PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing Market Analysis (2024-2030)

The PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing Market reached a valuation of USD 779.10 Million and is anticipated to attain USD 1,648.39 Million by the culmination of 2030. Projections indicate a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.3% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2030.

Overview of PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing Industry:

PCR-based food allergen testing constitutes a critical process to ascertain if a specific food item triggers allergic reactions in individuals. It also aids in distinguishing between genuine allergies and food sensitivities, commonly termed as food intolerance. The Code Alimentarius Commission has established a science-based standard to delineate best practices concerning allergen management. Many nations, including the US, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the European Union, have adopted food allergen testing protocols and labeling guidelines based on these standards. PCR methods, distinguished by their heightened sensitivity in detecting allergen DNA molecules, are applicable to both raw and cooked food items, unaffected by heat exposure which typically preserves DNA integrity. Notably, PCR methods mitigate the interference issues encountered in ELISA-based techniques, as DNA purification precedes the analysis. However, certain products lacking DNA content, such as oils or specific dairy items, necessitate alternative detection methods like ELISA.

Given the irreversible nature of introducing allergens into food products, effective allergen management throughout the supply chain is imperative. Various allergen testing methods, including skin tests involving the application of food extracts and subsequent observation for allergic reactions, underscore the significance of meticulous allergen control measures.

Market Growth Drivers:

Escalating Demand Driven by Rising Food Intolerance:

The burgeoning incidence of food intolerance underscores the necessity for comprehensive allergen testing across various food categories. The advent of advanced animal feed components in the food and beverage sector amplifies the significance of food intolerance testing to mitigate potential allergenic risks.

Technological Advancements Fueling Market Expansion:

 Technological innovations, coupled with increasing digital accessibility, facilitate personalized consumer experiences and enhance product transparency. This convergence of technology and consumer empowerment augments the adoption of PCR-based food allergen testing, bolstering market growth.

Market Restraints:

The Constraint of Technological Stagnation:

Despite notable technological progress, market growth is impeded by the lack of awareness and outdated testing kits. The complexity of food testing processes, necessitating specialized expertise, sometimes engenders user confusion, hindering market expansion.

PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing Market - By Source:

• Legumes (Peanut and Soya)
• Dairy
• Grain (Wheat)
• Aquatic (Seafood)
• Avian (Eggs)
• Nut (Tree nuts)
• Other Sources

The Grain category assumes prominence by leading the segment as the primary contributor to the market. Wheat asserts its dominance as the largest constituent, driven by its extensive presence in various food formulations. This necessitates thorough allergen scrutiny, fueling the demand for PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing solutions targeting wheat allergens. The Dairy sector emerges as the segment's fastest-growing component. This growth can be attributed to heightened awareness regarding lactose intolerance and dairy-related allergies. As consumers increasingly seek milk-free alternatives, there is a substantial surge in demand for precise testing solutions, thereby propelling the Dairy segment as a pivotal player in the PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing market.

PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing Market - By Food Tested:

• Infant Nutrition
• Bakery and Confectionery
• Processed Foods
• Meat and Seafood Products
• Dairy Products and Substitutes

• Other Food Items

Seafood and Meat Products share the spotlight as pivotal components in this segment and serve as major contributors to the market. This prominence stems from the widespread consumption of seafood and meat-based dishes globally, necessitating stringent allergen testing protocols to ensure consumer safety, especially for those allergic to these sources. Concurrently, Dairy Products emerge as the most rapidly expanding trend within the food-tested category. This growth is driven by increased recognition of dairy-related allergies and lactose intolerance, coupled with escalating demand for plant-based dairy alternatives. As more consumers opt to avoid dairy allergens, there is a sharp rise in demand for PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing solutions tailored for dairy products.

PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing Market - By Region:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• The Middle East
• Africa

Geographically, North America commands the largest market share. Presently, the United States leads the PCR-based Food Allergen Testing Market, driven by the high prevalence of lactose allergy affecting approximately 45 million individuals. The escalating incidence of food allergies in the region underscores the necessity for allergen and intolerance testing, further bolstering the market, particularly for gluten-free products. Europe is anticipated to experience rapid growth in the PCR-based food allergen testing market due to stringent food safety regulations. Common allergenic foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, and fish contribute to widespread allergies in the European populace. The prevalence of food allergies in Europe is estimated at 3% to 4% in children and adults, respectively. According to the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, over 17 million Europeans suffer from food allergies. The Asia Pacific market also shows significant demand for testing kits, driven by its large population, which is expected to further boost market demand during the forecast period.

PCR-Based Food Allergen Testing Market Share by Company:

1. SGS SA
2. MerieuxNutrisciences Corporation
3. TUV SUD PSB Pte Ltd.
4. Eurofins Scientific SE
5. MicrobacLaboartories
6. ALS Limited
7. Asurequality Ltd.
8. Symbio Laboratories
9. Romer Labs Diagnostic GmbH
10. Intertek Group PLC

The market is characterized by high fragmentation. Key players in the market are implementing various strategies such as strategic partnerships, product innovations, research and development initiatives, geographic expansions, and mergers and acquisitions to strengthen their market presence. Vendors are also focused on expanding their product portfolios to enhance customer satisfaction.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN THE GLOBAL PCR-BASED FOOD ALLERGEN TESTING MARKET:

• Acquisition: In May 2021, Mérieux NutriSciences, a leading global player in Food Safety, Quality, and Sustainability, acquired a majority stake in UCGS located in Wei Nan city, Shaanxi Province.