Key Insights
The South American nutraceuticals market, currently experiencing robust growth, is projected to expand significantly over the forecast period (2025-2033). A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.10% indicates a strong upward trajectory driven by several key factors. Increasing health consciousness among consumers, coupled with rising disposable incomes, fuels demand for functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements. The market is segmented across various product types, including functional foods (like fortified cereals and protein bars), functional beverages (e.g., energy drinks and probiotic drinks), and dietary supplements (vitamins, minerals, and herbal remedies). Distribution channels are diverse, spanning specialty stores, supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, drug stores/pharmacies, and online retail platforms. Major players like Nestlé, Kellogg's, Herbalife, and PepsiCo are actively competing in this expanding market, leveraging established distribution networks and strong brand recognition. The significant growth in Brazil and Argentina, two of South America's largest economies, is a major contributor to the overall market expansion. However, challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and stringent regulatory frameworks could potentially moderate growth. The market's dynamic nature presents opportunities for both established players and new entrants to innovate and cater to the evolving consumer preferences within specific product categories and distribution channels.
Further driving growth is a heightened awareness of preventative healthcare and the increasing adoption of natural and organic products. The demand for products addressing specific health concerns, such as immunity support and digestive health, is particularly strong. Within the South American context, cultural factors and unique dietary habits influence product preferences, creating niche opportunities. The focus is likely shifting toward convenient and readily available formats, with online retail channels gaining significant traction. Companies are increasingly focusing on product innovation, combining traditional remedies with modern science to produce effective and appealing nutraceuticals. The market's expansion is not solely driven by consumer demand; government initiatives promoting health and wellness also contribute to the positive market outlook. However, competitive pricing strategies and the challenge of managing supply chain complexities remain important considerations for businesses operating in this market.

South America Nutraceuticals Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This insightful report provides a detailed analysis of the burgeoning South America nutraceuticals market, offering a comprehensive overview of its current state, future trajectory, and key players. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a focus on 2025, this research is invaluable for stakeholders seeking to understand and capitalize on the significant growth opportunities within this dynamic sector. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, showcasing substantial potential for investment and expansion.
South America Nutraceuticals Market Composition & Trends
This section delves into the intricate composition of the South American nutraceuticals market, examining key trends shaping its evolution. We analyze market concentration, revealing the market share distribution amongst leading players such as Nestle SA, The Kellogg Company, Herbalife International of America Inc, General Mills Inc, PepsiCo Inc, Red Bull GmbH, Amway Corp, Pfizer Inc, and others. The report also explores innovation catalysts driving product diversification, including advancements in functional foods and dietary supplements. A detailed examination of the regulatory landscape, including evolving health and safety standards, is included. Furthermore, we assess the impact of substitute products and the competitive dynamics influencing market share. End-user profiles are analyzed to identify key consumer segments and their preferences. Finally, we review significant M&A activities within the market, providing insights into deal values and their impact on market consolidation. Examples of M&A deal values analyzed are xx Million.
- Market Concentration: Detailed analysis of market share distribution amongst key players.
- Innovation Catalysts: Examination of technological advancements driving product innovation.
- Regulatory Landscape: Assessment of health and safety regulations impacting market growth.
- Substitute Products: Analysis of alternative products and their impact on market dynamics.
- End-User Profiles: Identification of key consumer segments and their preferences.
- M&A Activities: Review of mergers and acquisitions, with an analysis of deal values (xx Million in example deals).

South America Nutraceuticals Market Industry Evolution
This section provides a comprehensive analysis of the South America nutraceuticals market's evolutionary path from 2019 to 2033. We examine the market's growth trajectories, revealing historical growth rates (xx%) and projecting future growth (xx%) based on current trends and anticipated developments. Technological advancements, such as improved extraction methods and delivery systems, are examined in detail, highlighting their impact on product innovation and market expansion. The report also considers the evolving consumer landscape, analyzing shifting preferences towards health and wellness, and the increasing demand for specific functional benefits in nutraceuticals. We analyze the adoption rates of new technologies and products, providing quantitative data on market penetration. Further, we explore the influence of factors like rising disposable incomes and increasing health awareness on market growth.
Leading Regions, Countries, or Segments in South America Nutraceuticals Market
This section identifies the leading regions, countries, and segments within the South American nutraceuticals market. We analyze dominant players in each segment (Functional Food, Functional Beverages, Dietary Supplements) and across distribution channels (Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Drug Stores/Pharmacies, Online Retail Stores).
Dominant Segment: Analysis reveals that the [Segment Name] segment holds the largest market share due to [reason].
Key Drivers:
- Brazil: High population density, rising disposable incomes, and growing health awareness drive market growth.
- [Country]: Strong regulatory support and government initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles contribute to market expansion.
- [Distribution Channel]: [Reason for dominance, e.g., High consumer trust and established market presence].
In-depth analysis of dominance factors: Paragraphs providing detailed explanations for the leadership of specific regions, countries, or segments, supported by statistical data.
