Global Gluten-Free Food Market Outlook 2030

Global Gluten-Free Food Market Overview

• The global gluten-free food market is valued at USD 6.74 billion, driven by increasing consumer awareness regarding the health benefits of gluten-free diets, particularly among those suffering from celiac disease and gluten intolerance. The market is also fueled by a rise in health-conscious consumers choosing gluten-free options for their perceived health benefits, even without medical necessity. The availability of gluten-free products has expanded significantly through major retail and online channels, boosting accessibility.

• Countries like the United States, Canada, and Germany dominate the market due to high awareness about gluten-related health issues and a strong infrastructure for product distribution. The dominance of these regions is attributed to their well-established retail networks, government support for gluten-free product labeling, and growing innovation in gluten-free food production, making these nations significant players in the global market.
• Strict government regulations regarding gluten-free labeling have been implemented in major markets like the U.S. and Europe. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), only products containing less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten can be labeled gluten-free. Similarly, the European Union (EU) has harmonized its standards for gluten-free labeling, ensuring consumer safety. These regulations are critical in maintaining consumer trust and protecting those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities.

Global Gluten-Free Food Market Segmentation

By Product Type: The gluten-free food market is segmented by product type into bakery products, dairy alternatives, snacks & confectionery, beverages, and ready-to-eat meals. Among these, bakery products hold a dominant share in the global market due to their widespread popularity and the increasing availability of gluten-free bread, cookies, and muffins. Key players such as General Mills and Schr have invested in expanding gluten-free bakery offerings, making these products a staple for gluten-intolerant consumers.

By Region: The gluten-free food market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. North America dominates the global market due to its advanced retail networks, growing prevalence of celiac disease, and significant investments in gluten-free food innovation. The region also benefits from high consumer demand for healthy and organic foods, contributing to the growth of gluten-free product offerings.

Global Gluten-Free Food Market Competitive Landscape

The global gluten-free food market is dominated by several key players who continue to invest in product innovation and distribution expansion. These companies focus on building strong brand loyalty and increasing product visibility across retail channels.

Global Gluten-Free Food Market Analysis

Market Growth Drivers

• Increasing Incidence of Celiac Disease & Gluten Sensitivity: Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity continue to rise globally, with an estimated 1 in 100 people affected by celiac disease, as reported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In the U.S. alone, around 3 million individuals live with the condition. Furthermore, gluten sensitivity is also becoming more common. This growing demographic is fueling the demand for gluten-free products. In Europe, approximately 7 million people are diagnosed with gluten intolerance annually. The combination of celiac and gluten-sensitivity-related health concerns contributes significantly to the expansion of the gluten-free food market.
• Rising Health Consciousness & Consumer Preferences: Consumers are increasingly prioritizing healthier food choices, which has led to greater demand for gluten-free products. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the global focus on preventive health measures has spurred the adoption of gluten-free diets. Health-conscious individuals are opting for gluten-free foods as a perceived healthier option, which aligns with broader dietary trends. In the U.S., nearly 20 million people follow a gluten-free diet, even without having celiac disease, for health benefits. This shift is particularly visible in the rise of gluten-free bakery products.
• Product Innovations in Gluten-Free Alternatives: Manufacturers are investing in research and development to create new and innovative gluten-free alternatives. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), around 15,000 gluten-free products were launched globally in 2023, including innovations like gluten-free pasta made from lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa. Additionally, the FAO reported a 30% increase in gluten-free snacks, cookies, and cereals being introduced into markets between 2022 and 2023. This innovation has led to increased consumer interest and has driven market growth as a result of expanding product variety and improved taste.

Global Gluten-Free Food Market Challenges

• High Costs of Gluten-Free Products (Pricing Sensitivity): Gluten-free products remain significantly more expensive than their gluten-containing counterparts due to the higher costs of alternative ingredients. A survey conducted by the World Bank highlights that the average price of gluten-free products is substantially higher than regular wheat-based products in 2023. This pricing sensitivity is a major barrier for lower-income populations and limits market growth, particularly in developing economies where disposable income is lower. The World Bank has also emphasized that food inflation rates in emerging markets exacerbate the issue of affordability for gluten-free products.
• Limited Awareness in Emerging Markets: Despite growing awareness in developed markets, many emerging economies still have limited understanding of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. According to the International Food Information Council (IFIC), a significant portion of consumers in Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa have minimal knowledge of gluten-related disorders. Additionally, very few food products in these regions have gluten-free labeling. This lack of awareness, combined with poor labeling standards, hinders market penetration in countries such as Indonesia, Nigeria, and Vietnam, where gluten-free foods remain underrepresented.

Global Gluten-Free Food Market Future Outlook

Over the next five years, the gluten-free food market is expected to witness substantial growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness about the health benefits of gluten-free diets and rising incidences of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. Additionally, innovations in product formulations and the expansion of retail channels, particularly in emerging markets, will further accelerate market growth.

Market Opportunities:

• Adoption of Plant-Based Gluten-Free Food: The plant-based food trend is merging with the gluten-free market as more consumers seek products that meet both dietary preferences. According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), global sales of plant-based gluten-free products reached $5 billion in 2023, driven by rising demand for vegan and allergen-free options. This trend is particularly strong in regions like North America and Europe, where plant-based diets are becoming more mainstream. Gluten-free options such as almond milk, vegan burgers, and plant-based snacks have become popular among health-conscious consumers.
• Increased Focus on Allergen-Free & Vegan Food Market Integration: The intersection of gluten-free, allergen-free, and vegan food markets is becoming more prominent. The International Food Information Council (IFIC) reports that many new product launches in 2023 were positioned as both gluten-free and vegan. These products cater to consumers with multiple dietary restrictions and preferences, expanding the gluten-free markets reach. In North America, allergen-free gluten-free snacks, dairy alternatives, and ready-to-eat meals have seen significant growth, reflecting the broader trend of combining allergen-free and gluten-free product attributes.