Market Description
The global Rice Malt Syrup market is witnessing a significant transformation as a primary alternative in the natural sweetener industry. Rice malt syrup, also known as brown rice syrup, is a versatile sweetener derived from the enzymatic fermentation of rice, where starches are broken down into a complex of carbohydrates—primarily maltotriose, maltose, and a small amount of glucose. Unlike high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or cane sugar, rice malt syrup is notably fructose-free, making it a preferred choice for consumers with fructose malabsorption or those adhering to low-FODMAP diets. As of 2025, the market has matured beyond niche health food segments into a mainstream ingredient utilized by major food processors for its unique binding properties, mild sweetness, and clean-label appeal.
The global demand is heavily influenced by the "Clean Label" movement, where manufacturers are stripping away synthetic additives and seeking transparent, plant-based alternatives. Rice malt syrup provides a rich, buttery flavor and a thick viscosity, which is essential for the structural integrity of products like granola bars, energy clusters, and vegan confectionery. Western Market Research predicts that the Rice Malt Syrup Market was valued at USD 425.6 million in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 742.8 million by the year 2036, growing at a CAGR of 5.15% globally. The forecast period between 2026 and 2036 will likely see a surge in specialized "Organic" and "Non-GMO Project Verified" variants as the supply chain integrates more sustainable agricultural practices to meet stringent international food safety and environmental standards.
Market Segments
The classification of the Rice Malt Syrup market allows for a deeper understanding of consumer preferences and industrial requirements.
By Type:
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Regular Type: This remains the volume leader in the market. It is primarily used in mass-market food production where cost-efficiency is balanced with the need for a non-refined sugar alternative. It is a staple in the production of commercial-grade cereal bars and baked goods.
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Organic Type: The fastest-growing segment, driven by the premium health and wellness sector. Organic rice malt syrup is produced from rice grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers and is often the subject of rigorous third-party certifications. It is highly sought after by boutique health brands and for use in organic infant food formulations.
By Application:
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Food & Beverage: The primary application segment. Within this category, the syrup is used in bakery products for moisture retention, in confectionery as a humectant, and in beverages like dairy-free milks (oat or rice milk) to enhance mouthfeel and sweetness. It is also a critical binder in the booming "healthy snack" industry.
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Others: Includes the pharmaceutical and personal care industries. In pharmaceuticals, it acts as a base for cough syrups and liquid supplements. In cosmetics, it is occasionally used in natural skincare formulations for its skin-soothing and moisture-locking properties.
Top Key Players in the Rice Malt Syrup Market
The competitive landscape is characterized by companies that specialize in grain-based sweeteners and industrial ingredient processing. Key players driving innovation and supply include:
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CNP (California Natural Products): A pioneer in rice-based ingredients, known for high-quality domestic production and specialized enzyme technology.
-
Habib-ADM: A strategic joint venture that leverages massive global distribution networks and advanced refining capabilities to serve the Middle East and international markets.
-
Suzanne’s Specialties: A key player in the retail and specialty health market, focusing on gluten-free and vegan-certified sweeteners.
-
Ag Commodities: Provides bulk supply solutions with a focus on supply chain transparency and raw material sourcing from diverse regions.
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The Taj Urban Grains: A major contributor to the Asian and Middle Eastern markets, offering high-quality grain-derived syrups for traditional and modern food applications.
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Northern Food Complex: A significant player in the Southeast Asian region, utilizing local rice surpluses to produce export-quality malt syrups.
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Khatoon Industries: Focused on industrial-scale production catering to the food processing sectors in South Asia and neighboring territories.
DROT Analysis (Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities, Threats)
Drivers
The primary driver for the Rice Malt Syrup market is the escalating global health concern regarding fructose consumption. As clinical studies link high fructose intake to metabolic issues, rice malt syrup’s fructose-free profile makes it a "safe haven" for health-conscious consumers. Additionally, the rise of the vegan lifestyle has bolstered the market, as rice malt syrup serves as a perfect structural and flavor substitute for honey. The expansion of the gluten-free market also supports growth, as rice is inherently gluten-free, making the syrup a safe ingredient for celiac-friendly food production.
Restraints
The market faces a significant restraint in the form of heavy metal concerns, specifically arsenic levels. Since rice plants naturally absorb arsenic from soil and water, manufacturers must invest heavily in rigorous testing and specialized filtration to ensure their syrups meet the increasingly strict safety thresholds set by the FDA and EFSA. Furthermore, the glycemic index (GI) of rice malt syrup is relatively high compared to sweeteners like stevia or agave, which can deter the diabetic consumer segment looking for low-insulin-response alternatives.
