Japan’s algae-based food market is expected to grow from approximately $489.21 million in 2023 to approximately $694.58 million in 2031, with a compound annual growth rate forecast at 4.48%. The market is expected to be driven by both traditional seaweed-based products and new applications involving microalgae.
Japan’s algae-based food market is expanding beyond stable demand for traditional seaweeds such as nori, kelp and wakame, with new product formats including microalgae-based supplements, functional foods and snacks gaining ground. The market is forecast to grow from approximately $489.21 million in 2023 to approximately $694.58 million in 2031, representing a projected compound annual growth rate of 4.48%.
Key growth drivers include rising interest in health and sustainability, the diversification of food applications and the potential for export growth. Government support for sustainable food production and the development of quality standards for organic algae, including JAS0018:2021, are expected to improve quality and labeling transparency and strengthen confidence in the market both in Japan and overseas.
Examples of specific initiatives include the plan announced by NTT Group’s NTT Green & Food Corporation to use algae as feed and pursue recirculating aquaculture. Efforts are also under way to introduce algae into school meals, with the aim of building future market acceptance through education. In 2023, the introduction of microalgae into school meals through a partnership between Ebis Algae and Fukuroi City was also reported.
The competitive landscape includes a diverse range of domestic and international companies, including Algal Bio, Euglena and Sun Chlorella. A broad range of applications, including health foods, functional foods, alternative proteins and feed, is expected to expand on the strength of both traditional seaweed products and new materials derived from microalgae.