Key Insights
The European insoluble dietary fiber market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of gut health and the rising prevalence of digestive disorders. The market, valued at approximately €250 million in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.80% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated €550 million by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the functional food and beverage industry is incorporating insoluble fibers to enhance product attributes and cater to health-conscious consumers seeking digestive support and improved satiety. Secondly, the pharmaceutical sector utilizes insoluble fibers in various formulations for treating constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. Lastly, the growing animal feed industry is increasingly incorporating these fibers to improve animal health and feed efficiency. Significant market segments include fruits and vegetables, cereals and grains, and other sources, with a notable trend toward sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients. While the market is largely concentrated in major European economies such as Germany, France, the UK, and Italy, growth opportunities exist in other regions within Europe.
However, challenges remain. Fluctuations in raw material prices and potential supply chain disruptions can impact market stability. Furthermore, stringent regulations regarding food additives and labeling could create hurdles for market expansion. The competitive landscape is marked by both large multinational corporations and specialized smaller players, leading to both innovation and price competition. Key players like Cargill, Ingredion, and DuPont are strategically investing in research and development to create innovative products and expand their market share. Successful strategies will involve maintaining product quality, addressing consumer concerns regarding sustainability and traceability, and staying ahead of evolving regulatory landscapes to maintain a competitive edge in this rapidly growing market segment.

Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers industry, offering invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. Covering the period 2019-2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report meticulously examines market dynamics, growth trends, key players, and future opportunities within this vital sector of the food and health industries.
Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Market Dynamics & Structure
This section analyzes the competitive landscape of the European insoluble dietary fiber market, exploring market concentration, technological advancements, regulatory influences, and market trends. The report delves into the dynamics of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), providing quantitative and qualitative perspectives on the industry's structure.
- Market Concentration: The market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players like Cargill Incorporated, Ingredion Incorporated, and J Rettenmaier & Sohne Gmbh & Co Kg holding significant market share (xx%). However, smaller niche players also contribute significantly to the overall market volume.
- Technological Innovation: Advancements in extraction and processing technologies are driving efficiency and cost reductions. However, innovation barriers include high R&D costs and regulatory complexities.
- Regulatory Framework: EU regulations concerning food labeling and health claims directly influence market dynamics and product development. Compliance and adaptation to evolving regulations remain crucial.
- Competitive Product Substitutes: The primary competitive substitutes are soluble dietary fibers and other functional food ingredients. Market competition hinges on factors such as cost-effectiveness, functional properties, and health benefits.
- End-User Demographics: The primary end-users include food & beverage manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, and animal feed producers. Growing consumer awareness of dietary fiber's health benefits is driving demand across all segments.
- M&A Trends: The industry witnesses a moderate level of M&A activity (xx deals in the last 5 years), primarily driven by strategies for market expansion and product diversification. Larger companies are acquiring smaller firms to enhance their technological capabilities and product portfolio.
Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Growth Trends & Insights
This section leverages extensive data analysis to detail the market's evolution, adoption rates across various applications, and the influence of technological disruptions and evolving consumer preferences on market growth.
The European insoluble dietary fibers market experienced a CAGR of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024) and is projected to witness a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), reaching a market value of xx Million by 2033. Increased consumer awareness of gut health and the growing demand for functional foods and beverages are key drivers of market growth. Market penetration remains relatively high in established segments, but there is still potential for expansion in emerging applications like novel food products. Technological advancements, such as improved extraction methods, enhance the quality and cost-effectiveness of the products, stimulating market expansion. Shifting consumer preferences towards healthier lifestyles and increased focus on digestive health are significant factors contributing to market growth.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry
This section identifies the leading regions, countries, and market segments within the European insoluble dietary fibers industry.
- Germany: Germany holds the largest market share due to high demand from the food and beverage sector and a well-established food processing industry. Strong economic growth and supportive government policies contribute to this dominance.
- France: France is a significant market due to the increasing popularity of functional foods and consumer preference for natural ingredients. The presence of major food and beverage players in this country fuels demand.
- United Kingdom: The UK's significant food industry, coupled with high consumer health awareness, positions it as a key market.
- Functional Foods & Beverages: This segment exhibits the highest growth rate, driven by growing consumer demand for health-enhancing food products and the incorporation of dietary fibers in various food and beverage applications.
- Cereals & Grains: This segment dominates the source market due to its cost-effectiveness and widespread availability as a raw material.
Key Drivers: Strong consumer demand for functional foods, supportive government regulations promoting healthy diets, and the presence of established food and beverage manufacturers contribute significantly to the market dominance of these regions and segments.
Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Product Landscape
The European insoluble dietary fiber market offers a range of products derived from various sources, each with specific functional properties and applications. Innovations focus on improving digestibility, enhancing texture, and expanding applications in novel food products. The market sees continuous development of customized solutions tailored to the specific needs of different food and beverage applications, driven by increasing consumer preferences for natural and health-beneficial ingredients.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry
Key Drivers: Growing consumer awareness of gut health and the increasing demand for functional foods are primary market drivers. Government regulations promoting the inclusion of dietary fibers in food products further boost the market.
Key Challenges: Fluctuations in raw material prices, stringent regulatory requirements for food labeling and claims, and intense competition from substitute products pose significant challenges to market growth. Supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by geopolitical factors, impact market stability and product availability.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry
Emerging opportunities lie in the development of novel food products incorporating insoluble dietary fibers, catering to specific health needs. The exploration of new raw material sources and the application of advanced processing technologies presents further avenues for growth. Growing interest in personalized nutrition also presents opportunities for customized fiber solutions.
