Weight Loss Supplements Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Form (Powders, Tablets, Capsules, Liquids, and Others), By Type (Vitamins, Minerals, Amino Acids, Proteins, Natural/Botanical Extracts, and Others), By End-User (Under 18 Years, 19 to 40 Years, 41 to 50 Years, and Above 50 Years), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Pharmacies/Drug Stores, Specialty Stores, Online Retail, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global weight loss supplements market size was valued at USD 24.63 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow from USD 27.89 billion in 2024 to USD 77.21 billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth at a CAGR of 13.57% during the forecast period. North America dominated the weight loss supplements market with a market share of 42.14% in 2023. Some of the prominent manufacturers of weight loss supplements include Herbalife Nutrition, Amway Corporation, and GNC.

Weight loss supplements are products composed of minerals, herbs, and fibers designed to help consumers lose weight by minimizing appetite, strengthening metabolism, and improving fat burning. The active ingredients in the appetite suppressants are said to work by enhancing the resting metabolic rate, which, in turn, helps to reduce the extra fat deposition. Moreover, these supplements are available in several forms, such as capsules, powders, tablets, gummies, and liquids, and are produced by combining dozens of ingredients in various amounts.

Prominent factors promoting the utilization of appetite suppressants are the increasing rate of obesity, a surge in health consciousness, and improved launches of fat burner supplements.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers

Surge in Demand for Natural/Herbal Ingredient-Based Supplements Fuels Usage of Weight Loss Supplements

In this modern era, the concept of personal health and wellness is no longer in its nascent stage. Globally, the baseline expectation of consumers is to have products composed of sustainable and safe ingredients. The increasing consumer awareness regarding the quality of products and rising animal welfare predominantly fuels this demand. As a result, this demand for clean-label products influences the growth of plant-centric ingredient-based items. With respect to the factors mentioned earlier, botanical or natural extracts, such as green tea extracts, ginseng, and aloe vera, are utilized to formulate weight loss dietary supplements. The ingredient’s ability to suppress appetite and assist in fat burning makes them a preferred choice amongst consumers. Also, these ingredients are perceived to be healthier and safer as compared to other artificial compounds and are mainly preferred by consumers seeking holistic approaches to weight management.

Increasing Rate of Obesity in Global Space Triggers Use of Appetite Suppressants

For a few decades, obesity has been recognized as a potential threat to consumer health, specifically since the commencement of the 21^st century. Changing dietary patterns and lifestyles are the pivotal contributors to the rising obesity rates across the market. As per the “United States Department of Agriculture,” a government agency in the U.S., the adult obesity incidence grew by 3% from the period of 18^th March 2020 to 18^th March 2021. However, other factors (environmental, lack of physical activity, and genetics) are majorly involved, the fundamental cause of the rising prevalence of obesity is an imbalance of intake of calories and expended. The increasing dependency on convenience food necessitates consumers to include ultra-processed products (high sodium and sugar levels) in their diet. This reliance on ready-to-consume foods is a potent contributor to the obesity epidemic.

Along with adult obesity, pediatric obesity is also becoming a major concern for parents. The growing shift toward empty-calorie foods (junk food and processed snacks) and minimal physical activity leads to strong weight gain. As a result, such growth in obesity spikes the chances of utilization of meal replacement supplements.

Market Restraints

Potential Side Effects and Incidences of Misleading Claims Inhibit Industry’s Growth

One of the main hurdles faced by consumers using weight loss supplements is the serious risk of side effects. The majority of the supplements often contain a blend of ingredients or stimulants, which can lead to toxicity and pose adverse effects on consumer health. For instance, some supplements consist of herb ephedra, which is known to cause heart attacks and increase the risk of high blood pressure. Also, few supplements are responsible for gastrointestinal issues and liver toxicity. Along with this, fatigue, eating disorders, and nutritional deficiencies are a couple of challenges associated with weight-reducing supplements. As a result, such a scenario deters consumers from purchasing weight loss supplements, contributing to the market’s poor growth.

