Legumes Market

Growing demand for the healthy diet is driving the market growth

Market CAGR for legumes is being driven by the rising demand for healthy diets globally. Over the past few years, there has been ,increased frequency of health-related problems like diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, and obesity in the population has risen significantly. This has led to an increase in awareness among consumers about their health and initiated healthy eating habits. There is an increasing consumption of legume-based snacking items.

The market is getting fueled due to the rising interest in plant-based protein, health benefits, the popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets, the innovation of new products, government support, and sustainable farming. Legumes have given a chance for industries to innovate new and inventive goods, like snacks, meat, and pasta substitute, and to pioneer the market for sustainably grown legumes. The legumes like peas, chickpeas, peas, and beans are thought to be healthy snacks. Consumers are becoming aware of different problems related to obesity and diabetes, like cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, anxiety, cholesterol, and depression.

The obese and the overweight are more susceptible to developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease at a early age. Hence, there is a concern to avoid high-calorie food and encourage them to consume low-calorie and low-fat food like legumes. This will eventually lead in the growth of the legume market globally.

The availability of different other alternatives is a major restrain to the growth of the legume market. The meat market is significantly growing as they are naturally rich in protein, iron, energy, zinc, and potassium, thus leading to an increase in consumption of these high-nutrition products than other. On the other hand, poor supply and demand, higher costs, and the lack of awareness and availability are restraining the market growth.

The Global Legumes Industry is poised for substantial growth, with projections indicating a market value of 13.4 USD Billion in 2024 and an anticipated increase to 23.7 USD Billion by 2035. This growth trajectory reflects a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% from 2025 to 2035, highlighting the increasing demand for legumes worldwide. Factors such as rising health awareness, sustainable agricultural practices, and diverse culinary applications are contributing to this upward trend. As the market evolves, it is likely to attract new players and innovations, further enhancing its dynamics.

The Global Legumes Industry is experiencing a surge in demand driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers. Legumes are recognized for their high protein content, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a preferred choice for health-oriented diets. As more individuals adopt plant-based diets, the consumption of legumes is likely to rise. This trend is reflected in the projected market value, which is expected to reach 13.4 USD Billion in 2024. The growing awareness of the health benefits associated with legumes is anticipated to further propel the market, as consumers seek nutritious alternatives to animal protein.

The Global Legumes Industry is benefiting from expanding export opportunities as global demand for legumes increases. Countries with favorable climates for legume cultivation are capitalizing on this trend by exporting their products to regions with high consumption rates. For instance, nations like India and Canada are major exporters of pulses, meeting the needs of international markets. This growing export potential is likely to drive market growth, as producers seek to tap into lucrative foreign markets. The increasing global trade in legumes may contribute to the overall market expansion, aligning with the projected growth trends.

The versatility of legumes in various culinary applications is a key driver in the Global Legumes Industry. Legumes can be utilized in a wide range of dishes, from soups and salads to snacks and main courses. This adaptability caters to diverse consumer preferences and dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and vegan diets. As culinary trends evolve, the incorporation of legumes into mainstream cuisine is likely to increase. This trend is supported by the anticipated compound annual growth rate of 5.3% from 2025 to 2035, suggesting a robust growth trajectory for the market.

Government initiatives aimed at promoting legume cultivation and consumption are significantly influencing the Global Global Legumes Industry. Many countries are implementing policies to support farmers in growing legumes, recognizing their benefits for food security and nutrition. These initiatives often include financial incentives, research funding, and educational programs to raise awareness about the advantages of legumes. As a result, the market is likely to see increased production and consumption levels, contributing to its projected growth. The combined efforts of governments and agricultural organizations are expected to enhance the market landscape in the coming years.

Sustainable agricultural practices are becoming increasingly vital in the Global Legumes Industry. Legumes play a crucial role in crop rotation and soil health, enhancing nitrogen fixation and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. This sustainable approach not only benefits the environment but also appeals to eco-conscious consumers. As governments and organizations promote sustainable farming, the demand for legumes is expected to grow. The market is projected to expand significantly, with an estimated value of 23.7 USD Billion by 2035, indicating a strong shift towards environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

By region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. The North American Legumes market dominates the market due to the increasing demand for food containing high fiber and protein and also the demand for plant-based food products. Government initiatives in the countries of this region have increased the consumption of legumes. The US is the largest contributor to the legumes market in the North American region.

Further, the major countries studied in the market report are The US, Canada, German, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

Figure 2: LEGUMES MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

Europe's Legumes market accounts for the second-largest market share due to the rising demand for plant-based substitutes to meet the protein requirement of the body. Further, the German Legumes market held the largest market share, and the UK Legumes market was the fastest-growing market in the European region.

The Asia-Pacific Legumes Market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2023 to 2032. This is due to the high consumption of lentils in the countries of this region, and the consumers are opting for healthy food options. Moreover, China’s Legumes market held the largest market share, and the Indian Legumes market was the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.

Leading market players are investing heavily in research and development in order to expand their product lines, which will help the Legumes market grow even more. Market participants are also undertaking a variety of strategic activities to spread their footprint, with important market developments including new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, higher investments, and collaboration with other organizations. To expand and survive in a more competitive and rising market climate, the Legumes industry must offer cost-effective items.

Manufacturing locally to minimize operational costs is one of the key business tactics used by manufacturers in the Legumes industry to benefit clients and increase the market sector. In recent years, the Legumes industry has offered some of the most significant advantages to the food industry. Major players in the Legumes market, including Tyson Foods Inc., NAPOLINA, Bush Brothers & Company, Teasdale, General Mills, Conagra Brands, The Kraft Heinz Company, Eden Foods Inc., Goya Foods Inc, Faribault Foods Inc., and others, are trying to increase market demand by investing in research and development operations.

NAPOLINA was established in Italy, and in 1965, it was launched in the UK, becoming the number-one Italian cooking brand in more than 50 years. The company imports and distributes food products, offering tomatoes, olive oil, and pasta, and also provide sauces, pizzeria, pulses, and grated cheese, which emphasizes ingredients in wheat, spices, and herbs. The company supplies its products in canned, crushed, or sieved form throughout Italy and also Italian cooking tips and recipes. In April 2020, the company launched a broad range of grains and pulses. Quinoa, chickpea, and cannellini beans are included in the expanded product line.

As per the company, canned legumes are rich in protein and low in fat, which makes them fit for vegetarians and flexitarians alike.

Tyson Foods is a modern American protein-focused, multi-national food company that produces over 20% of the beef, chicken, and pork in the United States. It is the second-largest processor and marketer of chicken, pork, and beef globally. The company operates major food brands like Jimmy Dean, Ball Park, State Fair, Wright Brand, and Hillshire Farm. The company is also involved in various controversies linked to animal welfare, the environment, and the welfare of its own employees. Recently, the company announced the launch of Legume Craft, a range of plant-based meat alternatives.

The products were availed in both the food services and retail settings. Furthermore, to expand its Legumes division, Headspace recently announced the accession of Sayana, a company focused on mental wellness and health.