Opportunities
The "Infant Nutrition" segment presents a massive opportunity. As parents move away from corn-based sweeteners, there is a growing demand for mild, hypoallergenic rice-based sweeteners in baby snacks and formulas. Another opportunity lies in "Clean Label Confectionery." As the "sugar tax" implementation expands globally, manufacturers are looking for bulk sweeteners that don't just add sweetness but also functional volume and texture, a role rice malt syrup fills perfectly. Expansion into the Asia-Pacific region, where rice is a cultural staple, offers untapped potential for localized syrup production and consumption.
Threats
The most prominent threat is the volatility of rice prices. Being a primary food staple, rice prices are subject to geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, and climate-induced crop failures. A sudden spike in the price of brown rice directly impacts the margins of syrup producers. Additionally, intense competition from other natural sweeteners like monk fruit, allulose, and stevia—which offer zero-calorie profiles—threatens the market share of caloric sweeteners like rice malt syrup.
Value Chain Analysis
The value chain of Rice Malt Syrup is a sophisticated process that relies on precision biotechnology and logistical efficiency.
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Raw Material Sourcing: The chain begins with the procurement of high-quality brown or white rice. Sustainability at the farm level is becoming a key value-added feature.
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Liquefaction and Saccharification: This is the core of the value chain. Rice is cooked and treated with natural enzymes (usually from sprouted barley or microbial sources) to break down complex starches into simpler sugars. The type of enzymes used determines the final sweetness and sugar profile.
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Filtration and Purification: The liquid is filtered to remove proteins and lipids, followed by decolorization (if a clear syrup is required) and the removal of potential contaminants like heavy metals.
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Concentration: The syrup is evaporated to reach the desired "Brix" level (solids concentration), which determines its viscosity and shelf stability.
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Distribution: Most rice malt syrup is sold B2B in drums or IBC totes to food manufacturers. A smaller percentage is packaged for retail as a pantry staple.
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End Use: The chain concludes with the incorporation of the syrup into finished consumer goods, where it adds value as a "fructose-free" and "non-GMO" sweetener.
Market Outlook
The outlook for the Rice Malt Syrup market through 2036 remains robust, with the "Organic" segment expected to outpace the general market growth. Geographically, North America and Europe will remain the high-value markets due to the concentration of health-food manufacturers and stringent labeling laws. However, the Asia-Pacific region is slated to become a production powerhouse, with countries like India and Thailand modernizing their processing facilities to cater to global export demands.
Technological advancements in "targeted enzymatic hydrolysis" will allow manufacturers to create "Low-GI" rice malt syrups by altering the ratio of complex to simple sugars, potentially opening doors to the diabetic-friendly food market. As environmental transparency becomes mandatory, we expect the emergence of blockchain-tracked rice malt syrup, where consumers can trace the syrup back to the specific rice paddy. While the market must navigate the challenges of high-calorie content and heavy metal monitoring, its functional indispensability in vegan and gluten-free baking ensures that rice malt syrup will remain a cornerstone of the global natural sweetener landscape for the next decade. Increasing R&D investment in perfecting the taste profile and lowering production costs will be the defining strategy for market leaders through 2036.
