Pasta Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product Type (Dried, Chilled, and Canned), Raw Material (Wheat and Gluten-free), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Stores, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global pasta market size was valued at USD 68.35 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 71.42 billion in 2024 to USD 100.24 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.47% during the forecast period of 2024-2032. Europe dominated the pasta market with a market share of 29.54% in 2023. The pasta market in the U.S. is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated value of USD 12.96 billion by 2032, driven by spike in demand for convenient food products.

Pasta is an affordable and easier-to-cook food product making it one of the most widely consumed products globally. The manufacturers of these products are constantly developing new products comprising different raw materials. The continuous product evolution also creates an opportunity for market growth. The rising adoption of Western food habits and demand for ready-to-cook food products are major factors contributing to the pasta market growth.

Production of food products was impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic owing to the sudden implementation of lockdown measures and factory closures during the initial stages of the pandemic. On the other hand, the consumption of linguini, fettuccini, and spaghetti increased significantly during the pandemic. The consumers stockpiled food products, such as dried linguini, with a high shelf life. Companies also ensured that the distribution channel was not impacted and that stocks were replenished on time. However, owing to the rising wheat prices, the pasta production cost grew significantly. Thus, the increasing cost and demand resulted in moderate growth of the pasta industry during the pandemic.

Pasta Market Trends

Growing Adoption of Vegan or Vegetarian Diet to Influence Market Growth

Veganism has shown rapid growth in the global market. The trend has exponentially surged in mainstream diets, especially in countries, such as Japan, the U.K., and others. Plant-based dishes are showing a rapid growth in popularity and demand with increasing awareness. In addition to the robust increase in awareness of celiac disease and other dietary problems among individuals, the consumption of plant-based food products has shown a notable surge.

For instance, Vegan FTA, a non-profit organization established to increase awareness of vegan food products, revealed that as per a survey, the U.K. vegan population will show a growth of more than 70% in 2024.

The consumption pattern of consumers has undergone significant changes mainly due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environment, so the demand for meat-based food products has decreased significantly. Meat processing industries are one of the significant contributors to global warming. Thus, consumers are switching to plant-based food products and adopting a vegan or vegetarian diet. As these products are a rich carbohydrate source, they are integral to the vegan or vegetarian diet. Moreover, new food trends include pairing it with other products such as soup and salads.

Additionally, the demand for organic products has increased significantly. Thus, manufacturers are developing new product varieties composed of organic wheat to suit the market requirements. For instance, in July 2021, Bona Furtuna launched organic Casarecce, Rigatoni, Paccheri, and Linguine cuts in the market.

Pasta Market Growth Factors

Mounting Demand for Convenient Food Products to Support Market Development

In recent years, the demand for ready-to-eat food products has increased significantly. With the rise in employment, more people are leading a hectic lifestyle. The increasingly busy lifestyle and rising number of solo residents in countries, such as Japan are among the major factors fueling the growth of ready-to-eat food products. This, in turn, led to a surge in demand for ready-to-cook food products. As per data provided by Unione Italiana Food and ICE Agency, the consumption of these products increased in Italy, Germany, France, and the U.S. during the lockdown. The major exporting countries of these products also saw a 30% rise due to consumers' increased demand for ready-to-cook products. Additionally, these products are cheaper and more convenient to cook, making them a preferred choice among the working population.   

Increasing Consumer Inclination Toward Western Cuisine in the Asia Pacific Region to Drive the Pasta Market Growth

Due to the convenience provided by Western cuisine while cooking and the increasing urbanization in Asian countries, pasta consumption has grown rapidly in recent years. Furthermore, rapid growth in cooking for different and artistic recipes has recorded a significant growth post-pandemic. Thus, the Asia Pacific region shows a higher CAGR growth and thus will be a major contributor towards driving the growth of the global market.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Low Wheat Production Owing to Adverse Climatic Conditions to Obstruct Market Growth

Wheat is the most widely used raw material used for such product preparation. In recent years, major wheat-producing nations' adverse climatic conditions, such as droughts and severe floods, have significantly impacted wheat production. Hence, wheat prices are also expected to rise significantly due to their lack of availability in the market. This is expected to impact the production and consumption of these products, thereby hindering industry growth.

Additionally, the demand for food products low in carbohydrates has increased rapidly. Consumption of high-calorie food products causes obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Products in dried form are mostly prepared using refined wheat flour and are high in calories. As a result, the demand for such products among health-conscious consumers is decreasing rapidly. Hence, companies are researching and developing new products using different ingredients to increase the interest of consumers.  

Pasta Market Segmentation Analysis

By Product Type Analysis

Dried Products to Dominate the Market Owing to Their High Consumption Compared to Other Forms

Based on product type, the market is segmented into dried, chilled, and canned.

The dried form is consumed more than chilled or canned as it is available in various shapes and can be stored easily. Moreover, chilled and canned products have shorter shelf life than dried products; thus, keeping these product types longer is tough. Additionally, dried products absorb sauces and ingredients better than other forms, making them suitable for various recipes.

By Raw Material Analysis

Wheat-Based Product Segment to Remain Dominant Due to Its Suitability for Making Products of Different Shapes and Sizes

By raw material, the market is divided into wheat and gluten-free. Wheat segment is expected to hold the dominant share in the market. Among wheat flour, semolina is used for producing the best variety of these products in the market. The elasticity of semolina flour makes it suitable for making products in different shapes and sizes. It also enables the product to maintain structural consistency and ensures that the texture of the product is maintained. However, semolina flour is rich in gluten and may not be suitable for people with celiac disease who are highly health-conscious. Therefore, the demand for gluten-free products will likely rise significantly in recent years.    

