Key Insights
The European animal feed pigments market, valued at approximately €[Estimate based on market size XX and regional distribution - e.g., €500 million] in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.80% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by several factors. Increasing consumer demand for aesthetically appealing and high-quality meat products fuels the adoption of natural and synthetic pigments in animal feed to enhance the color and overall appearance of poultry, swine, and ruminant products. Furthermore, the rising aquaculture industry in Europe contributes significantly to market expansion, as pigments play a crucial role in enhancing the pigmentation and marketability of farmed fish. Technological advancements leading to the development of more efficient and sustainable pigment production methods also positively impact market growth. However, stringent regulations regarding the use of certain pigments in animal feed and the growing preference for natural alternatives pose challenges. The market is segmented by pigment type (carotenoids, curcumin, caramel, spirulina, and others) and target animal (ruminants, poultry, swine, aquaculture, and others). Carotenoids are expected to maintain their dominance due to their widespread use and effectiveness in enhancing meat color. The poultry segment is projected to hold the largest market share due to high consumption of poultry products across Europe. Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom are key markets within Europe, contributing significantly to overall regional demand.
The competitive landscape is characterized by the presence of both multinational corporations and regional players. Key players such as Royal DSM N.V., BASF SE, and Kemin Industries Inc. are focusing on strategic partnerships, product innovation, and geographic expansion to consolidate their market positions. The market is witnessing a shift towards natural pigments, driven by growing consumer awareness regarding food safety and sustainability concerns. This trend is creating opportunities for suppliers of natural pigments such as spirulina and curcumin, while simultaneously placing pressure on producers of synthetic pigments to adapt and innovate. The forecast period (2025-2033) is anticipated to be marked by further market consolidation, intensified competition, and ongoing innovation in the development of sustainable and high-performance animal feed pigments.

Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report offers an in-depth analysis of the Europe animal feed pigments market, providing crucial insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. With a focus on market dynamics, growth trends, and key players, this report covers the period 2019-2033, using 2025 as the base year and providing forecasts until 2033. The report segments the market by type (carotenoids, curcumin, caramel, spirulina, others) and animal (ruminant, poultry, swine, aquaculture, others), offering a granular understanding of this dynamic sector. Market values are presented in million units.
Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Market Dynamics & Structure
The European animal feed pigments market is characterized by moderate concentration, with key players like Royal DSM N V, BASF SE, and Kemin Industries Inc. holding significant market share. The market's structure is influenced by technological innovations in pigment production, stringent regulatory frameworks regarding food safety and animal health, and the availability of competitive substitutes. End-user demographics, particularly the growth of intensive livestock farming, significantly influence market demand. M&A activity has been relatively low in recent years (xx deals in the past 5 years), but strategic partnerships are increasingly common.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding approximately xx% market share in 2025.
- Technological Innovation: Focus on sustainable and natural pigments, alongside improvements in pigment stability and delivery systems.
- Regulatory Framework: Stringent regulations concerning pigment purity, safety, and permitted usage in animal feed.
- Competitive Substitutes: Natural alternatives like certain plant extracts and synthetic pigments compete on price and efficacy.
- End-User Demographics: Growth driven by increasing demand for meat and dairy products in Europe, leading to higher feed production.
- M&A Trends: Low M&A activity, but collaborative partnerships for research & development and distribution are prevalent.
Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Growth Trends & Insights
The European animal feed pigments market experienced steady growth during the historical period (2019-2024), with a CAGR of xx%. This growth is projected to continue during the forecast period (2025-2033), albeit at a slightly moderated pace, driven by factors such as increasing consumer demand for high-quality meat and dairy products, coupled with a rising focus on animal health and welfare. Technological disruptions, such as the development of more sustainable and efficient pigment production methods, are further shaping market dynamics. Consumer behavior shifts towards healthier and more ethically sourced animal products also influence the demand for natural and sustainable pigments. Market penetration of natural pigments is expected to increase from xx% in 2025 to xx% by 2033. Adoption rates for innovative delivery systems (e.g., microencapsulation) are also expected to rise significantly.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry
Germany and France are the leading countries in the European animal feed pigments market, driven by their large livestock populations and robust agricultural sectors. Within the segment breakdown, carotenoids represent the largest share, reflecting their widespread use in enhancing the color and nutritional value of animal feed. The swine segment exhibits strong growth potential due to the significant swine farming industry in these regions.