Another problem experienced by global consumers is the misleading claims of supplements. An example, quick weight loss and losing weight without exercise or diet, mislead the consumers, leading to weak growth. In today’s time, consumers are highly aware of the product’s role and are choosing supplements as per their needs. Thus, such fraudulent claims impede the consumer’s trust, which further hampers the product’s sales.

Market Challenge

Weak Regulations of Weight Loss Supplements Obstructs Market Growth

Lack of well-developed regulations to ensure the efficacy, safety, and quality of appetite suppressants creates difficulties in marketing the finished products. The governing bodies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), does not properly review as well as approve over-the-counter supplements for efficacy or safety. Apart from adults, there are insufficient regulations for weight loss supplements, specifically for children. As a result, such cases hamper the overall global weight loss supplements market growth.

Market Opportunity

Technological Advancements in Product Development Creates Growth Opportunities for Industry

The use of new production technologies to develop innovative products for consumers is a key opportunity for producers to generate higher revenues. In order to enhance the safety profiles and efficacy of supplements, the producers should capitalize on the research and development opportunities to introduce unique appetite suppressants in the market. In today’s time, a large base of the population is seeking products with high efficiency, which can provide maximum benefit to individuals. Thus, with respect to the factors mentioned above, weight loss producers should utilize high technology to produce strong potency supplements that resonate with health-centric consumers.

WEIGHT LOSS SUPPLEMENT MARKET TRENDS

Growing Trend of Personalized Nutrition Drives the Demand for Weight Loss Supplements

Personalized nutrition, also known as the customized nourishment method, emerged as the latest trend for offering nutritional advice on the basis of an individual’s phenotypic, genetic, and medical conditions. The approach of personalized nutrition is to identify nutritional gaps and provide tailored solutions to cater to the consumer’s requirements and goals. Similarly, this trend can also accelerate the utilization of weight loss supplements in the market. In today’s time, a mass of the population is suffering from obesity and is looking for supplements that can aid in weight management. Thus, the key players are leveraging technologies, such as genetic and DNA testing, to offer precision supplement regimens for the consumer’s needs. With the help of such techniques, the companies can help the individuals to attain their targeted weight loss goals.

Impact of COVID-19

The unforeseen outbreak of the pandemic led to a significant disturbance in the production and supply of weight loss supplements. In the initial phase of the pandemic, the demand for weight loss supplements increased as individuals were witnessing a spike in obesity levels due to the closure of fitness centers. This scenario has led consumers to switch toward meal replacement options as the limited mobility in indoor spaces fueled the risk of fat deposition. However, the industry experienced several hurdles during the procurement of raw materials for production, owing to the restrictions imposed during the lockdown. Moreover, by 2021, a gradual rise was witnessed in the consumption of meal replacement supplements after the upliftment of the lockdown, which influenced individuals to turn to gyms and other physical activities to reduce the burden of obesity.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Form Analysis

Powders Segment Dominate Due to its Easy Dissolving and Long Shelf Life Properties

Based on form, the market is distributed into powders, tablets, capsules, liquids, and others. The powders segment leads and generated the highest revenue in 2023. Supplements in powder form provide quick absorption and adjustable dosage properties, which makes them a preferred option among consumers. Moreover, the extended shelf life of powdered supplements and convenient administration promote the segment’s growth. As a result, the key players in the market are trying to introduce more innovative and effective weight loss supplements in powdered form.

Tablets is recognized as the fastest growing segment in the market, primarily because of its cost-effectiveness and easy availability. They are easy to carry and offer instant relief due to high doses of active ingredients compared to other forms. Also, compared to liquids and gummies, tablets have better stability, which improves their utilization rate, fueling the weight loss supplements market share.

By Type Analysis

Natural/Botanical Extracts Lead Due to Wide Availability and Demand for Natural Ingredients

On the basis of product type, the market is segmented into vitamins, minerals, amino acids, proteins, natural/botanical extracts, and others. The natural/botanical extract-based weight loss supplements dominate the market by securing the apex position. In this modern era, consumers are seeking supplements that are produced via natural herbs or roots. Also, natural extract-infused supplements help in appetite regulation and glucose and lipid metabolism, thus considered a viable obesity control option. A few of the popular natural extracts used in supplements include green tea extract, ginseng, green coffee, and cayenne pepper.

