Latin America Feed Enzymes Market Report

Latin America Feed Enzymes Market Size

The Latin America feed enzymes market size was valued at USD 14.35 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 15.37 billion in 2025 from USD 26.60 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.10% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.

The Latin America feed enzymes market refers to the use of enzyme-based additives in animal nutrition to improve digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and increase overall livestock productivity. These enzymes, such as phytases, proteases, carbohydrases, and lipases, are increasingly used in poultry, swine, ruminant, and aquaculture feed formulations. The region's growing demand for animal protein has driven the need for more efficient feed conversion rates and sustainable livestock production methods.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Latin America is one of the world’s leading exporters of beef, poultry, and pork, with Brazil standing out as a global meat exporter. This trend has led to increased adoption of feed enzymes to reduce feed costs and improve animal health outcomes.

This shift has placed pressure on producers to maximize output from limited resources, making feed efficiency a critical factor in farm profitability.

Moreover, environmental concerns surrounding nutrient runoff and greenhouse gas emissions from livestock farming are prompting regulatory interest in sustainable feed solutions. As such, governments and agribusinesses across the region are exploring enzyme supplementation as a way to reduce phosphorus and nitrogen excretion from animals.

MARKET DRIVERS

Rising Demand for Animal Protein

One of the primary drivers of the Latin American feed enzymes market is the increasing demand for animal-based proteins such as poultry, pork, and beef. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), per capita meat consumption in Latin America rose notably between 2015 and 2023, driven by population growth, urbanization, and higher disposable incomes.

This growing appetite for meat has led to intensified livestock production, particularly in countries like Brazil and Argentina, where integrated poultry and cattle farming operations dominate. As reported by the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture, domestic poultry production reached nearly 14 million metric tons in 2023, necessitating large-scale feed production that prioritizes cost-efficiency and nutritional optimization.

Feed enzymes play a crucial role in this context by improving the digestibility of plant-based feed ingredients such as corn and soybean meal, which are widely used in animal diets. Phytase and carbohydrase enzymes, for example, help release bound nutrients and reduce anti-nutritional factors, enabling better feed conversion ratios and faster weight gain.

Besides, as per the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), investments in modern livestock facilities have surged in recent years, especially in Colombia and Peru, where feed formulation practices are gradually aligning with international standards. This transition supports greater integration of enzyme technologies into commercial feed mills.

Expansion of Commercial Livestock Farming

Another significant driver of the Latin America feed enzymes market is the expansion of commercial livestock farming, particularly in large-scale poultry and swine operations. According to the Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA), industrial poultry production in Brazil grew by over 6% in 2023, supported by strong export demand and government-backed infrastructure development.

Similar trends are observed in Mexico, where intensive pig farming has expanded significantly due to rising domestic demand and integration with North American supply chains. These large-scale operations rely heavily on formulated feeds to ensure uniformity, growth performance, and disease prevention—factors that make enzyme supplementation essential.

Feed enzymes contribute to improved feed efficiency by breaking down complex carbohydrates and releasing phosphorus and amino acids that would otherwise be unavailable to monogastric animals. According to the International Feed Industry Federation (IFIF), enzyme use in commercial feed formulations can enhance nutrient utilization, reducing feed waste and lowering production costs.

Furthermore, as per the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), several Latin American governments have launched initiatives to promote modern feeding practices among medium and large producers. These efforts include subsidies for advanced feed technologies and technical training programs aimed at improving farm-level productivity.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Limited Awareness Among Smallholder Farmers

One of the most pressing constraints affecting the Latin American enzymes market is the limited awareness and understanding of enzyme benefits among smallholder and subsistence farmers.

As noted by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), many small producers lack access to technical information about enzyme applications and their economic returns. This knowledge gap results in the underutilization of feed enzymes despite their proven ability to enhance feed efficiency and reduce production costs.

Also, extension services and veterinary advisory networks remain underdeveloped in rural areas of Peru, Bolivia, and Central America, limiting the reach of enzyme suppliers and feed additive manufacturers.

Moreover, credit availability for small producers remains limited, making it difficult for them to invest in premium feed additives. Without financial support or clear return-on-investment data, many farmers continue to rely on basic feed formulations that do not incorporate enzyme supplementation.

High Cost and Supply Chain Limitations

Another critical constraint facing the Latin American feed enzymes market is the relatively high cost of enzyme products and logistical difficulties in their distribution.

