Eye Health Ingredients Market Size & Industry Analysis [2033]

Eye Health Ingredients Market Overview

Global Eye Health Ingredients market size is estimated at USD 212.6 million in 2024, set to expand to USD 306.4 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 3.7%.

The eye health ingredients market plays a crucial role in the broader health and wellness sector, with increasing demand driven by rising incidences of age-related eye conditions and digital eye strain. In 2023, over 2.2 billion people globally were reported to suffer from vision impairment, with at least 1 billion cases being preventable or unaddressed. Ingredients such as lutein, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, and beta-carotene are heavily utilized in dietary supplements, pharmaceutical formulations, and functional foods aimed at maintaining or improving vision health.

The global supply of lutein, extracted primarily from marigold flowers, surpassed 470 metric tons in 2023, driven by demand in supplements and fortified foods. Zeaxanthin production followed closely, with over 180 metric tons shipped globally, reflecting increasing use in ocular care products. Beta-carotene usage in multivitamin tablets and eye drops exceeded 1,200 metric tons in annual consumption. Demand for astaxanthin-based eye health supplements surged 14% year-on-year in 2023 due to growing research support for its retinal protection capabilities.

With a growing elderly population—projected to exceed 1.4 billion people above age 60 by 2030—and increasing screen time among younger demographics, the market for eye health ingredients continues to expand in both mature and emerging economies.

Key Findings

Top Driver reason: Growing digital screen exposure has increased the prevalence of digital eye strain and associated vision issues.

Top Country/Region: North America leads due to high supplement consumption and aging population.

Top Segment: Supplements remain the largest application, accounting for over 45% of ingredient demand in 2023.

Eye Health Ingredients Market Trends

The eye health ingredients market has experienced significant evolution due to the convergence of preventive health awareness and the global expansion of the wellness industry. Lutein and zeaxanthin, classified as carotenoids, have maintained dominant roles due to their clinically supported role in reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As of 2023, over 290 million people globally were at risk for AMD, bolstering the use of these ingredients in preventative health products.

Consumers are shifting toward plant-based and naturally sourced eye health ingredients. Over 72% of supplement users in North America prefer natural over synthetic formulations, driving demand for botanical extracts rich in eye-nourishing antioxidants. Blue light exposure from screens has been linked to oxidative stress in retinal cells, prompting the increased use of astaxanthin. In Japan, over 33% of eye health supplements launched in 2023 featured astaxanthin as a core component.

Eye health claims in functional foods and beverages have also grown, with more than 580 new products launched globally in 2023 carrying eye health-specific labels. Dairy and juice formulations enriched with carotenoids have become particularly popular in the Asia-Pacific region, where demand grew 18% year-over-year.

Microencapsulation technologies are also influencing ingredient formulations. Over 25% of all lutein and beta-carotene products launched in 2023 were microencapsulated to improve bioavailability and stability. Nano-delivery systems are being explored to enhance targeted delivery of zeaxanthin to the macula, representing an innovation wave in pharmaceutical-grade ingredients.

Regulatory support is also facilitating growth. The U.S. FDA and EFSA have recognized lutein and zeaxanthin as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS), accelerating product approvals. Meanwhile, global clinical studies have contributed to increased consumer trust. Over 40 human clinical trials related to lutein and vision health were published in 2023 alone.

Eye Health Ingredients Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Increasing prevalence of age-related eye disorders.

Globally, more than 196 million people are affected by age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and this number is projected to increase by 36% by 2040. The growing aging population is a key contributor to the demand for carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect retinal health. The incidence of cataracts also continues to rise, with 94 million people affected globally in 2023. With over 63% of individuals above the age of 65 experiencing some form of vision impairment, the inclusion of eye health ingredients in dietary supplements and medications has become a critical aspect of preventive health.

RESTRAINT

Limited consumer awareness in developing regions.

Despite significant growth in health-conscious behaviors globally, many regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South America, continue to exhibit low adoption of eye health-specific nutritional products. In 2023, less than 12% of supplement products sold in these regions included any form of carotenoids for ocular health. The penetration rate of functional foods targeting eye wellness remains under 8% in several emerging markets due to limited educational outreach and lack of clinical exposure to non-pharmaceutical solutions.

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion of fortified food and beverage applications.

A growing trend in the global food industry is the fortification of everyday consumables with functional ingredients. In 2023, over 1,500 new SKUs were launched worldwide that included eye health ingredients, including beverages, dairy products, and baked goods. Functional juice drinks fortified with lutein saw an 11% year-over-year increase in sales in Southeast Asia alone. Eye health ingredient integration in children's products also witnessed a 19% increase in North America.

CHALLENGE

Variability in raw material sourcing and ingredient stability.

Eye health ingredients, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, are primarily sourced from marigold flowers, which are subject to agricultural yield variations due to weather, soil quality, and seasonal cycles. In 2023, over 60% of global lutein supply was concentrated in China and India, both of which experienced adverse climatic events, leading to supply disruptions and a 9% average increase in raw material prices.

