Saudi Arabia Nutritional Supplements & Functional Foods Market

Saudi Arabia Nutritional Supplements & Functional Foods Market Overview

• The Saudi Arabia Nutritional Supplements & Functional Foods Market is valued at USD 4.3 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by increasing health awareness among consumers, a rise in lifestyle-related diseases, and a growing trend towards preventive healthcare. The market has seen a significant uptick in demand for products that support overall wellness and specific health needs, especially vitamins, minerals, and herbal products supporting immunity, energy, and general well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated demand for immune-support products such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc .
• Key cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam dominate the market due to their large populations and urbanization. These cities have a higher concentration of health-conscious consumers and a growing number of retail outlets and pharmacies that cater to the demand for nutritional supplements and functional foods. E-commerce and retail modernization have further improved accessibility and trust, especially among urban millennials and Gen Z .
• In 2023, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) implemented the “Regulation for Registration and Approval of Food Supplements, 2023” issued by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. This regulation requires all nutritional supplements to undergo rigorous safety and efficacy testing before market approval. The regulation covers product registration, mandatory safety and efficacy documentation, and compliance with labeling and advertising standards. These requirements enhance consumer safety and ensure that products meet high-quality standards, thereby fostering trust in the nutritional supplements market .

Saudi Arabia Nutritional Supplements & Functional Foods Market Segmentation

By Type:The market is segmented into various types of nutritional supplements and functional foods, including Proteins & Amino Acids, Vitamins & Minerals, Botanicals/Herbal Supplements, Probiotics, Omega Fatty Acids, Functional Foods & Beverages, and Others. Among these, Vitamins & Minerals are particularly dominant due to their essential role in daily nutrition and the increasing consumer focus on health and wellness. The prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin D and iron, is driving demand for fortified foods and dietary supplements .

By Application:The applications of nutritional supplements and functional foods include Sports Nutrition, Energy & Weight Management, Immune Support, Digestive Health, Diabetes Management, Anti-aging & Cardiac Health, General Wellness, and Others. Sports Nutrition is a leading application segment, driven by the increasing participation in fitness activities and sports among the population. Functional foods and beverages also represent the largest revenue-generating segment, reflecting consumer demand for convenient and health-promoting products .

Saudi Arabia Nutritional Supplements & Functional Foods Market Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Nutritional Supplements & Functional Foods Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Herbalife Nutrition Ltd., Amway Corporation, Nestlé S.A., Abbott Laboratories, GNC Holdings, Inc., DSM Nutritional Products, Blackmores Limited, Nature's Bounty Co., Swisse Wellness Pty Ltd., USANA Health Sciences, Inc., Glanbia plc, Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd., The Nature's Way Products, LLC, Solgar Inc., Agthia Group PJSC, Thorne Research Inc., NOW Foods, Vitamin Shoppe, Jamjoom Pharma, Tabuk Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Co. contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Saudi Arabia Nutritional Supplements & Functional Foods Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Health Awareness:The Saudi Arabian population is becoming increasingly health-conscious, with 60% of adults actively seeking healthier lifestyle choices. This shift is supported by the World Health Organization's report indicating a 20% rise in health-related searches online from 2022 to 2023. Additionally, the government’s Vision 2030 initiative promotes health and wellness, leading to a surge in demand for nutritional supplements and functional foods, which are perceived as essential for maintaining health.
• Rising Demand for Preventive Healthcare:Preventive healthcare is gaining traction in Saudi Arabia, with the Ministry of Health reporting a 15% increase in preventive health programs in future. This trend is driven by a growing awareness of chronic diseases, with diabetes prevalence reaching 18% among adults. Consequently, consumers are increasingly turning to nutritional supplements to enhance their health and prevent illness, creating a robust market for functional foods that support overall well-being.
• Growth of E-commerce Platforms:E-commerce in Saudi Arabia is projected to reach $12.3 billion in future, reflecting a 20% annual growth rate. This expansion is facilitated by increased internet penetration, which stands at 99% as of 2023, and a growing preference for online shopping among consumers. As a result, nutritional supplements and functional foods are more accessible, driving sales and encouraging brands to invest in online marketing strategies to capture this expanding market segment.

Market Challenges

• Regulatory Compliance Issues:The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) imposes stringent regulations on nutritional supplements, which can hinder market entry for new brands. In future, over 30% of product applications were rejected due to non-compliance with labeling and health claims regulations. This creates a barrier for companies looking to innovate or expand their product lines, ultimately limiting consumer choices and slowing market growth.
• Consumer Skepticism Towards Supplements:Despite the growing market, consumer skepticism remains a significant challenge, with 40% of surveyed individuals expressing doubts about the efficacy of nutritional supplements. This skepticism is often fueled by misinformation and a lack of understanding of product benefits. As a result, brands must invest in education and transparent marketing strategies to build trust and encourage consumer adoption of their products in a competitive landscape.

Saudi Arabia Nutritional Supplements & Functional Foods Market Future Outlook

The future of the Saudi Arabian nutritional supplements and functional foods market appears promising, driven by increasing health awareness and a shift towards preventive healthcare. Innovations in product formulation, particularly in plant-based and organic options, are expected to attract health-conscious consumers. Additionally, collaborations with health professionals can enhance credibility and consumer trust, further propelling market growth. As e-commerce continues to expand, brands that effectively leverage online platforms will likely capture a larger share of the market, meeting evolving consumer demands.

Market Opportunities

• Development of Organic and Natural Products:There is a growing consumer preference for organic and natural nutritional supplements, with sales expected to increase by 30% in future. This trend presents an opportunity for brands to innovate and develop products that align with consumer values, tapping into the health-conscious demographic seeking cleaner, more sustainable options.
• Targeting the Aging Population:With 7% of the Saudi population projected to be over 60 in future, targeting this demographic presents a significant opportunity. Products designed to address age-related health concerns, such as joint health and cognitive function, can cater to this growing market segment, driving demand for specialized nutritional supplements tailored to their needs.