Also, small and mid-sized feed producers often struggle to justify the additional expense without clear short-term economic incentives. Unlike in developed markets, where precision nutrition and sustainability metrics drive enzyme adoption, Latin American farmers frequently prioritize immediate yield improvements over long-term efficiency gains.

Additionally, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) notes that supply chain inefficiencies, including inconsistent cold-chain logistics and limited local storage capacity, hinder the consistent availability of heat-sensitive enzyme formulations across remote regions. This issue is particularly pronounced in Paraguay, Ecuador, and Honduras, where infrastructure deficits impact product shelf life and efficacy.

Furthermore, as per the World Bank Logistics Performance Index, customs delays and regulatory bottlenecks affect import timelines for enzyme ingredients, leading to irregular supply and price fluctuations that discourage steady adoption.

Unless pricing structures become more accessible and distribution channels more reliable, the full potential of the Latin American feed enzymes market will remain constrained.

MARKET OPPORTUNITY

Adoption of Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Feeding Practices

A key opportunity for the Latin American feed enzymes market lies in the growing emphasis on sustainable and environmentally responsible livestock production. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, livestock farming contributes significantly to water pollution through excess phosphorus and nitrogen excretion, prompting regulators to seek mitigation strategies.

Enzymes such as phytase and protease help reduce mineral excretion and ammonia emissions, offering a viable solution to minimize environmental impact. In response to these concerns, the Brazilian Ministry of Environment has introduced new guidelines encouraging feed manufacturers to adopt enzyme-enhanced formulations that lower nutrient runoff from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs).

Similarly, Mexico’s National Institute of Ecology and Climate Change (INECC) has been advocating for cleaner livestock production methods, including the use of enzymes to reduce methane emissions from ruminants. Pilot programs in collaboration with private feed companies are already underway to test enzyme blends that improve rumen efficiency and cut enteric fermentation.

This shift in consumer preference is incentivizing large agribusinesses to integrate enzyme-based feed solutions into their supply chains.

Growth of the Integrated Feed Manufacturing Sector

An emerging opportunity for the Latin American feed enzymes market is the rapid growth of the integrated feed manufacturing sector, particularly in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina.

As per the Mexican Chamber of the Animal Nutrition Industry (CEPANAL), integrated feed production in Mexico has grown annually since 2020, driven by vertical integration strategies adopted by large poultry and swine processors. These vertically integrated operations control both feed formulation and livestock rearing, making them more inclined to invest in enzyme-based feed technologies for cost optimization and quality assurance. Government-backed initiatives are helping local feed producers integrate enzyme technologies into their formulations.

Moreover, multinational enzyme suppliers such as DSM, Novozymes, and AB Vista are expanding their presence in the region, partnering with feed integrators to provide customized solutions that align with regional dietary requirements and regulatory standards.

With increasing consolidation in the livestock and feed sectors, the integrated feed manufacturing model offers a promising platform for sustained growth in the Latin American feed enzymes market.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Regulatory Heterogeneity Across Countries

A major challenge facing the Latin American feed enzymes market is the lack of harmonized regulatory frameworks across the region, which complicates market entry and product registration. According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO, each country in Latin America maintains its own set of rules regarding enzyme approval, labeling, and usage limits, creating administrative hurdles for international suppliers.

For instance, as per the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture, the approval process for new enzyme products can take up to two years, involving multiple agencies and extensive documentation. In contrast, Colombia’s Agricultural Institute (ICA) has recently streamlined its approval procedures, attracting foreign investment but creating regulatory asymmetry within the region.

Additionally, Mexico’s Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk (COFEPRIS) enforces strict residue monitoring, requiring ongoing compliance assessments that add complexity and cost for enzyme formulators.

Price Volatility of Raw Materials

Price volatility in raw materials used for enzyme production presents a significant challenge to the Latin American feed enzymes market.

With feed ingredient prices swinging unpredictably, enzyme suppliers face difficulty in offering stable pricing models that encourage consistent adoption.

Local enzyme manufacturers also struggle with sourcing high-quality substrates due to seasonal availability and limited fermentation capacity in the region. These cost-related pressures limit market expansion and require innovative pricing strategies to maintain adoption momentum across the diverse Latin American agricultural landscape.

REPORT COVERAGE

SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS

By Ingredients Insights

The Phytase segment held the largest market share, accounting for 38.4% of total revenue in 2024 in the Latin America feed enzymes market. This dominance is primarily attributed to its widespread use in poultry and swine feed formulations, where it plays a crucial role in enhancing phosphorus availability from plant-based feed ingredients.

