The Chickpea Flour Market size was estimated at USD 650 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1.4 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.80% during the forecast period (2024-2030).

Chickpea Flour Market

Market Summary

The chickpea flour market is a dynamic segment within the global food and beverages industry, characterized by increasing consumer demand for plant-based, gluten-free, and nutrient-dense food products. Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, is derived from ground chickpeas and serves as a versatile ingredient in various culinary applications. It is widely utilized in traditional cuisines across South Asia, the Middle East, and Mediterranean regions, and its adoption is growing rapidly in North America and Europe due to shifting dietary preferences. The market is supported by a robust supply chain involving key producers, processors, and distributors who cater to both retail and industrial segments. As health consciousness rises and consumers seek alternatives to conventional wheat-based flours, chickpea flour has gained prominence for its high protein, fiber, and essential vitamin content. The market is also influenced by innovations in food processing and packaging, enhancing product shelf life and accessibility. Overall, the chickpea flour market presents a promising landscape for stakeholders, driven by cultural heritage, nutritional benefits, and evolving food trends.

Key Highlights

The chickpea flour market is distinguished by several key highlights that underscore its growth and potential. One significant aspect is its role in the expanding gluten-free product category, catering to individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Chickpea flour serves as an effective substitute in baking, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals, aligning with the clean label movement that emphasizes natural and minimally processed ingredients. Another highlight is the product's sustainability profile; chickpeas require less water and nitrogen fertilizer compared to other crops, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and brands. The market has seen increased investment from major food companies in research and development to improve product quality and expand application ranges. Additionally, chickpea flour is gaining traction in the vegan and plant-based food sectors as a binding agent or protein source in meat alternatives and dairy substitutes. The versatility of chickpea flour allows it to be used in diverse products, from traditional dishes like falafel and pakoras to modern health foods such as protein bars and pasta. These factors collectively highlight the market's resilience and adaptability to global food industry trends.

Drivers, Opportunities & Restraints

Several drivers propel the chickpea flour market, including the rising prevalence of gluten-related disorders and increasing consumer inclination toward healthy eating habits. The growing vegan and vegetarian populations worldwide further stimulate demand, as chickpea flour offers a plant-based protein alternative. Opportunities abound in product innovation, such as developing fortified chickpea flour with added vitamins and minerals to address nutritional deficiencies, and expanding into untapped regional markets where awareness is still nascent. The food service industry presents another opportunity, with restaurants and cafes incorporating chickpea flour into menus to cater to health-conscious diners. However, the market faces restraints such as price volatility of raw chickpeas due to climatic conditions and agricultural challenges, which can affect production costs and supply consistency. Allergen concerns, though rare, may also limit adoption among consumers with legume allergies. Additionally, competition from other alternative flours like almond, coconut, and quinoa flour could pose challenges. Addressing these restraints through sustainable sourcing, technological advancements in agriculture, and effective marketing strategies will be crucial for market players to capitalize on growth opportunities.

Concentration Insights

The chickpea flour market exhibits a concentrated landscape with a mix of large multinational corporations and regional players dominating production and distribution. Key companies such as Archer Daniels Midland Company, Ingredion Incorporated, and Bunge Limited have significant market presence due to their extensive processing capabilities and global supply networks. These players focus on vertical integration, controlling aspects from sourcing raw chickpeas to manufacturing and branding, which enhances their competitive edge. Regionally, markets in Asia-Pacific, particularly India and Pakistan, are highly concentrated with local manufacturers who cater to domestic demand and export markets. In North America and Europe, the market is more fragmented but growing, with startups and specialized brands like Bob's Red Mill and Enjoy Life Foods gaining traction through organic and non-GMO product offerings. Concentration is also evident in distribution channels, with supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online retail platforms playing pivotal roles in market accessibility. Strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions are common as companies aim to expand their geographic footprint and product portfolios. This concentration dynamics influence pricing, quality standards, and innovation trends across the market.

Type Insights

Chickpea flour is primarily categorized into two types: desi chickpea flour and kabuli chickpea flour, each with distinct characteristics and applications. Desi chickpea flour, made from smaller, darker chickpeas, is more common in Asian and African cuisines and is known for its robust flavor and higher fiber content. It is extensively used in traditional dishes such as Indian curries, snacks, and batters. Kabuli chickpea flour, derived from larger, lighter-colored chickpeas, is popular in Mediterranean and Western markets, often favored for its milder taste and smoother texture, making it suitable for baking and processed foods. Both types are valued for their nutritional profiles, including high protein, low glycemic index, and richness in minerals like iron and magnesium. The choice between desi and kabuli flour depends on regional preferences, culinary requirements, and end-use applications. Innovations in processing techniques, such as fine milling and organic certification, are further differentiating product types to meet diverse consumer needs. Understanding these type insights helps businesses tailor their offerings to specific market segments and enhance product appeal.

