Middle East and Africa Free-From Food Market Analysis - Size and Forecast 2024-2028

Middle East and Africa Free-From Food Market Size 2024-2028

The Middle East and Africa free-from food market size is forecast to increase by USD 2.44 billion at a CAGR of 6.8% between 2023 and 2028.

• The free-from food market in the Middle East and Africa is witnessing significant growth due to the rising health and wellness consciousness among consumers. Gluten-free food products, including pasta, cookies, and bakery items, are gaining popularity. The influence of online retailing, with consumers increasingly relying on smartphones for content and purchasing, is driving market growth. However, the high price point of these products remains a challenge for mass adoption. The market trends also include the increasing demand for vegan food, snacks, and convenience stores stocking gluten-free and protein-rich items, such as pizza and bread. Label transparency and digital e-commerce platforms are key factors shaping the market. Influencers and social media are playing a significant role in promoting free-from food, particularly in regions with large diaspora communities. Rice and wheat alternatives, such as quinoa and millet, are also gaining traction. Overall, the market is expected to grow steadily, driven by these trends and the increasing awareness of health and wellness.

What will be the size of the Middle East and Africa Free-From Food Market during the forecast period?

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• The free-from food market in the Middle East and Africa region is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of food allergies and dietary regimens. Health and wellness trends, including plant-based and vegan diets, are also fueling demand for free-from food options. Food technology innovations, such as alternative proteins and clean label claims, are addressing consumer concerns over taste and texture. Social media and influencer marketing are playing a pivotal role in raising awareness and driving sales of free-from food products. Key market trends include a focus on allergen cross-contamination, with gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergen-free offerings gaining popularity.
• Medical advancements and the growing understanding of the immune system's role in overall health are also influencing consumer preferences. Plant-based foods, vegetarian diets, and reduced sugar, non-GMO, and clean label claims are all resonating with health-conscious consumers. Food safety and label transparency are key concerns, with front-of-package labels becoming increasingly important. Overall, the free-from food market In the Middle East and Africa is a dynamic and growing sector, reflecting consumers' evolving priorities around health and well-being.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

• Distribution Channel
  • Offline
  • Online
• Geography
  • Middle East and Africa
    • South Africa

By Distribution Channel Insights

• The offline segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The Free-From Food Market In the Middle East and Africa caters to consumers with food allergies, dietary restrictions, and health-conscious individuals. Major retailers, including Tesco Plc, Walmart Inc., and Target Corp., have dedicated sections for these products. companies offer a wide range of gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, sugar-free, and organic options. Promotional strategies include branding through signages and discounts on product packages. Retailers like Walmart and Walgreens have long sold these items In their stores. companies operate In the organized retail sector, considering factors such as geographical presence, production ease, and efficient inventory management and transportation. The market encompasses departmental stores, supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants.

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The offline segment was valued at USD 3.24 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in adoption of Middle East and Africa Free-From Food Market?

Growing demand for gluten-free food products is the key driver of the market.

• The market caters to consumers with food allergies and those following specific dietary regimens, such as vegan diets, for health and wellness reasons. This market encompasses various product categories, including plant-based meat alternatives, bakery products, beverages, snacks, confectionery, and specialty stores. Consumers seek allergen-free alternatives to common food allergens, such as dairy, gluten, nuts, soy, and sugar. Key drivers fueling the growth of this market include medical advancements and the increasing awareness of the immune system's role in maintaining health. Plant-based foods, vegan products, and gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, and sugar-free options are gaining popularity due to their health benefits.
• Food technology innovations, such as clean-label claims, non-GMO, reduced sugar, and allergen-free labels, are also contributing to the market's expansion. Social media and influencer marketing play a significant role in promoting these products, emphasizing their taste and texture. Consumers with lactose intolerance or lactase deficiency avoid dairy products, while those with celiac disease require gluten-free options. The market offers a wide range of food service, online retailers, and specialty stores catering to these specific dietary needs. The demand for allergen-free, clean-label products continues to rise, addressing lifestyle diseases and chronic conditions. Plant-based proteins are increasingly endorsed by celebrities, further boosting market growth.

What are the market trends shaping the Middle East and Africa Free-From Food Market?

Growing influence of online retailing is the upcoming trend In the market.

• The market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing health consciousness and dietary requirements. Food allergies and dietary regimens, such as vegan diets and gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, sugar-free, and organic options, are driving demand for free-from foods. Food technology innovations, including taste and texture enhancements, are addressing the challenges of allergen cross-contamination and preserving the health benefits of free-from foods. Social media and influencer marketing are significant channels for promoting free-from food. Consumers are seeking out clean-label claims, non-GMO, reduced sugar, and allergen-free products. Free-from food includes bakery products, beverages, snacks, confectionery, meat alternatives, and specialty stores. Food service establishments are also offering free-from options to cater to diverse dietary needs.
• Medical advancements in understanding the immune system and the health benefits of plant-based foods, such as vegetarian diets and vegan products, are contributing to the growth of the free-from food market. Lactose intolerance and dairy products are a significant consideration for many consumers. Lactose-free, sugar-free, carb-free, and clean-label products are essential for individuals with lifestyle diseases and chronic diseases. Amazon and eBay are among the major online retailers offering a wide range of free-from food options. The convenience of personalized shopping assistance and suggestions on products are significant benefits of shopping online. The increasing penetration of smartphones and the rise in e-commerce companies are making it easier for consumers to access free-from food from various regions and global brands.

