Why is inositol no longer classified as vitamin B8, and what does that mean for its market positioning?

Why is inositol no longer classified as vitamin B8, and what does that mean for its market positioning?
Inositol was once labeled vitamin B8 but was reclassified after research showed the human body synthesizes several grams daily, mainly in the kidneys and testes, via glucose-6-phosphate conversion. This endogenous production capability undermines its 'essential vitamin' status, yet commercial demand persists across pharma, food, feed, and cosmetics. China dominates global supply, holding roughly 58.7% of production, with key players like Bohaoda and Hebei Yuwei controlling about 60% of worldwide capacity. The market reached approximately USD 125 million in 2021, with food-grade inositol taking the largest share at 45.8%. However, Chinese export prices lag import prices, indicating a structural tilt toward mid-to-low-end products, leaving room for value-added upgrading.