Food Inclusions Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Chocolate, Nuts & Seeds, Dried Fruits, Herbs & Spices, Chips & Chunks, and Flavored Caramel & Sugars), By Application (Bakery Products, Chocolate & Confectionery, Ice Cream, Desserts, Beverages, Cereal Products, Processed Dairy Products, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global food inclusions market size was valued at USD 9.31 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 9.64 billion in 2024 to USD 14.44 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.18% during the forecast period. Europe dominated the food inclusions market with a market share of 48.23% in 2023. Moreover, the food inclusions market size in the U.S. is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated value of USD 3.81 billion by 2032, driven by high demand for processed and convenience food in the country.

Food inclusions have grown in popularity and demand in the past few decades due to increasing demand from the confectionery, bakery, and dairy industries. Macroeconomic factors, such as rapid adoption of Westernized taste, increased demand for premium and flavorful inclusions, and changing taste preferences, drive market growth. Moreover, consumers increasingly seek products without artificial or chemical ingredients, propelling manufacturers to develop clean-label inclusions.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the food industry, including food inclusions. The pandemic moderately impacted the industry as this on-demand side industry and consumers increasingly bought shelf-stable and convenient foods such as bakery products, cereal bars, and packed snacks. In contrast, on the supply side, the companies were not able to procure sufficient raw materials due to border closures. The pandemic positively aided the sales and demand for several Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), including bread, tea & coffee, and others. Furthermore, the increased demand for bread, breakfast cereals, and cereal bars globally drove the sales of ingredients.

Food Inclusions Market Trends

Rising Consumption of Meal Replacement Products to Aid Market Growth

The trend of meal replacement products has emerged in popularity as individuals seek healthy and convenient options to sustain a balanced diet amidst their hectic lifestyles. Consumers are largely inclined toward health and fitness and seek a more nutritious alternative to junk food suitably tailored to address various functional concerns. According to Cargill Incorporated, around 25% of Americans consume snack bars daily, whereas 44% consume twice weekly. As a result, meal replacement snacks, such as smoothies and snack bars, enriched with essential nutrients make them a perfect alternative in place of regular food. Manufacturers use nuts, seeds, chocolates, and dried fruits to enhance the product's nutritional value and taste. It will primarily impact shaping the inclusion sales globally. For instance, in May 2023, Sunfeast, a brand of ITC, an Indian conglomerate company, announced the launch of smoothies made with milk, real fruits, and seeds. The new range of smoothies is available in various exciting flavors, including mango, litchi, pineapple, and strawberry. These smoothies provide daily indulgence options and unique inclusions (basil, chia seeds, and fruit chunks), providing a sensory delight to consumers.

Moreover, there is a growing interest among consumers in better-for-you products. Hence, food inclusion manufacturers are working on developing new ingredients and solutions which improve the texture of the food without impacting the flavor and sensory experience. For instance, in 2023, Icon Foods launched Flavor Bitz that help enhance the flavor, color, and texture of baked goods.

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Food Inclusions Market Growth Factors

Growing Company Expertise to Fulfill Health Indulgence Products Demand Drives Market Growth

The global market is well-established in developed countries of North America and Europe, such as the U.S., the U.K., Canada, and others, owing to the presence of renowned confectionery and bakery product makers. Considering the above factor, several market players in the region are focusing on working toward showcasing their expertise in the global food inclusions market growth by launching new products and expanding production. For instance, in September 2022, NutroCore, a U.S.-based distributor of organically grown coffee, tea, and other products, announced the launch of its latest ‘Cinnamon Turmeric Organic Coffee’ across the market. The coffee is infused with cinnamon and turmeric, further improving cognitive functions and strengthening the immune system. Moreover, other companies, such as Barry Callebaut and Kerry Group Plc, procure raw ingredients to produce premium products.

Rising Demand for Convenient and Flavorful Processed Products to Augment Market Growth

The growing popularity of snacks among millennials and GEN-Z consumers globally is one of the major factors which is expected to positively influence the market’s growth. For instance, in 2023, SNAC International, the international snack trade association, stated that snack foods accounted for around 27% of all the food and beverage sales in the U.S. The trend of convenience snacking is witnessing massive growth, which is majorly responsible for strengthening the confectionery market. Convenience products, such as cookies and bars, which help satisfy consumers' spontaneous cravings, have emerged as one of the perfect options for fulfilling consumers' choices. As a result, the usage of inclusions has extensively increased owing to their taste and texture-enhancing properties. Moreover, the pandemic led consumers to seek safe and healthy products composed of natural ingredients. Thus, players operating in food inclusions incorporate dried fruits, seeds, and nuts, mostly used in processed foods, especially confectioneries, as they are perceived to be healthier than synthetic colors and flavorings. For instance, in March 2023, Bagrrys India, an Indian FMCG company, launched new energy bars infused with fruits, nuts, and seeds.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

High Fluctuations in Raw Material Costs and Energy Prices may Impede Market’s Potential

The manufacturers' major challenges in the food inclusions industry are the rising fluctuations in raw material costs, growing energy prices, and various technical challenges. The raw material prices are majorly increased due to supply chain hurdles, which impact the sourcing of raw materials. Thus, fluctuations in raw material prices can largely affect the overall production cost, including inclusions (nuts and seeds), which influences the finished goods. For instance, according to the Vietnam Cashew Association (VINACAS), 2022 was a tough year for the cashew industry as the exports fell considerably due to factors such as high inflation across major parts of the world, which eventually affected consumer spending on discretionary items such as nuts and dried fruits. Furthermore, factors such as China’s Zero COVID policy limited the shipment of cashews in the country.

