Medical Foods Market Size
| Study Period | 2019 - 2029 |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 10 Million |
| Market Size (2029) | USD 20 Million |
| CAGR (2024 - 2029) | 5.30 % |
| Fastest Growing Market | Asia Pacific |
| Largest Market | North America |
| Market Concentration | High |
Major Players
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Medical Foods Market Analysis
The Medical Foods Market size is estimated at USD 10 million in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 20 million by 2029, at a CAGR of 5.30% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
Factors propelling market growth include the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, the rising geriatric population, and the increasing shift toward disease-specific formulas. Additionally, the activities of prominent players are expected to be significant factors for market growth.
The growing demand for chronic diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's, and cardiovascular issues, is on the rise, fueled by sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary choices, and an aging demographic. Additionally, surging obesity rates and environmental factors play a role in this trend. As more individuals pursue effective management strategies for these ailments, the demand for specialized medical foods is anticipated to rise, highlighting substantial market opportunities. Additionally, as per the Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures 2024 report, about 6.9 million people in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s in 2024, and this number is projected to reach 13 million by 2050.
As per the same source, the US population aged 65 and older continues to expand, and the number and proportion of the population diagnosed with Alzheimer's will also increase. Thus, patients with Alzheimer’s often require specific dietary interventions to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, which is expected to fuel the market for medical foods in the forecast period.
Additionally, as cancer cases rise, the demand for medical foods surges. These specialized nutritional solutions play a crucial role in helping patients manage symptoms, recover more effectively, and elevate their quality of life throughout treatment. For instance, according to the October 2023 report of Macmillan Cancer Support, the incidence of cancer in the United Kingdom is increasing very rapidly, and it was estimated that the number of people living with cancer in the United Kingdom was projected to grow from 3.5 million in 2025 to 4 million by 2030. Hence, with the global surge in cancer cases, the need for personalized nutritional interventions is set to increase, paving the way for significant opportunities in the medical foods industry.
Furthermore, the rising geriatric population is a significant factor driving the medical foods market, as older adults often require specialized nutritional support due to age-related health conditions. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cognitive decline necessitate tailored dietary interventions to manage these health challenges effectively. For instance, according to the Asian Bank Development (ADB), in May 2024, the population of individuals aged 60 and older in developing Asia-Pacific countries is anticipated to reach approximately 1.2 billion, nearly doubling by 2050. Therefore, as the elderly population grows, the demand for medical foods specifically designed to address their unique nutritional needs will increase. This trend presents a significant opportunity for market expansion and the development of innovative products that support healthy aging and enhance the quality of life for the geriatric demographic, which will further fuel market growth in the forecast period.
Manufacturers are actively focused on launching products and expanding new facilities in the market for global expansion. For instance, in November 2023, Danone introduced Fortimel, its first medical nutrition product for adults, in China. This product, classified as food for special medical purposes, is a crucial element of Danone's strategy in the Chinese market. The company seeks to utilize its scientific expertise across all life stages, with a particular emphasis on expanding the adult medical food segment.
Similarly, in September 2023, Danone unveiled a EUR 50 million (USD 55.81 million) expansion of its production facility in Opole, Poland. This strategic move is designed to cater to the surging global demand for medical nutrition. With chronic diseases on the rise and an aging population, Danone is positioning itself to strengthen its foothold in the medical foods market. The expansion is set to empower Danone to cater to patients worldwide.
Due to the aforementioned factors, such as the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, the rising geriatric population, and manufacturers increasingly focusing on launches and expansion, the market is expected to continue to grow over the coming years.
However, a lack of awareness about the benefits of medical foods presents a significant obstacle to the adoption of medical foods in the forecast period.
Medical Foods Market Trends
Cancer Segment Expected to Hold a Significant Share in the Market Over the Forecast Period
The cancer segment significantly contributes to the growth of the medical foods market, as patients often need specialized nutritional support to manage treatment side effects and improve recovery. With the increasing prevalence of cancer globally, there is a rising demand for tailored medical foods that address specific dietary needs associated with various cancer types. These products can improve patient outcomes, boost immune function, and aid in weight management, further fueling market expansion.
The cancer segment drives growth in the medical foods market due to the increasing prevalence of cancer and the need for specialized nutritional support for patients undergoing treatment. Medical foods tailored for cancer patients help manage side effects, improve recovery, and enhance overall quality of life. For instance, according to data updated by the Spanish Network of Cancer Registries (REDECAN) in January 2024, approximately 286,664 new cancer cases were expected to be diagnosed in Spain in 2024 as compared to 279,260 new cases of cancer diagnosed in Spain in 2023.
According to data from the Global Cancer Observatory, Germany reported approximately 605,805 new cancer diagnoses, with 323,545 cases in men and 282,260 in women in 2022. Similarly, according to data updated in May 2024 by Cancer Research UK, the United Kingdom is expected to see an increase in the annual number of new cancer cases, from approximately 420,000 cases in the 2023-2025 period to about 506,000 cases between 2038 and 2040.
