Millet Based Packaged Food Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Product Type, By Distribution Channel, By Region, By Competition, 2019-2029F

The global Millet Based Packaged Food Market was valued at USD 42.33 Million in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 71.54 Million by 2029 with a CAGR of 9.20% during the forecast period. Millets are rich in compounds with protein, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Millet-based foods are beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. Millet-based functional foods can play a key role in alleviating the growing strain on the healthcare system by promoting a healthy lifestyle through prevention rather than relying solely on treatment. According to the Indian Market Research Bureau, over 80% of Indians may be suffering from protein deficiency. The period between 2019 and 2022 saw a 50% rise in obesity rates among Indians. During the same period, diabetes and hypertension increased by 8% and 11%, respectively, as reported in the Health of the Nation report.

Market Drivers

Rising Health Consciousness and Demand for Nutritious Alternatives

One of the primary drivers behind the growth of the millet based packaged food market is the increasing health consciousness among consumers. As people become more aware of the health risks associated with processed and refined foods, there is a noticeable shift towards whole, natural, and nutrient-dense alternatives. Millets, being gluten-free, high in fiber, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, offer a perfect alternative to traditional grains such as wheat and rice. These health benefits appeal to a wide range of consumers, including those with dietary restrictions like gluten intolerance or those seeking to manage conditions such as diabetes and obesity.

Furthermore, millets are known to be a rich source of plant-based protein and contain important micronutrients like iron, magnesium, and potassium, making them highly sought after in vegetarian and vegan diets. With consumers becoming more focused on eating wholesome foods that contribute to overall well-being, millets are being incorporated into various packaged food products like snacks, breakfast cereals, and ready-to-eat meals. This trend is expected to continue as more people look for healthier options in their daily diets, providing a solid foundation for the growth of the millet based packaged food market.

Increasing Preference for Gluten-Free and Plant-Based Foods

The growing preference for gluten-free and plant-based foods is another key driver behind the millet based packaged food market. Gluten intolerance and celiac disease have become more widely recognized in recent years, leading many consumers to seek gluten-free alternatives. Millets, being naturally gluten-free, provide an ideal solution for those with dietary restrictions. As a result, more manufacturers are using millet in the production of gluten-free packaged foods, from bread and pasta to snacks and baked goods.

In addition to gluten-free benefits, millets are also gaining traction in the plant-based food market, which has been expanding rapidly due to increasing awareness about the environmental and health benefits of plant-based diets. Millets are not only nutritious but also highly sustainable, requiring less water and fewer resources to grow compared to more commonly used grains like wheat or rice. This makes millets an attractive choice for eco-conscious consumers. As plant-based diets continue to rise in popularity, driven by concerns over animal welfare and environmental sustainability, millets are becoming a central ingredient in a variety of plant-based packaged food products. This is helping to fuel the growth of the millet based packaged food market.

Growing Awareness of Millets' Environmental Sustainability

The environmental benefits of millets are another important driver of the growing millet based packaged food market. Millets are known for their resilience and ability to grow in a variety of climates, including arid and semi-arid regions, with minimal water requirements. This makes them a more sustainable choice compared to conventional crops like rice and wheat, which require significant amounts of water and resources to cultivate. As concerns over climate change and environmental degradation increase, many consumers and food manufacturers are seeking more sustainable ingredients to reduce their environmental footprint. Millets, with their low water and land usage, present an environmentally friendly alternative that can help address food security issues in the face of growing populations and climate challenges.

Governments and organizations across the globe are also promoting the cultivation of millets for their environmental benefits. For example, the United Nations has declared 2023 as the "International Year of Millets" to raise awareness about the ecological advantages of growing these hardy grains. This increased recognition has led to greater consumer interest and demand for millet-based products, further boosting the millet based packaged food market. As sustainability becomes an ever more important factor in consumer purchasing decisions, the environmental advantages of millets are expected to continue driving the growth of this market in the years to come.