South America Nutraceuticals Market Product Innovations
This section highlights recent product innovations in the South American nutraceuticals market. We discuss the introduction of novel functional foods and dietary supplements, detailing their unique selling propositions (USPs) and technological advancements that enhance efficacy and consumer appeal. Examples include innovative delivery systems for enhanced bioavailability and the development of products targeting specific health conditions. Performance metrics, including consumer acceptance and market penetration rates, are examined.
Propelling Factors for South America Nutraceuticals Market Growth
Several key factors drive the growth of the South American nutraceuticals market. Technological advancements leading to improved product quality and efficacy are a significant driver. Increasing health awareness among consumers, fueled by rising disposable incomes and government initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles, further fuels market expansion. Favorable regulatory environments in some countries create a conducive atmosphere for market growth. For instance, [Specific example of government policy or initiative].
Obstacles in the South America Nutraceuticals Market
Several challenges hinder the growth of the South American nutraceuticals market. Stringent regulatory hurdles and varying approval processes across different countries create complexities for companies. Supply chain disruptions, particularly those related to sourcing raw materials, pose another significant challenge. Furthermore, intense competition amongst established and emerging players can lead to price wars and reduced profit margins. These factors collectively impact overall market growth by an estimated xx%.
Future Opportunities in South America Nutraceuticals Market
The South American nutraceuticals market presents exciting opportunities for growth. Expanding into untapped markets within the region, particularly in countries with growing middle classes, presents significant potential. Leveraging technological advancements, such as personalized nutrition and targeted delivery systems, will be crucial for capturing market share. Catering to evolving consumer preferences, such as increased demand for natural and organic products, will be essential for sustained success.
Major Players in the South America Nutraceuticals Market Ecosystem
- Nestle SA
- The Kellogg Company
- Herbalife International of America Inc
- General Mills Inc
- PepsiCo Inc
- Red Bull GmbH
- Amway Corp
- Pfizer Inc
Key Developments in South America Nutraceuticals Market Industry
- [Month, Year]: [Company Name] launches a new line of functional beverages targeting [specific consumer segment]. This launch is expected to significantly impact market share in the functional beverage segment.
- [Month, Year]: A major merger between [Company A] and [Company B] reshapes the competitive landscape. The combined entity is expected to increase market dominance.
- [Month, Year]: New regulations regarding the labeling and marketing of dietary supplements are introduced in [Country]. This has a significant impact on industry compliance. (Add more bullet points as needed)
Strategic South America Nutraceuticals Market Forecast
The South America nutraceuticals market is poised for continued growth driven by several factors: increasing health consciousness, rising disposable incomes, and technological advancements. The market's expansion will be influenced by consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and innovative product launches. Unmet needs in specific health areas present opportunities for new product development, attracting further investment and market expansion. The projected growth trajectory indicates substantial opportunities for both established players and new entrants.
South America Nutraceuticals Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
-
1.1. Functional Food
- 1.1.1. Cereals
- 1.1.2. Bakery and Confectionery
- 1.1.3. Dairy
- 1.1.4. Snacks
- 1.1.5. Other Functional Foods
-
1.2. Functional Beverages
- 1.2.1. Energy Drinks
- 1.2.2. Sports Drinks
- 1.2.3. Fortified Juice
- 1.2.4. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Beverages
- 1.2.5. Other Functional Beverages
-
1.3. Dietary Supplements
- 1.3.1. Vitamins
- 1.3.2. Minerals
- 1.3.3. Botanicals
- 1.3.4. Enzymes
- 1.3.5. Fatty Acids
- 1.3.6. Proteins
- 1.3.7. Other Dietary Supplements
-
1.1. Functional Food
-
2. Distribution Channel
- 2.1. Specialty Stores
- 2.2. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 2.3. Convenience Stores
- 2.4. Drug Stores/Pharmacies
- 2.5. Online Retail Stores
- 2.6. Other Distribution Channels
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. Brazil
- 3.2. Argentina
- 3.3. Rest of South America
South America Nutraceuticals Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Brazil
- 2. Argentina
- 3. Rest of South America

South America Nutraceuticals 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 8.10% 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 Toward Low-Sugar/Sugar-free Beverages
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Concerns Over Health Issues Associated with Functional Beverages
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Rising Demand for Functional Snacks in the Region
- 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 Nutraceuticals Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Functional Food
- 5.1.1.1. Cereals
- 5.1.1.2. Bakery and Confectionery
- 5.1.1.3. Dairy
- 5.1.1.4. Snacks
- 5.1.1.5. Other Functional Foods
- 5.1.2. Functional Beverages
- 5.1.2.1. Energy Drinks
- 5.1.2.2. Sports Drinks
- 5.1.2.3. Fortified Juice
- 5.1.2.4. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Beverages
- 5.1.2.5. Other Functional Beverages
- 5.1.3. Dietary Supplements
- 5.1.3.1. Vitamins
- 5.1.3.2. Minerals
- 5.1.3.3. Botanicals
- 5.1.3.4. Enzymes
