Key Insights
The Asia-Pacific phytosterols market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of heart health and the functional benefits of phytosterols in reducing cholesterol levels. The market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.80% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases across the region, coupled with increasing disposable incomes and a preference for convenient, health-conscious food products, are major catalysts. Growth is particularly strong in segments like dairy products and beverages, where phytosterols are readily incorporated into fortified products. Furthermore, the expanding food processing industry in rapidly developing economies within Asia-Pacific, such as India and China, is significantly contributing to market growth. The increasing adoption of phytosterols in bakery and confectionery items is also adding to the market's momentum.
However, certain challenges could potentially impede market growth. The fluctuating prices of raw materials, coupled with stringent regulatory requirements surrounding food additives in several countries, might present obstacles. Furthermore, consumer perception and education concerning the benefits of phytosterol consumption remain a crucial factor. Nevertheless, the long-term outlook for the Asia-Pacific phytosterols market remains positive, propelled by ongoing innovation in product formulations, increasing health consciousness, and a growing demand for functional foods. The major players in the market, including Ashland, Cargill, ADM, and others, are actively investing in research and development to enhance product efficacy and expand their market reach, further stimulating market growth. The increasing adoption of phytosterols in various food applications across different consumer segments suggests that the market's trajectory will remain upward for the foreseeable future.

Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Asia-Pacific phytosterols market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. With a detailed examination of market dynamics, leading players, and future growth potential, this report is an essential resource for navigating the complexities of this rapidly evolving sector. The report covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 serving as the base year and estimated year.
Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The Asia-Pacific phytosterols market is characterized by moderate concentration, with key players such as Ashland Global Specialty Chemicals Inc, Cargill Incorporated, Archer Daniels Midland Company, and DuPont Nutrition & Health holding significant market share. The market's dynamism is driven by several factors:
- Innovation: Continuous R&D efforts focused on developing new phytosterol-based products with enhanced functionalities and improved bioavailability are driving market expansion. Specific examples include the development of phytosterol esters with better solubility and absorption.
- Regulatory Framework: Stringent regulations regarding food labeling and health claims influence product formulations and marketing strategies. Ongoing changes in these regulations necessitate proactive adaptation by market participants.
- Product Substitutes: Competition from other cholesterol-lowering agents and functional food ingredients influences market dynamics.
- End-User Trends: The growing health consciousness among consumers in the Asia-Pacific region, coupled with rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, fuels demand for cholesterol-lowering foods enriched with phytosterols.
- M&A Activities: The market has witnessed a moderate number of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deals in recent years (xx deals between 2019-2024), primarily driven by strategies to expand product portfolios and geographic reach. Market share of the top 5 players constitutes approximately xx% in 2024.
Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The Asia-Pacific phytosterols market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key trends:
The market exhibited a CAGR of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024), and is projected to maintain a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by increasing health awareness among consumers, the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, and the expanding adoption of phytosterols in various food and beverage applications. Technological advancements, such as the development of more efficient extraction and purification methods, are also contributing to the market's expansion. Increased consumer preference for functional foods and beverages enriched with health-promoting ingredients is a significant driver, resulting in a market penetration rate of approximately xx% in 2024. The competitive landscape is characterized by both established players and emerging companies, leading to intensified competition and innovative product development.

Leading Markets & Segments in Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market
The Asia-Pacific phytosterols market is experiencing significant growth, driven by a confluence of factors. China and India lead the regional market, fueled by their vast populations, burgeoning middle classes with increasing disposable incomes, and a heightened awareness of health and wellness. Other key markets include Japan, South Korea, Australia, and increasingly, several rapidly developing Southeast Asian nations. This expansion is further propelled by the rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases across the region, making cholesterol-lowering products highly sought after.
Market Segmentation: A Detailed Look
By Product Type: The market is segmented by various phytosterol types, each with its own unique properties and applications:
- Beta-Sitosterol: This phytosterol dominates the market share due to its widespread availability and established use in numerous food products. Its versatile nature and cost-effectiveness contribute to its leading position.
