Bio-based emulsifiers gain ground

The global emulsifiers market is expected to grow from $12.15 bn in 2026 (approximately €10.8 bn) to $18.15 bn by 2031 (approximately €16.2 bn), representing an 8.4% CAGR, according to MarketsandMarkets. While food remains the largest end-use segment, cosmetics and personal care are also contributing significantly to growth, with emulsifiers playing a key role in the stability and texture of skincare, haircare and make-up formulations. Demand is increasingly shifting towards bio-based, natural and plant-derived solutions, a segment forecast to expand by 8.8% annually between 2026 and 2031. In Europe, the world’s third-largest regional market, sustainability and performance requirements are driving the development of more specialised emulsifying systems combining stability, sensoriality and formulation efficiency.