MARKET REPORT 82 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE September 2025 Animal Feed Carotenoids and Global Market Status Carotenoids are natural pigments that animals obtain through their diet and are used both for pigmentation and as health supplements. The global animal feed carotenoids market reached approximately $3.7 billion in 2024, driven by increasing demand for animal products, a trend toward natural ingredients, and quality-focused growth. Regionally, Asia-Pacific is the largest and fastest-growing market, while Europe exhibits a mature and regulated structure. The Americas stand out for their production capacity and quality demands, while the Middle East and Africa have high growth potential. Animal health, natural ingredient demands, and advanced feed formulations support market growth, while raw material costs and carotenoid stability issues pose some challenges. By Derya Gulsoy Yildiz Carotenoids are fat-soluble natural pigments synthesized by plants, algae, bacteria, and fungi. Animals cannot produce these pigments and therefore must obtain them through their diet. Carotenoids are divided into two main groups: Carotenes (such as β-carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A) and xanthophylls (oxidized or hydroxylated carotenoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, and canthaxanthin). In modern animal production, carotenoids are used for both pigmentation and health-promoting purposes. Although feed may naturally contain carotenoids, they are usually added as supplements to feed formulations to ensure animals receive specific amounts and levels. Photo: Freepik
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