Food Inclusions Market Segmentation Analysis

By Type Analysis

Nuts and Seeds Segment to Lead Owing to its Perceived Health Benefits and Wide Applications

Based on type, the market is segmented into chocolate, nuts & seeds (nuts and seeds), dried fruits (raisins, dates, berries, and others), herbs & spices (clove, basil, pepper, cinnamon, chamomile, mint, and others), chips & chunks (caramel chips, coated chunks, cookies crumble, brownie pieces, and others), and flavored caramel & sugars (chewy caramel balls, dragees, and others).

The nuts & seeds segment accounted for the largest market share, owing to increased awareness about the benefits of consuming nuts & seeds and products infused with them. Furthermore, nuts & seeds also offer high proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients. Chia seeds, walnuts, tree nuts, and others are prominent inclusions in bakeries with unique textures and omega-3-rich fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber. For instance, Brazilian nuts, highly popular among countries, such as Bolivia, Ivory Coast, and Peru, are included in various food applications such as flavored drinks, culinary snacks, breakfast cereals, bakery and confectionery, and dairy products.

The chocolate segment is expected to grow at a high CAGR during the forecast period as consumers are increasingly seeking unique and indulgent experiences, and chocolate inclusions help provide a rich, creamy, and intense flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the product.

The chips & chunks segment is expected to have potential growth during the forecast period as they are increasingly used in baked goods, such as cookies and muffins, and offer a crispy and crunchy texture.

By Application Analysis

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Ice Cream Segment is Expected to Lead Owing to Constant Product Innovations by Manufacturers

Based on application, the market is segmented into bakery products (bread, biscuits, and others), chocolate & confectionery (chocolate confectionery and sugar confectionery), ice cream (sherbet, soft ice cream, and others), desserts (cakes, brownies, and others), beverages (juices, shakes & smoothies, tea & coffee, and others), cereal products (breakfast cereals, cereal bars), processed dairy products (flavored milk, yogurt, and others), and others (snacks, soups, others).

The ice cream segment is expected to hold a major market share in the food inclusions industry during the forecast period. The segment is dominating due to increasing innovative product launches by ice cream manufacturers, including functional ingredients, exotic flavors, and inclusions. Moreover, the shifting consumer preference toward vegan diet has increased the demand for non-dairy ice cream. Therefore, key companies in the market are responding to this trend by launching new plant-based inclusions. For instance, in September 2020, Pecan Deluxe, a confectionery manufacturer, launched plant-based inclusions such as brownie pieces, cookie dough, oat cookie pieces, praline nuts, and seeds.

The desserts segment is expected to grow at a high CAGR during the forecast period. Consumers are shifting their preferences to indulgent products, such as cakes and brownies, owing to the rising indulgence, rapid urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increasing demand for on-the-go food categories. Such rising trends prompt manufacturers to include innovative launches. For instance, in December 2020, Bonn Group of Industries launched an eggless brownie with the inclusion of walnuts under La Americana Gourmet.

The chocolate & confectionery segment is expected to witness higher market growth during the forecast period owing to consistent demand for chocolate and confectionery over the years. Moreover, consumers are looking for premium confectionery products and shifting toward plant-based or vegan products, further propelling the demand for plant-based inclusions in the market.

The cereal products segment is expected to grow positively during the forecast period, as cereals are known to have properties of nutrition and indulgence, including breakfast cereals and bars. Moreover, the addition of nuts, dry fruits, and chocolate to cereal products has appealed to a demographic seeking health and convenience, propelling the demand for inclusions in the product.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

Based on region, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.

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Europe dominated the global food inclusions market share and was valued at USD 4.96 billion in 2023. The regional market experienced significant growth recently owing to the rising consumption of chocolate confectioneries, bakery products, ice cream, cereals, and other processed foods. Germany, the U.K., France, and other European countries were among the leading markets. Moreover, consumers in the U.K. are becoming more conscious regarding the environmental impact of their purchases, leading to a rise in demand for products made from sustainable and eco-friendly ingredients. The growing demand for natural ingredients in food and beverage further provided growth opportunities for several food inclusion manufacturers. For instance, in August 2019, Chaucer Foods, one of the leaders in the baked and freeze-dried sectors, launched freeze-dried fruit for the food service sector. The new products can be used as toppings, decorations, inclusions, or ingredients in a range of food, including baked goods, desserts and sweet treats, teas, smoothies, and other beverages.

