1 Global Chickpea Flour Market Insight Analysis
The global chickpea flour market is valued at USD 1,062.64 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 3.65% from 2024 to 2033.
Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, is a versatile and nutritious ingredient made from ground chickpeas. It is high in protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. The flour is widely used in various applications, including baking, confectionery, extruded products, beverages, and animal feed.
Figure Global Chickpea Flour Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Chickpea Flour Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
Chickpea flour is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. It can improve the nutritional value of food, help manage blood sugar, promote heart and intestinal health, prevent neural tube defects, help lose weight, and is suitable for people with gluten intolerance. As consumers’ health awareness increases, demand for it increases. For example, adding chickpea flour to baked goods can not only increase nutrition, but also give the product a unique taste and texture, satisfying consumers’ dual pursuit of health and deliciousness.
Global economic development and rising income levels of residents have promoted consumption upgrades. Consumers are willing to pay higher prices for healthy and high-quality food. Chickpea flour, as a specialty ingredient, fits this consumption trend. Taking the United States as an example, in 2022, compared with 2019, the actual monthly expenditure on household food and dining out after inflation adjustment increased, reflecting that consumers have higher requirements for food quality and variety, providing development opportunities for the chickpea flour market.
In emerging markets, such as China, residents’ consumption preferences have changed, and the baking industry has developed with the westernization of the eating habits of the younger generation. The application of chickpea flour in baked food processing has gradually increased. Although it has not yet been popularized in the Chinese market, it has great potential in the fields of healthy snack upgrades and plant protein applications due to its high protein, low fat and plant-based characteristics.
The chickpea flour production process requires human participation, such as picking and quality inspection. In recent years, labor costs have risen in many parts of the world. For example, in the second quarter of 2022, the hourly labor costs in the euro area and the European Union increased by 4.0% and 4.4% year-on-year respectively, and the labor costs in the United States increased by 5.3% in the third quarter. This has increased the production costs of enterprises, compressed profit margins, and prompted enterprises to adjust their production management strategies. Some companies may reduce production or increase product prices, thereby affecting market demand.
In 2022, the supply of chickpeas decreased, and the main producing countries were affected by weather and war, and the planting volume decreased. For example, the United States reduced chickpea planting due to bad weather and adjustments in planting structure, and Ukraine could not plant normally due to the war, resulting in damage to the global supply chain. Transportation problems also exacerbated the supply tension, pushed up the price of raw materials, brought cost pressure to food manufacturers, and restricted the development of the chickpea flour market.
As the market develops, more and more companies are entering the chickpea flour industry, resulting in serious homogeneity in products and marketing. It is difficult for companies to stand out through differentiated competition. There are many problems from production to brand building, and innovation is difficult, which limits the further expansion of the market and the improvement of corporate profitability.
3 Technological Innovations in the Chickpea Flour Market
Companies continue to launch chickpea flour products with new properties to meet the diverse needs of the market. For example, Scoular’s new functional chickpea flour has gelling, emulsifying and foaming properties, which can replace eggs in baking applications, meet consumers’ demand for animal product substitutes, and expand the application range of chickpea flour in the food field.
Scientists have developed new processing technologies that have changed the traditional way of grinding. The new technology uses a “heat, water and physical interruption” method to avoid the use of chemicals, and can separate intact cells rich in macronutrients without destroying the integrity of plant cell walls and dietary fiber structures. This alternative grinding process enables chickpea flour to have deeper applications in the field of functional foods, with slower digestion and release, and a longer-lasting sense of fullness.
In 2021, ADM invested in Farmers Business Network and expanded cooperation. As a global leader in nutrition and agriculture, ADM cooperates with Farmers Business Network, which has digital farm business and data analysis capabilities, to improve farmers’ profitability and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The two parties plan to cooperate in multiple areas, such as developing the high-end market for low-carbon grains, promoting the application of innovative technologies, and optimizing the trading process of agricultural products, which will help integrate industry chain resources and enhance the overall competitiveness of the industry.
In 2020, Ingredion announced the acquisition of the remaining equity of Verdient Foods Inc. to accelerate its development in the field of plant-based protein. The acquisition enables Ingredion to more comprehensively control related businesses, integrate resources, further expand its layout in the plant-based protein market, enhance its competitive advantage in the industry, and promote the development of plant-based products such as chickpea flour.
In 2021, Anchor Ingredients and Barrett Petfood Innovations cooperated to build a new freeze-drying manufacturing facility. The cooperation between the two parties integrates their respective advantageous resources, aiming to create the first centralized high-end brand manufacturing base in the pet food industry, provide the pet food market with better raw materials and products, and indirectly affect the application and development of chickpea flour in the pet food field.