Application Insights

Chickpea flour finds diverse applications across the food and beverages industry, driven by its functional properties and nutritional benefits. In the bakery and confectionery sector, it is used as a gluten-free alternative in bread, cakes, cookies, and pastries, providing structure and moisture retention. The snack industry leverages chickpea flour for producing healthy chips, crackers, and extruded products due to its binding and flavor-enhancing qualities. In household cooking, it is a staple for preparing traditional items like pancakes, flatbreads, and thickening agents in soups and sauces. The beverage industry explores chickpea flour as a base for protein shakes and health drinks, capitalizing on its high protein content. Additionally, the growing plant-based meat segment utilizes chickpea flour as a texturizer and protein source in products like veggie burgers and nuggets. Food manufacturers also incorporate it into ready-to-eat meals and baby food for its nutrient density. These varied applications highlight the versatility of chickpea flour, enabling innovation and expansion into new product categories, thereby broadening its market reach.

Regional Insights

The chickpea flour market demonstrates distinct regional dynamics influenced by cultural dietary habits, agricultural production, and consumer preferences. Asia-Pacific dominates the market, with countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh being major consumers and producers due to the integral role of chickpea flour in traditional cuisines. North America and Europe are rapidly growing regions, driven by increasing health consciousness, gluten-free trends, and the rise of plant-based diets; the United States, Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom are key markets. In the Middle East and Africa, chickpea flour is widely used in dishes like hummus and falafel, sustaining steady demand. Latin America shows emerging potential, with countries like Mexico and Brazil adopting chickpea flour in health foods and snacks. Regional differences also affect supply chains, with local sourcing prevalent in producing regions and import dependencies in others. Climate conditions impact chickpea cultivation, influencing regional availability and pricing. Understanding these insights allows businesses to strategize market entry, product positioning, and distribution channels effectively.

Company Insights

Prominent companies in the chickpea flour market include Archer Daniels Midland Company, Ingredion Incorporated, Bunge Limited, Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods, and The Scoular Company. These players engage in various strategies such as product innovation, capacity expansion, and mergers and acquisitions to strengthen their market position. Archer Daniels Midland focuses on sustainable sourcing and advanced processing technologies to offer high-quality chickpea flour for industrial applications. Ingredion Incorporated emphasizes research and development to create customized solutions for food manufacturers, enhancing functionality and nutritional value. Bunge Limited leverages its global network for efficient distribution and supply chain management. Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods targets the retail segment with organic and non-GMO products, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The Scoular Company specializes in sourcing and transporting agricultural products, ensuring reliable supply for processing. Other notable players include Parakh Agro Industries, Diefenbaker Spice & Pulse, and Best Cooking Pulses, which cater to regional markets with specialized offerings. These companies invest in marketing, branding, and partnerships to expand their consumer base and adapt to evolving market trends.

Recent Developments

Recent developments in the chickpea flour market reflect ongoing innovation and strategic initiatives by key players. Companies are launching new product variants, such as fortified chickpea flour with added vitamins and minerals, to address nutritional gaps and cater to health-focused consumers. There has been an increase in partnerships between chickpea flour manufacturers and food service providers to introduce menu items featuring chickpea-based ingredients, enhancing market visibility. Technological advancements in processing, including improved milling techniques and packaging solutions, have been adopted to extend shelf life and maintain product quality. Sustainability efforts are gaining traction, with companies implementing water-efficient farming practices and carbon footprint reduction programs in chickpea cultivation. Market expansion into emerging regions through distribution agreements and online sales channels is also notable. Additionally, industry participants are engaging in promotional activities and educational campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of chickpea flour, driving consumer adoption. These developments indicate a proactive approach to growth and adaptation in a competitive landscape.

Report Segmentation

This report on the chickpea flour market provides a comprehensive segmentation to facilitate detailed analysis and strategic decision-making. The market is segmented by type into desi chickpea flour and kabuli chickpea flour, each analyzed for their market share, growth trends, and regional preferences. Application segmentation covers bakery and confectionery, snacks, household cooking, beverages, and others, highlighting usage patterns and demand drivers across these categories. Regional segmentation includes North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa, offering insights into geographic market dynamics, key countries, and growth opportunities. The report also segments the market by distribution channel, such as supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retail, and others, assessing accessibility and consumer purchasing behavior. Additionally, segmentation by end-user differentiates between industrial food manufacturers, food service providers, and retail consumers, providing clarity on target audiences and market strategies. This structured segmentation enables stakeholders to identify niche segments, understand competitive landscapes, and tailor approaches to maximize market potential.