Proteins is recognized as the fastest-growing segment in the global market. Protein powder is known for aiding in weight management as it offers a feeling of satiety and fuels the metabolism of consumers. These powders can be used for shakes and smoothies, as they release PYY and GLP-1 hormones, which provide a feeling of fullness. As a result, this factor helps in minimizing the appetite, thus controlling weight gain.

By End-User Analysis

Consumers Between 19 to 40 Years are Major End-Users of Weight Loss Supplements Due to Rising Risk of Obesity Concerns

On the basis of end-user, the market is distributed into under 18 years, 19 to 40 years, 41 to 50 years, and above 50 years. Out of all, the 19 to 40 years segment leads and is expected to grow at the same pace in the forecast period. As compared to other age groups, 18 to 40 years of individuals tend to gain more weight due to a sedentary lifestyle, slower metabolism, and genetic factors. At this age, individuals have a hectic lifestyle schedule, which causes consumers to rely on heavily processed food options. As a result, such poor eating choices increase the risk of obesity, thereby augmenting the usage of appetite suppressants.

The 41 to 50 years segment is ranked second in the market and is projected to flourish at a higher extent in the coming years. Similar to 18 to 40 years of end users, 41 to 50 years of consumers are also recognized as a hotspot for contracting several health ailments, including obesity. Unbalanced eating patterns and hormonal changes are the critical factors leading to a surge in obesity concerns. Along with this, other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, influence consumers toward binge eating, thus increasing the prevalence of obesity. Thus, all such factors cumulatively augment the dependency on weight loss products.

By Distribution Channel

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Emerged as “Go-to-Option” Due to Wide Availability of Items

Based on the distribution channel, the market is distributed into supermarkets/hypermarkets, pharmacies/drug stores, specialty stores, online retail, and others. Amongst all, the supermarkets/hypermarkets segment dominated the market in 2023, primarily because of the freedom of selection and cost-saving factor. These retail stores provide a vast range of products from several national and private-label brands, which entices the consumer’s attention. Also, the choice of comparing the products, such as weight loss supplements, with respect to prices and bulk purchasing options at discounted prices further contributes to the growth of this segment.

Online retail segment is considered the fastest-growing segment in the market due to the ease of shopping from home and quick delivery advantage. The increasing internet penetration and growing smartphone usage have influenced consumers to explore online services for purchasing weight loss products.

WEIGHT LOSS SUPPLEMENTS MARKET REGIONAL OUTLOOK

On the basis of region, the market is distributed into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.

North America

North America leads and held the largest market share of 42.12% in 2023. The region is facing a crucial challenge with a mass population struggling with high obesity rates and other lifestyle-related issues. Owing to the hectic lifestyle of consumers, individuals are strongly dependent on ultra-processed, ready-to-consume edibles, which provide high calories and lack essential nutrients. As a result, such reliance on processed food items increases the risk of obesity, thus fueling the demand for weight loss supplements.

Moreover, among several American countries, the U.S. is the key market, contributing to the growth of appetite suppressants. As compared to other countries, the U.S. is considered as one of the well-developed countries with a large population. It has a high purchasing power which increases the consumer’s dependability on ready-to-cook/frozen meals. Furthermore, the rising number of immigrants in the U.S. further contributes to the hike in sales of prepackaged food products. This factor boosts the prevalence of obesity across the nation, thus improving the sales of weight loss supplements.

Europe

Europe’s weight loss supplements market ranked second and is expected to soar in the upcoming years. Similar to North America, Europe is also dealing with the rising prevalence of obesity owing to poor levels of physical activity, coupled with more individuals working in a sedentary manner. Due to the surge in obesity levels, the European population is facing a high risk of contracting chronic health ailments such as high cholesterol, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and breathing problems. Such instances necessitate consumers to switch toward weight loss supplements to reduce the burden of obesity. Moreover, the well-built sports nutrition industry in the region influences athletes/sports professionals to opt for protein powders/botanical extract supplements for maintaining good health. 

