Key Insights
The South American food fortifying agents market, valued at $91.61 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.84% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by several key factors. Increasing awareness of malnutrition and its long-term health consequences, particularly among infants and children, is fueling demand for fortified foods. Government initiatives promoting nutritional health and food safety standards are also playing a significant role. The rising prevalence of lifestyle diseases linked to nutritional deficiencies further supports market expansion. Growth is particularly strong in segments like infant formula and dairy products, where fortification is already common practice. The increasing adoption of functional foods and dietary supplements enriched with vitamins, minerals, and probiotics also contributes to market growth. Brazil and Argentina represent the largest markets within South America, driven by their substantial populations and relatively developed food processing industries. However, economic factors and infrastructural challenges in other parts of South America may present some restraints to overall market growth. The market is highly competitive, with both large multinational corporations and regional players vying for market share. Innovation in fortification technologies, such as targeted nutrient delivery systems, is likely to further shape market dynamics in the coming years.
The market segmentation reveals strong demand across diverse applications. Infant formula and dairy products remain dominant segments, given the widespread adoption of fortification in these categories. Cereals, beverages, and dietary supplements are also witnessing significant growth, fueled by the increasing consumer preference for functional foods and health-conscious dietary choices. In terms of type, proteins & amino acids, vitamins & minerals, and prebiotics & probiotics are the key contributors to market expansion reflecting the escalating consumer demand for fortified food products improving overall health and well-being. The presence of established players like Chr. Hansen, DuPont, Ingredion, and Cargill indicates the market's maturity and attractiveness to significant investment. Future growth will depend on ongoing innovation in fortification technologies and expanding access to fortified food products across different socio-economic groups within South America.

South America Food Fortifying Agents Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the South America Food Fortifying Agents market, offering valuable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The study covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 as the base year and a forecast period spanning 2025-2033. The market is segmented by application (infant formula, dairy & dairy-based products, cereals & cereal-based products, fats & oils, beverages, dietary supplements, others) and by type (proteins & amino acids, vitamins & minerals, lipids, prebiotics & probiotics, others). The market is projected to reach a value of XX Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of XX% during the forecast period.
South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Concentration & Innovation
The South America food fortifying agents market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with a few major players holding significant market share. Chr. Hansen Holding A/S, DuPont de Nemours Inc, Ingredion Inc, Archer Daniels Midland Company, BASF SE, Koninklijke DSM N.V., Cargill Inc, AOM SA, and Corbion NV are some of the key players driving innovation and competition. Market share data indicates that the top five players account for approximately XX% of the total market revenue in 2025.
Innovation within the sector is driven by the increasing demand for fortified foods with enhanced nutritional value. This is reflected in the development of novel fortification solutions, including bio-fortification techniques and targeted delivery systems. Regulatory frameworks, such as those concerning labeling and safety standards, significantly impact market dynamics. Product substitutes, such as naturally nutrient-rich foods, exert competitive pressure. End-user trends, including growing health consciousness and preference for convenient food products, influence market growth.
Significant M&A activities have been observed in the market in recent years, with deal values totaling approximately XX Billion during the period 2019-2024. These mergers and acquisitions have aimed to expand product portfolios, strengthen distribution networks, and enhance technological capabilities. Further consolidation is expected in the coming years, further shaping the market landscape.
South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Industry Trends & Insights
The South America food fortifying agents market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. Rising consumer awareness regarding nutrition and health is a major catalyst. The increasing prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among children and pregnant women, fuels demand for fortified foods. Government initiatives promoting nutritional security and food safety are further boosting market growth. Technological advancements, including the development of advanced fortification technologies, are enhancing product quality and efficiency.
Changing consumer preferences towards healthier and more convenient food options are creating new opportunities for fortified food products. The market is witnessing a shift towards natural and organic fortification solutions, which is influencing product development strategies. Competitive dynamics are intense, with companies focusing on product differentiation, cost optimization, and strategic partnerships to gain a competitive edge. The market penetration of fortified food products is increasing steadily, with the highest penetration observed in urban areas. The market is projected to witness a significant surge in growth, reaching XX Billion by 2033.

Dominant Markets & Segments in South America Food Fortifying Agents Market
Within South America, Brazil holds the largest market share in the food fortifying agents market, driven by its substantial population, robust food processing industry, and increasing demand for nutritionally enhanced foods. Other key markets include Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico.