Furthermore, according to the overview of cancer in France published in 2023, around 433,136 cases of cancer were diagnosed in France in 2023, of which 57% were men and 43% were women. Therefore, the growing number of cancer cases will drive the medical foods market by increasing the demand for specialized nutritional products that help manage treatment side effects, improve patient outcomes, and support overall health. As healthcare providers and patients seek effective dietary interventions tailored to cancer care, the market is anticipated to expand in the forecast period.
Moreover, government partnerships with laboratories on food supplements designed to improve the quality of life for cancer patients are propelling the growth of the cancer segment in the market. For instance, in June 2024, the Department of Atomic Energy and M/s. IDRS Labs Pvt. Ltd from Bengaluru launched AKTOCYTE, a food supplement/nutraceutical to improve the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. AKTOCYTE secured approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). With decades of scientific research at DAE as its foundation, the development of AKTOCYTE tablets marks a pivotal advancement in making cancer care more affordable in India.
In conclusion, ongoing cancer cases and the government's increasing focus on launching cancer-related medical foods to manage diseases like cancer are anticipated to result in significant growth of the cancer segment of the medical foods market over the forecast period.
North America Expected to Hold a Significant Market Share Over the Forecast Period
In North America, market growth is propelled by the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, a surge in preterm birth cases, and a trend among manufacturers toward collaboration agreements.
As chronic diseases like cancer become more prevalent, the medical foods market is expanding. This growth is fueled by the rising demand for specialized nutritional support, which helps manage treatment side effects and promotes recovery. The increasing burden of chronic diseases is projected to drive the market's growth in the forecast period. For instance, according to the American Cancer Society’s 2024 update, about 2.0 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in the United States in 2024. Also, every day, around 5,480 cases of new cancer are likely to be identified in the United States. Thus, the greater cancer incidence has hiked the demand for medical foods, which is expected to boost market growth over the forecast period.
Similarly, as per the November 2023 update by the Canadian Cancer Society, about 239 thousand Canadians were diagnosed with cancer in 2023, while 2 in 5 Canadians are expected to develop cancer in their lifetime. Thus, the high prevalence of cancer among the population necessitates the demand for medical foods, which is expected to fuel market growth over the forecast period. Therefore, the growing prevalence of chronic diseases like cancer will significantly drive the medical foods market by heightening demand for specialized nutritional products that cater to the unique needs of affected patients.
Moreover, the rising cases of preterm birth are driving growth in the medical foods market as there is an increased need for specialized nutritional support for both premature infants and their mothers. Medical foods formulated for preterm infants often contain higher concentrations of essential nutrients to promote growth and development, addressing their unique dietary requirements. For instance, according to the JAMA Network, in May 2024, in the United States, many infants were affected by these outcomes, with 10.5% born preterm and 28.8% born early term. Similarly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in May 2024, approximately 10% of infants born in the United States were affected by preterm birth in 2022. Therefore, as the incidence of preterm births continues to rise, the demand for medical foods specifically designed to support the health of premature infants and enhance maternal nutrition is estimated to grow significantly in the forecast period.
Moreover, companies focusing on collaboration in developing medical foods are boosting the market's growth. In February 2023, EraCal Therapeutics and Nestlé SA began working together to research new nutraceuticals for controlling food intake. In collaboration with Nestlé Health Science, EraCal leverages Nestlé's distinctive nutraceutical assets alongside its innovative drug discovery platform. This partnership aspires to redefine first-line nutraceuticals for individuals battling metabolic disorders.
Therefore, the North American medical foods market is expected to witness significant growth due to the abovementioned factors, like the growing cases of various chronic diseases such as cancer, rising cases of preterm births, and manufacturers increasingly focusing on collaboration agreements.
Medical Foods Industry Overview
The medical foods market is moderately fragmented in nature due to the presence of several companies operating globally as well as regionally. Major players in the market are focused on product launches and advancements to expand their presence in the global market. The competitive landscape includes an analysis of a few international and local companies that hold market shares and are well known, including Danone SA, Nestlé SA, Abbott, Fresenius Kabi AG, and Primus Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Medical Foods Market Leaders
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Danone S.A.
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Nestlé S.A.
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Abbott
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Fresenius Kabi AG
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Primus Pharmaceuticals Inc.
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Medical Foods Market News
- September 2024: Danone unveiled plans to make a EUR 20 million investment in its Lalru, Punjab, nutrition facility in India over the next four years. This investment aims to enhance Danone's production capabilities in early-life and medical nutrition product areas where the company holds a global leadership position.
- May 2024: Danone invested EUR 70 million (USD 76 million) to enhance its Steenvoorde production facility in France. This investment aims to strengthen Danone's specialized nutrition category, particularly by optimizing the capacity for its oral nutrition supplements. With these upgrades, the facility is set to produce 20 million liters of nutrition products by 2026, catering to patients with critical health conditions, including cancer.