- Campesterol: Holding a substantial market share, campesterol is highly valued for its cholesterol-lowering capabilities, contributing to its strong demand in health-conscious markets.
- Stigmasterol: This segment showcases robust growth, driven by its applications in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, demonstrating its expanding market reach beyond the food sector.
- Others: A diverse group of phytosterols with niche applications, representing a smaller but significant part of the overall market.
By Application: Phytosterols find applications across a wide spectrum of food and beverage categories:
- Dairy Products: This remains the largest application segment, reflecting the high consumption of dairy products in the region. The increasing demand for functional foods and fortified dairy products significantly boosts phytosterol incorporation.
- Sauces and Condiments: The trend towards healthier and flavorful food choices drives the integration of phytosterols into sauces and condiments.
- Beverages: The burgeoning market for functional beverages is a key driver of phytosterol demand, with manufacturers incorporating them for health benefits.
- Bakery and Confectionery: The significant consumption of bakery and confectionery items creates a substantial market for phytosterols, showcasing its potential in indulgent yet health-conscious foods.
- Other Processed Food: This segment encompasses a broad range of processed food items where phytosterols are incorporated for their health benefits.
Key Drivers in Leading Markets (China and India):
- A Thriving Middle Class: The expanding middle class in these countries translates into higher spending power, with a growing preference for premium, health-conscious food products.
- Rising Cardiovascular Disease Awareness: The increasing awareness of cardiovascular diseases is a major driver, leading to a surge in demand for foods that help manage cholesterol levels.
- Government Support for Health & Wellness: Government initiatives promoting health and wellness create a favorable environment for the adoption of functional foods like those containing phytosterols.
- Supportive Regulatory Landscape: Favorable regulatory frameworks ensure the market's growth and adoption of phytosterols in food products.
Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Product Developments
Recent product developments focus on enhancing phytosterol solubility, bioavailability, and stability. Innovations include the development of nano-encapsulated phytosterols and phytosterol-based functional food ingredients with improved sensory properties. These advancements aim to address limitations associated with traditional phytosterol formulations and broaden their application across different food categories. The market is also seeing the development of phytosterol blends optimized for specific health benefits.
Key Drivers of Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Growth
The Asia-Pacific phytosterols market's growth is driven by several factors: increasing health consciousness and rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases; technological advancements resulting in improved phytosterol extraction, purification, and formulation; growing demand for functional foods and beverages; and favorable regulatory frameworks supporting the use of phytosterols in food products. Government initiatives to promote healthier diets also contribute to market expansion.
Challenges in the Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Market
Challenges include the high cost of phytosterol extraction and purification, fluctuating raw material prices, and stringent regulatory requirements related to food labeling and health claims. Supply chain disruptions and intense competition from established players and new entrants also pose significant challenges to market growth. These factors contribute to a price sensitivity impacting overall market expansion.
Emerging Opportunities in the Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market
Emerging opportunities lie in developing novel phytosterol-based products with enhanced bioavailability, solubility, and sensory characteristics. Strategic partnerships between phytosterol manufacturers and food and beverage companies are opening up new avenues for product innovation and market expansion. Increased research into the health benefits of phytosterols and their potential applications in various sectors (e.g., cosmetics, pharmaceuticals) further fuels long-term market growth.
Leading Players in the Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Sector
- Ashland Global Specialty Chemicals Inc
- Cargill Incorporated
- Archer Daniels Midland Company
- DuPont Nutrition & Health
- BASF SE
- Matrix Fine Sciences Pvt Ltd
- Gustav Parmentier Gmbh
- Kraft Heinz Company
- Jiangxi Jinsanli Group
- Kemin Industries, Inc
Key Milestones in Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Industry
- 2020: Launch of a new phytosterol-enriched yogurt by a major dairy company in India.
- 2021: Acquisition of a smaller phytosterol producer by a large multinational food company.