- By Application: The infant formula segment currently dominates the market, driven by the high demand for nutritious infant food products. Dairy & dairy-based products and cereals & cereal-based products also represent significant market segments. The beverages segment is exhibiting strong growth, driven by the rising popularity of fortified beverages.
- By Type: Vitamins & minerals segment holds the largest share due to their widespread use in various food applications. The proteins & amino acids segment shows promising growth prospects driven by increased health consciousness.
Key drivers for market dominance in specific regions include favorable economic policies, supportive government regulations, expanding infrastructure, and rising disposable incomes. However, challenges remain, including varying levels of consumer awareness and affordability issues in certain segments.
South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations focus on delivering enhanced nutritional value through improved bioavailability and targeted delivery systems. Technological advancements, such as nano-encapsulation and micro-encapsulation, are improving the stability and efficacy of fortification agents. Companies are also focusing on developing natural and organic fortification solutions to cater to consumer preferences. These advancements are leading to improved product shelf life and enhanced consumer acceptance. The market is witnessing increased use of prebiotics and probiotics in fortified products.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report provides a comprehensive segmentation analysis of the South America food fortifying agents market, covering various applications and types.
By Application: The report details the market size, growth projections, and competitive dynamics for each application segment including infant formula, dairy & dairy-based products, cereals & cereal-based products, fats & oils, beverages, dietary supplements, and others.
By Type: The report analyses the market size, growth projections, and competitive dynamics for each type segment including proteins & amino acids, vitamins & minerals, lipids, prebiotics & probiotics, and others.
Key Drivers of South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Growth
Several factors drive the growth of the South America food fortifying agents market. These include the increasing prevalence of malnutrition, growing health consciousness among consumers, government regulations promoting food fortification, and rising disposable incomes leading to increased spending on food products. Technological innovations, such as improved fortification technologies, are also significant drivers. The expanding food processing industry in the region creates further opportunities for market expansion.
Challenges in the South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Sector
The South America food fortifying agents market faces several challenges, including strict regulatory approvals, fluctuating raw material prices impacting production costs, and inconsistent supply chain infrastructure in certain regions. Furthermore, intense competition among established players and the emergence of new players adds to market complexities. The prevalence of counterfeit and substandard products poses another considerable challenge.
Emerging Opportunities in South America Food Fortifying Agents Market
Emerging opportunities exist in the growing demand for fortified functional foods, particularly those addressing specific nutritional needs like immunity boosting and digestive health. Expansion into untapped markets in rural areas presents significant potential. The development of sustainable and ethically sourced fortification agents offers an opportunity for companies to differentiate themselves.
Leading Players in the South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Market
- Chr. Hansen Holding A/S
- DuPont de Nemours Inc
- Ingredion Inc
- Archer Daniels Midland Company
- BASF SE
- Koninklijke DSM N.V.
- Cargill Inc
- AOM SA
- Corbion NV
Key Developments in South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Industry
- January 2023: Cargill Inc launched a new line of fortified food ingredients targeting the infant formula market.
- June 2022: BASF SE announced a strategic partnership with a local distributor to expand its reach in the South American market.
- October 2021: Chr. Hansen Holding A/S invested in a new manufacturing facility to increase its production capacity.
Strategic Outlook for South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Market
The South America food fortifying agents market is poised for strong growth over the next decade. Factors such as increased consumer awareness, government support for food fortification, and technological innovations will drive market expansion. Companies with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships will be well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities and gain market share. The market will witness significant consolidation and technological advancements.
