FSSAI Approves India's First Plant-Based Vitamin D3 Supplement

In July 2026, India's inaugural plant-based vitamin D3 supplement received approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Vitadee, manufactured by Fermenta Biotech, is a plant-derived source of vitamin D3 that has been authorized for use in dietary supplements, fortified foods, and beverages. This innovation provides a novel option for vegetarians and individuals with restrictions concerning animal-based products to fulfill their vitamin D requirements.

Dr. Anu stated that Fermenta Biotech's Vitadee Green offers the same chemical structure and bioavailability as traditional animal-derived D3. It is available in both powder and oil forms, and can be formulated into tablets, soft gels, and drops.

A report published last year, titled Roadmap to Address Vitamin D Deficiency in India by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations and the Anvka Foundation, indicated that one in five Indians suffers from a deficiency of this essential micronutrient.

The plant-based vitamin D3 shares the same chemical structure as conventional D3 supplements; however, its absorption and effectiveness may vary based on individual adaptation to its formulation. Currently, vitamin D is accessible in supplement form for those requiring it, but traditional manufacturing methods utilize animal-based products for its delivery. The introduction of this plant-based vitamin D supplement may facilitate the incorporation of vitamin D into functional and fortified foods, thereby increasing levels of vitamin D safely.

Impact on Vitamin D Market

The global vitamin D market size is calculated at USD 893.82 million in 2025 and is expected to grow from USD 949.06 million in 2026 to approximately USD 1,619.10 million by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 6.12% from 2026 to 2035.

According to precedence research, growing cases of conditions due to vitamin D deficiency, increased public awareness about maintaining a balanced diet, and increased demand for vitamin D in the food and beverage industry are some factors driving the growth of the market.

This approval is positively impacting the vitamin D market. Till now, consumers seeking completely plant-based Vitamin D3 in India had relatively limited options. The latest regulatory approval could make such products more widely available, not just as supplements but also through fortified staples and packaged foods. This is particularly relevant because vitamin D deficiency remains widespread in India.

It also opens new avenues for Indian manufacturers to integrate plant-based Vitamin D3 into everyday foods, potentially making the nutrient more accessible while offering consumers another informed choice.

Impact on Nutritional Supplements Market

The global nutritional supplements market size accounted for USD 412.84 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach around USD 808.64 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 6.95% from 2026 to 2035.

According to precedence research, the rise in demand for customized nutrition products, by gender, sport and age, is influencing the product portfolios of companies and consumers' interest in adopting wellness products. Consumer awareness is encouraging the market to expand and develop in various areas, covering dietary supplements and nutrient-based food. The rising demand for functional food with enriched health benefits.

Vitamin D is required for healthy bones, muscles and immunity. While our skin makes it when exposed to sunlight, long working hours indoors, air pollution, sunscreen use and changing lifestyles mean many Indians do not produce enough of it naturally.

Manufacturers are significantly investing in plant-based ingredients, personalized nutrition, clinically backed formulations, and sustainable product development. These plant-based vitamin D3 supplements can be added to food to make it vitamin D fortified. Dr Anu also said that this kind of versatile supplement is available in powder and oil forms, which makes it an option for nutraceuticals.

About Fermenta Biotech Limited

Established in 1951, Fermenta Biotech Limited has developed a broad portfolio in nutrition that includes customized premixes, fortified rice kernels, and various nutritional ingredients. In addition to its nutrition offerings, Fermenta is recognized as the sole manufacturer of Vitamin D3 in India and is a prominent global player, serving over 350 customers across 60 countries. The company boasts a comprehensive worldwide distribution network that caters to a variety of applications including pharmaceuticals, dietary and nutritional supplements, food production, animal nutrition, and rodenticides. Fermenta's manufacturing facilities in Kullu and Dahej are certified by global accrediting bodies, and its world-class research and development center is located in Thane. Furthermore, Fermenta possesses expertise in integrated biotechnology, including enzymes for antibiotic synthesis and various specialized active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) as well as environmental solutions.