Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Source;
Porcine, Bovine Skin, Bovine Bone, Marine, and Poultry.By Function;
Bloom Value, Stabilizing Agents, Thickening Agents, and Gelling Agents & Other Functions.By Application;
Hard Capsules, Softgel Capsules, Tablets, Absorbable Hemostats, and Others.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market was valued at USD 1,316.35 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 1,927.61 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.6%.
The global pharmaceutical gelatin market is a dynamic and crucial segment within the broader pharmaceutical industry. Gelatin, a protein derived from collagen, serves as a versatile ingredient in pharmaceutical formulations due to its unique properties and functionalities. As the demand for pharmaceutical products continues to grow worldwide, driven by factors such as an aging population, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and advancements in medical treatments, the market for pharmaceutical gelatin is witnessing steady expansion.
In this introduction, we will explore the key facets shaping the global pharmaceutical gelatin market, including market trends, drivers, challenges, and opportunities. From its role in manufacturing capsules, coatings, and drug delivery systems to its significance in ensuring product stability and efficacy, pharmaceutical gelatin plays a vital role in the development and production of various medicinal formulations.
Factors such as the rising adoption of gelatin-based pharmaceuticals, technological advancements in gelatin manufacturing processes, and the increasing emphasis on quality and safety standards are influencing market dynamics. Additionally, factors like stringent regulations, fluctuating raw material prices, and growing consumer awareness regarding alternative ingredients pose challenges for market players.
This introduction aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the global pharmaceutical gelatin market, highlighting its current landscape, emerging trends, competitive dynamics, and future prospects. By understanding these factors, stakeholders can make informed decisions and devise strategies to capitalize on the opportunities presented by this evolving market.
Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market Recent Developments
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In May 2021, Darling Ingredients Inc. announced that its Rousselot brand expanded its range of purified pharmaceutical-grade modified gelatin with the launch of X-Pure GelDAT – Gelatin Desaminotyrosine for biomedical applications.
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In July 2022, Gelita opened a biotech hub for developing proteins from biotechnological processes for applications in nutrition, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical and medical products.
Segment Analysis
The source segmentation of the pharmaceutical gelatin market includes animal-based and plant-based sources. Animal-based gelatin is the most common type, derived from collagen found in animal bones, skin, and connective tissues. This type of gelatin is widely used due to its cost-effectiveness, availability, and suitability for a variety of pharmaceutical applications, including capsules, tablets, and drug delivery systems. Plant-based alternatives, such as agar and pectin, are increasingly in demand due to growing consumer preferences for vegan and vegetarian products, as well as religious and dietary restrictions. The market for plant-based gelatin is expected to expand as more pharmaceutical companies seek sustainable and ethical sources of excipients to meet these demands.
Functionally, pharmaceutical gelatin serves several essential roles in drug formulation and production. It acts as a gelling agent, stabilizer, and binder, providing structure and consistency to dosage forms such as capsules and tablets. Gelatin’s ability to dissolve quickly in the gastrointestinal tract enhances the bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), making it an invaluable excipient for immediate-release formulations. In addition, gelatin can be used as a carrier for controlled-release drugs, aiding in the gradual release of the active ingredient over time. Its versatility and effectiveness in enhancing the stability and delivery of drugs make gelatin a staple in the pharmaceutical industry.
The application segmentation highlights the varied ways gelatin is utilized in pharmaceuticals, including capsules, tablets, and other dosage forms. Hard and soft gelatin capsules are among the most common applications, offering a convenient and effective delivery method for both solid and liquid formulations. Tablets also frequently incorporate gelatin as a binder to ensure uniformity and integrity. Gelatin’s role extends beyond capsules and tablets to specialized applications such as microencapsulation for targeted drug delivery and the creation of various sustained-release formulations. The use of gelatin in injectable formulations and topical products is also emerging as pharmaceutical advancements drive demand for specialized delivery systems.
