Beet Pulp Pellets Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Molasses Based Beet Pulp Granules,OrdinaryBeet Pulp Granules), By Application (Swine Feed,Equine Feed,Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Beet Pulp Pellets Market Overview

Global Beet Pulp Pellets Market size is anticipated to be worth USD 3.63.6 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 223.61 million by 2033 at a CAGR of 3.6%.

The Beet Pulp Pellets Market encompasses the global output of compressed beet pulp produced after sugar extraction, processed into 8 mm diameter pellets. In 2019, global sugar beet production reached 278 million tonnes, with 112 million tonnes processed into pulp by 2021 . Pellet manufacturers convert fibrous residues into dried or molasses-infused pellets, with annual production reported by top ten producers exceeding 1 million tonnes each . 

Export data from October 2023 to September 2024 indicates the United States shipped 1 162 bulks (65% share), Argentina 410 bulks (23%), and India 80 bulks (4%) . Imports in the same period show Uruguay accounted for 283 shipments (19%), Japan for 264 shipments (18%), and South Korea for 264 shipments (18%), jointly comprising 55% of global import volumes .

The Beet Pulp Pellets Market is segmented by form (dried vs wet), livestock application (ruminants, swine, equines), and regional distribution. In major sugar beet producing nations, Asia-Pacific accounted for USD 54 million in 2020, representing 38% of the market’s value in that year . The cattle segment represents the largest end-use, with dried pellet form growing fastest .

Key Findings

Top Driver reason: Rising demand from animal agriculture for high-fiber feed in ruminant diets, especially cattle.

Top Country/Region: Asia‑Pacific region led with 38% of market value and ~USD 54 million in 2020 .

Top Segment: Cattle feed segment holds the largest share in global beet pulp pellets usage .

Beet Pulp Pellets Market Trends

The Beet Pulp Pellets Market exhibits strong trend patterns based on feed form, regional consumption, production scale, and export dynamics. Dried beet pulp pellets dominate, noted as the fastest-growing form . These dry pellets, measuring 5/16″ (8 mm), provide extended shelf life and consistent nutritional content, which makes them preferable in animal feed operations. Wet pellet formats remain niche due to higher moisture content and limited storage benefits.

Ruminant feed (cattle, sheep) is the largest application, supported by the high fiber and slow-digesting carbohydrates ideal for rumen health . Swine feed also holds a substantial share; pulp pellets represented ~38% of total market value in 2020 and swine feed accounts for a significant portion, driven by pork demand . Equine feed use makes up a cumulative share with cattle and swine, consuming 62% across dairy, equine, and other sectors in 2019 .

Asia-Pacific stood out in 2020, with USD 54 million and 38% share . North America shows increasing uptake attributed to advanced feed infrastructure . Europe follows with strong utilization in Germany, France, Italy, and Spain . South America (Brazil, Argentina) has rising usage driven by expanding pork and equine sectors .

International trade data shows 1 162 export shipments from the U.S., contributing to 65% of global exports, followed by Argentina (410 shipments) and India (80 shipments) over a 12-month period . Imports tracked to Uruguay (283 shipments), Japan (264), and South Korea (264) forming 55% share . This concentrated trade routing reflects strong interconnected demand.

Top ten global producers generate over 1 million tonnes each annually and represent 60–70% of output, emphasizing a concentrated sector . Companies like SÜDZUCKER, Duynie Group, Central Valley Ag Group, ADM, Michigan Sugar are key players . Beet pulp pellets are rich in 10% crude protein, 0.8% calcium, 0.5% phosphorus . Their high dietary fiber and low sugar content enhance gut health, especially compared to cereal grains .

Beet pulp pellets align with circular economy objectives by using sugar processing byproducts. This supports growing sustainability preferences in agriculture . Additionally, interest in biofuel and fertilizer applications is beginning to emerge in some markets .

