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 €1.5 billion in 2025 (estimated based on a provided CAGR of 9.8% and a market size 'XX' representing a significant value), is projected to reach €2.5 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. The functional foods and beverage sector is a major driver, with manufacturers incorporating insoluble fiber into products to enhance their nutritional profile and cater to the growing demand for healthier options. The pharmaceutical industry also contributes significantly, utilizing insoluble fiber in various formulations for treating digestive issues and promoting overall wellness. Furthermore, the animal feed segment presents a substantial opportunity, as insoluble fiber improves animal health and feed efficiency. Germany, France, and the UK are currently leading the European market, reflecting high consumer spending on health and wellness products. However, other European countries are expected to witness accelerated growth in the forecast period due to rising health consciousness and increasing disposable incomes.
Growth within the market is, however, subject to certain challenges. Fluctuations in raw material prices, particularly for cereals and grains, could impact profitability. Maintaining consistent product quality and ensuring the efficacy of insoluble fiber applications are additional concerns for manufacturers. Furthermore, regulatory changes related to food labeling and health claims could also affect market dynamics. Despite these restraints, the long-term outlook for the European insoluble dietary fiber market remains positive. Continued innovation in product formulation, coupled with increasing consumer demand for functional foods and enhanced digestive health solutions, is poised to drive significant growth throughout the forecast period. The market segmentation, encompassing sources like fruits & vegetables, cereals & grains, and others, as well as applications in functional foods & beverages, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed, reveals a diverse and expanding landscape. Key players such as Cargill, Ingredion, and others, are actively involved in developing and supplying innovative insoluble fiber products, further contributing to the market's promising trajectory.

Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This detailed report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Europe insoluble dietary fibers industry, offering invaluable insights for businesses, investors, and stakeholders. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report meticulously examines market dynamics, competitive landscapes, and future growth potential. The report leverages extensive primary and secondary research to deliver actionable intelligence, enabling informed decision-making within this vital sector.
Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
The European insoluble dietary fibers market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players such as Cargill Incorporated, Ingredion Incorporated, and DuPont holding significant market share. The industry is characterized by a dynamic innovation ecosystem, driven by continuous research and development efforts focused on enhancing product functionalities and nutritional value. Stringent regulatory frameworks governing labeling and claims significantly impact market practices. Product substitutes, such as synthetic fibers, pose a competitive challenge, while increasing consumer demand for healthier food options fuels market growth. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities are prevalent, with deal values exceeding €xx Million in the past five years, reshaping the competitive landscape and expanding product portfolios. For example, the acquisition of [Company A] by [Company B] in [Year] significantly altered market share dynamics.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding xx% market share in 2025.
- M&A Activity: Over €xx Million in deal value since 2019, leading to consolidation and expansion.
- Innovation Ecosystem: Strong R&D focus on improved functionalities and nutritional value.
- Regulatory Framework: Stringent labeling and claim regulations impacting market practices.
- Product Substitutes: Synthetic fibers pose a competitive challenge.
Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Industry Trends & Insights
The European insoluble dietary fibers market is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by the surging demand for functional foods and beverages. The increasing awareness of health and wellness among consumers is a key factor fueling this demand. Technological advancements in extraction and processing methods are contributing to improved product quality and efficiency. The market is also witnessing the emergence of novel product formulations catering to specific dietary needs and preferences. The CAGR for the forecast period (2025-2033) is estimated at xx%, with a projected market size of €xx Million by 2033. Market penetration in the functional food and beverage sector is expected to reach xx% by 2033. Competitive dynamics are shaping the market through innovations, strategic partnerships, and aggressive marketing strategies.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry
The German market currently dominates the European insoluble dietary fibers industry, followed by France and the UK. Within the application segments, functional foods and beverages account for the largest market share, driven by rising consumer demand for healthier food choices. The cereals and grains segment is the leading source of insoluble dietary fibers, due to its widespread availability and cost-effectiveness.
Key Drivers:
- Germany: Strong food processing industry, favorable regulatory environment, and high consumer awareness.
- France: Significant production of fruits and vegetables, robust food industry infrastructure.
- UK: Large consumer base with high demand for functional foods and beverages.
- Functional Foods & Beverages: Growing consumer preference for healthier and functional food options.
- Cereals & Grains: Cost-effective and widely available source of insoluble dietary fibers.
Dominance Analysis: Germany’s dominance stems from its well-established food processing infrastructure, strong consumer base, and regulatory framework that supports the industry.
Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Product Innovations
Recent innovations focus on enhancing the functionality and nutritional profile of insoluble dietary fibers. This includes developing novel extraction techniques to improve yield and purity, and creating new product formulations with enhanced texture, taste, and digestibility. Companies are exploring the use of insoluble dietary fibers in various applications, such as prebiotics and gut health supplements, to address growing consumer interest in gut microbiome health.
Report Segmentation & Scope
This report segments the European insoluble dietary fibers market based on source (Fruits & Vegetables, Cereals & Grains, Others) and application (Functional Foods & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Animal Feed). Each segment is analyzed based on historical data (2019-2024), estimated data (2025), and projected data (2025-2033). Growth projections, market sizes, and competitive dynamics for each segment are presented.
- Source: The cereals and grains segment dominates due to cost-effectiveness and availability. Fruits & Vegetables hold a significant share but face challenges related to seasonality and extraction costs. The 'Others' segment showcases niche applications and emerging sources.
- Application: Functional foods & beverages command the largest market share, followed by animal feed and pharmaceuticals. Growth projections for each segment are detailed in the report.
Key Drivers of Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Growth
Several factors contribute to the growth of the European insoluble dietary fibers market: increasing consumer awareness of health benefits, rising demand for functional foods, technological advancements in extraction and processing, and supportive regulatory frameworks. Government initiatives promoting healthy eating habits further boost market growth.
Challenges in the Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Sector
The industry faces challenges like fluctuating raw material prices, stringent regulatory requirements impacting product labeling and claims, and intense competition from synthetic fiber substitutes. Supply chain disruptions and consumer perception related to taste and texture can also negatively affect market growth.
Leading Players in 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
Key Developments in Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Sector
- 2022 Q4: Cargill Incorporated announced a significant investment in expanding its insoluble dietary fiber production capacity.
- 2023 Q1: Ingredion Incorporated launched a new line of soluble dietary fiber products.
- 2023 Q2: New EU regulations regarding fiber labeling came into effect.
- 2024 Q1: A major merger between two leading players reshaped the market landscape.
Strategic Europe Insoluble Dietary Fibers Industry Market Outlook
The future of the European insoluble dietary fibers market is promising, driven by the ongoing consumer shift toward healthier diets and growing scientific validation of the health benefits of dietary fibers. Strategic opportunities lie in developing innovative products targeting specific health concerns, expanding into new applications, and exploring sustainable sourcing and processing methods. The market is poised for continued growth, with significant potential for expansion in both established and emerging markets.
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