The vitamin K2 market is anticipated to grow significantly, reaching an estimated US$ 1,160,779.02 thousand by 2030, up from US$ 144,571.42 thousand in 2022. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 29.7% from 2022 to 2030.
The expansion of the vitamin K2 market is primarily driven by the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and increasing cases of osteoporosis among both adults and infants. Nevertheless, the market's growth is being hampered by a lack of awareness regarding the advantages of vitamin K2.
Rising Incidence of CVD Fuels Vitamin K2 Market Expansion
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a major global health issue, with its prevalence on the rise in recent years. This increase can be attributed to factors such as an aging population, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy dietary habits, along with a growing number of risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension. The World Health Organization reports that CVD is responsible for approximately 17.9 million deaths annually worldwide. Furthermore, the European Environment Agency indicates that over 6 million new CVD cases are diagnosed each year, with more than 1.7 million fatalities attributed to CVD, accounting for 37% of all deaths in the European Union in 2022, solidifying its status as a leading cause of mortality.
Researchers are investigating various preventive and therapeutic strategies to address CVD, with vitamin K2 emerging as a potential contributor to cardiovascular health. Vitamin K2, also known as menaquinone, is a form of vitamin K that may offer cardiovascular benefits. One of the key ways vitamin K2 influences cardiovascular health is through its role in calcium metabolism regulation. Arterial calcification, which involves calcium deposits accumulating in arterial walls, is a significant factor in the development of atherosclerosis, a primary cause of CVD. Vitamin K2 has been shown to inhibit arterial calcification by activating proteins that regulate calcium deposition, thereby lowering the risk of atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular issues.
Numerous observational studies have explored the relationship between vitamin K2 intake and CVD outcomes. While these studies do not establish a definitive cause-and-effect link, they provide valuable insights. For instance, research published in the Journal of Nutrition indicated that higher vitamin K2 intake correlates with a reduced risk of mortality from coronary heart disease. Consequently, vitamin K2 may serve as a beneficial adjunctive therapy or preventive measure alongside lifestyle modifications, which include maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins; achieving a healthy weight; engaging in regular physical activity; managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels; and quitting smoking. Thus, the increasing prevalence of CVD is a significant driver of the vitamin K2 market.
Vitamin K2 Market: Segmental Analysis
The vitamin K2 market is categorized based on product type, dosage forms, source, application, and geographical region.
In terms of product type, the vitamin K2 market is divided into MK-4, MK-7, and combination products. As of 2022, the MK-7 segment held the largest market share and is projected to exhibit the fastest CAGR from 2022 to 2030. Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) is a superior, fat-soluble form of vitamin K2 that supports various bodily functions. It is the only form of vitamin K2 that has been shown to provide 24-hour protection for bones and teeth with just one daily dose. MK-7 has a longer half-life in the body, remaining in the bloodstream longer than other forms of vitamin K2, due to its presence in liver tissues, bones, arteries, and soft tissues. Therefore, MK-7 supplementation is typically taken once daily. According to MenaQ7, a daily intake of 45 mcg of MK-7 can enhance carboxylation and activate vitamin K-dependent proteins, such as osteocalcin for bone health and Matrix GLA Protein (MGP) for cardiovascular health.
Regarding dosage forms, the vitamin K2 market is segmented into capsules & tablets, powder, and oils. In 2022, the powder segment dominated the market and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2022 to 2030. Vitamin K2 powder dissolves quickly in water and other liquids, leading to faster absorption compared to capsules or tablets. This form of vitamin K2 is effective in managing high calcium levels, reducing calcium absorption, and lowering the risk of kidney stones or osteoporosis. Additionally, vitamin K2 can counteract the bleeding effects of anticoagulants like warfarin. These factors contribute to the anticipated growth of the powder segment during the forecast period.
By source, the vitamin K2 market is divided into natural and synthetic categories. In 2022, the natural segment held a larger market share and is projected to grow at a faster CAGR from 2022 to 2030. Natural vitamin K2, found in dark leafy greens, is crucial for metabolism and blood clotting. It is also present in small amounts in offal and fermented foods, with gut bacteria contributing to its production. Fermented foods are excellent sources of vitamin K2, while offal and high-fat dairy products contain significant levels due to their fat-soluble nature.
In terms of application, the vitamin K2 market is segmented into pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and food, and others. The pharmaceuticals segment held the largest market share in 2022, while the nutraceuticals and food segment is expected to grow rapidly due to increasing consumer demand for nutritional and dietary supplements to address various deficiencies. Vitamin K2 is often added to food products to enhance their nutritional value. It can be consumed through food, health and dietary supplements, and functional foods, including the traditional Japanese dish "natto," which consists of fermented soybeans.
Vitamin K2 Market: Regional Insights
Geographically, the vitamin K2 market is divided into five key regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South & Central America, and the Middle East & Africa. In 2022, North America held the largest share of the vitamin K2 market, while the Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the period from 2022 to 2030.
The Asia Pacific vitamin K2 market includes countries such as China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, and the rest of the region. The growth of the vitamin K2 market in this area is largely driven by partnerships between companies, the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, and an aging population. A research article titled "Cardiovascular Disease Mortality and Potential Risk Factor in China," published in April 2022, highlighted that CVD poses a significant healthcare challenge in China, with 290 million individuals affected by various cardiac conditions. The article noted that China accounts for 40% of global CVD-related mortality. Vitamin K2 is essential for cardiovascular health as it helps regulate calcium levels in the body. The use of vitamin K2 supplements is associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes by reducing arterial stiffness and systemic calcification. Given its affordability and FDA-approved safety, vitamin K2 supplements are a promising option for enhancing cardiovascular health, leading to increased demand in China and subsequently boosting market growth.
Several companies are implementing strategic initiatives to maintain competitiveness in the market. For example, in June 2022, Balchem Corporation completed the acquisition of Kappa Bioscience AS, expanding its product offerings to include Kappa's specialty vitamin K2. In October 2022, PLT Health Solutions, Inc. received non-GMO Project verification for its menatto product, which was introduced in the U.S. in March 2022, produced by J-Oil Mills in Tokyo, Japan. Additionally, in May 2023, DSM merged with Firmenich to create a robust platform for the development and manufacturing of essential nutrients, flavors, and fragrances, launching a new brand called dsm-firmenich to enhance growth opportunities in the nutrition, health, and beauty sectors. Furthermore, in April 2023, DSM announced negotiations to acquire Adare Pharma Solutions' Adare Biome for US$ 301.2 million (?275 million), which will enable DSM to broaden its human health and animal nutrition offerings.