One key driver behind the prominence of phytase is its ability to reduce reliance on inorganic phosphorus supplements, which are costly and environmentally harmful. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), phosphorus runoff from livestock operations contributes significantly to water pollution, prompting regulatory interest in sustainable feeding practices.

Another critical factor is the expansion of commercial poultry and swine farming, particularly in Brazil and Mexico. As per the Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA), poultry production in Brazil alone reached 14 million metric tons in 2023, with nearly 75% of commercial feed mills incorporating phytase into their formulations to enhance feed efficiency and reduce costs.

Moreover, government-backed initiatives promoting nutrient-efficient livestock systems have reinforced phytase adoption.

These combined factors underscore why phytase remains the dominant ingredient in the Latin American enzymes market.

The Fastest-growing segment in the Latin America feed enzymes market by ingredients is the Carbohydrase segment, projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6%. Carbohydrases—enzymes such as xylanase, amylase, and cellulase—are gaining traction due to their ability to break down complex carbohydrates found in cereal grains like corn and wheat, thereby improving energy utilization in monogastric animals.

One of the primary growth drivers is the increasing reliance on plant-based feed ingredients, particularly in Brazil and Argentina. Additionally, as per the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), carbohydrases help improve gut health and digestion in broilers and pigs, leading to better weight gain and reduced feed conversion ratios. These benefits align well with the growing demand for cost-effective animal nutrition strategies among large-scale producers.

Furthermore, multinational enzyme suppliers such as DSM and Novozymes are expanding their presence in Latin America, offering tailored carbohydrase blends designed for regional feed compositions. With rising emphasis on optimizing feed performance and sustainability, the carbohydrase segment is positioned for robust growth across Latin America.

By Animal Type Insights

The Poultry segment had the largest market share, contributing 42% of total revenue in 2024. This dominance is due to the region’s strong position in global poultry production, particularly in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, where integrated poultry operations form a significant part of agricultural exports.

A major driver behind the poultry segment’s leading position is the intensification of commercial poultry farming, especially in Brazil. To sustain high productivity and feed efficiency, poultry integrators increasingly rely on enzyme supplementation to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce feed costs.

Another contributing factor is the growing integration of enzyme technologies in commercial feed mills, supported by government-backed quality standards.

Additionally, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO , poultry production is more resource-efficient compared to ruminant or swine farming, making it a preferred choice for both domestic consumption and export markets. This trend reinforces the need for optimized feed formulations that include phytase, protease, and carbohydrase enzymes.

Given the scale and sophistication of the poultry industry in Latin America, the segment continues to lead the feed enzymes market in terms of volume and revenue.

The booming animal type segment in the Latin America feed enzymes market is Aquaculture, expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.3%. This accelerated growth is fueled by increasing investments in aquaculture production and the rising need for efficient feed solutions to support fish and shrimp farming operations.

One of the key growth enablers is the expansion of aquaculture as a strategic protein source, particularly in Chile and Ecuador. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), aquaculture production in Latin America grew in 2023, with salmon and shrimp farming driving most of the expansion. These species require highly digestible diets, making enzyme supplementation essential for maximizing nutrient uptake and minimizing waste.

As per SERNAPESCA data, over 80% of salmon feed produced in Chile in 2023 included enzyme additives to support digestive health and disease prevention.

With rising consumer demand for seafood and limited wild catch potential, aquaculture operators are turning to enzyme technology to maximize output within constrained environmental regulations.

As aquaculture continues to scale across Latin America, the demand for specialized feed enzymes is set to rise in tandem, positioning this segment for sustained high growth.

COUNTRY ANALYSIS

Brazil

Brazil held a leading position in the Latin American feed enzymes market, accounting for 35.4% of regional market revenue in 2024. Its dominance is largely attributed to the country’s status as one of the world’s top producers and exporters of poultry and beef, necessitating large-scale, efficient feed production systems.

One of the key contributors to Brazil’s market strength is the rapid expansion of the poultry industry, where enzyme supplementation is widely adopted to enhance feed efficiency and reduce phosphorus excretion. According to the Brazilian Association of Animal Protein (ABPA), the country exported over 4.5 million metric tons of poultry meat in 2023, reinforcing the need for standardized feed formulation practices that integrate enzyme technologies.

Additionally, the swine sector is growing steadily, further boosting enzyme demand for improved digestibility and nutrient retention.

