Introduction

Sorbitol, a polyol also known as sugar alcohol, is gaining ground in several industries due to its unique properties and benefits. This ingredient, found naturally in fruits and vegetables, is produced industrially and used in foods, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and oral care. In this blog, we will explore the key factors driving demand for sorbitol in Latin America, as well as market trends and major players in the industry.

Key Market Drivers

The sorbitol market in Latin America is booming due to several key factors. Growing health awareness among consumers is driving demand for healthy, low-calorie or sugar-free foods and beverages, making sorbitol an essential sugar substitute in many products. Additionally, government initiatives to control sugar consumption are encouraging the use of sorbitol in the region. This combination of factors is driving the sustained growth of the sorbitol market in the region.

Diversified Applications

Sorbitol finds applications in several sectors, including:

• Food industry: Used as a sweetener in low-calorie products, sorbitol is a popular choice due to its low glycemic index and calorie reduction compared to sugar.
• Pharmaceutical: In medicines, syrups and suspensions, sorbitol acts as a sweetener and stabilizer. Sorbitol powder has properties of compressibility and friability as well as hygroscopic character that make it an ideal additive for water-soluble formulations in the pharmaceutical industry, such as vitamins, powdered supplements, cough syrup, capsules and coated tablets.
• Oral Care: With a growing oral care market, sorbitol is used in toothpastes and mouthwashes due to its non-cariogenic property.
• Cosmetics: In creams and lotions, sorbitol is used for its moisturizing properties. In addition, it is a moisturizing agent for cosmetics such as makeup and lipsticks, where it allows obtaining the appropriate viscosity and texture for correct fixation and adhesion of the raw materials. It does not leave a sticky feeling and gives a sweet flavor to lipsticks, pomades and lip glosses.
• Edible Films: Within the study of edible films for use in food packaging, the influence of plasticizers on their base matrix is ​​important. Both glycerol and sorbitol are plasticizers that reduce internal hydrogen bonds, increasing intermolecular space. Films made with sorbitol have greater forces and tensions than those made with glycerol, although those made with glycerol are more elastic. In both cases, the elasticity increases with the higher proportion of plasticizer.

Market segmentation

The sorbitol market in Latin America is segmented according to type (liquid and powder) and application (pharmaceutical, toothpaste, food and confectionery, cosmetics and toiletries, industrial surfactants, among others). The major countries examined in the market report are Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia.

Key Industry Players

The competitive landscape of the sorbitol market in Latin America includes prominent players such as Roquette Frères SA, Cargill Incorporated, Ingredion Incorporated, Archer Daniels Midland Company and Tereos. These market leaders are significantly influencing industry trends and growth through innovations, capacity expansions and business strategies.

Conclusion

The Latin American sorbitol market is expanding, driven by growing health awareness, expanding middle class, and various industrial applications of sorbitol. With key players leading innovation and growth, and a thorough analysis of trends and prices, sorbitol is establishing itself as an essential raw material in the region. As initiatives to promote healthier products continue, demand for sorbitol is likely to continue to increase, cementing its role in the food industry and beyond.

Chem Fluid maintains constant monitoring of these trends in the sorbitol market and integrates them into its sales portfolio to offer solutions to its clients. Our advisors are available to provide personalized guidance and support, helping companies optimize their supply chains and adapt to market fluctuations effectively.