QUINOA GRAIN MARKET ANALYSIS

The quinoa grain market size is estimated to be valued at  US$ 910.8 Mn in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 1,867.2 Mn by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.8% during the forecast period.

The growth of the market is due to the increasing demand for quinoa grain from health-conscious consumers due to its high nutritional value, gluten-free nature, and potential as a functional food ingredient. Quinoa grain is a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, thus making it a popular choice for people who are looking for healthy and nutritious foods. It is also gluten-free, which makes it a good option for people with gluten intolerance.

Quinoa Grain Market Regional Insights

• North America is the largest market for quinoa, with a market share of 30% in 2023. The U.S. is the major consumer of quinoa in North America. Increasing popularity of quinoa as a gluten-free and vegan food has led to the growth of the quinoa market in the region.
• Asia Pacific is the second-largest market for quinoa, with a market share of 25% in 2023. China and India are the major consumers of quinoa in Asia Pacific. The growing health awareness and the increasing demand for gluten-free food are driving the growth of the quinoa market in the region.
• Europe is the third-largest market for quinoa, with a market share of 20% in 2023. Germany and France are the major consumers of quinoa in Europe. Increasing popularity of quinoa as a superfood has led to the growth of the quinoa market in the region.

Figure 1. Global Quinoa Grain Market Share (%), by Region, 2023

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Quinoa Grain Market Drivers

• Health & nutrition trends: Quinoa is known as a "superfood" due to its high protein content, complete amino acid profile, and other nutritional benefits. As consumers become more health-conscious and look for nutritious meal options, quinoa has become an obvious choice. For instance, Obesity rates have risen sharply across populations according to World Health Organization data from 2020. Non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular issues, cancer and diabetes now account for over 70% of deaths globally each year.
• Gluten-free movement: The rise in diagnosed celiac disease cases and the popularity of gluten-free diets for other health reasons have driven the demand for gluten-free grains, and thus quinoa is a prime choice. For instance, according to 2021 statistics from the Food and Agriculture Organization. Retail sales of gluten-free foods have soared during the pandemic.
• Vegan and vegetarian movement: With an increasing number of people adopting vegetarian and vegan diets, quinoa has gained popularity as a rich and versatile protein source. For instance : A 2022 survey by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals PETA Asia found that 62% of Asian respondents opted for meat-free options when dining out, up from only 48% in 2020.
• Sustainability and diversity: Quinoa requires less water as compared to other crops like rice and wheat. It also grows in varied climates, from coastal areas to high altitudes, thereby making it an attractive crop from a sustainability and biodiversity standpoint. For instance, National Center for Biotechnology Information. NCBI published a research, in 2021, revealing that quinoa can withstand drought stress by increasing water absorption to promote root growth and raising proline and total soluble sugar content to regulate cell osmotic potential.

Quinoa Grain Market Opportunities

• New product development: Quinoa Market has immense potential for new product development in the coming years. As living standards and incomes continue rising across the nation, consumers are increasingly demanding innovative products that offer better quality of life, convenience and unique experiences. This growing consumer aspiration presents a major opportunity for Quinoa Market to strengthen its portfolio with cutting-edge solutions catering to evolving needs and tastes. For instance, A 2021 report by the Indian Council of Medical Research highlighted rising obesity and non-communicable diseases burden in India necessitating diet and nutrition interventions.
• Quinoa-based snacks: Quinoa-based snacks present a tremendous opportunity for growth in the QUINO market. Quinoa is gaining tremendous popularity as a superfood globally due to its high nutritional value. It is a complete protein and contains higher levels of crucial minerals like magnesium, phosphorus and fiber in comparison to common grains. Additionally, quinoa can be easily substituted for rice, couscous or other grains in snack recipes without significantly changing the taste. For instance, The International Food Information Council Foundation's 2021 Food and Health Survey found that over 80% of American consumers try to make healthier or more nutritious food choices in their daily lives.
• Expansion into new geographies: Expanding into new international markets offers Quinoa Market significant potential for growth. With rising incomes and access to technology in emerging economies, more consumers are able to participate in global trade and access international brands. Regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe and parts of Africa are experiencing rapid economic development and a burgeoning middle class. This creates a sizable new consumer base that is ripe for Quinoa Market's products.
• Organic and specialty products: Organic quinoa, colored quinoa (red, black, etc.), and products made from specialty quinoa varieties can cater to niche markets and fetch premium prices. For instance, as per Organic Trade Association’s 2022 Manufacturing Survey, 77% of organic manufacturers plan to introduce new organic products this year, reflecting strong ongoing demand. Customers are increasingly buying organic not just for perceived health benefits but also due to environmental concerns.