Geographically, the pharmaceutical gelatin market is segmented into regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. North America and Europe are significant markets, driven by their well-established pharmaceutical industries, stringent regulatory standards, and advanced research and development initiatives. These regions are characterized by the strong presence of major pharmaceutical manufacturers and a demand for high-quality excipients that ensure product safety and efficacy. The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing substantial growth, spurred by its expanding pharmaceutical sector, increased manufacturing capabilities, and growing awareness of advanced drug formulations. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets where the demand for pharmaceutical gelatin is on the rise, influenced by improvements in healthcare infrastructure and rising investments in the pharmaceutical industry. However, challenges such as economic volatility and regulatory complexities can impact market growth in these regions.
Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market Analysis
In this report, the global pharmaceutical gelatin market has been segmented by Source, Function, Application, and geography.
Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, Segmentation by Source
The Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market has been segmented by Source into Porcine, Bovine Skin, Bovine Bone, Marine and Poultry.
Porcine gelatin, derived from the collagen-rich tissues of pigs, is one of the most commonly utilized sources in the pharmaceutical industry. It offers excellent gel-forming properties, high purity, and compatibility with a wide range of pharmaceutical formulations. Porcine gelatin is valued for its consistent quality, stability, and biocompatibility, making it suitable for various applications, including hard capsules, softgel capsules, tablets, and absorbable hemostats.
Bovine skin gelatin is extracted from the hides of cattle and is another prevalent source of pharmaceutical gelatin. It shares similar properties with porcine gelatin and is widely used in pharmaceutical formulations due to its availability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory acceptance. Bovine skin gelatin finds application in hard capsules, softgel capsules, tablets, and other dosage forms, contributing to the diversity and versatility of pharmaceutical products.
Bovine bone gelatin is derived from the bones of cattle and possesses unique characteristics compared to skin-derived gelatin. It is valued for its high gel strength, clarity, and compatibility with certain specialized formulations. Bovine bone gelatin is commonly used in applications where these properties are advantageous, such as in the production of certain types of hard capsules and absorbable hemostats.
Marine gelatin, sourced from fish collagen, is gaining prominence in the pharmaceutical industry due to its distinct advantages. Marine gelatin offers a lower risk of transmitting diseases such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and foot-and-mouth disease, providing enhanced safety and regulatory compliance. It is utilized in pharmaceutical formulations where a marine-derived source is preferred or required, catering to specific market preferences and regulatory requirements.
Poultry-derived gelatin is obtained from chicken or turkey skin and bones and represents a niche segment within the pharmaceutical gelatin market. While less commonly used compared to porcine and bovine gelatins, poultry gelatin offers similar functionalities and may be preferred in regions where religious or cultural considerations influence ingredient selection. It serves as an alternative source of gelatin for pharmaceutical formulations, contributing to the diversity of available options in the global market.
Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, Segmentation by Function
The Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market has been segmented by Function into Bloom Value, Stabilizing Agents, Thickening Agents and Gelling Agents & Other Functions.
Bloom value determination is a crucial function of pharmaceutical gelatin, referring to the measurement of its strength and elasticity. Bloom value is essential for assessing the suitability of gelatin for specific applications and ensuring consistent performance in pharmaceutical formulations. Gelatins with higher bloom values typically exhibit greater gel strength and are preferred for applications requiring firmness and stability, such as hard capsules and absorbable hemostats.
Stabilization is another important function of pharmaceutical gelatin, aimed at enhancing the shelf-life and stability of pharmaceutical formulations. Gelatin serves as a stabilizing agent by preventing ingredient separation, degradation, or crystallization, thereby maintaining the integrity and efficacy of the final product over time. Stabilization is particularly critical in liquid formulations, where gelatin helps prevent sedimentation, phase separation, or microbial growth, ensuring product quality and safety.
Thickening is a common function of gelatin in pharmaceutical formulations, involving the increase in viscosity and consistency of liquid or semi-solid preparations. Gelatin acts as a thickening agent by imparting viscosity to suspensions, emulsions, gels, and other formulations, improving their texture, flow properties, and ease of handling. Thickened formulations are easier to administer, apply, or manipulate during manufacturing processes, contributing to the overall efficiency and user experience.
