The U.S. Hydrolyzed Keratin market strengthened during the first half of May 2026 as tighter feedstock availability, elevated natural gas-related operating costs, and steady downstream procurement supported firmer pricing sentiment. Reduced feather collection volumes continued limiting availability of low-cost raw materials, prompting manufacturers to increasingly rely on higher-cost alternative feedstocks that raised processing expenses and reduced output efficiency. Demand remained strongest from cosmetics and prestige hair-care manufacturers, while pet-nutrition and biomedical sectors maintained stable procurement activity. Restrained import availability from Europe also tightened warehouse coverage and reduced prompt cargo flexibility in the domestic market. According to ChemAnalyst data, April assessments for Hydrolyzed Keratin FCA New York increased notably from March levels, with the stronger market tone extending into May. Looking ahead, the market is expected to remain firm in the near term, supported by constrained feedstock supply, stable downstream demand, elevated energy costs, and limited import availability across the U.S. market.