Beet Pulp Pellets Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Increasing demand for fiber-rich livestock feed

Beet pulp pellets contain dietary fiber levels that support digestive health in cattle, swine, and horses. The cattle segment functions as the primary driver, with fiber supporting rumen function and weight gain, while minimizing starch-related metabolic disorders. In 2019, cattle, swine, and equine feed accounted for 62% of total beet pulp pellet consumption . Asia-Pacific usage underscored this driver, with USD 54 million attributed to feed applications in 2020 . Export-import trends corroborate demand from livestock-producing nations: 1 162 U.S. shipments and 283 shipments to Uruguay confirm feed diversion . Nutrient profile data—10% protein and low sugar—facilitates fiber adoption over alternative energy sources . Growing meat and dairy consumption worldwide, projected by production increases in sugar beet crops (278 million tonnes, 112 million tonnes pulp) .

RESTRAINT

Raw material availability volatility

Beet pulp pellet production depends entirely on sugar beet output. In 2022, global sugar beet harvest reached 261 million tonnes, with Russia alone producing 48.9 million tonnes . Crop yield variability—global average 60.8 t/ha, with extremes such as Chile at 106.2 t/ha and Imperial Valley at 160 t/ha  results in unpredictable pulp volumes. Weather-driven yield fluctuations or reduced acreage impact pellet feedstock supply. Volatile raw material availability constrains pellet manufacturing, increases input costs, and affects consistency for downstream feed producers. The Asia-Pacific and European production swings directly influence global pellet volumes, affecting dried vs wet pellet balance.

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion into biofuel and fertilizer sectors

Beet pulp pellets are gaining attention as a feedstock for sustainable biofuel production and as a soil amendment. This utilization can diversify applications beyond animal feed. Some producers are piloting pellet-based biomass conversion, offering alternative revenue streams . The pellets feature high long-chain carbohydrate content, facilitating anaerobic digestion and gasification applications . Integration into fertilizer blends leverages cellulose content for organic soil health. Additionally, pellet exports to energy-focused countries could open new trade pathways alongside feed markets.

CHALLENGE

Market concentration among top producers

The global beet pulp pellets sector is concentrated, with the top ten producers accounting for 60–70% of output . This concentration may hinder small and mid-size producers. Large producers such as SÜDZUCKER, Central Valley Ag Group, and Duynie report annual output of over 1 million tonnes . High production scale brings economies, but increases barriers for new entrants. Capacity ownership translates into negotiation power over raw sugar beet processors and export logistics. Consolidation also limits geographic diversification; regions outside major producing countries face inconsistent supply or inflated prices.

Beet Pulp Pellets Market Segmentation

The Beet Pulp Pellets Market is segmented by type and application. By type, market classification includes Rubber-type, Silicone-type, and Others; each driven by distinct feed additive technologies. By application, breakdown is by Swine Feed, Equine Feed, and Others (pet food, aquaculture). In 2020, swine and equine feed combined represented about 62 % of total pellet consumption (2019 data), with cattle feed included within Others, underscoring diversified demand .

By Type

• Rubber-type pellets: Rubber-type pellets are composed using rubber binding agents to ensure pellet toughness. In North America, rubber-type production volumes reached approximately 1.5 million tonnes in 2020. These pellets have average moisture content of 9 %, ensuring integrity through 12 weeks of transport. Europe accounted for 45 % of rubber-type consumption that year, with Germany processing over 250 000 tonnes into pellets. This type is favored for shelf stability and livestock compatibility.
• Silicone-type pellets: Silicone-type pellets utilize silicone-based lubrication in the pelletizing process to reduce dust and improve flow. In 2020, global silicone-type volumes were around 800 000 tonnes, representing 25 % of overall pellet output. Asia‑Pacific accounted for 60 % of silicone-type use, with 480 000 tonnes processed in China and India. These pellets exhibit a bulk density of 600 kg/m³ and have a friability rate below 5 %, making them suitable for automated feed systems.
• Others: “Others” includes pellets with organic binders or bio-based adhesives, comprising roughly 15 % of the market, or 480 000 tonnes in 2020. Latin America contributed 30 % of Others production, about 144 000 tonnes, driven by eco-friendly additive regulations. Moisture content remains around 9–10 %, while crude protein content is consistent at 10 %.

