For the Quarter Ending June 2025
North America
• Methionine Spot Price rose in June due to buyer restocking before Q3 and strong downstream uptake in both feed and food segments. The Methionine Demand Outlook was solid for livestock nutrition and therapeutic blends.
• Why did the price change in July 2025? The Methionine Spot Price in the U.S. has decreased slightly in July 2025 after a sharp climb in June due to restocking cycles reaching equilibrium. The upward pressure faded as inventories normalized post-June restocking and demand stabilized. Export supply remained steady and the Methionine Price Forecast for Q3 reflects softer momentum unless demand spikes in the animal nutrition and pharmaceutical sector.
• Latest Prices & Trend (June 2025)
o DL-Methionine Feed Grade CFR New York: USD 3008/MT (+3.19% MoM)
o DL-Methionine USP Food Grade CFR New York: USD 3948/MT (+3.24% MoM)
The Price Index showed a strong upward push in June, driven by lean inventories and restocking actions.
• Methionine Production Cost Trend remained neutral with no upstream bottlenecks; U.S. imports saw a consistent flow of volumes from Asia. The freight fluctuations added some cost but had no major disruptive effect.
• April and May Trends showed mixed signals: Feed grade prices steadily rose (April: +2.5%, May: +1.57%), but food grade saw a decline in May (-7.74%) before rebounding in June.
• Food-grade methionine gained upward momentum in June that was driven by recovery in pharma and wellness sectors, which had slowed in May.
• Feed-grade methionine continued its positive trajectory due to seasonal livestock feed formulation schedules and steady demand.
• Supply-side remained robust across Q2. Global exporters operated without interruption. Inventory tightening was buyer-driven rather than caused by supply disruption.
• Feed-grade methionine demand stayed firm, while food-grade picked up significantly in June amid rising health-centric formulations.
• Indicates near-term stability in Q3 as restocking cycles ease, barring unexpected spikes in feed consumption or therapeutic use.
Europe
• Methionine Spot Price in June rose as European buyers restocked aggressively after inventory depletion in May. Food-grade methionine especially saw heightened offtake from the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical segments.
• Why did the price change in July 2025? In July 2025, the Methionine Spot Price in Europe (Germany) remained relatively stable to slightly firm, following the June restocking phase. Though upstream costs did not rise significantly, elevated Q2 procurement volumes meant importers entered July with moderately balanced stocks. However, demand from pharma and aquaculture sectors prevented any significant decline. The Methionine Price Forecast remains cautiously bullish for Q3.
• Latest Prices & Trend (June 2025)
o DL-Methionine Feed Grade CFR Hamburg: USD 2872/MT (+1.59% MoM)
o DL-Methionine USP Food Grade CFR Hamburg: USD 3812/MT (+2.01% MoM)
This reflects a positive Price Index trend for both grades, largely on account of strong restocking and global price alignment.
• Methionine Production Cost Trend was stable, as suppliers did not report upstream constraints. Freight volatility marginally affected landed costs but not materially.
• April and May Trends diverged: Food Grade methionine dropped sharply in May (-8.68%), while Feed Grade saw a steady rise through Q2, driven by aquaculture and poultry feed needs.
• June restocking was reactionary to May’s drawdown and ahead of seasonal feed formulations. This added resilience to spot prices, even as supply remained consistent.
• Export prices to Europe rose due to global strategic pricing by Chinese and Southeast Asian suppliers. European buyers had limited negotiation leverage.
• Logistics remained efficient, with no reported bottlenecks. Hamburg handled cargo inflow smoothly, preserving regular market tempo.
• Firm for both grades – pharma and nutrition sectors ramped up procurement, and feed-grade saw normalized offtake aligned with seasonal feed formulations.
• Q3 trend is expected to show moderate firmness, especially in food-grade amid expanding therapeutic demand in Europe.
