The gluten-free products market in India is witnessing remarkable growth, driven by increasing health consciousness and dietary preferences among consumers. With a rising number of individuals diagnosed with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity, as well as a growing trend towards healthier eating, the demand for gluten-free alternatives is surging.
Market Overview
As of 2024, the Indian gluten-free products market is projected to reach significant value, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR). The market encompasses a wide range of products, including gluten-free flours, bread, snacks, and pasta. Urbanization and changing lifestyles are major factors contributing to this growth, as more people seek convenient yet health-oriented food options.
Consumer Trends
The increasing awareness of gluten-related disorders has spurred interest in gluten-free diets among the general population, not just those with medical conditions. Many consumers perceive gluten-free products as healthier, leading to an uptick in their consumption even among those who do not have gluten sensitivities. This shift is particularly evident among millennials and health-conscious individuals who prioritize nutrition and wellness.
Product Innovation
Manufacturers are responding to this growing demand by diversifying their gluten-free product lines. Innovative formulations are being developed to enhance taste and texture, making gluten-free options more appealing. Key ingredients like quinoa, rice flour, and almond flour are gaining popularity, and companies are investing in research and development to create products that meet consumer preferences.
Retail Landscape
The retail landscape for gluten-free products in India is evolving. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are increasingly dedicating shelf space to gluten-free items, making them more accessible to consumers. E-commerce platforms are also playing a crucial role, offering a wide array of gluten-free products delivered straight to consumers’ doorsteps. This convenience is attracting more buyers, particularly in urban areas.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive trends, the gluten-free market in India faces several challenges. Limited awareness about gluten-free diets in rural areas and the higher cost of gluten-free products compared to their traditional counterparts can hinder market penetration. Additionally, the risk of cross-contamination in manufacturing processes remains a concern for consumers seeking truly gluten-free options.
The gluten-free products market in India is poised for significant expansion in 2024 and beyond. As health consciousness continues to rise and product innovations flourish, the market presents ample opportunities for businesses and consumers alike. To succeed in this dynamic environment, stakeholders must address the challenges while capitalizing on the growing demand for gluten-free alternatives. The future looks promising for gluten-free products, positioning India as a key player in the global health food market.
According to the TechSci Research report, “India Gluten-Free Products Market – Industry Size, Share, Trends, Competition, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2019-2029F”, the India Gluten-Free Products market stood at USD17.19 million in 2023 and is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 13.3% in the forecast period, 2025-2029. The India gluten-free products market has witnessed significant growth and transformation in recent years, reflecting changing consumer preferences and dietary trends. This burgeoning industry has evolved in response to the increasing awareness of gluten intolerance, celiac disease, and a growing health-conscious population.
The concept of a gluten-free diet primarily centers around the avoidance of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. Individuals with celiac disease, a severe autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten, must adhere strictly to a gluten-free diet to manage their condition. Additionally, there is a growing segment of the population, often referred to as the “gluten-sensitive” or “gluten-aware,” who choose to eliminate gluten from their diets for perceived health benefits, such as improved digestion, weight management, and overall well-being.
One of the key drivers of the gluten-free products market in India is the increasing prevalence of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. Although precise statistics are challenging to obtain due to underdiagnosis and lack of awareness, it is estimated that millions of Indians suffer from gluten-related disorders. As diagnostic capabilities improve and awareness spreads, more individuals are being diagnosed with these conditions, necessitating dietary changes that include gluten-free options.
Another factor fueling the growth of this market is the rising health consciousness among Indian consumers. As people become more mindful of their dietary choices and seek healthier lifestyles, they often turn to gluten-free products as part of their wellness journey. This trend is not limited to urban areas but is gradually making its way into smaller towns and cities across the country.
The evolving Indian food culture also plays a pivotal role in the expansion of the gluten-free products market. Traditionally, Indian cuisine heavily relies on gluten-rich staples like wheat and barley. However, as culinary preferences diversify and global influences become more pronounced, there is a growing demand for gluten-free versions of traditional Indian dishes and snacks. Manufacturers and restaurants are responding to this demand by offering gluten-free alternatives, catering to both dietary restrictions and changing tastes.
In recent years, the Indian government has taken steps to regulate and standardize the gluten-free food market. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced guidelines and labeling requirements for gluten-free products to ensure that they meet safety standards and provide accurate information to consumers. This regulatory framework has contributed to consumer confidence and the growth of the market by addressing concerns related to product quality and labeling accuracy.
Despite these positive drivers, the India gluten-free products market faces several challenges that need to be addressed for sustained growth. One of the most prominent challenges is the limited awareness and understanding of gluten-related disorders among the general population. Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity are still relatively unknown to many Indians, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Increased public awareness campaigns and education efforts are crucial to overcoming this challenge and ensuring that those in need are properly diagnosed and guided towards a gluten-free diet.
Affordability remains another significant hurdle for the gluten-free products market in India. Gluten-free foods are generally more expensive than their gluten-containing counterparts due to the specialized ingredients and processes involved in their production. This price disparity can deter budget-conscious consumers from adopting gluten-free diets. To address this issue, there is a need for greater affordability and accessibility of gluten-free products, particularly for low-income populations.
Cross-contamination is a critical concern for individuals with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity, and it poses a challenge for manufacturers and food service providers. Preventing cross-contamination in food preparation and processing facilities requires strict adherence to hygiene and segregation protocols. Educating food handlers and kitchen staff about the importance of maintaining a gluten-free environment is essential to ensure the safety of gluten-sensitive consumers.
The India gluten-free products market is segmented based on product type, source, sales channel, and region.
Based on the product type, the market is segmented into bakery products, pizzas & pastas, cereals & snacks, savories, desserts & ice-creams, and others. Among these, bakery products have a significant share in the India gluten-free products market during the forecast period. As awareness about gluten intolerance and celiac disease grows in India, more individuals are seeking gluten-free alternatives to traditional wheat-based bakery products like bread, cakes, and pastries. This shift in dietary preferences has led to an increased demand for gluten-free bakery items.
Based on region, the market is segmented into North, South, East, and West. Among these, the North region has a significant share of the India gluten-free products market during the forecast period. The north region encompasses states like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, which are among the more affluent and urbanized parts of India. In these areas, there is a higher level of awareness about gluten intolerance, celiac disease, and the benefits of a gluten-free diet.
Major companies operating in the India gluten-free products market are:
Customers can also request for 10% free customization on this report.
“The India gluten-free products market has shown remarkable growth in recent years, driven by factors such as increased awareness of gluten intolerance, a health-conscious population, evolving food culture, and regulatory support from the government. However, several challenges, including limited awareness, affordability, cross-contamination, product quality, and variety, need to be addressed to ensure the sustained expansion of this market. With concerted efforts from stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, food manufacturers, and government agencies, the India gluten-free products market has the potential to provide safe and accessible options for individuals with gluten-related disorders and cater to the growing demand for healthier dietary choices in the country.” said Mr. Karan Chechi, Research Director with TechSci Research, a research-based global management consulting firm.
“India Gluten-Free Products Market By Product Type (Bakery Products, Pizzas & Pastas, Cereals & Snacks, Savories, Desserts & Ice-creams and Others), By Source (Oilseeds & Pulses, Rice & Corn, Dairy & Meat Products and Others), By Sales Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online, and Others), By Region, By Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2019-2029F, has evaluated the future growth potential of the India gluten-free products market globally and provides statistics and information on market structure, size, share, and future growth. The report provides cutting-edge market intelligence and helps decision-makers to make sound investment decisions. Besides, the report also identifies the emerging trends along with essential drivers, challenges, and opportunities present in the market of India gluten-free products globally.
