Frost & Sullivan Publishes Phytonutrient Report

Frost & Sullivan Publishes Phytonutrient Report

SAN ANTONIO, Texas--Frost & Sullivan (www.frost.com), an international market analyst firm, published The European Phytonutrients Report (B029). The report details the predicted growth and foreseeable downfalls of the flavonoid and isoflavone markets. According to the report, the combined market of flavonoids and isoflavones was valued at $94 million in 2000 and will grow to be worth $144 million by 2008. In terms of volume, the market is expected to more than double over the same period, from 276 tons to 570 tons.

However, Frost & Sullivan also predicted continuing price erosion for flavonoids due to improved extraction techniques, lower cost of raw materials and increasing availability of cheaper Asian supplies. In addition, the marketing firm forecasted the continued restriction for the isoflavone market due to competition with soy fractions on price.

"We forecast that the demand for these products in Europe will rise dramatically," said Anna Ibbotson, food program manager. "If we look at what is happening in the United States, where isoflavones and flavonoids are currently used extensively in functional foods, we would expect to see this pattern mirrored in Europe. However, their use remains marginal at present. Isoflavone and flavonoid producers should be looking for an early positioning in breakfast cereals, beverages, bakery and dairy products."