Moreover, government-backed agricultural research institutions such as EMBRAPA have been actively promoting enzyme-based feed technologies to support sustainable livestock intensification. The Ministry of Agriculture also encourages the use of enzymes to comply with environmental regulations aimed at reducing nutrient runoff from concentrated animal feeding operations.

With its vast livestock base and progressive agribusiness policies, Brazil remains a pivotal market for feed enzymes in Latin America.

Argentina

Argentina ranks among the top contributors to the Latin American feed enzymes market. The country’s strong agricultural foundation, particularly in grain production and cattle ranching, supports consistent demand for feed enzymes across livestock sectors.

One of the primary drivers of Argentina’s feed enzymes market is the expansion of commercial poultry and swine farming, particularly in the provinces of Buenos Aires and Santa Fe. In addition, the cattle feedlot sector is evolving. In these operations, enzyme use is becoming more common to improve fiber digestion in ruminants and enhance energy extraction from forages.

Moreover, agricultural policy reforms and trade incentives have strengthened Argentina’s position as a major feed ingredient supplier.

With ongoing modernization of livestock production and increasing awareness of feed efficiency, Argentina continues to play a vital role in shaping the Latin American feed enzymes landscape.

Mexico

Mexico occupies a notable position in the Latin American feed enzymes market. The country’s industrialized livestock sector, particularly in poultry and swine, drives steady demand for enzyme-based feed additives.

One of the major contributors to Mexico’s market standing is the highly integrated nature of its poultry industry, which accounts for a significant portion of national meat consumption and exports.

Additionally, the swine sector is expanding rapidly, supported by strong integration with U.S. supply chains.

Moreover, the government is promoting sustainable livestock practices, particularly in feedlot and intensive rearing systems. With its structured feed manufacturing base and growing emphasis on efficiency and sustainability, Mexico remains a key player in the Latin American feed enzymes market.

Chile

Chile represents a significant and growing segment of the Latin American feed enzymes market. The country’s strong presence in aquaculture and dairy production underpins its increasing reliance on feed enzymes to enhance nutrient absorption and reduce environmental impact.

One of the main drivers of Chile’s market growth is the expansion of salmon farming, particularly in southern regions. Enzymes such as protease and carbohydrase are increasingly used in aquafeed to improve protein digestibility and reduce nitrogen discharge into marine ecosystems.

Moreover, the dairy sector is undergoing modernization, supported by government-backed programs aimed at improving milk yield and feed efficiency. Moreover, Chilean feed manufacturers are adopting international quality standards, aligning with European and North American import requirements. With its focus on sustainability, export competitiveness, and technological advancement, Chile remains a key contributor to the Latin American feed enzymes market.

Rest of Latin America

The Rest of Latin America category, encompassing Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Central American nations, contributes a notable share of total revenue in the Latin America feed enzymes market in 2024. While individually, these economies may not dominate the market, collectively, they represent a growing base for enzyme adoption due to evolving livestock practices and increased foreign investment.

One of the key drivers in this segment is the ongoing industrial development in Colombia, particularly in the poultry and egg production sectors.

Additionally, in Ecuador aquaculture industry is expanding, with shrimp farming playing a central role.

With improving infrastructure, stronger regulatory alignment, and growing technical expertise, the "Rest of Latin America" segment is steadily emerging as a meaningful contributor to the regional feed enzymes market.

KEY MARKET PLAYERS

DuPont, DSM, BASF Corporation, Alltech, Novozymes, Adisseo France, AB Enzymes GmbH, Advanced Enzymes Technologies Limited, Amano Enzyme Inc., Bio-Vet JSC, Biocatalysts Ltd, Chr. Hansen Inc., Enmex SAB de CV, Lesaffre Group, PURATOS GROUP, Rossari Biotech Limited, Shenzhen Leveking Bio-Engineering Co., Ltd, Sunson Industry Group Company Limited. Are the market players that are dominating the Latin Americanfeedd enzymes market?.

Top Players in the Market

One of the leading players in the Latin American feed enzymes market is DSM Nutritional Products, a global life sciences and materials sciences company headquartered in the Netherlands. DSM has a strong presence in animal nutrition, offering a wide range of enzyme-based feed additives tailored for poultry, swine, and ruminant nutrition. In Latin America, DSM collaborates with major feed producers to improve feed efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance livestock productivity. Its emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and regulatory compliance makes it a preferred partner for large-scale integrators seeking science-backed feed solutions.