Gelling agents are one of the most characteristic functions of gelatin in pharmaceutical applications, leveraging its unique ability to form thermally reversible gels. Gelatin-based gels are employed in various dosage forms, including capsules, gels, films, and matrices, to encapsulate active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), control drug release kinetics, or provide structural support. Gelatin gels offer advantages such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ease of processing, making them valuable in controlled drug delivery systems and tissue engineering applications.
Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market has been segmented by Application into Hard capsules, Softgel capsules, Tablets, Absorbable Hemostats, and Others.
Hard capsules are a widely used application in the pharmaceutical market due to their versatility and ease of manufacturing. They are typically made of gelatin or alternative materials like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) for vegetarian options. Hard capsules can be filled with powdered drugs, granules, or beads, allowing for precise dosage and easy administration. The market for hard capsules continues to expand as they provide an effective delivery method for solid-dose drugs and facilitate rapid dissolution, enhancing the bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The growing preference for personalized medicine and tailored drug formulations has further bolstered the demand for hard capsules in the pharmaceutical industry.
Softgel capsules are another important application, known for their smooth texture and ability to encapsulate liquids, oils, or semi-solids. Softgels are highly valued for their ability to mask unpleasant tastes and odors, improve drug stability, and facilitate easy absorption in the body. The demand for softgel capsules is driven by their suitability for delivering oils and other liquid-based formulations, such as vitamins and supplements. Additionally, softgels offer better bioavailability for certain drugs as the liquid formulation can be absorbed more quickly compared to solid forms. The growing market for dietary supplements and nutraceuticals has also contributed to the expansion of the softgel segment.
Tablets are one of the most traditional and widely used pharmaceutical applications due to their simplicity, stability, and ease of manufacturing. Tablets can be formulated in various ways, including immediate-release, controlled-release, and chewable types, to meet different patient needs. The versatility in tablet formulation allows for various excipients to be utilized, such as binders, fillers, and disintegrants, to ensure proper drug release and effectiveness. The demand for tablets remains strong due to their cost-effectiveness and the wide range of options available for drug delivery. The growing prevalence of chronic diseases and the demand for both over-the-counter and prescription drugs continue to support the tablet segment of the market.
Absorbable hemostats represent a specialized application in the pharmaceutical market, primarily used in surgical procedures to control bleeding and promote wound healing. These hemostats are designed to be absorbed by the body over time, minimizing the need for further surgical intervention or removal. Absorbable hemostats come in different forms, including sponges, powders, and films, and can be derived from natural or synthetic materials such as collagen, cellulose, and gelatin. The increasing number of surgical procedures and the rising awareness of effective wound management techniques are contributing to the growing demand for absorbable hemostats. These products are also part of advancements in medical technology that prioritize patient safety and recovery.
The "Others" category encompasses a range of specialized pharmaceutical applications, including topical formulations, injectables, and other unique drug delivery systems. These applications are often tailored to specific medical conditions and patient needs. For example, topical formulations are used for localized treatment of skin conditions, while injectables are critical for delivering medications directly into the bloodstream for immediate effect. Innovations in drug delivery methods and the development of new therapies continue to drive growth in this category, contributing to the evolution of pharmaceutical applications beyond traditional dosage forms.
Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
The global pharmaceutical gelatin market is segmented by geography to reflect regional variations in demand, consumption patterns, regulatory landscapes, and market dynamics. This segmentation allows for a more granular analysis of market trends, opportunities, and challenges across different regions. Key geographical segments in the global pharmaceutical gelatin market include North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.
North America represents one of the largest markets for pharmaceutical gelatin, driven by the presence of a robust pharmaceutical industry, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and high healthcare expenditure. The region's stringent regulatory standards and emphasis on quality control contribute to the demand for pharmaceutical-grade gelatin in various dosage forms and medical applications.
Europe is another significant market for pharmaceutical gelatin, characterized by a well-established pharmaceutical sector, growing geriatric population, and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. The region's strong emphasis on innovation, research, and development fosters demand for specialized gelatin-based formulations and drug delivery systems.
Asia Pacific emerges as a rapidly growing market for pharmaceutical gelatin, fueled by factors such as expanding healthcare access, rising disposable incomes, and increasing pharmaceutical production in countries like China, India, and Japan. The region's large population base, coupled with growing healthcare investments and evolving regulatory frameworks, presents lucrative opportunities for market expansion and investment in gelatin manufacturing facilities.