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific emerged as the fastest-growing region in the market, exhibiting a CAGR of 15.43% in 2023. This growth is mainly achieved due to the expanding supplement industry and the increasing inclination of the Gen Z population toward health & wellness. Additionally, the rising disposable incomes and government initiatives to shrink the augmented incidences of obesity or overweight contribute to the use of weight loss supplements.

South America and Middle East & Africa

South America and the Middle East & Africa are at their progressing stages and are estimated to fuel at a higher pace in the near term. The increasing number of health and fitness clubs and the surge in the middle-class population influence the population to spend on self-care. Followed by this, the growing awareness of weight loss and management via online programs, also contributes to the intake of weight loss supplements.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Leading Companies are Embarking on New Launches and Campaigns to Enhance Product’s Awareness

Prominent players in the global weight loss supplements market include Amway Corporation, GNC, Herbalife Nutrition, and Nestle Health Science. In this era, the majority of consumers are facing obesity concerns and are seeking solutions to reduce the risk of weight gain. In order to respond to the above challenges, the manufacturers are introducing weight loss products which help in promoting a healthy lifestyle. Also, the government is trying to increase awareness about the adverse effects of obesity with the help of campaigns.

Major Players in the Weight Loss Supplements Market:

LIST OF KEY WEIGHT LOSS SUPPLEMENTS MARKET COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Amway Corporation (U.S.)


• Herbalife Nutrition (U.S.)


• GNC (U.S.)


• Fermentis Life Sciences (India)


• Glanbia Performance Nutrition Inc., (Ireland)


• Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition (U.S.)


• Nestle Health Science (U.S.)


• GlaxoSmith Kline plc (U.K.)


• Shaklee Corporation (U.S.)


• Iovate Health Sciences International Inc. (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• July 2024: The National Health Commission, a government department of China, launched the latest awareness campaign, which focuses on controlling high obesity rates. The campaign encompasses slogans to educate consumers regarding obesity effects. It emphasizes balanced diet, active monitoring, and lifelong commitment, which can help the Chinese population lead a healthy lifestyle.


• January 2024: GNC, a U.S.-based nutritional products manufacturer, introduced the launch of a new weight loss supplement, “Total Lean Glucatrim.” This product is formulated to promote weight loss and lean muscle mass. Moreover, the supplement is composed of curry leaf extracts, turmeric, and moringa and is available in both bars and ready-to-drink formats. 


• January 2024: Eli Lilly, a pharmaceutical company in the U.S., announced their new website, “Lilly Direct,” which allows patients to generate a weight loss prescription via a telehealth provider. This website improves access to effective weight loss drugs for consumers.


• February 2021: Iovate Health Sciences International Inc., a supplement enterprise based in the U.S., released its new U.S. brand campaign, “No Fads, Just Weight Loss,” via its weight loss supplement brand, “Hydroxycut”. Also, as a part of the campaign, Hydroxycut launched a new website, “hydroxycutworks.com,” which helps individuals understand the right product with respect to weight loss. 


• December 2023: Hims & Hers, a telehealth enterprise, announced the launch of its new weight loss program, which includes educational content, access to medications, and digital tracking tools. The firm offers weight loss supplements that are manufactured by combining Vitamin B12, metformin, and bupropion. 


• March 2023: Nestle Health Science, a U.S.-based nutrition company, and Epitomee Medical, an Israel-based company, merged and announced the completion of patient enrollment for the weight loss capsule pivotal study of the Epitomee. The capsule is solely developed by Epitomee, and Nestle has the rights to commercialize the product globally.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report includes quantitative and qualitative insights into the market. It also offers a detailed analysis of the market sizing and growth rate for all possible segments. Various key insights presented in the report are an overview of related markets, competitive landscape, recent industry developments such as mergers & acquisitions, the regulatory scenario in critical countries, and market trends.

Report Scope and Segmentation