Growth Accelerators in the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Industry
Technological advancements in fiber extraction and processing, coupled with strategic partnerships and collaborations among industry players, are significant growth accelerators. Expansion into emerging markets and the development of innovative applications in various industries will propel future growth.
Key Players Shaping the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Market
- Cargill Incorporated
- InterFiber
- CFF GmbH & Co KG
- Grain Processing Corporation
- DuPont
- Ingredion Incorporated
- SunOpta Inc
- J Rettenmaier & Sohne Gmbh & Co Kg
Notable Milestones in Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Sector
- 2020: Ingredion Incorporated launches a new line of high-fiber ingredients for the bakery industry.
- 2021: Cargill Incorporated acquires a smaller dietary fiber producer, expanding its product portfolio.
- 2022: New EU regulations regarding dietary fiber labeling come into effect.
- 2023: J Rettenmaier & Sohne Gmbh & Co Kg invests in R&D to develop a novel insoluble dietary fiber with enhanced functionality.
In-Depth Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Market Outlook
The future of the European insoluble dietary fibers market is bright, driven by sustained consumer demand for health-promoting foods and beverages, innovative product development, and increasing industry investment in research and development. Strategic partnerships and collaborations, along with exploration of novel applications, will further propel market growth in the years to come. The market is expected to experience robust expansion, creating lucrative opportunities for established players and new entrants alike.
Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Segmentation
-
1. Source
- 1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 1.3. Others
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 2.3. Animal Feed
Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Spain
- 2. United Kingdom
- 3. Germany
- 4. France
- 5. Italy
- 6. Russia
- 7. Rest of Europe

Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 9.80% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Wide Applications and Functionality; Demand For Gluten-Free Products
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Easy Availability of Economically Feasible Alternatives
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increased demand for insoluble dietary fiber supplements
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 5.1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 5.1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 5.1.3. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 5.2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 5.2.3. Animal Feed
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Spain
- 5.3.2. United Kingdom
- 5.3.3. Germany
- 5.3.4. France
- 5.3.5. Italy
- 5.3.6. Russia
- 5.3.7. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 6. Spain Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 6.1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 6.1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 6.1.3. Others
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 6.2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 6.2.3. Animal Feed
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 7. United Kingdom Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 7.1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 7.1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 7.1.3. Others
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 7.2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 7.2.3. Animal Feed
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 8. Germany Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 8.1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 8.1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 8.1.3. Others
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 8.2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 8.2.3. Animal Feed
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 9. France Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 9.1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 9.1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 9.1.3. Others
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 9.2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 9.2.3. Animal Feed
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 10. Italy Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 10.1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 10.1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 10.1.3. Others
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 10.2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 10.2.3. Animal Feed
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 11. Russia Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 11.1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 11.1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 11.1.3. Others
- 11.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11.2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 11.2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 11.2.3. Animal Feed
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 12. Rest of Europe Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 12.1.1. Fruits & Vegetables
- 12.1.2. Cereals & Grains
- 12.1.3. Others
- 12.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 12.2.1. Functional Foods & Beverages
- 12.2.2. Pharmaceuticals
- 12.2.3. Animal Feed
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Source
- 13. Germany Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. France Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Italy Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. United Kingdom Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Netherlands Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Sweden Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 19. Rest of Europe Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 20. Competitive Analysis
- 20.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 20.2. Company Profiles
- 20.2.1 Cargill Incorporated
- 20.2.1.1. Overview
- 20.2.1.2. Products
- 20.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.2 InterFiber
- 20.2.2.1. Overview
- 20.2.2.2. Products
- 20.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.3 CFF GmbH & Co KG
- 20.2.3.1. Overview
- 20.2.3.2. Products
- 20.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.4 Grain Processing Corporation
- 20.2.4.1. Overview
- 20.2.4.2. Products
- 20.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.5 DuPon
- 20.2.5.1. Overview
- 20.2.5.2. Products
- 20.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.6 Ingredion Incorporated
- 20.2.6.1. Overview
- 20.2.6.2. Products
- 20.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.7 SunOpta Inc
- 20.2.7.1. Overview
- 20.2.7.2. Products
- 20.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.8 J Rettenmaier & Sohne Gmbh & Co Kg
- 20.2.8.1. Overview
- 20.2.8.2. Products
- 20.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.1 Cargill Incorporated
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Germany Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: France Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Italy Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United Kingdom Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Netherlands Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Sweden Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Europe Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Source 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 9.80%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry?
Key companies in the market include Cargill Incorporated, InterFiber, CFF GmbH & Co KG, Grain Processing Corporation, DuPon, Ingredion Incorporated, SunOpta Inc, J Rettenmaier & Sohne Gmbh & Co Kg.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry?
The market segments include Source, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Wide Applications and Functionality; Demand For Gluten-Free Products.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increased demand for insoluble dietary fiber supplements.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Easy Availability of Economically Feasible Alternatives.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
1. Acquisitions and Mergers: Strategic acquisitions and mergers are shaping the industry landscape and expanding product portfolios. 2. Product Innovations: Key players are investing in research and development to introduce new products with improved functionalities and nutritional value. 3. Regulatory Changes: Updates to regulatory standards regarding dietary fiber labeling and claims are influencing industry practices.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence