Top 10 Companies in the Biosurfactants Industry (2023-2030): Market Leaders Driving Sustainable Surface-Active Solutions

In Business Insights
September 29, 2025

The Global Biosurfactants Market was valued at USD 2.06 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 4.34 Billion by 2030, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.0% during the forecast period (2023–2030). This growth is being driven by rising consumer demand for eco-friendly and biodegradable products, stringent environmental regulations promoting green chemistry, and expanding applications in personal care, household detergents, and industrial cleaners across various sectors.

As industries worldwide shift toward sustainable practices and reduced environmental impact, the focus is turning to innovative biosurfactants producers who are pioneering biodegradable alternatives to synthetic surfactants. These companies are not only enhancing product efficacy but also supporting global efforts in sustainability and circular economy principles. In this blog, we profile the Top 10 Companies in the Biosurfactants Industry—a blend of chemical giants, biotech innovators, and specialized firms shaping the future of eco-conscious surface-active agents.


🔟 1. AkzoNobel

Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Key Offering: Rhamnolipids, Sophorolipids, and eco-friendly surfactant blends

AkzoNobel stands as a prominent player in the biosurfactants arena, leveraging its extensive expertise in specialty chemicals to deliver high-performance, sustainable solutions. The company’s biosurfactants are integrated into a wide range of applications, from household detergents to industrial formulations, where they provide superior wetting, emulsifying, and foaming properties while minimizing ecological footprints. Because of their commitment to innovation, AkzoNobel has invested heavily in R&D to scale up production of biologically derived surfactants that meet international sustainability standards.

Furthermore, AkzoNobel’s biosurfactants division collaborates with global brands to replace traditional petrochemical-based surfactants, helping clients achieve greener product lines. Their products are particularly valued in Europe and North America, where regulatory pressures for biodegradable ingredients are intensifying. However, the company is also expanding into emerging markets like Asia-Pacific, where growing awareness of environmental issues is boosting demand.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Development of fully biodegradable surfactant systems for personal care products
  • Partnerships with biotech firms to enhance microbial fermentation processes
  • Targets for 100% renewable raw materials in surfactant production by 2030

Download FREE Sample Report: 2023-2030 Global and Regional Biosurfactants Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report


9️⃣ 2. BASF Cognis

Headquarters: Monheim, Germany
Key Offering: Sophorolipids, Sorbitan Esters, and bio-based emulsifiers

BASF Cognis, a division of the global chemical leader BASF, excels in producing biosurfactants that combine biological origins with advanced chemical engineering for optimal performance. Operating across more than 80 countries, the company supplies biosurfactants to industries ranging from food processing to oilfield chemicals, where these compounds reduce surface tension effectively without harming the environment. Their emphasis on sustainability stems from a long history of integrating green chemistry principles into core operations.

The firm’s biosurfactants are derived from renewable resources like vegetable oils and sugars, making them ideal for applications in detergents and personal care items that require mild yet powerful cleaning agents. In recent years, BASF Cognis has ramped up production capacity to meet the surging demand, particularly in Europe, where EU regulations favor low-toxicity alternatives. This strategic positioning allows them to capture a significant share of the growing market.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Expansion of fermentation-based production for cost-effective sophorolipids
  • Collaborations with agricultural sectors to source sustainable feedstocks

8️⃣ 3. Ecover

Headquarters: Malle, Belgium
Key Offering: Rhamnolipids, plant-derived biosurfactants for cleaning products

Ecover has carved a niche as a pioneer in eco-friendly consumer products, with biosurfactants at the heart of its formulations for household detergents and cleaners. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of biosurfactants that break down quickly in the environment, reducing pollution in waterways. Ecover’s approach focuses on creating products that perform as well as conventional ones but with a fraction of the environmental impact, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers worldwide.

