According to a new report published by Introspective Market Research, Locust Bean Gum Market by Grade Type, Application, and End-Use Industry, The Global Locust Bean Gum Market Size Was Valued at USD 268.50 Million in 2023 and is Projected to Reach USD 341.85 Million by 2032, Growing at a CAGR of 2.72%.

Market Overview

The Locust Bean Gum Market comprises natural hydrocolloids derived from the seeds of the carob tree. Locust bean gum (LBG), also known as carob gum, is widely used as a thickening, stabilizing, and gelling agent in food and industrial applications. Its excellent water-binding capacity, viscosity-enhancing properties, and compatibility with other hydrocolloids make it a preferred ingredient in processed food formulations.

Growth Driver

A key growth driver of the Locust Bean Gum Market is the increasing demand for natural and clean-label food ingredients. Consumers are becoming more conscious about product labels, favoring plant-derived additives over synthetic chemicals. Locust bean gum’s ability to enhance texture, prevent ice crystal formation in frozen products, and improve shelf life makes it highly valuable in processed foods. Furthermore, expanding dairy and convenience food consumption globally, particularly in emerging markets, continues to drive steady demand for hydrocolloids such as locust bean gum.

Market Opportunity

A significant opportunity lies in expanding applications within plant-based and vegan food products. As the plant-based dairy and meat alternatives sector grows, manufacturers require natural stabilizers and texturizers to mimic traditional textures. Locust bean gum is increasingly being used in plant-based ice creams, yogurt alternatives, and beverages. Additionally, innovation in pharmaceutical formulations and personal care products offers further scope for market expansion, especially as companies seek biodegradable and sustainable functional ingredients.

The Locust Bean Gum Market is segmented on the basis of Grade Type, Application, and End-Use Industry.

Grade Type

The Grade Type segment is further classified into Food Grade, Industrial Grade, and Pharmaceutical Grade. Among these, the Food Grade sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2023. Food-grade locust bean gum is widely used across dairy, bakery, confectionery, and frozen dessert products due to its superior thickening and stabilizing properties. Its compatibility with other gums such as xanthan gum enhances texture and consistency. The growing demand for processed and convenience foods globally has strengthened the dominance of the food-grade segment, particularly in developed markets.

Application

The Application segment is further classified into Thickening Agent, Stabilizer, Gelling Agent, and Others. Among these, the Stabilizer sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2023. Locust bean gum is extensively utilized as a stabilizer in ice creams and dairy beverages to prevent phase separation and improve mouthfeel. Its ability to control viscosity and enhance product texture makes it indispensable in food processing. Increasing demand for premium frozen desserts and processed dairy products has contributed significantly to this segment’s market leadership.

Some of The Leading/Active Market Players Are-

• DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (USA)
  • Cargill, Incorporated (USA)
  • Ingredion Incorporated (USA)
  • Tate & Lyle PLC (UK)
  • CP Kelco (USA)
  • Ashland Global Holdings Inc. (USA)
  • AEP Colloids (USA)
  • LBG Sicilia Ingredients Srl (Italy)
  • Carob S.A. (Greece)
  • Altrafine Gums (India)
  • Hindustan Gum & Chemicals Ltd. (India)
  • Lucid Colloids Ltd. (India)

and other active players.

Key Industry Developments

News 1:
In February 2024, a leading hydrocolloid manufacturer expanded its production capacity for natural gums to meet rising global demand.
The expansion focuses on enhancing supply chain efficiency and ensuring consistent product quality. Increased production capacity is expected to support growing demand from the food and beverage industry, particularly in Europe and North America.

News 2:
In October 2023, a major ingredient supplier launched a new clean-label stabilizer blend incorporating locust bean gum.
The new formulation targets plant-based dairy alternatives and premium frozen desserts. It offers improved texture stability and reduced formulation complexity, helping manufacturers respond to evolving consumer preferences for natural ingredients.

Key Findings of the Study

• Food-grade segment dominated in 2023
  • Stabilizer application held the largest share
  • Europe leads due to strong food processing industry
  • Clean-label demand drives steady growth
  • Plant-based foods create emerging opportunities