The Food Supplements industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, and it has been steadily rising in the Indian market. According to a market research report, the Indian dietary supplements market was valued at approximately USD 3924.44 million in FY2020 and is predicted to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 16% up until FY 2027.
In recent years, Indians have been enthusiastic about adopting holistic well-being techniques, along with dietary and lifestyle changes. Thus, the country has been welcoming food supplements from all over the world. As a result, several market players have taken this opportunity to enter the Indian food supplement market.
As it is known, Food Business Operators (FBOs) must ensure that their food supplements comply with the regulations laid down by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), making it easier for them to obtain licenses for sale in India.
Currently, the only known approval required from the Health Authority (HA) is for novel foods (non-specified foods and technology); the process for the approval is streamlined, and the Indian government has welcomed various products across the globe into the country, which have proven to be safe for the people.
Several factors contribute to the ease of entering the market for new product launches. The following are some of the key factors:
- Increasing Health Consciousness: Health consciousness among Indians is growing, for which an upward trend is observed. More people are becoming aware of the importance of proper nutrition in daily life and actively seeking out food supplements to support their health goals.
- Regulatory Framework: The Regulatory framework for food supplements in India has become streamlined in recent years. The FSSAI regulates and monitors the safety and quality of food products, including food supplements, and it has created a clear and transparent process for product approvals.
- E-commerce Platforms: The rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Nykaa has made it easier for companies to enter the Indian market and reach a wider audience. The platforms provide a cost-effective way to market and sell products without needing them to be physically present in the country.
- Growing Demand: There is a growing demand for food supplements in India, which is driven by a rise in awareness of health and wellness among consumers. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the nutritional value of the food they are consuming and are looking for ways to supplement their diet with nutrients that they may be lacking.
- Availability: Food supplements are becoming more widely available in India, with a vast range of products found across different categories, such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, and other dietary supplements. Moreover, they are available both online and offline, thereby making it easier for consumers to access and purchase them.
- Brand Awareness: Several international and domestic food supplement brands have established a strong presence in the Indian market. They have invested in building awareness and educating consumers on the health benefits of supplements, which in turn has contributed to the growing acceptability of the products.
- The COVID-19 Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increasing interest in health and wellness, including a growing interest in the use of herbal supplements/immunity supplements/food supplements, in India and all over the world. People are looking for ways to boost their immune systems and support their overall health.
Therefore, the Indian food supplements market is now ripe for new product launches, and the scenario looks promising. As companies navigate the complex Regulatory landscape and adapt to local tastes and preferences, as consumers become more aware of the health benefits of supplements, and the quality and safety of the products are assured, food supplements show great potential for success in this dynamic market.
Considering the increase in demand for food products in India, manufacturers entering the Indian market must be vigilant while decoding food product regulations in order to avoid any last-minute challenges. Thus, it is highly recommended that you consult a regional specialist in Regulatory affairs like Freyr.