Quinoa Grain Market Trends

• Diversification of quinoa products: Diversification of quinoa products has significantly impacted the quinoa market in recent years. As quinoa gained more mainstream popularity globally due its high nutritional value and appeal as a gluten-free superfood, more companies have been introducing novel product lines containing quinoa as a key ingredient.
• Health and wellness movement: The broader health and wellness trend, especially the focus on plant-based proteins, was driving interest in quinoa as a nutrient-rich and protein-packed food. For instance, as per UN Food and Agriculture Organization's 2022 report, demand for sustainably-produced quino grew by over 15% in North America and Europe between 2019-2021, indicating that customers care about ethically-made options. Caterers now promote their commitment to supporting local economies and reducing carbon footprints to align with wellness-oriented values.
• Gluten-free demand: With gluten intolerance and celiac disease diagnoses on the rise, and many others choosing gluten-free lifestyles, quinoas gluten-free property was positioning it as an excellent alternative to traditional grains. For instance ,The International Food Information Council Foundation's 2022 Food and Health Survey found 61% of U.S. adults try to limit or avoid gluten in their diets.
• Organic and non-GMO trends: The demand for organic and non-GMO "Genetically Modified Organism" products has been steadily rising in recent years globally. Consumers are increasingly health-conscious and interested in avoiding GMOs and chemicals in their diet. Quinoa is already a popular superfood acclaimed for its protein content and other nutritious properties. The organic and non-GMO segments of the quinoa market present a major opportunity for growth as consumers will pay a premium for quinoa certified to be organically and non-GMO produced.

Quinoa Grain Market Restraints

• Price fluctuations: Growing global demand for quinoa led to significant price hikes in the past, which sometimes made the grain less accessible or attractive to consumers and fluctuated the farmers' incomes. For instance, according to reports published by NCBI, in 2020, income dependence due to seasonality and price fluctuations, new management practices, and the future of supply-demand balance can put producing communities in vulnerable position.

Counterbalance: The price fluctuations in the quinoa grain market needs to be controlled so that it does not affect the farmers’ income.

• Local consumption impact: As the global demand for quinoa rose, it was noticed that in some traditional quinoa-producing countries, prices increased to the point where some locals could no longer afford it, thus leading to dietary and cultural impacts. For instance, according to reports published by the NCBI, in 2020, increasing demand for quinoa from the global north and its future prospects concerning the posed environmental impacts raises a series of challenges for the cultivating countries in the global south.
• Overproduction concerns: The rush to capitalize on quinoa's popularity led to concerns of overproduction, which might depress prices and make cultivation less profitable for farmers.
• Agricultural sustainability: While quinoa is known for its resilience, over-farming and non-sustainable agricultural practices could degrade soil and harm local ecosystems.