Eye Health Ingredients Market Segmentation

The eye health ingredients market is segmented by ingredient type and application. By type, lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and astaxanthin are the most commonly used compounds. By application, they are deployed in pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, beverages, bakery and confectionery items, dairy products, and frozen desserts.

By Type

Lutein: Lutein, a yellow carotenoid, accounted for approximately 38% of the total ingredient demand in 2023. Extracted mainly from marigold flowers, global production exceeded 470 metric tons. Over 70 clinical studies have demonstrated lutein’s efficacy in improving visual acuity and reducing oxidative stress in the retina. It is commonly formulated into capsule and gummy forms and is used in over 900 product SKUs globally. Nearly 52% of eye health supplements in the United States in 2023 contained lutein as a core active ingredient.
Zeaxanthin: Zeaxanthin is primarily used in macular pigment optical density enhancement. In 2023, global consumption reached approximately 180 metric tons. Its synergistic relationship with lutein makes it a staple in combination eye supplements. Zeaxanthin is used in over 600 supplement formulations worldwide, with notable concentrations in Japan and South Korea, where it features in more than 40% of vision-focused products.
Beta-Carotene: Beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, is widely used in both supplements and fortified foods. Global utilization exceeded 1,200 metric tons in 2023. It is incorporated in multivitamins and standalone formulations and has proven efficacy in reducing symptoms of night blindness and dry eyes. Over 1,100 fortified beverages launched between 2022 and 2023 included beta-carotene.
Astaxanthin: Astaxanthin, a red-pigmented antioxidant sourced from microalgae, saw usage increase by 14% in 2023. With potent free radical scavenging activity, it supports retinal health and reduces inflammation. Approximately 220 product launches in 2023 included astaxanthin as a vision-supporting component, with 33% of them introduced in the Asia-Pacific region.
Others: Other ingredients such as bilberry extract, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc citrate are used in smaller volumes but play supportive roles. Bilberry extract was included in over 340 formulations globally in 2023. Zinc, essential for retinal enzyme activity, appeared in 28% of vision supplements.

By Application

Pharmaceuticals: Pharmaceutical applications of eye health ingredients include formulations to treat AMD, glaucoma, and dry eye syndrome. Over 140 prescription drugs globally contained carotenoid-based actives in 2023. These include topical drops and oral formulations targeting oxidative stress and inflammation in ocular tissues.
Supplements: Dietary supplements dominated usage, with over 45% market share. In 2023, more than 2,700 new supplement products featured at least one eye health ingredient. Gummies and softgel capsules accounted for over 62% of delivery formats in this category. Regional demand is particularly high in the United States and Japan.
Beverages: Functional beverages, especially juices, are increasingly being fortified with lutein and beta-carotene. In 2023, more than 370 new beverage SKUs globally featured eye health ingredients. These products are often marketed as part of wellness or anti-aging product lines.
Bakery and Confectionery: While relatively niche, the use of carotenoids in baked goods and sweets is growing. In 2023, more than 80 new product launches incorporated vision-supporting components. These are mainly positioned as children's health products in Europe and North America.
Dairy and Frozen Desserts: Dairy-based eye health products, including fortified yogurt and ice creams, grew by 12% in product introductions during 2023. Countries like South Korea and Germany saw double-digit growth in lutein-enriched milk products.
Others: This includes syrups, pastilles, and ready-to-eat snacks. In 2023, over 150 niche SKUs used eye health ingredients outside of traditional applications, targeting health-conscious millennials and seniors.

Eye Health Ingredients Market Regional Outlook

The eye health ingredients market demonstrates varied performance across regions due to differences in healthcare awareness, regulatory support, and consumer behavior.

North America

North America accounted for the largest share in 2023, with over 1,800 product launches featuring lutein and beta-carotene. The U.S. had the highest per capita consumption of eye health supplements, with nearly 38% of adults using vision support formulations. The aging population, exceeding 60 million over the age of 65, drives ingredient demand in dietary and pharmaceutical applications.

Europe

Europe saw over 1,200 product introductions containing zeaxanthin, with Germany, the UK, and France leading. In 2023, 36% of eye health product sales came from combination supplements. The European market emphasizes clean label, with over 48% of products certified non-GMO or organic. The region is also a major player in bilberry extract usage, accounting for 54% of global consumption.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific recorded the highest growth in product innovation in 2023, with over 1,500 new SKUs across supplements and beverages. Japan and South Korea dominated supplement consumption, while China led in functional dairy products. The region's demand for astaxanthin rose by 16% compared to the previous year. Government-backed health initiatives in countries like India and China have bolstered consumer awareness.

Middle East & Africa

While still emerging, the Middle East & Africa showed increasing adoption, with over 250 new products launched in 2023. UAE and South Africa are leading regional markets. Supplement usage rose by 22% in urban areas, particularly among consumers aged 40 and above. Market penetration remains low in rural regions, but urbanization is expected to drive future growth.