By sourcing biosurfactants from natural microbial processes, Ecover ensures that its ingredients are non-toxic and biodegradable. This has positioned them strongly in the personal care and household sectors, especially in Western Europe and North America. Moreover, their innovative packaging and supply chain practices further enhance their sustainability profile, setting a benchmark for the industry.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Integration of biosurfactants in zero-waste cleaning formulations
  • Consumer education campaigns on the benefits of bio-based surfactants
  • Certifications for 100% biodegradability in all product lines

7️⃣ 4. Evonik Industries AG

Headquarters: Essen, Germany
Key Offering: Sophorolipids, rhamnolipids, and specialty biosurfactants

Evonik Industries AG is a global leader in specialty chemicals, with a robust portfolio of biosurfactants tailored for industrial and consumer applications. Their products excel in oilfield chemicals and agricultural formulations, where biosurfactants enhance dispersion and reduce the need for harsher chemicals. Evonik’s dedication to innovation is driven by a focus on high-performance, sustainable alternatives that align with global decarbonization goals.

The company’s biosurfactants are produced through advanced biotechnological methods, ensuring high purity and efficacy. In Europe and Asia, Evonik serves major clients in the food processing and personal care industries, benefiting from their scalable production facilities. However, challenges like raw material volatility are addressed through strategic sourcing and R&D investments, keeping them competitive.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Goal to increase biosurfactants share in total surfactant portfolio to 20% by 2030
  • Joint ventures for developing next-gen microbial surfactants

Download FREE Sample Report: 2023-2030 Global and Regional Biosurfactants Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report


6️⃣ 5. Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Sucrose Esters, sorbitan esters, and bio-emulsifiers

Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation brings Japanese precision to the biosurfactants market, offering products that are widely used in food processing and personal care due to their safety and mild nature. The company’s surfactants are derived from renewable sugars and fatty acids, providing excellent stability in formulations. Their global reach extends to Asia-Pacific and beyond, where they support industries transitioning to greener ingredients.

With a strong emphasis on quality control and innovation, Mitsubishi has developed biosurfactants that outperform synthetic counterparts in terms of biocompatibility. This has earned them partnerships with leading cosmetic and food brands. Furthermore, their investments in sustainable agriculture for feedstock supply chain solidify their position in the market.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Enhancement of enzyme-based production for lower energy consumption
  • Expansion into agricultural chemicals with bio-based wetting agents
  • Commitment to carbon-neutral manufacturing processes

5️⃣ 6. Saraya

Headquarters: Osaka, Japan
Key Offering: Rhamnolipids, sophorolipids for hygiene and cleaning products

Saraya specializes in hygiene solutions, incorporating biosurfactants into hand soaps, disinfectants, and industrial cleaners that prioritize user safety and environmental protection. Their products are particularly popular in healthcare and food service sectors, where low-irritancy and biodegradability are crucial. Saraya’s approach integrates biosurfactants to create effective yet gentle formulations that meet rigorous international standards.

Operating primarily in Asia but with a growing presence in Europe and North America, Saraya leverages its expertise in microbial technology to produce cost-competitive biosurfactants. This has allowed them to innovate in response to post-pandemic hygiene demands, further boosting market penetration. However, scaling production remains a focus to match global demand.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Development of antimicrobial biosurfactants for enhanced hygiene
  • Sustainable sourcing from local agricultural byproducts

4️⃣ 7. Jeneil Biotech

Headquarters: Saukville, Wisconsin, USA
Key Offering: Rhamnolipids, specialized biosurfactants for industrial use

Jeneil Biotech emerges as a key innovator in North America, focusing on rhamnolipids produced via fermentation for applications in bioremediation, oil recovery, and cleaners. As a smaller but agile player, the company excels in customizing solutions for niche markets like environmental cleanup, where biosurfactants’ ability to mobilize contaminants is invaluable. Their growth is fueled by increasing U.S. regulations favoring green technologies.

Jeneil’s state-of-the-art facilities ensure high-yield production, making their products accessible for both large-scale industrial use and research purposes. Collaborations with universities and environmental agencies have accelerated their R&D, positioning them as leaders in biotech-driven surfactants. This focus on application-specific innovations sets them apart in a competitive landscape.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Piloting biosurfactants for soil and water remediation projects
  • Investment in strain optimization for higher efficiency
  • Certifications for use in organic and eco-labeled products

3️⃣ 8. Croda International

Headquarters: Goole, United Kingdom
Key Offering: Sorbitan Esters, sucrose esters, and natural emulsifiers

Croda International is renowned for its natural ingredients portfolio, with biosurfactants playing a central role in personal care and food applications. Their products offer excellent skin compatibility and are used in cosmetics, where consumers seek clean-label alternatives. Croda’s global distribution network serves clients in over 50 countries, emphasizing sustainability from sourcing to end-use.

