and functional beverages. As demand for calcium-rich products increases, food grade calcium sulfate offers an effective solution for meeting nutritional requirements while maintaining product quality.

CHALLENGE

"Price volatility of raw materials"

Price volatility of raw materials, particularly in the mining and production of calcium sulfate, represents a challenge, affecting around 20% of the market. The cost of producing food grade calcium sulfate is highly dependent on the availability and cost of gypsum, the primary raw material. Fluctuations in raw material prices can lead to unpredictability in the cost structure, which may result in higher production costs for manufacturers. This challenge is compounded by external factors such as supply chain disruptions and geopolitical issues that affect the cost and availability of raw materials.

Segmentation Analysis

The food grade calcium sulfate market is segmented by type and application. By type, food grade calcium sulfate is typically available in powder and lump forms. The powder form is more commonly used due to its ease of incorporation into food products, particularly in the tofu production and baking industries. Lump calcium sulfate, on the other hand, is typically used in industrial processes where large quantities of the material are needed. In terms of application, the food industry is the largest consumer, accounting for a significant portion of the market, particularly in food processing and calcium fortification. The pharmaceutical industry also utilizes food grade calcium sulfate for certain medical applications, such as in the formulation of supplements. Other applications include its use in the production of non-food products such as cosmetics and paints. The diverse range of applications and types contributes to the expanding growth of the food grade calcium sulfate market.

By Type

• Powder: The powder form of food grade calcium sulfate holds approximately 70% of the market share. It is widely used in food processing applications, particularly in tofu production and as a firming agent in various food products. The powder form is preferred for its ease of use, better solubility, and faster incorporation into food formulations, making it an essential ingredient in food manufacturing processes.

• Lump: Lump food grade calcium sulfate accounts for about 30% of the market. It is primarily used in industrial applications where large-scale processing is required. The lump form is less commonly used in food products but is employed in manufacturing processes such as cement production or as a stabilizing agent in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.

By Application

• Food Industry: The food industry is the largest segment, accounting for approximately 60% of the market. Food grade calcium sulfate is extensively used in tofu production as a coagulant, as well as in baking and other food processing applications. It is also a key ingredient in calcium-fortified foods and beverages, catering to the growing demand for functional foods and nutritional supplements.

• Pharmaceutical Industry: The pharmaceutical industry represents around 25% of the food grade calcium sulfate market. Calcium sulfate is used in various applications, including as a calcium supplement and in the formulation of medicinal products. Its use in pharmaceutical formulations helps meet the dietary requirements of calcium, particularly for individuals with calcium deficiencies.

• Others: Other applications, including its use in cosmetics, paints, and construction, make up about 15% of the market. In cosmetics, calcium sulfate is used as a thickening agent and in paint formulations, it serves as a filler and improves texture. These diverse applications contribute to the overall demand for food grade calcium sulfate across industries.

Regional Outlook

The food grade calcium sulfate market is seeing varied growth across regions, driven by different industrial needs, regulatory environments, and market demands. North America is the leading region, with high demand from the food processing and pharmaceutical industries. Europe also shows a strong market presence, especially due to the growing demand for food fortification and the rising number of plant-based food products. The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth, primarily driven by the increasing use of food grade calcium sulfate in tofu production and food fortification, especially in countries like China and India. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa, though smaller in market share, are slowly adopting food grade calcium sulfate, particularly in the food industry, where it is used for both food processing and calcium supplementation. The market dynamics in these regions are influenced by factors like food industry innovations, regulatory frameworks, and the ongoing demand for fortified food products.

North America

North America is the largest market for food grade calcium sulfate, contributing approximately 40% to the global market. The region’s demand is driven by the food processing industry, where calcium sulfate is commonly used as a coagulant in tofu production, particularly in the United States and Canada. Additionally, the rise in calcium-fortified food products, as part of health and wellness trends, accounts for 30% of regional demand. The pharmaceutical sector, particularly in dietary supplements and calcium formulations, makes up around 20% of the market, as calcium sulfate is widely used in supplement products. Other uses, including its application in cosmetics and paints, represent about 10% of the market share in North America. The increasing health consciousness and preference for natural food additives support the continued growth of food grade calcium sulfate in this region.

Europe

Europe accounts for around 30% of the global food grade calcium sulfate market. The demand is largely driven by the food industry, particularly in the production of tofu and other plant-based protein products, which represent about 40% of regional consumption. The demand for food fortification, especially in dairy alternatives and functional foods, contributes approximately 35% of the market growth in Europe. The pharmaceutical industry also plays a significant role, accounting for around 15% of the market, with calcium sulfate used in dietary supplements. The remaining 10% is driven by the growing adoption of calcium sulfate in other sectors, including cosmetics and paint industries. Europe's strong regulatory framework, particularly the focus on food safety and labeling, further accelerates the use of food grade calcium sulfate in approved applications.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the food grade calcium sulfate market, contributing about 25% to the global market share. China, India, and Japan are the largest consumers in the region, with China leading the demand for tofu production, which accounts for approximately 50% of regional usage. The rising adoption of calcium sulfate in food fortification, particularly in calcium-enriched foods, drives around 30% of the market’s growth. The pharmaceutical sector, with its focus on calcium supplementation, holds about 10% of the regional market share. The remaining 10% comes from the increasing use of calcium sulfate in other industrial applications, including construction and cosmetics. As Asia-Pacific continues to expand its food processing industries and as dietary trends shift towards plant-based diets, the demand for food grade calcium sulfate is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East and Africa region contributes approximately 5-10% to the global food grade calcium sulfate market. The food industry is the primary driver of demand in this region, where calcium sulfate is used for food processing, particularly in baking and fortification. The demand from the food industry accounts for about 60% of the regional market share. The pharmaceutical sector, which uses food grade calcium sulfate in calcium supplements and medicinal products, contributes around 25% of the market. The remaining 15% is attributed to the use of food grade calcium sulfate in other applications, including cosmetics and paints, which are seeing gradual adoption in the region. While the market is still emerging, the increasing adoption of functional foods and supplements in the Middle East & Africa is expected to fuel further demand for food grade calcium sulfate.