What challenges does Middle East and Africa Free-From Food Market face during the growth?

High price of free-from food products is a key challenge affecting the market growth.

• The market caters to consumers with food allergies and those following dietary regimens for health and wellness, including plant-based, vegan diets, and specific allergen avoidances such as gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, sugar-free, and organic. Food technology innovations have led to an expansion of offerings in bakery products, beverages, snacks, confectionery, meat alternatives, and specialty stores, as well as online retailers and food service establishments. Manufacturing costs for Free-From Food are higher due to the need for certifications, specialized supply chains, and logistics to prevent allergen cross-contamination. Key ingredients like rice and corn, used instead of gluten in gluten-free products, are more expensive than wheat.
• These factors contribute to the higher selling prices for these products. Consumers are increasingly seeking food labels with clean-label claims, non-GMO, reduced sugar, and front-of-package (FOP) labels for better transparency. Medical advancements have highlighted the importance of immune system health, driving demand for allergen-free and food safety measures. Plant-based foods, including vegetarian and vegan products, are gaining popularity due to their health benefits. Food technology and social media, including influencer marketing, have played a significant role in increasing awareness and demand for these products. Lactose intolerance and lactase deficiency have led to increased demand for dairy-free and sugar-free alternatives to traditional dairy products.

Exclusive Middle East and Africa Free-From Food Market Customer Landscape

The market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.

Customer Landscape

Key Companies & Market Insights

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, market forecast partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence In the market.

The market research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:

• Alpro UK Ltd.
• Archer Daniels Midland Co.
• Chr Hansen AS
• Conagra Brands Inc.
• Dr. Schar AG Spa
• Ener G Foods Inc.
• General Mills Inc.
• Gruma SAB de CV
• Hunter Foods LLC
• Kellogg Co.
• Mondelez International Inc.
• Nestle SA
• Orgran
• Sofina SA
• The Hain Celestial Group Inc.
• Unilever PLC
• Upfield BV

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Research Analyst Overview

The free-from food market in the Middle East and Africa has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing consumer awareness of health and wellness. Dietary regimens, such as veganism and vegetarianism, have gained popularity, leading to a increase in demand for plant-based alternatives to traditional food products. This trend is particularly prevalent among the younger demographic, who are more likely to use social media and be influenced by key opinion leaders and influencer marketing. Plant-based foods, including bakery products, beverages, snacks, and confectionery, have become staples In the free-from food market. These products cater to various dietary requirements, including those who are gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, sugar-free, and lactose intolerant.

In addition, the demand for organic and non-GMO products has also increased, as consumers seek to avoid artificial additives and preservatives. Food technology has played a crucial role In the development of free-from food products. Advancements in food processing and production techniques have enabled manufacturers to create alternatives that closely mimic the taste and texture of traditional food items. For instance, meat alternatives have gained popularity among consumers who follow vegan or vegetarian diets. These products are often made from plant-based proteins, such as soy, pea, or wheat, and are designed to replicate the taste and texture of meat. The free-from food market In the Middle East and Africa is not limited to specialty stores and online retailers.

Furthermore, food service establishments have also started to cater to the growing demand for allergen-free and clean-label products. This trend is driven by a growing awareness of food safety and the need to avoid cross-contamination of allergens. Front-of-package (FOP) labels have become a crucial tool for consumers to identify free-from food products quickly and easily. Medical advancements have also contributed to the growth of the free-from food market. The immune system plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being, and consumers are increasingly aware of the impact of food on their immune system. Free-from food products, such as those that are gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free, are often perceived as healthier alternatives to traditional food items.

In addition, the free-from food market in the Middle East and Africa is expected to continue growing, driven by changing consumer preferences and lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. The market is also likely to be influenced by celebrity endorsements and the increasing popularity of plant-based diets. As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for free-from food products is expected to increase further, offering significant opportunities for manufacturers and retailers. Plant-based foods, including bakery products, beverages, snacks, and confectionery, are leading the charge, with meat alternatives, organic products, and non-GMO products also gaining popularity. Food technology, medical advancements, and social media are key drivers of innovation and growth In the market.

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What are the Key Data Covered in this Market Research Report?

• CAGR of the market during the forecast period
• Detailed information on factors that will drive the market growth and forecasting between 2024 and 2028
• Precise estimation of the size of the market and its contribution of the market in focus to the parent market
• Accurate predictions about upcoming market growth and trends and changes in consumer behaviour
• Growth of the market across Middle East and Africa
• Thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about companies
• Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of market companies

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