top growth forecastWorld demand for nutraceutical chemicals will grow by 6.1 percent annually to $9.6 billion by 2008, serving a $173 billion nutritional products industry, according to projections released by the Freedonia Group (www.freedoniagroup.com). Functional additives, particularly probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, soy isoflavones and lycopene, are among the ingredients expected to generate above average gains. Freedonia estimates the global demand for nutrients and minerals will top $4.8 billion by 2008, with natural forms of vitamins A and E providing the best growth opportunities among bulk vitamins. Finally, the group expects world demand for herbal and non-herbal extract will grow 9.9 percent annually, with top growth to be seen in Ginkgo biloba, saw palmetto, ginseng and black cohosh.
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