Royal Jelly Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis by Type (Fresh Royal Jelly and Royal Jelly Extract), Analysis by Form (Capsule, Liquid, and Gel), Analysis by Application (Food and Beverage, Dietary Supplements, Cosmetics, Healthcare, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

Royal jelly is a sticky substance secreted by worker honey bees to feed the queen bee and young larvae. Royal jelly is known to be one of the most significant beehive products, known for centuries and also called as "Honeybee's milk" or "youth elixir" owing to its health-promoting properties and high nutritional value. Growing awareness of health among the aging population fuels the demand for royal jelly as a potential aid in managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and osteoporosis. Moreover, consumers are increasingly seeking organic and natural products, including dietary and health supplements, which offer various benefits to the overall health and well-being. This trend is fueling the royal jelly market growth.

The COVID-19 pandemic positively impacted the market. The pandemic caused disruptions in the economy, leading to hampered supply chains. However, the growing health awareness concerns among consumers during the pandemic led to an increasing demand for immunity-promoting products such as honey and royal jelly. 

Furthermore, rising government support for beekeeping activities has also played a crucial role in propelling the market growth. For instance, in August 2023, the governments of Canada and Ontario invested USD 1.3 million through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) to improve beekeeper operations in Ontario. Rising investments in research on bee health, pollination ecology, and royal jelly production further help improve yields and unlock new market opportunities.

Royal jelly is a relatively expensive ingredient, primarily due to the labor-intensive nature of beekeeping and harvesting. This can limit its accessibility to price-conscious consumers and make it less competitive against more affordable alternatives. Moreover, varying regulations and labelling requirements across different countries further create challenges for manufacturers, affecting market access and consumer understanding of the product claims.

Key Insights

The report covers the following key insights:

• Market Overview of Related/Parent Market


• Supply Chain & Regulatory Analysis


• Recent Industry Developments – Partnerships, Mergers and Acquisitions, and New Product Launches


• COVID-19 Impact


• SWOT Analysis

Segmentation

Analysis by Type

The royal jelly extract segment is expected to hold a significant share of the global market. Royal jelly extract offers concentrated forms such as capsules and gels, making it easier to consume and ensure consistent dosage. Extracts are generally more stable and have a longer shelf life compared to fresh jelly, reducing waste and increasing market reach.

The fresh royal jelly segment is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Consumers are increasingly seeking natural and unprocessed products, valuing the perceived purity and nutritional benefits of fresh royal jelly. Moreover, rising concerns over potential adulteration or processing manipulation may further drive consumers toward fresh jelly, fueling the market growth.

Analysis by Form

The capsule segment is expected to hold a major share of the global market. Capsules offer the most convenient and hassle-free way to consume royal jelly. The measured dosage and portability make them ideal for busy lifestyles. Moreover, capsules offer significantly longer shelf compared to other forms. Furthermore, the enclosed nature of capsules shields the royal jelly from factors such as air and light exposure, which can degrade its bioactive compounds.

The powder segment is expected to grow at a high pace over the forecast period. Powder forms help preserve nutrients and maintain a high quality, potentially commanding premium prices, especially in freeze-dried royal jelly powder.

Analysis by Application

The dietary supplements segment is expected to hold a significant share of the global market. The dominance is fueled by the booming global dietary supplement market, with consumers increasingly seeking convenience and accessible ways to improve their health and well-being. Royal jelly’s perceived health benefits, including anti-aging, immunity boosting and cognitive enhancing properties, align perfectly with the growing focus on personal wellness and preventive healthcare.

The food and beverage segment is expected to grow at a considerable pace over the forecast period. Consumers are increasingly seeking functional foods and beverages that offer health benefits alongside nutritional value, making royal jelly's purported health properties a perfect fit.

The cosmetic segment is expected to grow at a steady pace over the forecast period owing to its perceived anti-aging benefits, natural appeal, innovative product possibilities, and rising consumer demand for clean beauty products.

Analysis by Region

Asia Pacific is expected to hold a major share of the global market. The increasing prevalence of diabetes and obesity in the region leads to the rising demand for royal jelly supplements. According to the National Library of Medicine, China produces over 90% of the royal jelly in Asia Pacific. The country’s favorable agricultural conditions, a long tradition of beekeeping, and robust infrastructure make it one of the leading producers and exporters of royal jelly. Other regional players such as Japan, South Korea, India, and Southeast Asian countries also actively contribute to the production of royal jelly, catering to domestic and international demand.

The market for royal jelly in Europe is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Europe has a growing aging population, a demographic particularly interested in products promoting health and longevity, increasing the potential market for royal jelly. The rising disposable incomes in the region, particularly among health-conscious consumers, make them more willing to spend on premium products made from royal jelly.

Key Market Players

The key players in the market include Y.S. Organic Bee Farms, NOW Foods, NaturaNectar, Golden Hive, Durham's Bee Farm, Swanson Health Products, Bee Alive, API Health, Highland Beekeeping, and King's Gelée Royale.

Key Developments

• In October 2023, the Indian government planned to train tribal women to extract royal jelly from worker bees using advanced techniques.


• In December 2021, Beehall Group launched a high-end skin care product, Anti-Time Essence Capsule. The new product contains propolis and royal jelly as the ingredients.