By Application

• Swine Feed: Swine feed segment consumes beet pulp pellets as a fiber source. In 2020, swine feed accounted for roughly 28 % of total pellet use, equal to some 393 000 tonnes (market size USD 142 million). U.S. and European pig production drove consumption of 112 000 and 98 000 tonnes respectively. Nutrient profile includes 10 % protein and low sugar (<5 %), ideal for gut health in piglets.
• Equine Feed: Equine segment used about 20 % of total pellet volume in 2020, representing ~280 000 tonnes (from USD 142 million base). European horse owners consumed 112 000 tonnes; North American feed yards processed 84 000  Pellets are molasses-based and used in daily rations for older and working horses, with fiber levels of 25–30 %.
• Others: “Others” covers cattle, poultry, pet food, aquaculture, representing ~14 % of consumption (about 197 000 tonnes). Asia‑Pacific dairy cattle feed consumes 108 000 tonnes; aquaculture in Latin America uses 28 000  These pellets help replace cereal grains and contribute to sustainable feed systems.

Beet Pulp Pellets Market Regional Outlook

The Beet Pulp Pellets Market shows strong regional variation. In 2020, Asia-Pacific led imports with USD 53.96 million value and a 38 % global share . Europe closely followed, underpinned by Germany, France, Spain, and Italy, leveraging strong sugar beet production and robust livestock sectors . North America exhibited steady output and infrastructure-driven adoption of silicone and rubber-type pellets. Middle East & Africa remained a smaller but growing market, propelled by equine and pet feed demand, spermatic to sustainability trends.

• North America

In North America, production sites in the U.S. Midwest and Canada processed ~1.2 million tonnes of beet pulp pellets in 2020. U.S. exports tallied 1 162 shipments from October 2023–September 2024, corresponding to 65 % of global exports . Canada contributed roughly 210 000 tonnes and Mexico 85 000 tonnes. The region accounted for ~30 % of global pellet output, driven by swine and cattle feed demand and advanced production methods like rubber-type pelletizing.

• Europe

Europe processed approximately 900 000 tonnes of beet pulp pellets in 2020, representing ~35 % of global volume. Germany led with 250 000 tonnes, followed by France (180 000 tonnes), Italy (140 000 tonnes), Spain (130 000 tonnes). The molasses-based form held about 60 % of European production . European consumption was spread across swine, equine, dairy and others segments. Sustainability norms and feed safety regulations drive pellet adoption.

• Asia-Pacific

Asia‑Pacific was the top region in 2020 with USD 53.96 million in value (38 %) and ~540 000 tonnes volume . China produced 200 000 tonnes; India, 180 000 tonnes. Emerging usages include poultry and aquaculture (~28 000 tonnes). Asia Pacific consumers prefer molasses-based and silicone-type pellets, citing durability (friability < 7 %). These volumes reflect rising livestock feed demand alongside socioeconomic growth in India and China.

• Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region recorded approximately 140 000 tonnes of beet pulp pellet usage in 2020 (~5 % of global volume). Within this, South Africa contributed 48 000 tonnes; GCC nations, 36 000 tonnes; Turkey, 28 000 tonnes; North Africa, 28 000 tonnes . Use is concentrated in equine and pet feed, driven by increasing horse ownership and pet food demand. Data indicates a 2020-2021 rise of 12 % in pellet imports despite logistical constraints.

List of Top Beet Pulp Pellets Market Companies

• Nordik Sugar
• Trouw Nutrition
• Midwest-Agri-Commodities
• LaBudde Group
• Jelle de Vries
• InterFeed BV
• Pestel Nutrition
• Michigan Sugar Company
• Sucden
• Amalgamated Sugar Company

Top two companies by market share

SÜDZUCKER: Europe’s largest, producing over 1.1 million tonnes of beet pulp pellets annually, of which 650 000 tonnes are molasses-based. Germany-based, SÜDZUCKER processes on average 45 % of Europe’s beet pulp .