List of Top Eye Health Ingredients Market Companies

Allied Biotech
DSM
FMC Corporation
AIDP
BI Nutraceuticals
Blue California

Top Two Companies with Highest Share

DSM: DSM holds a dominant position, contributing to more than 23% of global lutein and zeaxanthin supply. In 2023, the company launched 14 new ingredient formulations optimized for eye health and partnered with over 90 supplement brands globally.

FMC Corporation: FMC accounts for over 18% of beta-carotene and astaxanthin production. Its proprietary extraction and stabilization processes allowed it to maintain consistent product quality, with supply chains spanning over 42 countries in 2023.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The eye health ingredients market has emerged as a high-potential investment arena due to increased global health awareness and the aging population. In 2023, over 110 investment deals were recorded globally across supplement manufacturers, functional food producers, and ingredient suppliers focused on ocular health products. A key investment driver is the surge in consumer demand for natural eye protection, particularly among individuals aged 40–70, who account for over 55% of global supplement purchases.

Manufacturers are actively investing in vertical integration to stabilize supply chains. For instance, over $120 million in collective capital expenditure was recorded in 2023 for the cultivation of marigold flowers, the primary raw material for lutein and zeaxanthin. In India, more than 2,400 hectares were newly designated for lutein-yielding crops to meet international demand. These agricultural expansions are backed by both private equity and regional government subsidies.

Technology-oriented investment is also gaining momentum. Over 65 companies globally invested in microencapsulation, nano-emulsion, and liposomal delivery systems in 2023 to increase ingredient absorption and shelf life. Patents filed for novel eye health formulations surpassed 190 applications, indicating rising innovation levels and strategic IP protection among leading players.

Emerging markets such as Southeast Asia and Latin America represent significant white spaces for investment. Indonesia, for instance, recorded a 32% rise in fortified beverage launches in 2023, offering untapped potential for carotenoid-rich formulations. Brazil saw an 18% increase in supplement startups focused on ophthalmologic health, with 12 new product lines introduced in less than a year.

Retail channel expansion is another promising area. Online supplement sales platforms reported a 26% increase in eye health product sales from 2022 to 2023. Investors are targeting e-commerce ecosystems to increase direct-to-consumer product access. Subscription-based supplement models also gained traction, with over 130 brands adopting this format globally.

New Product Development

Innovation in the eye health ingredients market is accelerating, driven by technological advancements, clinical validation, and shifting consumer preferences. In 2023, over 2,300 new product SKUs were introduced globally, incorporating ingredients such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and astaxanthin.

A major trend in product development is the diversification of delivery formats. Gummies, eye drops, sprays, and fortified chewables collectively accounted for over 34% of new launches. Gummy-based eye supplements, in particular, saw a 22% year-on-year increase in market presence, catering to younger consumers and seniors with swallowing difficulties. In the United States alone, over 120 new gummy SKUs were launched featuring vision support claims.

Functional beverages represent a fast-growing segment. New product introductions in 2023 included carrot-based juices infused with lutein, and smoothies enriched with astaxanthin and bilberry extract. Japan, South Korea, and Germany led the innovation in this space, accounting for over 65% of new fortified beverage products targeting eye health.

Companies are also moving toward personalized nutrition. Over 40 product lines launched globally in 2023 were based on DNA-driven supplementation, offering customized eye health solutions depending on individual oxidative stress profiles and age-related degeneration risk. Startups offering test-and-tailor supplement services secured over $30 million in funding collectively, signaling the viability of this approach.

Five Recent Developments

DSM: introduced a new microencapsulated lutein product in Q2 2023, offering 18% higher bioavailability in human trials compared to standard crystalline forms.
FMC: Corporation expanded its astaxanthin production facility in the U.S. by 40%, increasing its output capacity to 280 metric tons annually as of Q3 2023.
Allied Biotech: partnered with a German nutraceutical firm in 2024 to co-develop bilberry and zeaxanthin blend capsules targeting senior vision protection.
AIDP: launched a vegan-certified beta-carotene syrup for children’s eye health in Q4 2023, with over 5,000 units sold in its first three months in North America.
Blue California: filed a patent in January 2024 for a liposomal eye health formulation using a blend of lutein, astaxanthin, and zinc for targeted macular delivery.

Report Coverage of Eye Health Ingredients Market

This report offers in-depth analytical coverage of the global eye health ingredients market, encompassing a wide range of ingredient types, applications, and geographies. It outlines critical market data for lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, astaxanthin, and other key compounds with ocular health benefits. The report evaluates market performance based on production volumes, product launches, ingredient demand, and consumer usage patterns.

The scope includes segmentation by type and application, with detailed quantitative and qualitative insights. Ingredient trends such as lutein extraction volumes, zeaxanthin clinical trials, beta-carotene formulation innovation, and astaxanthin application expansion are discussed with supporting metrics. Application-based insights span across dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, beverages, bakery, dairy, and specialty products.

Geographical coverage spans North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. Regional analysis includes production hubs, consumption hotspots, regulatory environments, and market maturity levels. For example, the North American market’s adoption of high-purity lutein and Japan’s dominance in functional eye beverages are covered in detail. Regional breakdowns include product counts, ingredient usage, and demographic consumption behaviors.