Analyst view

The quinoa market shows signs of strong growth potential globally over the next five years. As a pseudo-grain, quinoa is gaining significant popularity among health-conscious consumers as gluten-free superfood high in protein, fiber, and minerals. Several South American countries like Bolivia, Peru and Ecuador currently dominate quinoa production; however, North American markets, especially the United States, represent the fastest growing region. Improving access through wider availability in mainstream grocery stores across both the U.S. and Europe is a major driver propelling quinoa consumption. Meanwhile, major restraints include quinoa's relatively higher price point compared to traditional grains as well as inconsistent global supply that has struggled to keep pace with rising demand. Weather conditions and crop diseases also periodically impact harvest yields in South America. Nonetheless, food and beverage product innovation incorporating quinoa looks poised to expand the market into new segments. Increased distribution deals, strategic marketing initiatives and potential diversification into new production zones could help mitigate these restraints over time.

Overall, favorable consumer attitudes toward quinoa as a healthier alternative coupled with ongoing new product development present significant opportunities. With established suppliers focusing on yield improvements and emerging producers entering the supply chain, a stable pricing structure can further stimulate broader mainstream adoption internationally.

Recent Developments & New product launches

• In January 2021 The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) in Australia has developed a specialised measurement technique to quantify the precise level of saponin on quinoa seed.
• In April 2022 Olam Agri, has released its Speciality Grains and Seeds, Peru Sustainability Report 2021 that outlines its continued progress towards more sustainable quinoa and chia supply chains, which are delivering positive social and environmental impacts for local quinoa and chia farming communities in Peru.

Acquisition and partnerships

• In October 2022 Above Food Corp. has agreed to acquire Sonic Milling Systems, Ltd., a food technology company focused on developing processing techniques for plant-based ingredients and products. Canada-based Sonic Milling’s proprietary hydrodynamic-cavitation technology uses water and pressure to create microscopic air bubbles capable of breaking apart a range of ingredients like pulses, fruits and vegetables into clean label liquids and sauces without the need for stabilizers or added oils. The company has deployed the technology to produce oat concentrate, oat beverage and oat creamer for several North American brands and retailers.
• In February 2022 the quino business of Andean Naturals in yuba city & California was acquired  by American Company Ardents Mill.This acquisition will boost Ardent mills & grain business. Ardent Mills is a prominent flour-milling and ingredient company based in Denver, Colorado, with operations in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. The company specializes in producing multi-use flours, whole grains, quinoa, pulses, and organic and gluten-free products, driving emerging nutrition and innovation across plant-based solutions. Ardent Mills is committed to transforming how the world is nourished by providing a holistic portfolio to meet the complex needs of customers while focusing on the future of plant-based solutions. The company employs more than 100 certified millers and supports thousands of local jobs, contributing to the flourishing of customers and communities throughout North America. It is deeply rooted in communities and operates in more than 40 locations, including 40+ flour mills and bakery-mix facilities.
• In may 2022, Canadian plant-based food and ingredients supplier, Above Food, has announced its acquisition of Northern Quinoa Production (NorQuin). NorQuin is the leading quinoa producer in the world, with a state-of-the-art production facility, supplying specialty ingredients and finished products to the world's largest food companies. NorQuin has invested more than two decades of research to develop proprietary, higher yield, higher protein, non-GMO varietals of quinoa. NorQuin partners with growers to produce the highest quality quinoa at scale with complete traceability. Above Food plans to integrate NorQuin's class-leading genetic capabilities and grower programs into its Disruptive Agriculture business, providing significant scale to NorQuin's existing grower infrastructure, while applying the team's expertise in genetics and plant-breeding to a broader base of proteins.

Figure 2. Global Quinoa Grain Market Share (%), by Distribution Channel, 2023

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Top companies in Quinoa Grain Market

• Ancient Harvest
• Andean Valley Corporation
• Andean Naturals
• Quinoa Foods Company
• Northern Quinoa Production Corporation (NorQuin)
• The British Quinoa Company
• Inca Organics
• Alter Eco
• COMRURAL XXI
• Irupana Andean Organic Food

*Definition: The Quinoa Grain market refers to the global industry and trade of quinoa, a grain crop grown primarily for its edible seeds, which are rich in protein, dietary fiber, and various essential nutrients. This market encompasses the cultivation, processing, distribution, and sale of quinoa products.