Another key player is Novozymes A/S, a Denmark-based biotechnology leader specializing in industrial enzymes. Novozymes plays a crucial role in supplying customized enzyme formulations that support improved digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall animal performance. The company actively engages in research partnerships and technical training programs across Latin America, helping local producers understand the benefits of enzyme supplementation. With its robust R&D capabilities and commitment to green technologies, Novozymes continues to expand its influence in the region’s evolving feed industry.

The third major participant shaping the Latin American feed enzymes landscape is AB Vista, a division of Associated British Foods focused on advanced animal nutrition solutions. AB Vista specializes in phytase, carbohydrase, and protease technologies designed to unlock nutritional value in plant-based feeds. In Latin America, the company works closely with feed mills and livestock producers to optimize feed formulation and reduce reliance on mineral supplements. AB Vista's regional strategy includes localized technical support, extensive field trials, and strategic collaborations aimed at improving adoption rates across diverse livestock operations. Its focus on precision nutrition and sustainable feeding aligns well with evolving industry demands, reinforcing its position as a trusted provider in the region.

Top Strategies Used by Key Market Participants

Key players in the Latin American feed enzymes market employ several strategies to strengthen their competitive edge. One major approach is strategic partnerships and collaborations with local distributors, feed manufacturers, and agricultural institutions. These alliances facilitate technology transfer, streamline supply chains, and improve customer engagement across remote and underpenetrated regions.

Another critical strategy is product customization and localization, where companies design enzyme blends tailored to the specific feed ingredients and livestock profiles of Latin American markets. This includes adapting formulations for corn-soy diets in Brazil, wheat-barley mixes in Argentina, and aquafeed applications in Chile, ensuring optimal performance and return on investment.

Lastly, expanding digital integration and technical advisory services allows key players to differentiate themselves in a fragmented market. By offering predictive analytics, online dosage calculators, and mobile-based agronomic advice, companies ensure long-term customer retention and operational reliability, reinforcing their market positions.

COMPETITION OVERVIEW

The competition in the Latin American feed enzymes market is shaped by a mix of global leaders and emerging regional specialists striving to meet the growing demand for efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective animal nutrition. Multinational corporations dominate due to their technological expertise, broad product portfolios, and established distribution networks. However, increasing awareness among mid-sized producers has led to the rise of domestic enzyme suppliers who offer competitively priced and locally adapted solutions.

Market participants are focusing on differentiation through innovation, service excellence, and environmental stewardship. As the livestock sector evolves, there is a growing emphasis on precision nutrition, digital tools, and sustainability-linked marketing. Companies are also investing in capacity-building initiatives, farmer education, and technical advisory networks to enhance customer engagement. Despite the dominance of global firms, the market remains dynamic, offering opportunities for both international and regional players willing to adapt to the unique challenges and growth potential present across Latin America.

RECENT HAPPENINGS IN THE MARKET

• In March 2024, DSM Nutritional Products launched a dedicated technical service hub in São Paulo to provide enhanced on-ground support for Brazilian feed mills. This initiative aims to improve formulation assistance and field application monitoring, strengthening DSM’s relationship with large-scale poultry and swine producers.
• In June 2024, Novozymes A/S partnered with a leading Argentine feed producer to co-develop region-specific enzyme blends optimized for soybean and maize-based diets. The collaboration focuses on enhancing digestibility and reducing phosphorus excretion in commercial livestock operations.
• In October 2023, AB Vista signed a joint development agreement with a Mexican agro-industrial cooperative to tailor enzyme solutions for small and medium-scale poultry farms. This move supports broader adoption of feed enzymes beyond vertically integrated production systems.
• In February 2024, BASF Animal Nutrition expanded its logistics network in Colombia to improve enzyme product availability and delivery timelines across Andean markets, addressing previous supply chain inefficiencies.
• In August 2023, Adisseo France S.A.S. entered into a strategic alliance with a Chilean aquaculture feed manufacturer to introduce specialized enzyme blends for salmon farming, aiming to enhance protein utilization and reduce environmental impact.

MARKET SEGMENTATION

This research report on the Latin American feed enzymes market is segmented and sub-segmented into the following categories.

By Ingredients

• Carbohydrase
• Phytase
• Others

By Animal Type

• Ruminant
• Swine
• Poultry
• Aquaculture
• Others

By Country

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Mexico
• Chile
• Rest of Latin America