Key Market Challenges

Limited Consumer Awareness

One of the key challenges facing the millet based packaged food market is the limited consumer awareness and understanding of millet as a nutritious and versatile ingredient. While millets have been consumed for centuries in many parts of the world, especially in Asia and Africa, they are not as well-known or widely consumed in Western countries. For consumers in these regions, the concept of millet as a staple food is still relatively new. This lack of familiarity can hinder adoption and market growth.

Educating consumers about the nutritional benefits of millets, their versatility in cooking, and their importance in promoting health is crucial. While health-conscious consumers may be attracted to millet products due to their gluten-free, high-fiber, and nutrient-rich profiles, many are unaware of these benefits. As a result, brands must invest in marketing campaigns and awareness programs that not only promote millet's health benefits but also demonstrate how it can be incorporated into everyday meals. Another aspect of limited awareness is the perception of millets as "ethnic" or niche ingredients. Many consumers in developed markets may view millets as a food primarily consumed by specific cultural or regional groups, limiting their appeal. Overcoming this perception and positioning millets as mainstream, everyday food options will require continued education and marketing efforts by both manufacturers and industry stakeholders.

Competition from Traditional Grains and Alternative Superfoods

The millet based packaged food market faces stiff competition from more established grains such as wheat, rice, and corn, which dominate the global food system due to their long history of cultivation, widespread availability, and lower price points. These grains are deeply ingrained in consumer diets and are often seen as the default options for staples like bread, rice, and pasta. Convincing consumers to switch to millets, or even incorporate them into their diets, requires overcoming entrenched eating habits and preferences for these familiar grains.

In addition to competition from traditional grains, the millet based packaged food market also faces competition from other so-called superfoods, such as quinoa, chia seeds, and oats. These grains and seeds are already recognized in health-conscious circles for their nutritional benefits, and they have a strong market presence, especially in Western countries. With the rise in popularity of plant-based and gluten-free diets, other superfoods have become key ingredients in packaged foods, sometimes overshadowing millets.

For millet to become a staple in more global diets, brands must position it not only as a nutritious and versatile ingredient but also as a viable alternative to both traditional grains and emerging superfoods. This requires not only product innovation but also clear communication of millet's unique benefits. Developing products that offer the same convenience, taste, and texture that consumers expect from traditional grains will be key to overcoming competition in the market.

Key Market Trends

Sustainability and Environmental Benefits of Millets

Another key trend in the millet based packaged food market is the increasing emphasis on sustainability and the environmental benefits of millet cultivation. Millets are considered eco-friendly crops due to their resilience and ability to grow in arid and semi-arid regions with minimal water requirements. Unlike conventional grains like wheat and rice, which are highly water-intensive, millets require much less water and thrive in low-maintenance conditions. This makes them a sustainable crop that is well-suited to combat the challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity.

As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of their food choices, there is a growing demand for sustainable ingredients in packaged foods. Millets, with their low water and land usage, align with the increasing interest in plant-based foods that are more resource-efficient and environmentally friendly. The environmental benefits of millets have not gone unnoticed by governments, organizations, and consumers, which has led to increased efforts to promote millet production. The United Nations, for example, declared 2023 as the "International Year of Millets" to raise awareness about the nutritional and environmental advantages of millets. As sustainability continues to be a major factor in purchasing decisions, the demand for millet-based products is expected to rise, further propelling growth in the millet based packaged food market.

Innovation and Diversification of Millet-Based Products

Innovation and diversification are also driving the growth of the millet based packaged food market. As consumers seek variety in their diets, food manufacturers are continually exploring new ways to incorporate millet into a wide range of products. Beyond traditional uses like porridge and flour, millets are now being incorporated into a variety of novel packaged foods, including millet-based chips, granola bars, ready-to-eat meals, cookies, and even beverages like millet milk.