North America is expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years as it is known to be one of the largest markets for processed food due to an increased snacking trend, propelling market growth. The premiumization trend is gaining momentum in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, owing to consumers' willingness to pay extra for premium products. This premiumization trend allowed food inclusion manufacturers to develop innovative and premium ingredients and include them in various food applications. For instance, in February 2022, Supplant Company, an ingredient company in Las Vegas, introduced Supplant chocolate chips. The new inclusion can be used in various applications, including bakery, frozen dairy, and non-dairy products.

Asia Pacific is projected to grow significantly in the forthcoming years. This is attributable to the region’s increasing population density, rising economic status and living standard of people, and rapid urbanization. Moreover, clean-label products have gained momentum in the region due to increasing consumer awareness and demand for organic, natural, and free-from artificial or chemical additive products. The manufacturers are launching new products to meet the rising demand of consumers. For instance, in August 2022, Whole Truth Foods, a healthy snacks company, launched 100% clean-label dark chocolates. The new product contains only two ingredients, cocoa and dates, which are free from preservatives and contain no refined sugar or artificial sweeteners. Such innovative launches in the market create opportunities for regional food inclusions manufacturers.

South America has been experiencing exponential growth in the market, particularly in countries, such as Brazil and Argentina, owing to changing dietary preferences and lifestyles. Moreover, the region has been witnessing a growing demand for ice creams, mainly in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru. According to the Brazilian Association of Ice Cream Industries, in 2021, the annual consumption of ice cream exceeded 5.3 liters per person in Brazil. Therefore, the growing demand for ice cream as an indulgence is leading manufacturers to introduce innovative ingredients, such as chocolate chips, cookies, granulated chocolate, and other inclusions, adding extra crunch and texture to the product.

The Middle East & Africa food inclusions market is anticipated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The region’s strong baking tradition and inclusion of herbs and spices in traditional food cuisines, such as tahini, salads, hummus, and soups, have offered immense opportunities for food inclusion manufacturers to expand their market potential.

List of Key Companies in Food Inclusions Market

Focus on Expanding New Manufacturing Facilities to Attain Highest Market Position

The food inclusions industry is growing rapidly, creating opportunities for global market players. Prominent players, such as Barry Callebaut, Taura Natural Ingredients, AGRANA, and others, focus on expanding the base by opening new manufacturing facilities globally and attaining a higher market share. For instance, in November 2022, Barry Callebaut AG announced the opening of its third new production plant in India. The new chocolate and compound factory is in the Ghiloth Industrial area in Neemrana, India. The new factory would allowed India to become Barry Callebaut’s leading chocolate manufacturer in Asia Pacific and opened enormous opportunities for the company to manufacture food inclusions, such as choco chips and chunks, along with chocolate products. Companies are also working on expanding their product lines, which are targeted toward specific consumer segments and meet the evolving consumer needs. For instance, in 2023, Anderson Advanced Ingredients launched a new better-for-you product line named SinClusions specifically suited for vegan and diabetic consumers.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• AGRANA Beteiligungs - AG (Austria)


• Barry Callebaut AG (Switzerland)


• Cargill, Incorporated (U.S.)


• Dawn Foods (U.S.)


• FoodFlo International Ltd. (New Zealand)


• Georgia Nut Company (U.S.)


• Nimbus Foods Ltd (Meadow Foods) (U.K.)


• Puratos Group (Belgium)


• Sensient Technologies Corporation (U.S.)


• Taura Natural Ingredients (New Zealand)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• July 2023 – Dr. Oetker, a Germany-based food manufacturing company, expanded its product portfolio, including the Billionaire’s Chocolate Chips Mix and Rainbow Chocolate Chips Mix. This mix comprises dark and white chocolate chips, toffee chunks and gold pearls, white chocolate chips, and strawberry-flavored crunch.


• March 2023 - The Kellogg's Company, an American multinational food manufacturing company, launched a new Barista edition crunchy granola nut cereal with a chocolate mocha flavor. The new range contains sliced almonds infused with an aromatic coffee flavor.


• May 2022 -  Mars, Incorporated, an American multinational confectionery manufacturer, launched a new healthy chocolate bar named Mars Triple Treat, consisting of date paste, nuts, and raisins.


• January 2022 - Parker Food Group, an American food ingredients manufacturer and supplier of toppings and inclusions, acquired a U.S.-based bakery products producer, Rise Baking Co.’s Mexican production plant. The company focuses on starting its baked inclusions and toppings lines at this facility.


• February 2021 – Paradise Fruits Solutions GmbH, a Germany-based company offering food ingredients, added an allergen-free, nut-flavored inclusions series to its product portfolio. The company has designed the product for applications, including chocolate, confectionery, baked goods, cereal, and snack bars.

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