4 Global Chickpea Flour Market Size by Type
Desi Type chickpea flour is characterized by its smaller, darker seeds and a rougher coat. This type is predominantly grown in regions such as India, Ethiopia, and Mexico. In 2024, the Desi Type is projected to generate a revenue of $825.05 million USD, accounting for approximately 77.64% of the total market share. The Desi Type’s market dominance can be attributed to its widespread use in traditional and gluten-free baking applications, as well as its high nutritional value. The flour is rich in protein and fiber, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers and food manufacturers alike.
Kabuli Type chickpea flour, on the other hand, is known for its larger, lighter-colored seeds and smoother coat. This type is commonly grown in the United States and other regions with more temperate climates. In 2024, the Kabuli Type is expected to generate a revenue of $237.59 million USD, representing about 22.36% of the total market share. The Kabuli Type’s market presence is driven by its versatility in various food applications, including dairy alternatives, egg replacements, and gluten-free products. Its neutral taste and light color make it an ideal ingredient for a wide range of food products.
Table Global Chickpea Flour Market Size and Share by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Kabuli Type | 237.59 | 22.36% |
Desi Type | 825.05 | 77.64% |
5 Global Chickpea Flour Market Size by Application
In 2024, the consumption of chickpea flour in bakery and confectionery is estimated to reach 287.74 K Tons. Its market share stands at 63.29%. The inclusion of chickpea flour in bakery products is driven by its nutritional value and unique properties. It can enhance the texture and nutritional content of baked goods, making them more appealing to health – conscious consumers. For example, it can be used in making bread, cakes, and cookies, providing a denser texture and added protein and fiber.
The consumption of chickpea flour in extruded products is projected to be 104.05 K Tons in 2024, with a market share of 22.89%. Extruded foods made from chickpea flour, such as macaroni and snack foods, are popular among consumers. The use of chickpea flour in this application not only adds nutritional value but also contributes to the expansion and texture of the final products during the extrusion process.
In the beverage industry, chickpea flour consumption is expected to be 13.72 K Tons in 2024, accounting for a market share of 3.02%. More and more enterprises are adding chickpea powder to drinks like soy milk, yogurt, and coffee as a substitute for protein powder. Its rich carbohydrate and protein content make it a healthy addition to beverages, providing an energy – boosting option.
The consumption of chickpea flour in animal feed is estimated to be 18.26 K Tons in 2024, with a market share of 4.02%. Chickpeas can be used as a high – energy and protein – rich feed in animal diets, supporting milk, meat, and egg production. However, its use in non – ruminant diets needs to be carefully considered due to the presence of secondary compounds.
Table Global Chickpea Flour Market Size and Share by Application in 2024
Application | Consumption (K Tons) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Bakery and Confectionery | 287.74 | 63.29% |
Extruded Products | 104.05 | 22.89% |
Beverages | 13.72 | 3.02% |
Animal Feed | 18.26 | 4.02% |
Others | 30.86 | 6.79% |
6 Global Chickpea Flour Market Size by Region
India has been and remains a dominant force in the global chickpea flour market. In 2024, its revenue is forecasted to reach 494.83 M USD. India has a long – standing consumption habit of chickpea – based products. The local market demand is robust due to the popularity of traditional Indian delicacies made from chickpea flour. Additionally, India is also a major producer of chickpeas, which provides a stable raw material supply for the local chickpea flour industry. The growth of the middle – class population and their increasing awareness of health – friendly food options are further driving the market growth in India.
The European market for chickpea flour is also substantial. In 2024, the revenue is expected to be 170.68 M USD. In countries like Germany, the chickpea flour market has shown stable growth. Germany’s revenue in 2024 is part of this overall European figure. The demand in Europe is mainly driven by the growing interest in healthy and plant – based diets. Consumers in Europe are increasingly exploring alternative flours, and chickpea flour, with its nutritional benefits, has found a place in the market. However, the market also faces challenges such as high labor costs and fluctuating raw material prices, which may affect the growth rate.
The United States has a significant presence in the global chickpea flour market. In 2024, its revenue is predicted to be 135.10 M USD. The market in the US has been growing steadily. The change in consumer eating habits, with a shift towards healthier and more diverse food choices, has led to an increased demand for chickpea flour. It is widely used in various food products, from gluten – free baking to plant – based meat alternatives. However, the US market is also affected by factors like supply chain disruptions and competition from other alternative flours.