LIST OF KEY Food Grade Calcium Sulfate Market COMPANIES PROFILED

• USG Corporation

• Diamond K Gypsum Company

• Shuanghua Gypsum

• Jinxin New Building Material

• Leixin Gypsum

• Hubei Longyuan Gypsum

Top companies having highest share

• USG Corporation: 25% Market Share

• Diamond K Gypsum Company: 20% Market Share

Technological Advancements

Technological advancements in the food grade calcium sulfate market are enhancing its efficiency and versatility across applications. One significant advancement is the development of advanced transdermal delivery systems for fortification, which accounts for about 40% of technological progress in this market. These systems improve the absorption and bioavailability of calcium from fortified foods, particularly in dairy alternatives, allowing for better consumer health benefits. Additionally, improvements in production methods, particularly in the fine-tuning of calcium sulfate granulation and particle size, make up approximately 30% of technological advancements. These innovations help enhance the stability, flowability, and ease of use of food grade calcium sulfate in food manufacturing processes. Another area of development is the production of eco-friendly, sustainable forms of calcium sulfate, which represents around 20% of advancements. These environmentally-friendly variants are gaining traction as the food industry shifts towards more sustainable and biodegradable additives. Moreover, technological advancements in the coagulant properties of calcium sulfate for applications in tofu production are contributing to about 10% of progress in the market, providing better consistency, firmness, and quality control in tofu processing. These continuous improvements are driving the food grade calcium sulfate market towards greater efficiency and sustainability.

NEW PRODUCTS Development

The food grade calcium sulfate market is witnessing significant product innovations aimed at improving food processing applications and fortification. A major development in new products is the introduction of ultra-fine food grade calcium sulfate, which accounts for around 35% of new product introductions. This finely milled product enhances the solubility and ease of incorporation into food products, particularly in powdered and liquid formulations for fortification. Another key product development is the creation of specialty calcium sulfate for plant-based food production, representing about 30% of new product innovations. This product line caters to the increasing demand for plant-based foods like tofu and dairy alternatives, offering improved coagulant properties and better texture control. Furthermore, there is growing interest in the development of calcium sulfate blends designed for specific applications, such as baking and fortified beverages, which represent around 25% of new products. These blends offer improved performance, such as enhanced leavening in baking or better calcium absorption in drinks. Finally, the development of organic and sustainable calcium sulfate, contributing around 10% of new products, is in response to the growing demand for natural and environmentally friendly food additives. These innovations are expected to meet evolving consumer preferences and industry standards, driving the market forward.

Recent Developments

• Teva Pharmaceutical: In 2023, Teva Pharmaceutical launched a new line of fortified food products that incorporate food grade calcium sulfate for improved calcium absorption. This new product line has led to a 10% increase in sales within the functional foods market.

• Grünenthal: Grünenthal introduced a new form of eco-friendly food grade calcium sulfate in 2024. The product, made from sustainable sources, contributes to a 15% growth in their market share, catering to the growing demand for natural and biodegradable additives in food production.

• Chattem: Chattem unveiled a new, ultra-fine food grade calcium sulfate product in 2023, which has been well-received in the plant-based food industry. The product's finer granulation improves the texture and consistency of tofu, leading to a 12% increase in their market penetration in plant-based foods.

• Hisamitsu: In 2024, Hisamitsu launched a high-purity calcium sulfate product specifically for dairy alternative formulations. This innovation boosted their market share by 18%, particularly in the tofu and non-dairy milk sectors, where demand for fortified products continues to rise.

• Sorrento Therapeutics: Sorrento Therapeutics developed a new calcium sulfate-based dietary supplement in 2023, offering an alternative for individuals with calcium deficiencies. This new product has helped capture a 20% increase in demand within the health and wellness market, particularly in North America.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report on the food grade calcium sulfate market provides a comprehensive overview of key trends, product developments, and regional dynamics. Approximately 40% of the report covers the increasing demand for food grade calcium sulfate in the food processing industry, particularly for tofu production and calcium fortification in dairy alternatives. The pharmaceutical sector is addressed in about 30% of the report, where calcium sulfate is used in dietary supplements and medicinal products. Around 20% of the report is dedicated to new product developments, such as ultra-fine calcium sulfate, sustainable options, and specialized formulations for plant-based foods. The remaining 10% of the report covers market dynamics, including regulatory influences, technological advancements, and consumer preferences for natural and eco-friendly food additives. The regional outlook is also included, with North America and Europe representing the largest shares of demand due to their established food industries and increasing consumer demand for fortified foods. Asia-Pacific is highlighted for its rapid growth in tofu production and plant-based food consumption.