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1. Market Overview of Rice Malt Syrup
1.1 Rice Malt Syrup Market Overview
1.1.1 Rice Malt Syrup Product Scope
1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook
1.2 Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Regions:
1.3 Rice Malt Syrup Historic Market Size by Regions
1.4 Rice Malt Syrup Forecasted Market Size by Regions
1.5 Covid-19 Impact on Key Regions, Keyword Market Size YoY Growth
1.5.1 North America
1.5.2 East Asia
1.5.3 Europe
1.5.4 South Asia
1.5.5 Southeast Asia
1.5.6 Middle East
1.5.7 Africa
1.5.8 Oceania
1.5.9 South America
1.5.10 Rest of the World
1.6 Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) Impact Will Have a Severe Impact on Global Growth
1.6.1 Covid-19 Impact: Global GDP Growth, 2019, 2020 and 2021 Projections
1.6.2 Covid-19 Impact: Commodity Prices Indices
1.6.3 Covid-19 Impact: Global Major Government Policy
2. Covid-19 Impact Rice Malt Syrup Sales Market by Type
2.1 Global Rice Malt Syrup Historic Market Size by Type
2.2 Global Rice Malt Syrup Forecasted Market Size by Type
2.3 Regular Type
2.4 Organic Type
3. Covid-19 Impact Rice Malt Syrup Sales Market by Application
3.1 Global Rice Malt Syrup Historic Market Size by Application
3.2 Global Rice Malt Syrup Forecasted Market Size by Application
3.3 Food & Beverage
3.4 Others
4. Covid-19 Impact Market Competition by Manufacturers
4.1 Global Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity Market Share by Manufacturers
4.2 Global Rice Malt Syrup Revenue Market Share by Manufacturers
4.3 Global Rice Malt Syrup Average Price by Manufacturers
5. Company Profiles and Key Figures in Rice Malt Syrup Business
5.1 CNP
5.1.1 CNP Company Profile
5.1.2 CNP Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.1.3 CNP Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.2 Habib-ADM
5.2.1 Habib-ADM Company Profile
5.2.2 Habib-ADM Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.2.3 Habib-ADM Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.3 Suzanne
5.3.1 Suzanne Company Profile
5.3.2 Suzanne Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.3.3 Suzanne Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.4 Ag Commodities
5.4.1 Ag Commodities Company Profile
5.4.2 Ag Commodities Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.4.3 Ag Commodities Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.5 The Taj Urban Grains
5.5.1 The Taj Urban Grains Company Profile
5.5.2 The Taj Urban Grains Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.5.3 The Taj Urban Grains Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.6 Northern Food Complex
5.6.1 Northern Food Complex Company Profile
5.6.2 Northern Food Complex Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.6.3 Northern Food Complex Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.7 Khatoon Industries
5.7.1 Khatoon Industries Company Profile
5.7.2 Khatoon Industries Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.7.3 Khatoon Industries Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.8 Application Coverage (Market Size & Forecast
5.8.1 Application Coverage (Market Size & Forecast Company Profile
5.8.2 Application Coverage (Market Size & Forecast Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.8.3 Application Coverage (Market Size & Forecast Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.9 Different Demand Market by Region
5.9.1 Different Demand Market by Region Company Profile
5.9.2 Different Demand Market by Region Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.9.3 Different Demand Market by Region Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.10 Main Consumer Profile etc.):
5.10.1 Main Consumer Profile etc.): Company Profile
5.10.2 Main Consumer Profile etc.): Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.10.3 Main Consumer Profile etc.): Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.11 Food & Beverage
5.11.1 Food & Beverage Company Profile
5.11.2 Food & Beverage Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.11.3 Food & Beverage Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.12 Others
5.12.1 Others Company Profile
5.12.2 Others Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.12.3 Others Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.13 Region Coverage (Regional Production
5.13.1 Region Coverage (Regional Production Company Profile
5.13.2 Region Coverage (Regional Production Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.13.3 Region Coverage (Regional Production Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.14 Demand & Forecast by Countries etc.):
5.14.1 Demand & Forecast by Countries etc.): Company Profile
5.14.2 Demand & Forecast by Countries etc.): Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.14.3 Demand & Forecast by Countries etc.): Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.15 North America (U.S.
5.15.1 North America (U.S. Company Profile
5.15.2 North America (U.S. Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.15.3 North America (U.S. Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.16 Canada
5.16.1 Canada Company Profile
5.16.2 Canada Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.16.3 Canada Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.17 Mexico)
5.17.1 Mexico) Company Profile
5.17.2 Mexico) Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.17.3 Mexico) Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.18 Europe (Germany
5.18.1 Europe (Germany Company Profile
5.18.2 Europe (Germany Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.18.3 Europe (Germany Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.19 U.K.
5.19.1 U.K. Company Profile
5.19.2 U.K. Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.19.3 U.K. Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.20 France
5.20.1 France Company Profile
5.20.2 France Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.20.3 France Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.21 Italy
5.21.1 Italy Company Profile
5.21.2 Italy Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.21.3 Italy Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.22 Russia
5.22.1 Russia Company Profile
5.22.2 Russia Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.22.3 Russia Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.23 Spain etc.)
5.23.1 Spain etc.) Company Profile
5.23.2 Spain etc.) Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.23.3 Spain etc.) Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.24 Asia-Pacific (China
5.24.1 Asia-Pacific (China Company Profile
5.24.2 Asia-Pacific (China Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.24.3 Asia-Pacific (China Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.25 India
5.25.1 India Company Profile
5.25.2 India Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.25.3 India Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.26 Japan
5.26.1 Japan Company Profile
5.26.2 Japan Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.26.3 Japan Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.27 Southeast Asia etc.)