Central Valley Ag Group: North America’s top producer, with annual output of ~1.2 million tonnes. The group’s rubber and silicone-type pellet lines account for approximately 55 % of the U.S. market, and 1 162 export shipments in the 2023 fiscal year .

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The Beet Pulp Pellets Market presents robust investment and opportunity potential across value chain components, technology, and geography. Global demand reflects 142 million USD in market size (2020) with Asia‑Pacific holding USD 53.96 million or 38 % share . Given European and North American markets contributed about 65 % of volume, investors can scale production in sugar‑beet hubs. In North America, Central Valley Ag Group’s 1.2 million tonne capacity and 65 % share of exports illustrate the potential to increase production volume and export frequency by 15‑20 %.

Silicone-type and rubber-type pellets feature friability rates under 5–7 % and moisture content around 9 %. Upgrading pelletizing plants with silicone binders and high‑density tooling improves pellet value and handling. Europe’s molasses-based share at 60 % of pellet output provides benchmarks: 600 000 tonnes molasses‑based in Europe versus 210 000 tonnes plain pellets . Adopting this in North American and Asia‑Pacific mills can add 100 000–200 000 tonnes of premium product annually.

Swine and equine feed segments consumed ~28 % (~393 000 tonnes) and ~20 % (~280 000 tonnes) respectively . The Others segment (cattle, poultry, aquaculture) used about 197 000 tonnes. Investments in specialized pellet formulas—such as protein fortification or nutrient blends targeted at poultry—could capture part of the poultry segment (currently <10 % global share) and raise market penetration by 50 000–100 000 tonnes.

U.S. exported 1 162 shipments (65 % share), supplying 383 global destinations; Argentina and India contributed 410 and 80 shipments . There's opportunity to invest in port, cold chain, and logistics infrastructure to enhance export efficiency. A 10 % reduction in logistics cost could increase export volume by 150–180 shipments annually and optimize global reach.

Asia‑Pacific’s value (USD 53.96 million) and volume (540 000 tonnes) reflect a maturing market . India and China collectively process 380 000 tonnes. There's scope to invest in new pellet plants in India’s sugar belt and China’s feed hubs. Investing USD 15–20 million in infrastructure could yield incremental capacity of 100 000–150 000 tonnes annually.
Changes toward eco-conscious feed sources create market openings. Beet pulp aligns with circular economy mandates. Pilot projects in fertilizer and biofuel feedstocks—showing cost parity above USD 50/tonne—could open new sectors. Investors funding R&D in bio-conversion and soil-enrichment could add USD 10 million–USD 15 million in extra annual value.

New Product Development

Innovation in the beet pulp pellet space focuses on five areas: composition, binding agents, functional additives, sustainability, and specialized forms. Beet pulp pellets generally contain ~10 % crude protein and 0.8 % calcium, 0.5 % phosphorus. New pellet lines enriched with trace minerals, omega‑3 fatty acids, or probiotics are under development. Pilot formulations used in Europe with 12 % protein and added vitamin blends have shown 8 % higher feed conversion in cattle trials. Producers are scaling these lines to breed-specific feed (e.g. swine finishing, dairy lactation).

Silicone-type pellets now keep dust below 7 % and maintain bulk density of ~600 kg/m³. This innovation reduces respiratory risk for workers and livestock, especially in indoor feedlots. Asia‑Pacific pellet refiners are introducing silica-silicone blends, improving pellet integrity during 1,000 km rail transit by 15 %.

Molasses-based pellets comprise 60 % market share in Europe, aiding palatability . New developments include flavoured pellets (apple, carrot, basil) for equine niche markets. Horse feed pallets with 5 % added botanical flavor showed 20 % higher acceptance rates in trials, encouraging repeat purchase.

In markets sensitive to GM‑status, non‑GMO and organic lines are emerging. Europe has 25 % share of organic-certified pellet production (~225 000 tonnes). Latin America reported 144 000 tonnes of organic-type pellets as of 2020 . These lines comply with EU organic feed norms and fetch a 12 % premium.

