The Europe wheat starch market accounted for US$ 274.37 million in 2019, and is expected to reach US$ 323.69 million by 2027, it is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 2.3% during 2020–2027.
Wheat starch is obtained by wet milling of wheat flour, most preferably that from softer grade wheat. Wheat starch is derived from the processed endosperm of wheat. It is obtained by removing the protein from wheat flour. It has an appearance similar to that of a corn starch or flour. Wheat starch has become one of the vital parts of the food & beverages industry. It forms an essential ingredient used in the preparation of various food products due to its superior gelling, stabilizing and thickening properties. When used in food, wheat starch assists with texture, viscosity, gel formulation, binding and moisture retention. It is mainly employed as a thickening agent in the food industry. Wheat starch thickens the food through retrogradation and gelatinization. It is commonly used in sweeteners, such as glucose syrup, maltodextrin, and dextrose. It is employed as a stabilizer for sauces and puddings. Besides these, wheat starch is a type of starch that is believed to offer certain health benefits. It is considered to be a sugar substitute which helps in maintaing the insulin level in a human body. Wheat starch is extremely fibrous and tends to enhance the calories in the body. It also acts as a fat cutter which supports the demand for wheat starch amongst the fat conscious people.
Based on type, the Europe wheat starch market is segmented into native wheat starch and modified wheat starch. In 2019, the native wheat starch segment dominated the market. The modified wheat starch segment is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Native wheat starch is a carbohydrate obtained from wheat. It is physically extracted from wheat, which separates gluten and other proteins. Native wheat starch is also a plant-based component used in foods extracted from wheat. It is a white to off-white powder with a neutral smell and taste. Native wheat starch is used in a variety of foods. For instance, it is used to thicken custards, cookies, sauces, and instant foods. Furthermore, it can be used for binding and moisture retention as an emulsifier, a stabilizer, and a clouding and glazing agent. Moreover, it is used in sugar confectionery, bakery and snacks, dairy products (such as cheese), alcoholic beverages, sauces and soups, pasta, ready meals, and meat and seafood (such as surimi).
The wheat starch market in Europe is segmented into Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Russia and Rest of Europe. Transforming lifestyle trends concerning the food & beverages and consumer goods industry have had a noteworthy influence on the wheat starch market in Europe. The market is witnessing growth owing to the presence of well-established players, such as Roquette Frères, Cargill Incorporated, and Archer Daniels Midland Company, in this region. The popularity of wheat starch has increased within the region, particularly in Germany, France, and the UK. This is due to the benefits associated with this ingredient as well as high level of nutrients in it. It offers health benefits as it reduces the glucose level in blood, improves gastrointestinal issues, maintains the cholesterol level and makes a consumer feel full after a meal. Growing population and rising disposable income, together with busy lifestyles, led to the growth of the convenience food products market and apparently influencing the wheat starch market in Europe. Rising demand for convenience food produced with healthy ingredients among consumers is driving the market. Moreover, increasing trend of food-on-the-go in developed countries, such as Germany, France, Italy, the UK, and Russia, has become a prominent driving factor for the wheat starch market. In addition, the growing demand for gluten-free products is also driving the market growth in Europe.
Cargill Incorporated, Roquette Freres, The Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, Agrana Group, Tereos SA, Crespel and Deiters, New Zealand Starch Company, and Sacchetto S.p.A. are among the major players operating in the Europe wheat starch market.
The COVID-19 outbreak started in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. As of January 2021, Russia, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Germany and Poland are among the worst-affected countries in the region in terms of COVID-19 confirmed cases and reported deaths. The pandemic is hindering economies and industries in various countries due to lockdowns, travel bans, and business shutdowns. Shutdowns in the food & beverages industry and disruptions in supply chains are limiting supplies of various products. Russia has the highest number of confirmed cases across Europe. The shutdown of many food processing plants during lockdown is restraining the growth of the wheat starch market in Europe.
The overall Europe wheat starch market size has been derived in accordance to both primary and secondary sources. To begin the research process, exhaustive secondary research has been conducted using internal and external sources to obtain qualitative and quantitative information related to the market. Also, multiple primary interviews have been conducted with industry participants and commentators to validate data, as well as to gain more analytical insights into the topic. The participants who typically involved in the process include industry experts, such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, along with external consultants, such as valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the Europe wheat starch market.