Medical Foods Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET DYNAMICS
4.1 Market Overview
4.2 Market Drivers
4.2.1 Growing Prevalence of Chronic Diseases
4.2.2 Rising Geriatric Population
4.2.3 Increased Demand for Targeted Nutritional Interventions
4.3 Market Restraints
4.3.1 Lack of Awareness About Benefits of Medical Foods
4.4 Porter's Five Forces Analysis
4.4.1 Threat of New Entrants
4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
4.4.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
4.4.4 Threat of Substitute Products
4.4.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (Market Size by Value - USD)
5.1 By Product
5.1.1 Powder
5.1.2 Pills
5.1.3 Liquid
5.1.4 Other Products
5.2 By Application
5.2.1 Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
5.2.2 Depression
5.2.3 Diabetics Neuropathy
5.2.4 Cancer
5.2.5 Alzheimer's Disorder
5.2.6 Metabolic Disorder
5.2.7 Other Applications
5.3 By Route of Administration
5.3.1 Oral
5.3.2 Enteral
5.4 By Distribution Channel
5.4.1 Hospital Pharmacy
5.4.2 Retail Pharmacy
5.4.3 Online Pharmacy
5.4.4 Other Distribution Channels
5.5 Geography
5.5.1 North America
5.5.1.1 United States
5.5.1.2 Canada
5.5.1.3 Mexico
5.5.2 Europe
5.5.2.1 Germany
5.5.2.2 United Kingdom
5.5.2.3 France
5.5.2.4 Italy
5.5.2.5 Spain
5.5.2.6 Rest of Europe
5.5.3 Asia-Pacific
5.5.3.1 China
5.5.3.2 Japan
5.5.3.3 India
5.5.3.4 Australia
5.5.3.5 South Korea
5.5.3.6 Rest of Asia-Pacific
5.5.4 Middle East and Africa
5.5.4.1 GCC
5.5.4.2 South Africa
5.5.4.3 Rest of Middle East and Africa
5.5.5 South America
5.5.5.1 Brazil
5.5.5.2 Argentina
5.5.5.3 Rest of South America
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
6.1 Company Profiles
6.1.1 Danone SA
6.1.2 Nestle SA
6.1.3 Abbott
6.1.4 Targeted Medical Pharma Inc.
6.1.5 Primus Pharmaceuticals Inc.
6.1.6 Fresenius Kabi AG
6.1.7 Mead Johnson & Company LLC
6.1.8 Medtrition Inc.
6.1.9 FrieslandCampina
6.1.10 Morinaga Milk Industry
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
Medical Foods Industry Segmentation
As per the scope of the report, medical foods are specially formulated products designed to meet the dietary needs of individuals with specific medical conditions or diseases. They are intended to manage such conditions under medical supervision and provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in regular diets. Unlike standard foods or dietary supplements, medical foods are regulated as foods but require a physician’s recommendation for use.
The medical foods market is segmented by product, application, route of administration, distribution channel, and geography. By product, the market is segmented into powders, pills, liquids, and other products. By application, the market is segmented into attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, diabetic neuropathy, cancer, Alzheimer's disorder, metabolic disorder, and other applications. By route of administration, the market is segmented into oral and enteral. By distribution channel, the market is segmented into hospital pharmacy, retail pharmacy, online pharmacy, and other distribution channels. By geography, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and South America. The report also covers the estimated market sizes and trends for 17 countries across major regions globally. The report offers the market sizes and forecasts in value (USD) for the above segments.
| By Product | |
| Powder | |
| Pills | |
| Liquid | |
| Other Products |
| By Application | |
| Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | |
| Depression | |
| Diabetics Neuropathy | |
| Cancer | |
| Alzheimer's Disorder | |
| Metabolic Disorder | |
| Other Applications |
| By Route of Administration | |
| Oral | |
| Enteral |
| By Distribution Channel | |
| Hospital Pharmacy | |
| Retail Pharmacy | |
| Online Pharmacy | |
| Other Distribution Channels |
| Geography | ||||||||
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Medical Foods Market Research FAQs
How big is the Medical Foods Market?
The Medical Foods Market size is expected to reach USD 10 million in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 5.30% to reach USD 20 million by 2029.
What is the current Medical Foods Market size?
In 2024, the Medical Foods Market size is expected to reach USD 10 million.
Who are the key players in Medical Foods Market?
Danone S.A., Nestlé S.A., Abbott, Fresenius Kabi AG and Primus Pharmaceuticals Inc. are the major companies operating in the Medical Foods Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Medical Foods Market?
Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2024-2029).
Which region has the biggest share in Medical Foods Market?
In 2024, the North America accounts for the largest market share in Medical Foods Market.
What years does this Medical Foods Market cover, and what was the market size in 2023?
In 2023, the Medical Foods Market size was estimated at USD 9.47 million. The report covers the Medical Foods Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The report also forecasts the Medical Foods Market size for years: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.
Medical Foods Industry Report
Statistics for the 2024 Medical Foods market share, size and revenue growth rate, created by Mordor Intelligence™ Industry Reports. Medical Foods analysis includes a market forecast outlook for 2024 to 2029 and historical overview. Get a sample of this industry analysis as a free report PDF download.