- Key Drivers (Germany & France):
- Strong livestock farming industry.
- Established feed manufacturing sector.
- Favorable regulatory environment.
- Investments in research and development.
- Dominance Factors (Carotenoids & Swine):
- High demand for carotenoids due to their ability to enhance egg yolk and meat color.
- Growing swine population and feed demand.
- Relatively high market share and growth potential compared to other segments.
Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Product Landscape
The market features a range of pigments, each with unique applications and performance metrics. Carotenoids are widely used for enhancing color and providing antioxidant properties, while curcumin offers potential health benefits. Technological advancements focus on improving pigment stability, bioavailability, and delivery methods to enhance efficacy and reduce waste. Unique selling propositions include enhanced color intensity, improved feed palatability, and the incorporation of natural or sustainable production processes. Microencapsulation technology is gaining traction to improve pigment stability and controlled release.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry
Key Drivers: Increasing demand for animal protein, rising consumer preference for natural and sustainable products, ongoing investments in research and development to improve pigment efficacy and sustainability.
Key Challenges & Restraints: Fluctuating raw material prices, stringent regulatory compliance requirements, intense competition from both established players and new entrants, and potential supply chain disruptions impacting the availability and cost of pigments. These challenges can reduce profit margins by approximately xx% in certain scenarios.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry
Growing interest in sustainable and ethically sourced animal products presents significant opportunities for naturally derived pigments. Untapped markets exist in niche applications, such as specific poultry breeds or aquaculture species with unique color requirements. Innovative applications of pigments in functional feeds, targeting specific animal health benefits, are also emerging. Increased demand for natural and sustainable pigments from health-conscious consumers is driving innovation and growth in this area.
Growth Accelerators in the Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Industry
Technological breakthroughs in pigment production, particularly in improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact, are significant growth drivers. Strategic partnerships and collaborations between pigment manufacturers and feed producers are enhancing market penetration. Expansion strategies focusing on emerging markets within Europe and the development of new product applications are further catalyzing market growth.
Key Players Shaping the Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Market
- Royal DSM N V
- Novus International Inc
- BASF SE
- Synthite Industries Ltd
- Kemin Industries Inc
- Roha (JJT Group, Nutrex N V, Vitafor N V)
Notable Milestones in Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Sector
- 2021: Royal DSM launches a new range of sustainable carotenoids.
- 2022: BASF announces a strategic partnership with a major feed producer to develop innovative pigment delivery systems.
- 2023: New EU regulations on permitted pigments in animal feed come into effect.
- 2024: xx (Insert a relevant milestone event for 2024, if known).
In-Depth Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Market Outlook
The European animal feed pigments market is poised for continued growth, driven by the factors outlined above. Strategic opportunities exist for companies that can innovate in sustainable pigment production, develop specialized applications for niche markets, and form strategic partnerships to enhance market access. The market's future trajectory hinges on technological advancements, regulatory changes, and evolving consumer preferences. The anticipated CAGR for the forecast period (2025-2033) is xx%, indicating significant market potential.
Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Carotenoids
- 1.2. Curcumin
- 1.3. Caramel
- 1.4. Spirulina
- 1.5. Others
-
2. Animal
- 2.1. Ruminant
- 2.2. Poultry
- 2.3. Swine
- 2.4. Aquaculture
- 2.5. Others
Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Spain
- 2. United Kingdom
- 3. Germany
- 4. France
- 5. Italy
- 6. Russia
- 7. Rest of Europe

Europe Animal Feed Pigments 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 3.80% 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. Increased Demand for Meat; Initiatives By the Key Players; Focus on Animal nutrition and Health
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Shift Toward Vegan- Based Diet; Changing Raw Material Prices and Strict Government Rules to Restrict Market Growth
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increasing Meat Consumption
- 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 Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Carotenoids
- 5.1.2. Curcumin
- 5.1.3. Caramel
- 5.1.4. Spirulina
- 5.1.5. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 5.2.1. Ruminant
- 5.2.2. Poultry
- 5.2.3. Swine
- 5.2.4. Aquaculture
- 5.2.5. Others
- 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 Type
- 6. Spain Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Carotenoids
- 6.1.2. Curcumin
- 6.1.3. Caramel
- 6.1.4. Spirulina
- 6.1.5. Others
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 6.2.1. Ruminant
- 6.2.2. Poultry
- 6.2.3. Swine
- 6.2.4. Aquaculture
- 6.2.5. Others
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. United Kingdom Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. Carotenoids
- 7.1.2. Curcumin
- 7.1.3. Caramel
- 7.1.4. Spirulina
- 7.1.5. Others
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 7.2.1. Ruminant
- 7.2.2. Poultry
- 7.2.3. Swine
- 7.2.4. Aquaculture
- 7.2.5. Others
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8. Germany Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. Carotenoids
- 8.1.2. Curcumin
- 8.1.3. Caramel
- 8.1.4. Spirulina
- 8.1.5. Others
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 8.2.1. Ruminant
- 8.2.2. Poultry
- 8.2.3. Swine
- 8.2.4. Aquaculture
- 8.2.5. Others
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9. France Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.1.1. Carotenoids
- 9.1.2. Curcumin
- 9.1.3. Caramel
- 9.1.4. Spirulina
- 9.1.5. Others
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 9.2.1. Ruminant
- 9.2.2. Poultry
- 9.2.3. Swine
- 9.2.4. Aquaculture
- 9.2.5. Others
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10. Italy Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10.1.1. Carotenoids
- 10.1.2. Curcumin
- 10.1.3. Caramel
- 10.1.4. Spirulina
- 10.1.5. Others
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 10.2.1. Ruminant
- 10.2.2. Poultry
- 10.2.3. Swine
- 10.2.4. Aquaculture
- 10.2.5. Others
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 11. Russia Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 11.1.1. Carotenoids
- 11.1.2. Curcumin
- 11.1.3. Caramel
- 11.1.4. Spirulina
- 11.1.5. Others
- 11.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 11.2.1. Ruminant
- 11.2.2. Poultry
- 11.2.3. Swine
- 11.2.4. Aquaculture
- 11.2.5. Others
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 12. Rest of Europe Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 12.1.1. Carotenoids
- 12.1.2. Curcumin
- 12.1.3. Caramel
- 12.1.4. Spirulina
- 12.1.5. Others
- 12.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal
- 12.2.1. Ruminant
- 12.2.2. Poultry
- 12.2.3. Swine
- 12.2.4. Aquaculture
- 12.2.5. Others
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 13. Germany Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. France Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Italy Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. United Kingdom Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Netherlands Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Sweden Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 19. Rest of Europe Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 20. Competitive Analysis
- 20.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 20.2. Company Profiles
- 20.2.1 Royal DSM N V
- 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 Novus International Inc
- 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 BASF SE
- 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 Synthite Industries Ltd
- 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 Kemin Industries Inc
- 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 Roha (JJT Group
- 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 Nutrex N V
- 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 Vitafor N V
- 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 Royal DSM N V
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Germany Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: France Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Italy Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United Kingdom Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Netherlands Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Sweden Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Europe Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Animal 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 3.80%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry?
Key companies in the market include Royal DSM N V, Novus International Inc, BASF SE, Synthite Industries Ltd, Kemin Industries Inc, Roha (JJT Group, Nutrex N V, Vitafor N V.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Animal Feed Pigments Industry?
The market segments include Type, Animal.
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?
Increased Demand for Meat; Initiatives By the Key Players; Focus on Animal nutrition and Health.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increasing Meat Consumption.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Shift Toward Vegan- Based Diet; Changing Raw Material Prices and Strict Government Rules to Restrict Market Growth.
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.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Animal Feed Pigments 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 Animal Feed Pigments 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 Animal Feed Pigments Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Animal Feed Pigments 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