Global Millets Market

Global Millets Market Overview

• The Global Millets Market is valued at USD 11 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer awareness of health benefits associated with millets, such as their high nutritional value, low glycemic index, and gluten-free properties, which align with rising demand for clean-label and functional foods . Additionally, the rising demand for organic and natural food products has further propelled the market, supported by government and industry promotion of millet-based foods for sustainability and nutrition .
• Key players in this market include India, China, and several African nations, which dominate due to their long-standing agricultural practices and favorable climatic conditions for millet cultivation. India, in particular, is the largest producer and has been actively branding millets as “Shree Anna,” leveraging diverse agro-climatic zones and traditional consumption patterns across regions; Asia-Pacific remains the largest market by value .
• In 2023, the Indian government led global promotion aligned with the International Year of Millets and introduced supportive measures, including a Production Linked Incentive scheme for Millet-Based Products and broader initiatives to promote cultivation and consumption, featuring funding support and awareness drives that benefit millet value chains .

Global Millets Market Segmentation

By Type:The market is segmented into various types of millets, including Pearl Millet (Bajra), Finger Millet (Ragi), Foxtail Millet, Proso Millet, Sorghum (Jowar), Barnyard Millet, Kodo Millet, Little Millet, and Others. Among these, Pearl Millet and Finger Millet are the most prominent in traditional producing regions due to widespread cultivation and dietary use, especially across India and Africa; sorghum also holds substantial share in feed and food applications. Health-focused demand is lifting interest across varieties given millets’ fiber, protein, and micronutrient profile and their gluten-free positioning in cereals, bakery, snacks, and RTE/RTC foods .

By End-User:The end-user segmentation includes the Food & Beverage Industry, Animal Feed & Forage, Nutraceuticals & Functional Foods, Bakery & Confectionery, Ready-to-Cook/Ready-to-Eat (RTC/RTE), and Others. The Food & Beverage Industry is the leading segment, driven by increasing incorporation of millets in staples, breakfast cereals, snacks, bakery mixes, and beverages, as well as clean-label, gluten-free, and low-GI products. Growth is also supported by expanded RTC/RTE launches and nutraceutical applications leveraging millets’ fiber, protein, and micronutrient content .

Global Millets Market Competitive Landscape

The Global Millets Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), Cargill, Incorporated, Bayer AG (Bayer Crop Science), Corteva Agriscience, ITC Limited (Aashirvaad), Sresta Natural Bioproducts Pvt. Ltd. (24 Mantra Organic), Nature Bio-Foods Ltd., Wholsum Foods Pvt. Ltd. (Slurrp Farm), Patanjali Ayurved Ltd., Tasty Bite Eatables Ltd., Dharani FaM CooP Ltd., Bonn Group of Industries, BrettYoung Seeds Limited, Ernst Conservation Seeds, Seedway, LLC contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Global Millets Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Health Consciousness:The global health and wellness market is projected to reach $4.5 trillion in future, driving consumers towards nutritious food options. Millets, rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, are gaining traction among health-conscious individuals. In future, the demand for whole grains, including millets, surged by 15%, reflecting a shift towards healthier dietary choices. This trend is supported by rising obesity rates, with over 1 billion adults classified as overweight globally, prompting a search for healthier alternatives.
• Rising Demand for Gluten-Free Products:The gluten-free food market is expected to reach $7.6 billion in future, with millets being a key player due to their natural gluten-free properties. In future, sales of gluten-free products increased by 20%, driven by a growing awareness of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. This trend is particularly strong in North America and Europe, where approximately 1% of the population is affected by celiac disease, further propelling the demand for gluten-free grains like millets.
• Government Initiatives for Sustainable Agriculture:Governments worldwide are increasingly promoting sustainable agricultural practices, with over $10 billion allocated in future for initiatives supporting millet cultivation. For instance, India’s National Food Security Mission aims to increase millet production by 20% in future. Such initiatives not only enhance millet production but also contribute to food security and environmental sustainability, aligning with global goals to reduce carbon footprints and promote biodiversity in agriculture.

Market Challenges

• Limited Awareness Among Consumers:Despite the nutritional benefits of millets, consumer awareness remains low, with only 30% of consumers familiar with these grains. This lack of knowledge hampers market growth, particularly in regions where traditional grains dominate. Educational campaigns and marketing strategies are essential to increase awareness and acceptance of millets, especially in urban areas where health trends are rapidly evolving.
• Price Volatility of Raw Materials:The price of millet has experienced fluctuations, with a 25% increase in future due to adverse weather conditions affecting crop yields. Such volatility poses a significant challenge for producers and consumers alike, as it impacts the affordability and availability of millets in the market. Stabilizing prices through better supply chain management and government interventions is crucial to mitigate this challenge and ensure consistent market growth.

Global Millets Market Future Outlook

The future of the millets market appears promising, driven by increasing health awareness and a shift towards sustainable agricultural practices. Innovations in processing techniques are expected to enhance product offerings, making millets more appealing to consumers. Additionally, the growing popularity of plant-based diets will likely further boost demand. As governments continue to support millet cultivation, the market is poised for significant growth, with opportunities for value-added products and collaborations with health food brands emerging as key trends.

Market Opportunities

• Development of Value-Added Products:The market for value-added millet products, such as snacks and ready-to-eat meals, is expanding rapidly. In future, the value-added segment grew by 18%, indicating strong consumer interest. This trend presents an opportunity for manufacturers to innovate and cater to health-conscious consumers seeking convenient, nutritious options.
• Growing E-commerce Platforms:E-commerce sales of health foods, including millets, are projected to reach $1.2 trillion in future. The rise of online shopping provides a significant opportunity for millet producers to reach a broader audience. Enhanced digital marketing strategies can effectively target health-conscious consumers, driving sales and increasing market penetration.