Pistachios Market Size, Share, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Shelled and Unshelled), By Application (Bakery & Confectionery, Dairy Products, Savory Snacks, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

Pistachios are the seeds of the Pistachio Vera tree and belong to a class of drupes known as “culinary nuts,” which includes almonds and cashews. Even though they are seeds, they are still considered as nuts and are primarily used in a variety of food preparations. The pistachio trees are believed to be native to Central Asia and the Middle East, where it was widely cultivated and eaten for over 3,000 years. Today, the U.S., Turkey, and Iran emerged as the top producers of pistachios globally and accounted for more than half of the market share. According to the “International Nut & Dried Fruit Council,” an association in Spain, on average, the U.S. dominated global nut production with 22% of pistachios production (2018-19/2022-23).

Moreover, with respect to nutritional value, pistachio consumption has been associated with numerous health benefits, such as high fiber and protein content and antioxidant levels. For instance, due to its potent antioxidant capacity, pistachio leads the market in comparison to other nut oils such as walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and peanuts. Also, pistachios are rich in healthy fats such as monounsaturated fatty acids and other bioactive components (tocopherols and sterols), which makes it a preferred choice.  

In terms of application, pistachios can be used in an array of dishes ranging from desserts to savory snacks. Majorly these nuts are commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines for making baklava, pistachio crushed meats and ice cream. Also, these pistachios are used for improving the crunchiness and flavor of pasta and vegetable sides, and chopped/crushed nuts act as a garnishing agent for both savory and sweet snacks. Thus, such multipurpose usage of pistachios continues to garner high traction amongst consumers.

Key Insights

The report covers the following key insights:

• Overview of the Parent/Related Market


• Supply Chain and Regulatory Analysis


• Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Pistachios Market


• Recent Key Industry Developments

Segmentation

Analysis by Type

On the basis of type, the global market is segmented into shelled and unshelled pistachios. Out of both, the shelled pistachios are anticipated to generate a higher share across the market. Shelled pistachios are nuts that don’t have an outer covering and can be readily consumed. These pistachios are highly popular to be consumed as a savory snack and are also used as an ingredient in a variety of processed foods and dairy products. Moreover, its buttery essence and distinctive flavor have influenced snack manufacturers and thus become the primary driving force behind the market’s trajectory growth. Other chief factors, such as the rising wave of health consciousness and growing demand for pistachio-based health substitutes, contribute to the popularity of shelled pistachios.

Unshelled pistachios are expected to grow significantly in the upcoming years owing to their high nutritional content.

Analysis by Application

On the basis of application, the market is distributed into bakery & confectionery, dairy products, savory snacks, and others. Among all, the bakery & confectionery segment secures the foremost position in the market due to their extensive usage in commercial bakeries, such as cakes, pies, muffins, and tarts. The split kernels are also used for toppings and for integration into ice creams, breads, and doughs. Moreover, in the food industry, pistachios act as a versatile ingredients and are used in diverse cultural cuisines, especially in Turkish and Iranian dishes (Iranian chicken and Baklava). Also, the rising tourism and investments in R&D to produce healthy snacks further facilitate its usage in the market.

Following this, the savory snacks segment is likely to hold the second position in the market due to the surging trend of snacking and new product launches.

Regional Analysis

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On the basis of geographical region, the market is distributed into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. Out of all, North America dominates the global pistachios market due to its high production and rising awareness about the health advantages. The region’s fertile land and favorable climatic conditions further make it appropriate for pistachio cultivation. Also, since the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers have been cautious of their eating habits and are engaged in healthy substitutes. Such instances also increased the demand as well as exports of pistachios to developing countries that have limited availability of nuts. According to the Meridian Growers, a California-based exporter, stated in it’s reports, that the shipments of American pistachios surged by 14% in 2023-24.

Europe also holds a strong potential and is likely to succeed in the future. The surging bakery industry and flourishing veganism trend altogether encourage the utilization of pistachios.

Key Players Covered

Key players in the market include The Wonderful Company, LLC, Horizon Growers, Nichols Pistachio, Keenan Farms, Primex Farms, LLC, Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc., Santa Barbara Pistachio Company, Hellas Farms LLC, Ready Roast Nut Company, and Germack Pistachio, Company LLC.

Key Industry Developments

• In March 2024, KoRo, a natural foods brand in Germany, collaborated with Mario Gotze, a German footballer, to launch a limited edition of pistachio-packed waffles. These waffles are being marketed as a healthy and indulgent snack. They will be readily available at retailers such as Rossman und REWE and DM Drogerie, as well as KoRo’s official website.


• In January 2024, Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, LLC., one of the biggest producers and processors of pistachios, expanded its pistachio snacks line by adding a new Pistachio Pub Mix. This new snack combines honey-roasted sesame chips, crunch ranch corn nuts, and the award-winning seasoned pistachio kernels.