- 5.1.3.5. Fatty Acids
- 5.1.3.6. Proteins
- 5.1.3.7. Other Dietary Supplements
- 5.1.1. Functional Food
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 5.2.1. Specialty Stores
- 5.2.2. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 5.2.3. Convenience Stores
- 5.2.4. Drug Stores/Pharmacies
- 5.2.5. Online Retail Stores
- 5.2.6. Other Distribution Channels
- 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 Nutraceuticals Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Functional Food
- 6.1.1.1. Cereals
- 6.1.1.2. Bakery and Confectionery
- 6.1.1.3. Dairy
- 6.1.1.4. Snacks
- 6.1.1.5. Other Functional Foods
- 6.1.2. Functional Beverages
- 6.1.2.1. Energy Drinks
- 6.1.2.2. Sports Drinks
- 6.1.2.3. Fortified Juice
- 6.1.2.4. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Beverages
- 6.1.2.5. Other Functional Beverages
- 6.1.3. Dietary Supplements
- 6.1.3.1. Vitamins
- 6.1.3.2. Minerals
- 6.1.3.3. Botanicals
- 6.1.3.4. Enzymes
- 6.1.3.5. Fatty Acids
- 6.1.3.6. Proteins
- 6.1.3.7. Other Dietary Supplements
- 6.1.1. Functional Food
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 6.2.1. Specialty Stores
- 6.2.2. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 6.2.3. Convenience Stores
- 6.2.4. Drug Stores/Pharmacies
- 6.2.5. Online Retail Stores
- 6.2.6. Other Distribution Channels
- 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 Nutraceuticals Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. Functional Food
- 7.1.1.1. Cereals
- 7.1.1.2. Bakery and Confectionery
- 7.1.1.3. Dairy
- 7.1.1.4. Snacks
- 7.1.1.5. Other Functional Foods
- 7.1.2. Functional Beverages
- 7.1.2.1. Energy Drinks
- 7.1.2.2. Sports Drinks
- 7.1.2.3. Fortified Juice
- 7.1.2.4. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Beverages
- 7.1.2.5. Other Functional Beverages
- 7.1.3. Dietary Supplements
- 7.1.3.1. Vitamins
- 7.1.3.2. Minerals
- 7.1.3.3. Botanicals
- 7.1.3.4. Enzymes
- 7.1.3.5. Fatty Acids
- 7.1.3.6. Proteins
- 7.1.3.7. Other Dietary Supplements
- 7.1.1. Functional Food
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 7.2.1. Specialty Stores
- 7.2.2. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 7.2.3. Convenience Stores
- 7.2.4. Drug Stores/Pharmacies
- 7.2.5. Online Retail Stores
- 7.2.6. Other Distribution Channels
- 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 Nutraceuticals Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. Functional Food
- 8.1.1.1. Cereals
- 8.1.1.2. Bakery and Confectionery
- 8.1.1.3. Dairy
- 8.1.1.4. Snacks
- 8.1.1.5. Other Functional Foods
- 8.1.2. Functional Beverages
- 8.1.2.1. Energy Drinks
- 8.1.2.2. Sports Drinks
- 8.1.2.3. Fortified Juice
- 8.1.2.4. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Beverages
- 8.1.2.5. Other Functional Beverages
- 8.1.3. Dietary Supplements
- 8.1.3.1. Vitamins
- 8.1.3.2. Minerals
- 8.1.3.3. Botanicals
- 8.1.3.4. Enzymes
- 8.1.3.5. Fatty Acids
- 8.1.3.6. Proteins
- 8.1.3.7. Other Dietary Supplements
- 8.1.1. Functional Food
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 8.2.1. Specialty Stores
- 8.2.2. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 8.2.3. Convenience Stores
- 8.2.4. Drug Stores/Pharmacies
- 8.2.5. Online Retail Stores
- 8.2.6. Other Distribution Channels
- 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 Nutraceuticals Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Argentina South America Nutraceuticals Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Rest of South America South America Nutraceuticals Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Competitive Analysis
- 12.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 12.2. Company Profiles
- 12.2.1 Nestle SA
- 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 The Kellogg Company
- 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 Herbalife International of America 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 General Mills Inc
- 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 PepsiCo Inc
- 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 Red Bull GmbH
- 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 Amway Corp *List Not Exhaustive
- 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 Pfizer Inc
- 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)
- 12.2.1 Nestle SA
List of Figures
- Figure 1: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: South America Nutraceuticals Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Brazil South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Argentina South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Rest of South America South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: South America Nutraceuticals Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the South America Nutraceuticals Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 8.10%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the South America Nutraceuticals Market?
Key companies in the market include Nestle SA, The Kellogg Company, Herbalife International of America Inc, General Mills Inc, PepsiCo Inc, Red Bull GmbH, Amway Corp *List Not Exhaustive, Pfizer Inc.
3. What are the main segments of the South America Nutraceuticals Market?
The market segments include Type, Distribution Channel, 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 Toward Low-Sugar/Sugar-free Beverages.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Rising Demand for Functional Snacks in the Region.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Concerns Over Health Issues Associated with Functional Beverages.
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 "South America Nutraceuticals 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 Nutraceuticals 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 Nutraceuticals Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the South America Nutraceuticals 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