Latin America and the Middle East & Africa regions exhibit moderate growth potential in the pharmaceutical gelatin market, supported by improving healthcare infrastructure, rising healthcare expenditure, and increasing adoption of generic drugs. While these regions may face challenges related to regulatory harmonization, infrastructure development, and economic volatility, they offer untapped opportunities for market players seeking to expand their presence in emerging pharmaceutical markets.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers :
- Aging population
- Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases
- Advancements in medical treatments
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Rising adoption of gelatin-based pharmaceuticals - The rising adoption of gelatin-based pharmaceuticals reflects a significant trend in the global pharmaceutical industry, driven by several factors that underscore the unique advantages and versatility of gelatin in drug formulation and delivery. Gelatin, a protein derived from collagen, serves as a key ingredient in various pharmaceutical products, offering distinct functionalities and benefits across different dosage forms and therapeutic applications.
One of the primary drivers behind the increasing adoption of gelatin-based pharmaceuticals is the widespread use of gelatin capsules in drug delivery systems. Hard capsules, made from gelatin, are preferred by pharmaceutical manufacturers for their ease of manufacturing, compatibility with a wide range of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and versatility in formulation design. Gelatin capsules enable precise dosing, facilitate rapid dissolution and absorption of drugs, and provide an effective means of oral drug delivery, making them popular among patients and healthcare providers alike.
Softgel capsules, another gelatin-based dosage form, are gaining prominence due to their enhanced bioavailability, improved stability of sensitive compounds, and ease of swallowing compared to conventional tablets or pills. Gelatin-based softgels are particularly suitable for delivering lipid-soluble drugs, vitamins, and nutraceuticals, offering advantages such as faster onset of action, reduced gastrointestinal irritation, and better patient compliance. The growing demand for dietary supplements, vitamins, and over-the-counter medications further drives the adoption of softgel capsules as a preferred dosage form.
In addition to capsules, gelatin finds widespread use in other pharmaceutical formulations, including tablets, gels, coatings, and wound dressings, among others. Gelatin serves various functions such as binding, stabilizing, thickening, and gelling, contributing to the overall efficacy, safety, and patient acceptability of pharmaceutical products. Its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatility make gelatin an attractive choice for formulators seeking innovative solutions for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications.
The pharmaceutical industry's growing emphasis on quality, safety, and regulatory compliance further reinforces the preference for gelatin-based pharmaceuticals. Gelatin derived from reputable sources undergoes rigorous testing and certification to ensure compliance with pharmacopeial standards and regulatory requirements. Manufacturers invest in advanced processing technologies and quality control measures to maintain the purity, consistency, and traceability of gelatin throughout the production process, thereby enhancing product safety and consumer confidence.
Restraints :
- Stringent regulations
- Fluctuating raw material prices
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Growing consumer awareness regarding alternative ingredients - The growing consumer awareness regarding alternative ingredients is reshaping the landscape of the pharmaceutical industry, prompting manufacturers to explore novel formulations and ingredient options in response to evolving consumer preferences and demands. This trend is driven by various factors, including increased health consciousness, sustainability concerns, dietary restrictions, and cultural or religious considerations, all of which influence consumers' choices when selecting healthcare products.
One of the key drivers behind the growing consumer awareness of alternative ingredients is the rising interest in natural and plant-based remedies. Consumers are increasingly seeking pharmaceutical products formulated with natural, plant-derived ingredients as they perceive them to be safer, gentler, and more aligned with their holistic health and wellness goals. This trend has led to the emergence of botanical extracts, herbal supplements, and plant-based formulations in the pharmaceutical market, offering consumers alternative treatment options for various health conditions.
Sustainability concerns also play a significant role in driving consumer demand for alternative ingredients in pharmaceutical products. With increasing awareness of environmental issues and the carbon footprint associated with traditional pharmaceutical ingredients, consumers are seeking products that are sustainably sourced, ethically produced, and environmentally friendly. This has led to a growing interest in ingredients such as marine-derived compounds, algae extracts, and biodegradable polymers, which offer eco-friendly alternatives to conventional pharmaceutical ingredients.