FAQs

What is chickpea flour made from?

Chickpea flour is produced by grinding dried chickpeas, a type of legume, into a fine powder. It is naturally gluten-free and rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a popular alternative to traditional wheat flour.

How is chickpea flour used in cooking?

Chickpea flour is versatile and used in various culinary applications, including baking bread and cakes, making snacks like pakoras and falafel, thickening soups and sauces, and as a binding agent in vegan and gluten-free recipes.

What are the health benefits of chickpea flour?

Chickpea flour offers numerous health benefits, such as supporting heart health due to its high fiber content, aiding in weight management, providing plant-based protein, and helping regulate blood sugar levels with its low glycemic index.

Is chickpea flour gluten-free?

Yes, chickpea flour is naturally gluten-free, as it is derived from chickpeas rather than grains like wheat, barley, or rye. It is a safe and nutritious option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Can chickpea flour be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour?

Chickpea flour can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour in many recipes, particularly in gluten-free baking and cooking. However, due to its distinct flavor and binding properties, it may require recipe adjustments or blending with other flours for optimal results.

Citius Research has developed a research report titled “Chickpea Flour Market Report - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030” delivering key insights regarding business intelligence and providing concrete business strategies to clients in the form of a detailed syndicated report. The report details out the factors such as business environment, industry trend, growth opportunities, competition, pricing, global and regional market analysis, and other market related factors.

Details included in the report for the years 2024 through 2030

• Chickpea Flour Market Potential
• Segment-wise breakup
• Compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) for the next 6 years
• Key customers and their preferences
• Market share of major players and their competitive strength
• Existing competition in the market
• Price trend analysis
• Key trend analysis
• Market entry strategies
• Market opportunity insights

The report focuses on the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges in the market based on various factors geographically. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report. The Chickpea Flour Market report is segmented on the basis of various market segments and their analysis, both in terms of value and volume, for each region for the period under consideration.

Chickpea Flour Market Segmentation

Regions Covered

• North America
• Latin America
• Europe
• MENA
• Asia Pacific
• Sub-Saharan Africa and
• Australasia

Chickpea Flour Market Analysis

The report covers below mentioned analysis, but is not limited to:

• Overview of Chickpea Flour Market
• Research Methodology
• Executive Summary
• Market Dynamics of Chickpea Flour Market
  • Driving Factors
  • Restraints
  • Opportunities
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment A
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment B
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment C
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Regions
• Upstream and Downstream Market Analysis of Chickpea Flour Market
• Cost and Gross Margin Analysis of Chickpea Flour Market
• Chickpea Flour Market Report - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030
  • Competition Landscape
  • Market Share of Major Players
• Key Recommendations

The “Chickpea Flour Market Report - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030” report helps the clients to take business decisions and to understand strategies of major players in the industry. The report delivers the market driven results supported by a mix of primary and secondary research. The report provides the results triangulated through authentic sources and upon conducting thorough primary interviews with the industry experts. The report includes the results on the areas where the client can focus and create point of parity and develop a competitive edge, based on real-time data results.

Chickpea Flour Market Key Stakeholders

Below are the key stakeholders for the Chickpea Flour Market:

• Manufacturers
• Distributors/Traders/Wholesalers
• Material/Component Manufacturers
• Industry Associations
• Downstream vendors

Chickpea Flour Market Report Scope

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

Like most other markets, the outbreak of COVID-19 had an unfavorable impact on the Chickpea Flour Market worldwide. This report discusses in detail the disruptions experienced by the market, the impact on flow of raw materials, manufacturing operations, production trends, consumer demand and the projected future of this market post pandemic.

The report has helped our clients:

• To describe and forecast the Chickpea Flour Market size, on the basis of various segmentations and geography, in terms of value and volume
• To measure the changing needs of customers/industries
• To provide detailed information regarding the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges influencing the growth of the market
• To gain competitive intelligence and uncover new opportunities
• To analyse opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying high-growth segments in Chickpea Flour Market
• To strategically profile key players and provide details of the current competitive landscape
• To analyse strategic approaches adopted by players in the market, such as product launches and developments, acquisitions, collaborations, contracts, expansions, and partnerships

Report Customization

Citius Research provides free customization of reports as per your need. This report can be personalized to meet your requirements. Get in touch with our sales team, who will guarantee you to get a report that suits your necessities.

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