The Chinese chickpea flour market has been showing potential for growth. In 2024, the revenue is expected to reach 43.37 M USD. With the westernization of eating habits among the younger generation and the development of the baking industry, the demand for chickpea flour in China is gradually increasing. Although it is still in the initial stage of market penetration, the high – protein and plant – based characteristics of chickpea flour make it promising for future growth. However, challenges such as consumer unfamiliarity and the need for product innovation to suit local tastes remain.
Japan’s chickpea flour market has a relatively smaller scale compared to the above – mentioned regions and countries, but it also shows growth potential. In 2024, the revenue is estimated to be 14.15 M USD. The Japanese market is influenced by the growing trend of healthy eating and the introduction of international food trends. As consumers become more interested in global cuisines and healthy ingredients, chickpea flour has started to gain some traction in the Japanese market.
The Southeast Asian market for chickpea flour is in a stage of development. In 2024, the revenue is expected to be 84.22 M USD. The region’s diverse food culture and increasing urbanization are driving the demand for new and healthy food ingredients. However, the market is also affected by economic fluctuations and supply chain inefficiencies in some areas.
The Middle East and Africa region also contribute to the global chickpea flour market. In 2024, the revenue is forecasted to be 19.55 M USD. The consumption of chickpea – based products has historical roots in this region. However, factors like political instability in some areas and fluctuations in agricultural production due to climate change can impact the market’s development.
In 2024, the revenue of the Latin American chickpea flour market is expected to be 32.80 M USD. The market in this region has been growing steadily, but it also faces challenges such as competition from other local agricultural products and the need to improve the supply chain infrastructure to ensure a stable supply of chickpea flour.
Figure Global Chickpea Flour Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2024
7 Global Chickpea Flour Market Analysis by Major Players
7.1 Parakh Agro Industries Ltd
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Parakh Agro Industries Ltd is a leading FMCG manufacturer based in India, established in 1987. The company operates ten state-of-the-art factories across western and central India, focusing on the production and distribution of staple food products such as whole wheat flour, semolina, and gram flour under the brand name Samrat. Additionally, Parakh Agro Industries is involved in supplying plastic packaging films for both food and non-food segments.
Parakh Agro Industries Ltd is renowned for its high-quality products and extensive distribution network. The company’s flagship product, Samrat Besan (chickpea flour), is widely used in traditional Indian cuisine for making snacks and sweets. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation has helped it maintain a strong market position in both domestic and international markets.
Products:
Samrat Besan is a premium chickpea flour made from the finest Bengal gram/chickpeas. It is ideal for making a wide range of snacks and sweets, such as ladoos and dhoklas. The product is known for its rich flavor and high nutritional value, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers.
Market Performance in 2022:
In 2022, Parakh Agro Industries Ltd reported a revenue of $53.61 million USD with a gross margin of 29.66%.
7.2 Pan Brand
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Pan Brand, established in 1973, is a prominent food products manufacturer based in India. The company specializes in producing high-quality and nutrition-rich dals, rajma, kala chana, kabuli chana, besan, maida, poha, dalia, and suji. Pan Brand is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, sourcing chickpeas from the best global regions and processing them under stringent quality control standards.
Pan Brand’s business is centered around providing consumers with healthy and nutritious food options. The company’s chickpea flour, known for its high protein content and gluten-free properties, is a popular choice for both home cooks and commercial food manufacturers. Pan Brand’s extensive product range and strong brand reputation have helped it establish a significant market presence.
Products:
Pan Brand’s chickpea flour is a premium product made from carefully selected chickpeas. The flour is processed in an automatic plant under ideal hygienic conditions, ensuring high quality and purity. The product is ideal for use in baking, confectionery, and various traditional Indian dishes.
Market Performance in 2022:
In 2022, Pan Brand reported a revenue of $50.74 million USD with a gross margin of 28.83%.
7.3 The Scoular Company
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
The Scoular Company, established in 1892, is a leading agricultural marketing company based in the United States. The company specializes in providing a wide range of agricultural products, including grains, oilseeds, corn, soybeans, sorghum, wheat, millet, and oats. Scoular is known for its innovative supply chain solutions and commitment to sustainability.
The Scoular Company operates as a key player in the global agricultural market, offering safe, reliable, and innovative supply chain solutions for end-users and suppliers of grain, feed ingredients, and food ingredients. The company’s chickpea flour is renowned for its functional properties and high nutritional value, making it a popular choice for food manufacturers.
Products:
Scoular’s Functional Chickpea Flour is a highly functional, cost-effective, and clean-label option for product formulations. The flour is created using a patent-pending production process, delivering superior gelling, emulsification, and foaming characteristics. It is ideal for dairy alternatives, egg replacements, and gluten-free applications.
Market Performance in 2022:
In 2022, The Scoular Company reported a revenue of $39.86 million USD with a gross margin of 31.03%.