Dietary restrictions, including gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, and vegetarian or vegan diets, have also fueled consumer demand for alternative ingredients in pharmaceutical formulations. As more individuals adopt specialized dietary patterns for health, ethical, or religious reasons, they seek pharmaceutical products that align with their dietary preferences and restrictions. Manufacturers are responding by developing formulations free from allergens, animal-derived ingredients, or other common dietary triggers, catering to a diverse range of consumer needs and preferences.
Opportunities :
- Expansion in emerging markets
- Development of innovative gelatin-based formulations
- Increasing demand for nutraceuticals and dietary supplements
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Growing trend towards vegan and halal gelatin alternatives - The growing trend towards vegan and halal gelatin alternatives is reshaping the landscape of the pharmaceutical industry, reflecting shifting consumer preferences towards plant-based and ethically sourced ingredients. This trend is driven by various factors, including the increasing number of consumers adopting vegan or vegetarian lifestyles, as well as the growing demand for products that adhere to halal dietary standards.
Vegan gelatin alternatives address the needs of consumers who choose to avoid animal-derived ingredients for ethical, environmental, or health reasons. Traditional gelatin, derived from animal sources such as pork or beef, is not compatible with vegan diets, leading to the development of plant-based alternatives. These alternatives utilize ingredients such as agar-agar (derived from seaweed), pectin (derived from fruits), carrageenan (derived from seaweed), or konjac (derived from the konjac plant) to mimic the functionalities of gelatin in pharmaceutical formulations. Vegan gelatin alternatives offer comparable properties in terms of gelling, binding, and encapsulation, allowing formulators to create products that meet the needs of vegan consumers without compromising on performance or efficacy.
The demand for halal gelatin alternatives has grown significantly in response to the preferences of Muslim consumers who adhere to Islamic dietary laws. Traditional gelatin sourced from non-halal sources may not be permissible for consumption by individuals seeking halal-certified products. As a result, there is a growing interest in gelatin alternatives that are produced in accordance with halal requirements, ensuring compliance with Islamic principles and dietary regulations. Halal gelatin alternatives may be derived from plant-based sources or from animals that have been slaughtered according to halal standards, providing consumers with options that align with their religious beliefs and values.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers are responding to the trend towards vegan and halal gelatin alternatives by reformulating their products to accommodate these preferences. This includes the development of gelatin-free capsules, vegetarian softgels, and other non-animal-derived formulations that meet the requirements of vegan and halal consumers. Additionally, manufacturers are seeking halal certification for their products to appeal to Muslim consumers in global markets where halal certification is increasingly valued.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market include :
- Darling Ingredients Inc.
- Nitta Gelatin Inc.
- Tessenderlo Group
- Gelita Ag
- Weishardt
- Lapi Gelatine S.P.A
- Junca Gelatines Sl
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Source
- Market Snapshot, By Function
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market Trends
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Aging population
- Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases
- Advancements in medical treatments
- Rising adoption of gelatin-based pharmaceuticals
- Restraints
- Stringent regulations
- Fluctuating raw material prices
- Growing consumer awareness regarding alternative ingredients
- Opportunities
- Expansion in emerging markets
- Development of innovative gelatin-based formulations
- Increasing demand for nutraceuticals and dietary supplements
- Growing trend towards vegan and halal gelatin alternatives
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
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Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, By Source, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Porcine
- Bovine Skin
- Bovine Bone
- Marine
- Poultry
- Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, By Function, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Bloom Value
- Stabilizing Agents
- Thickening Agents
- Gelling Agents & Other Functions
- Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Hard Capsules
- Softgel Capsules
- Tablets
- Absorbable Hemostats
- Others
- Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia/New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Pharmaceutical Gelatin Market, By Source, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Darling Ingredients Inc.
- Nitta Gelatin Inc.
- Tessenderlo Group
- Gelita Ag
- Weishardt
- Lapi Gelatine S.P.A
- Junca Gelatines Sl
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market