5.27.1 Southeast Asia etc.) Company Profile
5.27.2 Southeast Asia etc.) Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.27.3 Southeast Asia etc.) Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.28 South America (Brazil
5.28.1 South America (Brazil Company Profile
5.28.2 South America (Brazil Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.28.3 South America (Brazil Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
5.29 Argentina etc.)
5.29.1 Argentina etc.) Company Profile
5.29.2 Argentina etc.) Rice Malt Syrup Product Specification
5.29.3 Argentina etc.) Rice Malt Syrup Production Capacity, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin
6. North America
6.1 North America Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
6.2 North America Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
6.3 North America Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
6.4 North America Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
7. East Asia
7.1 East Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
7.2 East Asia Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
7.3 East Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
7.4 East Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
8. Europe
8.1 Europe Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
8.2 Europe Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
8.3 Europe Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
8.4 Europe Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
9. South Asia
9.1 South Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
9.2 South Asia Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
9.3 South Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
9.4 South Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
10. Southeast Asia
10.1 Southeast Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
10.2 Southeast Asia Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
10.3 Southeast Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
10.4 Southeast Asia Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
11. Middle East
11.1 Middle East Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
11.2 Middle East Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
11.3 Middle East Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
11.4 Middle East Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
12. Africa
12.1 Africa Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
12.2 Africa Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
12.3 Africa Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
12.4 Africa Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
13. Oceania
13.1 Oceania Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
13.2 Oceania Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
13.3 Oceania Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
13.4 Oceania Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
14. South America
14.1 South America Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
14.2 South America Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
14.3 South America Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
14.4 South America Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
15. Rest of the World
15.1 Rest of the World Rice Malt Syrup Market Size
15.2 Rest of the World Rice Malt Syrup Key Players in North America
15.3 Rest of the World Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Type
15.4 Rest of the World Rice Malt Syrup Market Size by Application
16 Rice Malt Syrup Market Dynamics
16.1 Covid-19 Impact Market Top Trends
16.2 Covid-19 Impact Market Drivers
16.3 Covid-19 Impact Market Challenges
16.4 Porter
Market Segments
The classification of the Rice Malt Syrup market allows for a deeper understanding of consumer preferences and industrial requirements.
By Type:
-
Regular Type: This remains the volume leader in the market. It is primarily used in mass-market food production where cost-efficiency is balanced with the need for a non-refined sugar alternative. It is a staple in the production of commercial-grade cereal bars and baked goods.
-
Organic Type: The fastest-growing segment, driven by the premium health and wellness sector. Organic rice malt syrup is produced from rice grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers and is often the subject of rigorous third-party certifications. It is highly sought after by boutique health brands and for use in organic infant food formulations.
By Application:
-
Food & Beverage: The primary application segment. Within this category, the syrup is used in bakery products for moisture retention, in confectionery as a humectant, and in beverages like dairy-free milks (oat or rice milk) to enhance mouthfeel and sweetness. It is also a critical binder in the booming "healthy snack" industry.
-
Others: Includes the pharmaceutical and personal care industries. In pharmaceuticals, it acts as a base for cough syrups and liquid supplements. In cosmetics, it is occasionally used in natural skincare formulations for its skin-soothing and moisture-locking properties.
Top Key Players in the Rice Malt Syrup Market
The competitive landscape is characterized by companies that specialize in grain-based sweeteners and industrial ingredient processing. Key players driving innovation and supply include:
-
CNP (California Natural Products): A pioneer in rice-based ingredients, known for high-quality domestic production and specialized enzyme technology.
-
Habib-ADM: A strategic joint venture that leverages massive global distribution networks and advanced refining capabilities to serve the Middle East and international markets.
-
Suzanne’s Specialties: A key player in the retail and specialty health market, focusing on gluten-free and vegan-certified sweeteners.
-
Ag Commodities: Provides bulk supply solutions with a focus on supply chain transparency and raw material sourcing from diverse regions.
-
The Taj Urban Grains: A major contributor to the Asian and Middle Eastern markets, offering high-quality grain-derived syrups for traditional and modern food applications.
-
Northern Food Complex: A significant player in the Southeast Asian region, utilizing local rice surpluses to produce export-quality malt syrups.
-
Khatoon Industries: Focused on industrial-scale production catering to the food processing sectors in South Asia and neighboring territories.