The company’s biosurfactants are crafted from traceable, renewable sources, ensuring compliance with standards like RSPO for palm oil derivatives. In Europe, Croda benefits from strong demand in the beauty sector, while expansions in Asia highlight their adaptability. Challenges such as supply chain disruptions are mitigated through diversified sourcing strategies.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Launch of bio-derived emulsifiers for sustainable cosmetics
  • Partnerships for upcycling food waste into surfactant feedstocks

2️⃣ 9. Kao Corporation

Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Key Offering: Sophorolipids, rhamnolipids for detergents and personal care

Kao Corporation, a Japanese multinational, integrates biosurfactants into its extensive range of consumer goods, including shampoos, detergents, and health products. Their focus on mild, effective formulations has made them a favorite in Asia’s personal care market, where skin health is paramount. Kao’s biosurfactants reduce irritation while maintaining cleaning power, aligning with consumer trends toward natural ingredients.

With robust R&D centers worldwide, Kao advances fermentation technologies to lower production costs and improve yields. This positions them well against competitors, especially as regulations in Japan and Europe push for reduced chemical residues. Their holistic approach to sustainability includes lifecycle assessments for all products.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Scaling production of sugar-based biosurfactants for household use
  • Collaborations with Asian biotech startups for regional expansion
  • Aim for net-zero emissions in manufacturing by 2040

Download FREE Sample Report: 2023-2030 Global and Regional Biosurfactants Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report


1️⃣ 10. Soliance

Headquarters: Pomacle, France
Key Offering: Sophorolipids, rhamnolipids for cosmetics and industrial applications

Soliance rounds out our list as a dedicated biotech firm specializing in high-purity biosurfactants produced through yeast fermentation. Their products are tailored for the luxury cosmetics market, where efficacy and natural origin are key selling points. Soliance’s innovative processes yield surfactants with unique properties, such as antimicrobial activity, making them suitable for personal care and pharmaceutical uses.

Based in France, Soliance benefits from EU funding for green innovation, enabling rapid scaling. Their partnerships with cosmetic giants have expanded their reach globally, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. As the market evolves, Soliance’s focus on purity and performance positions it for sustained growth.

Eco-Innovation Initiatives:

  • Proprietary fermentation tech for low-cost, high-volume production
  • Strategic alliances with beauty brands for sustainable formulations

Read Full Report: 2023-2030 Global and Regional Biosurfactants Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report


🌍 Outlook: The Future of Biosurfactants Is Greener and More Innovative

The biosurfactants market is experiencing a transformative phase. While synthetic surfactants still hold a larger share, investments in biotechnology and renewable feedstocks are propelling biosurfactants toward mainstream adoption. Industries are pouring resources into greener alternatives, advanced production methods, and expanded applications to meet evolving consumer and regulatory expectations.

This shift is not just about compliance; it’s about opportunity. As awareness of plastic pollution and chemical runoff grows, biosurfactants offer a viable path to more responsible manufacturing. Companies are exploring new frontiers, from enhanced oil recovery to eco-friendly pesticides, ensuring long-term viability.

📈 Key Trends Shaping the Market:

  • Accelerated growth in personal care and household sectors due to clean-label demands
  • Regulatory incentives in EU and North America for biodegradable chemicals by 2030
  • Advancements in biotech fermentation for cost reduction and scalability
  • Cross-industry partnerships for integrating biosurfactants into supply chains

Read Full Report: 2023-2030 Global and Regional Biosurfactants Industry Status and Prospects Professional Market – View in Detailed Research Report

The companies profiled here are not only supplying essential ingredients—they’re leading the charge toward a more sustainable chemical landscape.