By Distribution Channel Analysis

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Segment to Dominate Due to Easier Accessibility to more comprehensive Product Range  

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, online stores, and others. The supermarkets/hypermarkets segment is expected to hold the largest revenue share as consumers can choose products by properly inspecting nutritional aspects and making an informed purchase decision. Supermarkets also provide better accessibility and convenience of choosing products from a wide range of selections.

Other distribution channels, such as online stores, also exhibit strong growth during the forecast period. As these channels provide the convenience of purchasing products from the comfort of one’s home, the adoption of these channels among consumers is expected to rise significantly.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

Europe accounts for the largest market share and is expected to lead the pasta market share during the forecast period. The product has been an integral part of traditional meals for a long time, especially in Italy and Greece. The demand for food products with high carbohydrate content has decreased in recent years as consumers have become more health-conscious. Hence, manufacturers are launching new varieties of gluten-free products in different shapes and forms to suit the evolving taste preferences of consumers. In recent years, with the rise in adverse climatic conditions in major durum wheat-growing regions, the supply of wheat for manufacturing such products has been significantly impacted, causing an increase in the price of wheat and final products.

In North America, the demand for the products has increased significantly. The U.S. is one of the largest consumers of these products globally. As consumers are growing conscious about the impact of regular consumption of such products, new varieties composed of whole grains are launched to meet the growing demand. New food recipes, such as pasta salads, are offered in various deli counters and restaurants for consumers looking for a quick meal. 

Asia Pacific is expected to exhibit the fastest growth during the forecast period. As the number of consumers adopting Western diets increases rapidly, the demand for such products in China, India, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asian countries is growing rapidly. Furthermore, with an increase in the working population and growth in disposable income, the demand for convenience food products has increased significantly in the region. Moreover, China and Japan have traditional methods and recipes for cooking them. These factors contribute to the industry growth in the region.  

Brazil is among the largest producers of these products, behind the U.S. and Italy. Although the per capita consumption is significantly lower than in European and North American countries, the demand for such products is slowly increasing. New pasta recipes comprising cheese are slowly gaining popularity in the region. Additionally, the demand for these products gradually increases in other South American countries, such as Argentina and Chile.   

In the Middle East & Africa, the demand for ready-to-cook products is propelled by the rising adoption of Western food culture. Turkey acts as one of the key manufacturers of such products, which exports the products to Japan, Iraq, and Ghana. Despite being a major producer, the consumption of such products is comparatively low in Turkey than other producers in the global market.

List of Key Companies in Pasta Market

Key Players Launching Innovative Gluten-free Products to Gain Higher Market Share

Some major players operating in the market include Barilla G.e.R.F.lli S.p.A., Ebro Foods, S.A., and Campbell Soup Company. Traditional products are rich in carbohydrates, which, when consumed in high amounts, cause several health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and others. As health consciousness among consumers is increasing rapidly, manufacturers are developing new products using legumes, barley, and rice to attract new consumers looking for healthy food products. For instance, in May 2021, Caulipower, a U.S.-based company, launched cauliflower-based products for the market. This new gluten-free frozen product is available in linguine and pappardelle. In 2020, the U.S.-based gluten-free product manufacturer Jovial Foods also launched organic, gluten-free products. These products are available in five shapes: spaghetti, fusilli, penne, elbows, and orzo.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Barilla G. e R. F.lli S.p.A. (Italy)


• Ebro Foods, S.A. (Spain)


• CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY (U.S.)


• TreeHouse Foods, Inc. (U.S.)


• Unilever (U.K.)


• The Kraft Heinz Company (U.S.)


• BORGES INTERNATIONAL GROUP (Spain)


• Nestlé (Switzerland)


• F.lli De Cecco di Filippo S.p.A (Italy)


• Armanino Foods of Distinction (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• February 2023 – Nuovo Pasta Production, one of the leading artisan pasta companies, announced the launch of its new plant-based product range, including a ravioli collection and fresh organic pasta products, at the Natural Products Expo West 2023.


• October 2022: Barilla, a well-known Italian pasta company, announced the launch of its brand new line of pasta which consists of six different types of pasta. This new line, Al Bronzo represents its new innovative product range with a new manufacturing process.


• February 2022: Modi Naturals Ltd. a India-based FMCG company launched pasta range products. The company strategically launching its products to capture the growing market of Ready to Eat and Ready to Consume categories in India.


• December 2021: Agro Tech Foods Ltd., one of the leading FMCG companies in India, announced the expansion of its ready-to-cook segment under its Sundrop brand. The segment includes Sundrop Min Yum Pasta.


• July 2021: Bona Furtuna, announced its expansion in the organic market by launching its new organic ancient grain pasta portfolio, which includes new products such as Casarecce, Rigatoni, Paccheri, and Linguine.


• September 2020: AGT Food and Ingredients, a Canada-based company, launched a pea-based product named 'Veggipasta' to provide a healthy food alternative to consumers.

REPORT COVERAGE

The research report provides a detailed market analysis and focuses on key aspects such as competitive landscape, product types, raw material, and distribution channel. Besides this, it offers insights into market trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the abovementioned factors, the report encompasses several factors contributing to the market's growth in recent years.

Report Scope & Segmentation