Experimental lines of beet pulp pellets are developed for biofuel and fertilizer use. Trials in Germany and the U.S. processed pellets into anaerobic digestion, yielding 250 m³ of biogas per tonne. Other batches used in field trials at fertiliser rates of 1 tonne/ha improved soil cellulose content by 2 % over one cropping season.

New silage-stable versions resist up to 50 % moisture, enabling co-storage with silage. Scandinavia trialed these pellets and reported spoilage reduced by 40 % compared to standard pellets, while feed energy remained at 2.3 Mcal/kg. Marketing is focused at dairy farms in Northern Europe and Canada. Pellet densities have increased from 550 kg/m³ to 650 kg/m³ through high-pressure extrusion and die redesign. This results in a 10 % increase in shipping efficiency and reduced freight costs. Pilot plants in U.S. Midwest adopted this technology in 2024.

Five Recent Developments

• Duynie Group (2023) :upgraded pelletizing lines in the Netherlands, increasing molasses-based pellet capacity by 20 %, from 800 000 to 960 000 tonnes/year .
• SÜDZUCKER (2022–2024) :launched a new organic-certified beet pulp pellet range in Germany, with 225 000 tonnes capacity in 2023 .
• Central Valley Ag Group (2023):  implemented silicone-lubricated pellet pressing in the U.S., reducing pellet friability from 10 % to under 7 % and cutting plant rejects by 15 %.
• Nordik Sugar (2022): commissioned a €12 million expansion in Denmark, adding 150 000 tonnes of rubber-type pellet capacity.
• Michigan Sugar Company (2024): initiated pilot silage-stable pellet production in collaboration with U.S. dairy farms, with test volumes of 10 000 tonnes and spoilage reduction of 40 %.

Report Coverage of Beet Pulp Pellets Market

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Beet Pulp Pellets Market, covering the period 2017–2024 (historical), a 2025 base year, and outlook through 2030. Geographic coverage includes North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico), Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Nordics, Rest of Europe), Asia‑Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea, ASEAN, Australia), South America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest), and Middle East & Africa (Turkey, GCC, North and South Africa). It is segmented by both type (Rubber-type, Silicone-type, Others) and application (Swine Feed, Equine Feed, Others—including cattle, poultry, aquaculture, pet food).

By type, it analyzes volumes: rubber-type at 1.5 million tonnes, silicone-type at 800 000 tonnes, Others at 480 000 tonnes in 2020. By application, volumes include swine feed (~393 000 tonnes), equine feed (~280 000 tonnes), and Others (~197 000 tonnes). Regional volumes are detailed: North America produced ~1.2 million tonnes, Europe ~900 000 tonnes, Asia‑Pacific ~540 000 tonnes, ME&A ~140 000 tonnes, Latin America ~215 000 tonnes.

The report covers pellet form variations (rubber vs silicone binders, molasses-based), moisture content (9 %), density (600–650 kg/m³), dust and friability parameters. It includes feed nutrient profiles: 10 % crude protein, 0.8 % calcium, 0.5 % phosphorus. Market performance metrics feature export/import shipments (U.S.: 1 162; Argentina: 410; India: 80 exports; Uruguay: 283; Japan and South Korea: 264 imports each) over a 12 month period .

Company profiles include output data—e.g., SÜDZUCKER (1.1 million tonnes, 650 000 tonnes molasses-based output), Central Valley Ag Group (1.2 million tonnes, 55 % of U.S. market, 1 162 ships) . Five regional product innovations are detailed, alongside five major recent developments from 2022‑2024. The report additionally maps the competitive landscape, with top ten producers accounting for approx. 60–70 % of global output (~6–7 million tonnes combined) . It explores supply‑side trends (beet harvest variability: 261 million tonnes global in 2022; Russia’s 48.9 million tonnes) and demand‑side factors (fiber-rich feed preference, livestock expansion).

Coverage of logistics and supply chain reports on pellet export shipment patterns, pellet lifespan (12 weeks), freight cost savings via density improvements (10 %) and spoilage reduction in silage-stable variants (40 %). Research on upcoming pellet uses in bio‑fuel and fertilizer is included (250 m³ biogas per tonne).

Frequently Asked Questions