- 2022: Introduction of a novel phytosterol-based dietary supplement.
- 2023: Approval of a new health claim related to phytosterols in a specific food category.
- 2024: A major player expands its manufacturing capacity for phytosterol products in China.
Strategic Outlook for Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Market
The Asia-Pacific phytosterols market is poised for significant growth over the forecast period. Strategic opportunities include focusing on product innovation, expanding into new markets, and forging strategic alliances with food and beverage companies to develop and market new phytosterol-enriched products. Investing in R&D to enhance phytosterol bioavailability and exploring new applications beyond food and beverages will further contribute to future market success. The market shows promising potential for long-term expansion, driven by continued consumer interest in health and wellness, technological innovation, and strategic market expansion initiatives.
Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
- 1.1. Beta-Sitosterol
- 1.2. Campesterol
- 1.3. Stigmasterol
- 1.4. Others
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Dairy Products
- 2.2. Sauces and Condiments
- 2.3. Beverages
- 2.4. Bakery and Confectionery
- 2.5. Other Processed Food
-
3. Geography
-
3.1. Asia Pacific
- 3.1.1. China
- 3.1.2. Japan
- 3.1.3. India
- 3.1.4. Australia
- 3.1.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
-
3.1. Asia Pacific
Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Asia Pacific
- 1.1. China
- 1.2. Japan
- 1.3. India
- 1.4. Australia
- 1.5. Rest of Asia Pacific

Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market 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. Inclination Towards Fitness and Increasing Intake of Plant-based Protein; Increase in Consumer Inclination Towards Meat Substitutes
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Gluten-Intolerance Among the Population Hindering the Market
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Campesterol holds a prominent share in the market
- 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. Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Beta-Sitosterol
- 5.1.2. Campesterol
- 5.1.3. Stigmasterol
- 5.1.4. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Dairy Products
- 5.2.2. Sauces and Condiments
- 5.2.3. Beverages
- 5.2.4. Bakery and Confectionery
- 5.2.5. Other Processed Food
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. Asia Pacific
- 5.3.1.1. China
- 5.3.1.2. Japan
- 5.3.1.3. India
- 5.3.1.4. Australia
- 5.3.1.5. Rest of Asia-Pacific
- 5.3.1. Asia Pacific
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. China Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. Japan Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. India Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. South Korea Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Taiwan Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Australia Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 Ashland Global Specialty Chemicals Inc
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 Cargill Incorporated
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Archer Daniels Midland Company
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 DuPont Nutrition & Health
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 BASF SE
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Matrix Fine Sciences Pvt Ltd
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 Gustav Parmentier Gmbh*List Not Exhaustive
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 Kraft Heinz Company
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Jiangxi Jinsanli Group
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Kemin Industries Inc
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 Ashland Global Specialty Chemicals Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: China Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: China Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Japan Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Japan Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: India Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: India Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: South Korea Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: South Korea Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Taiwan Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Taiwan Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Australia Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Australia Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Rest of Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: China Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: China Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Japan Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Japan Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: India Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: India Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Australia Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Australia Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: Rest of Asia Pacific Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: Rest of Asia Pacific Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 9.80%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market?
Key companies in the market include Ashland Global Specialty Chemicals Inc, Cargill Incorporated, Archer Daniels Midland Company, DuPont Nutrition & Health, BASF SE, Matrix Fine Sciences Pvt Ltd, Gustav Parmentier Gmbh*List Not Exhaustive, Kraft Heinz Company , Jiangxi Jinsanli Group , Kemin Industries, Inc.
3. What are the main segments of the Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market?
The market segments include Product Type, Application, Geography.
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?
Inclination Towards Fitness and Increasing Intake of Plant-based Protein; Increase in Consumer Inclination Towards Meat Substitutes.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Campesterol holds a prominent share in the market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Gluten-Intolerance Among the Population Hindering the Market.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
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 and volume, measured in K Tons.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market," 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 Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market 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 Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Asia-Pacific Phytosterols Market, 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