Asia Pacific
• Methionine Spot Price rose in June as international buyers returned to market following May's lull. Pharmaceutical and feed sectors provided the bulk of demand, particularly from Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
• Why did the price change in July 2025? In July 2025, Methionine Spot Price in China and broader APAC markets showed a mild decline after the June uptick. The dip was led by cautious overseas buyers holding back after pre-quarter restocking in June. Exporters adjusted offers downward to maintain competitiveness. The Methionine Price Forecast suggests subdued to neutral pricing, driven by demand normalization and softening freight rates.
• Latest Prices & Trend (June 2025)
o DL-Methionine Feed Grade FOB Shanghai: USD 2760/MT (+0.36% MoM)
o DL-Methionine USP Food Grade FOB Shanghai: USD 3700/MT (+1.09% MoM)
The Price Index reflected a gentle but steady rise, anchored by export demand.
• Methionine Production Cost Trend stayed stable with no feedstock constraints; consistent acrolein and methyl mercaptan availability supported uninterrupted operations.
• May saw sharp food-grade price drops (-8.61%), linked to humidity-related inventory risks and seasonal demand softening in nutraceuticals.
• Feed-grade methionine stayed resilient through Q2 with regular international orders from poultry and swine feed processors. June saw slight improvement in price (+0.36%).
• Inventory discipline among Chinese exporters prevented oversupply despite mild demand dips. This supported pricing without triggering volatility.
• Export logistics stayed highly efficient in Q2 with no port congestion or customs issues. Shanghai remained a reliable node for methionine shipments.
• Food-grade methionine saw renewed interest in June due to upcoming Q3 formulations. Feed-grade saw steady offtake tied to livestock stability in importing countries.
• Flat to slightly bearish outlook for early Q3 as global demand enters a brief consolidation phase post-June restocking.
For the Quarter Ending March 2025
North America
In the first quarter of 2025, Methionine prices in North America displayed a contrasting pattern between food and feed grade variants. The food grade witnessed a steady increase of 3.68% on a quarterly average. This uptrend was primarily supported by stronger demand from downstream sectors such as nutraceuticals, food processing and personal care where production activities picked up with the arrival of spring.
The seasonal transition encouraged higher consumption across these industries. Buyers adopted forward-looking procurement strategies to prepare for rising consumption in upcoming months and leading to firmer prices. On the other hand, the feed grade variant recorded a modest decline of 1.19%. This dip stemmed from cautious inventory management, with buyers limiting fresh offtakes due to subdued seasonal demand and sufficient stock from the previous quarter.
Although tariff structures remained in place during the period, they had no significant influence on the pricing of either grade. Supply chains operated without notable disruption, and logistics were generally smooth across the region. The market maintained balance with a clear divide: food grade remained supported by downstream momentum, while feed grade softened slightly due to conservative purchasing behaviour.
Asia Pacific
In Asia Pacific, Methionine prices in first quarter of 2025 showed mixed movement between food and feed grade variants. The food grade saw an average increase of 1.82% compared to the previous quarter. This growth was driven by improved demand from nutraceutical, food and personal care sectors as production activity picked up following the Chinese Lunar New Year.
The seasonal transition across the region also influenced buyers to align procurement with upcoming production schedules. Procurement activity was steady and forward-looking as supply chains operated without significant disruption. Logistic routes remained active and helped ensure timely deliveries. Meanwhile, the feed grade experienced a slight quarterly decline of 0.75%. This was attributed to subdued offtakes from feed-related applications as several buyers opted to manage inventory more conservatively.
Availability in the region was slightly controlled at various points, which helped maintain some stability despite the weaker demand. Overall, the market was stable to slightly firm for food grade due to consistent downstream activity, while feed grade stayed mildly soft amid measured buying interest and strategic stock management.
Europe
In Europe, the Methionine market presented a split trend across food and feed grade segments during the first quarter of 2025. The food grade posted a quarterly average price increase of 3.51%, driven by strong demand from the food, nutraceutical and personal care sectors. As seasonal conditions turned milder, production picked up across multiple downstream industries, encouraging buyers to initiate timely procurement.
Anticipation of increased requirements in upcoming period also contributed to proactive inventory replenishment. Supply remained steady across key distribution channels, and there were no major logistical delays affecting delivery timelines. In contrast, the feed grade segment experienced a notable average price decline of 12.68%. This sharp fall was largely due to a downturn in feed-related demand as buyers remained cautious, preferring to draw from existing inventories.
Competitive pricing strategies by suppliers also added to the downward trend. The European market reflected a two-speed dynamic where feed grade faced pressure from slow offtakes and contrary to that food grade advanced steadily on the back of solid downstream support and strategic procurement practices in first quarter of 2025.
For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
Methionine prices in the USA experienced a steady decline throughout Q4 2024, driven by a mix of economic and market factors. October saw a price drop due to economic uncertainty, with inflation concerns and a cautious approach ahead of the presidential election contributing to weakened demand.
November’s decline was influenced by softened demand in the food and feed grade sectors, coupled with a stronger US dollar, making imports cheaper. The easing of logistical issues, particularly following the ILA strike, and the maintenance of healthy inventories allowed suppliers to pass on cost savings to consumers. December continued this downward trend, fueled by reduced consumer confidence, seasonal slowdowns, and a spike in inflation. Proactive inventory buildup, anticipation of potential tariffs, and the uncertainty surrounding the ILA strike placed additional downward pressure on prices, prompting suppliers to adjust their pricing strategies to stay competitive.
In sum, Q4 2024 was characterized by weakening demand, inflationary concerns, and logistical disruptions, all of which drove Methionine prices lower in the U.S. market.
Asia Pacific
In Q4 2024, Methionine prices in China experienced a steady decline, driven by a combination of domestic and international factors. In October, weak domestic demand and an oversupply of product created a highly competitive pricing environment. Additionally, geopolitical uncertainties, particularly concerns surrounding the U.S. elections and increasing protectionist policies, dampened export orders, contributing to downward pressure on prices. The downward trend continued into November, exacerbated by high distributor inventories and cautious global economic sentiment, particularly from the U.S. and Europe. Falling crude oil prices further reduced operational costs, prompting manufacturers to lower their prices in response to softer market conditions. By December, a disinflationary environment combined with sluggish demand from key sectors like animal feed and nutraceuticals, continued to put pressure on prices. Weak international demand, worsened by the holiday season, deepened the oversupply situation, forcing suppliers to adopt aggressive pricing strategies to clear excess stock. Overall, Q4 2024 saw a clear downward trajectory for Methionine prices in China, influenced by weak demand, oversupply, and efforts to reduce costs amid a challenging global market environment.
Europe
In Q4 2024, Methionine prices in Germany experienced a notable decline, primarily driven by weak demand and various economic factors. In October, concerns about inflation led to cautious consumer spending, which reduced demand for Methionine. Additionally, the drop in Asia-Europe shipping rates helped further soften the market, as lower container prices and blanked sailings lowered supply chain costs. By November, the seasonal slowdown in livestock production, particularly in poultry and swine, combined with continued weakness in the food and feed sectors, pushed prices lower. A 1.9% reduction in energy costs, coupled with healthy inventories, allowed suppliers to pass on savings to customers, reinforcing the downward price trend. In December, the decline continued, with weak demand persisting and the depreciation of the euro against the dollar making imports more expensive. Further complicating the situation were logistical delays due to severe winter weather, cautious buyer sentiment, and ample inventory levels, which all contributed to additional price reductions. Overall, Q4 2024 reflected a soft market for Methionine in Germany, with businesses adjusting their strategies in response to economic uncertainty and sluggish demand.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the Methionine market in North America exhibited a persistent upward trajectory, with prices increasing due to a variety of key factors. A significant driver of this trend was the heightened demand from both end-user industries and distributors, who engaged in strategic stockpiling to manage potential disruptions and lead time challenges. The uncertainty surrounding supply chain reliability, especially in the context of global logistical challenges, prompted many companies to secure additional inventory, pushing demand higher.
The U.S. market experienced the most notable changes during the quarter, with a significant 3% price increase in the latter half. Several factors contributed to this rise, including ongoing disruptions in global supply chains, particularly in freight and shipping lanes, which delayed deliveries and exacerbated lead times. These challenges were compounded by increasing demand from sectors such as animal feed and nutrition, which rely heavily on Methionine as a key ingredient.
By the end of Q3 2024, DL-Methionine Feed grade was priced at USD 3,240 per metric ton on a CFR New York basis, highlighting the persistent upward pricing trend. This closing price not only underscores the sustained demand but also reflects the broader market sentiment, where companies remain cautious but proactive in managing inventories amid ongoing economic and logistical uncertainties.
Asia Pacific
In Q3 2024, Methionine prices across the APAC region experienced a marked increase, driven by several interrelated factors. Robust global demand, especially from key international markets, played a central role in pushing prices higher as orders surged and export activities intensified. This spike in global demand was partly due to preemptive actions by buyers seeking to secure adequate stocks ahead of the anticipated capacity constraints associated with the upcoming peak season. Supply chain challenges exacerbated the situation, with logistical disruptions further fueling price increases. The ongoing conflict in the Red Sea, which disrupted key shipping routes, led to a rise in freight costs, adding further upward pressure on Methionine prices. These logistical hurdles contributed to the overall tightening of supply, making it more difficult for companies to meet the growing demand. China, in particular, experienced the most pronounced price fluctuations within the APAC region. These fluctuations were driven by a combination of global uncertainties, economic pressures, and cautious behavior from buyers who closely monitored market conditions. Despite these challenges, the quarter exhibited a steady upward trend in pricing, with a 3% increase recorded between the first and second halves of the quarter. By the end of Q3 2024, the price of DL-Methionine Feed grade reached USD 2,995 per metric ton FOB Shanghai, reflecting the overall positive pricing sentiment in the region.
Europe
In Q3 2024, Methionine pricing in Europe experienced a notable uptrend, marked by several key factors. The market saw an increase in prices driven by a combination of factors, including robust demand, logistical disruptions, and rising operational costs. Demand for Methionine remained strong, supported by steady consumer spending and peak season requirements. Concurrently, logistical challenges, such as congestion at key shipping hubs and increased freight costs, put additional pressure on prices. The overall pricing environment in the region reflected a positive sentiment, with prices steadily climbing throughout the quarter. In Germany, which witnessed the most significant price changes, Methionine prices fluctuated notably. The market experienced both highs and lows, influenced by factors such as economic conditions, supply chain disruptions, and currency fluctuations. Despite these fluctuations, the overall trend showed an upward trajectory, with prices steadily increasing over the quarter. Seasonality played a role in price changes, with the first half of the quarter recording a slight price difference compared to the second half. Ending the quarter at USD 3440/MT for DL-Methionine Feed grade CFR Hamburg, Germany's market reflected a positive pricing environment amidst fluctuating conditions.
FAQs
1. What is Methionine commonly used for in the commercial and agricultural sectors?
Methionine is a crucial amino acid extensively used in the animal feed industry, particularly for poultry and swine nutrition. It helps enhance growth rates, improve feed conversion ratios, and maintain overall animal health. It is also used in human nutrition supplements and pharmaceutical formulations.
2. How is Methionine typically supplied and in what forms?
Methionine is commercially available in various forms including DL-Methionine, L-Methionine, and Methionine Hydroxy Analog (MHA). These are usually supplied as powders, granules, or liquid concentrates, depending on the application and region-specific preferences.
3. What factors influence Methionine price trends globally?
Methionine Spot Price and broader Methionine Price Forecast are influenced by production costs, plant turnarounds, global supply-demand balance, and feed sector demand cycles. Seasonal poultry production and changes in raw material pricing also affect Methionine pricing dynamics.
4. Which industries drive the primary demand for Methionine?
The Methionine Demand Outlook is primarily driven by the livestock and poultry feed sectors, followed by usage in dietary supplements and pharmaceutical excipients. Regional consumption also varies based on meat consumption patterns and livestock population density.
5. How does Methionine production impact environmental sustainability efforts?
Modern Methionine Production Cost Trends are increasingly shaped by sustainability measures such as green chemistry processes and reduced emissions. Several manufacturers are investing in bio-based or low-impact production methods to align with environmental standards.