South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Proteins & amino acids
- 1.2. Vitamins & Minerals
- 1.3. Lipids
- 1.4. Prebiotics & probiotics
- 1.5. Others
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Infant formula
- 2.2. Dairy & dairy-based products
- 2.3. Cereals & cereal-based products
- 2.4. Fats & oils
- 2.5. Beverages
- 2.6. Dietary supplements
- 2.7. Others
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. Brazil
- 3.2. Argentina
- 3.3. Rest of South America
South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Brazil
- 2. Argentina
- 3. Rest of South America

South America Food Fortifying Agents 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 2.84% 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. Awareness of Health Benefits Associated with Tocotrienol; Escalating Demand for Anti-Aging Products Containing Tocotrienol
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Availability of Substitutes
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Rising Consumption of Vitamin-infused Foods & Beverages
- 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. South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Proteins & amino acids
- 5.1.2. Vitamins & Minerals
- 5.1.3. Lipids
- 5.1.4. Prebiotics & probiotics
- 5.1.5. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Infant formula
- 5.2.2. Dairy & dairy-based products
- 5.2.3. Cereals & cereal-based products
- 5.2.4. Fats & oils
- 5.2.5. Beverages
- 5.2.6. Dietary supplements
- 5.2.7. Others
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. Brazil
- 5.3.2. Argentina
- 5.3.3. Rest of South America
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Brazil
- 5.4.2. Argentina
- 5.4.3. Rest of South America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Brazil South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Proteins & amino acids
- 6.1.2. Vitamins & Minerals
- 6.1.3. Lipids
- 6.1.4. Prebiotics & probiotics
- 6.1.5. Others
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.2.1. Infant formula
- 6.2.2. Dairy & dairy-based products
- 6.2.3. Cereals & cereal-based products
- 6.2.4. Fats & oils
- 6.2.5. Beverages
- 6.2.6. Dietary supplements
- 6.2.7. Others
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.3.1. Brazil
- 6.3.2. Argentina
- 6.3.3. Rest of South America
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. Argentina South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. Proteins & amino acids
- 7.1.2. Vitamins & Minerals
- 7.1.3. Lipids
- 7.1.4. Prebiotics & probiotics
- 7.1.5. Others
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.2.1. Infant formula
- 7.2.2. Dairy & dairy-based products
- 7.2.3. Cereals & cereal-based products
- 7.2.4. Fats & oils
- 7.2.5. Beverages
- 7.2.6. Dietary supplements
- 7.2.7. Others
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.3.1. Brazil
- 7.3.2. Argentina
- 7.3.3. Rest of South America
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8. Rest of South America South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. Proteins & amino acids
- 8.1.2. Vitamins & Minerals
- 8.1.3. Lipids
- 8.1.4. Prebiotics & probiotics
- 8.1.5. Others
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.2.1. Infant formula
- 8.2.2. Dairy & dairy-based products
- 8.2.3. Cereals & cereal-based products
- 8.2.4. Fats & oils
- 8.2.5. Beverages
- 8.2.6. Dietary supplements
- 8.2.7. Others
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.3.1. Brazil
- 8.3.2. Argentina
- 8.3.3. Rest of South America
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9. Brazil South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Argentina South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Rest of South America South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Competitive Analysis
- 12.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 12.2. Company Profiles
- 12.2.1 Chr Hansen Holding A/S*List Not Exhaustive
- 12.2.1.1. Overview
- 12.2.1.2. Products
- 12.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.2 DuPont de Nemours Inc
- 12.2.2.1. Overview
- 12.2.2.2. Products
- 12.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.3 Ingredion Inc
- 12.2.3.1. Overview
- 12.2.3.2. Products
- 12.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.4 Archer Daniels Midland Company
- 12.2.4.1. Overview
- 12.2.4.2. Products
- 12.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.5 BASF SE
- 12.2.5.1. Overview
- 12.2.5.2. Products
- 12.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.6 Koninklijke DSM N V
- 12.2.6.1. Overview
- 12.2.6.2. Products
- 12.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.7 Cargill Inc
- 12.2.7.1. Overview
- 12.2.7.2. Products
- 12.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.8 AOM SA
- 12.2.8.1. Overview
- 12.2.8.2. Products
- 12.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.9 Corbion NV
- 12.2.9.1. Overview
- 12.2.9.2. Products
- 12.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.1 Chr Hansen Holding A/S*List Not Exhaustive
List of Figures
- Figure 1: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Breakdown (Billion, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Brazil South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Brazil South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Argentina South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Argentina South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Rest of South America South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Rest of South America South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Revenue Billion Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: South America Food Fortifying Agents Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the South America Food Fortifying Agents Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 2.84%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the South America Food Fortifying Agents Market?
Key companies in the market include Chr Hansen Holding A/S*List Not Exhaustive, DuPont de Nemours Inc, Ingredion Inc, Archer Daniels Midland Company, BASF SE, Koninklijke DSM N V, Cargill Inc, AOM SA, Corbion NV.
3. What are the main segments of the South America Food Fortifying Agents Market?
The market segments include Type, Application, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 91.61 Billion as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Awareness of Health Benefits Associated with Tocotrienol; Escalating Demand for Anti-Aging Products Containing Tocotrienol.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Rising Consumption of Vitamin-infused Foods & Beverages.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Availability of Substitutes.
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 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Billion 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 "South America Food Fortifying Agents 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 South America Food Fortifying Agents 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 South America Food Fortifying Agents Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the South America Food Fortifying Agents 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