The versatility of millets allows them to be used in different forms-whole, flour, or even as an ingredient in processed foods-making them an attractive option for manufacturers aiming to create innovative and diverse products. With the increasing demand for healthier snack options, millet-based snacks are becoming popular, offering consumers a nutritious alternative to traditional potato chips or processed crackers. Additionally, the growing trend of functional foods, which provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition, is fueling the development of millet-based functional products. These products are often enriched with additional nutrients such as probiotics, fiber, or plant-based protein, further enhancing their appeal to health-conscious consumers.

The expansion of millet-based options in the food and beverage industry is contributing to the overall growth of the millet based packaged food market. With new product innovations that cater to different tastes and dietary needs, the market is becoming more diversified, attracting a wider range of consumers. This trend is expected to continue as manufacturers develop even more creative ways to utilize millets in diverse food categories, ensuring that the millet based packaged food market remains dynamic and responsive to evolving consumer preferences.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

The dosa and idli premix segment has dominated the millet based packaged food market due to the growing demand for convenient, nutritious, and ready-to-use meal solutions. Dosa and idli, traditional South Indian dishes made from fermented rice and lentil batter, have gained immense popularity not only in India but also in global markets, especially among health-conscious consumers. The inclusion of millets in dosa and idli premixes is appealing due to the nutritional advantages millets offer, such as being gluten-free, high in fiber, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Millet-based dosa and idli premixes are increasingly sought after because they provide a healthier alternative to the traditional rice-based versions, offering a lower glycemic index and promoting better digestion. Additionally, the rising awareness of millets as a superfood, combined with the growing preference for plant-based and gluten-free diets, has contributed to the segment's strong market position. Furthermore, the convenience factor plays a crucial role in the segment's dominance. With fast-paced lifestyles and the desire for home-cooked meals without the time-consuming preparation, consumers are turning to premixed options that require minimal effort. As a result, the millet-based dosa and idli premix segment is expected to continue leading the millet based packaged food market, with more innovations in flavors and formulations to cater to diverse consumer needs.

Regional Insights

North America is the leading region in the global millet based packaged food market, driven by a growing consumer preference for healthy, gluten-free, and nutrient-dense foods. In recent years, North American consumers have become increasingly health-conscious, seeking alternatives to traditional grains like wheat and rice. Millets, known for their high fiber content, rich nutrient profile, and gluten-free nature, have gained significant traction as a superfood, especially among individuals following plant-based, gluten-free, and low-carb diets. The rise of functional foods and clean-label products, where consumers prioritize transparency and natural ingredients, has also fueled the demand for millet-based packaged foods. In particular, the popularity of millet-based snacks, breakfast cereals, and ready-to-eat meals aligns with the region's growing focus on health and wellness. Moreover, the increasing awareness of the environmental benefits of millets, which require fewer resources to grow than traditional grains, resonates with the region's eco-conscious consumers. Retailers in North America are increasingly offering millet-based products on their shelves, responding to consumer demand. The presence of well-established food manufacturers and startups alike has contributed to market growth, with innovations in product formulations and flavors attracting a wider consumer base. As the demand for healthier, sustainable, and plant-based food options continues to rise, North America is poised to maintain its leadership in the millet based packaged food market.

Key Market Players

• General Mills, Inc.
• Nestle S.A.
• The Kraft Heinz Company
• The Hain Celestial Group, Inc.
• Suntory Holdings Limited
• Cargill, Incorporated
• PepsiCo, Inc.
• Danone S.A.
• Kellanova
• The Hershey Company

Report Scope:

In this report, the global Millet Based Packaged Food Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Millet Based Packaged Food Market, By Product Type:

• Dosa & Idli Premix
• Waffle & Pancake Premix
• Instant Upma
• RTE Noodles
• Multigrain Flour
• Protein Rich Bars
• Other

Millet Based Packaged Food Market, By Distribution Channel:

• Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others

Millet Based Packaged Food Market, By Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
  • Mexico
• Europe
  • France
  • Germany
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • United Kingdom
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Vietnam
  • South Korea
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Turkey
  • Kuwait
  • Egypt
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Colombia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the global Millet Based Packaged Food Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Millet Based Packaged Food Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).