Global Chickpea Flour Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Product Type;
Desi and Kabuli.By Distribution Channel;
Food Chain Services, Modern Trade, Convenience Store, Departmental Store, Online Store and Other Distribution Channel.By Application;
Bakery and Confectionery, Extruded products, Beverages, Animal Feed, Dairy Products and Other Applications.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Chickpea Flour Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Chickpea Flour Market was valued at USD 3,879.26 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 5,433.08 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.9%.
The global chickpea flour market has been experiencing robust growth driven by increasing consumer awareness about gluten-free and protein-rich food alternatives. Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, is derived from ground chickpeas and is renowned for its versatility in culinary applications. It is a staple ingredient in various traditional cuisines across the Middle East, South Asia, and the Mediterranean regions.
In recent years, the market for chickpea flour has expanded beyond its traditional strongholds, propelled by rising demand for plant-based protein sources and gluten-free products among health-conscious consumers worldwide. The flour's nutritional profile, which includes high protein content, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, has contributed significantly to its popularity in both household kitchens and commercial food processing. Additionally, its use in gluten-free baking, savory snacks, and as a thickening agent in soups and sauces has further broadened its appeal, positioning chickpea flour as a key player in the global alternative flour market.
Global Chickpea Flour Market Recent Developments
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In March 2024, Indian company Supplant Foods announced that it had received a patent for an enhanced version of chickpea flour. The flour is devoid of unwanted colors and flavors in traditional versions of the product.
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In September 2023, Banza, a developer of chickpea flour-based comfort foods, expanded its product line to include frozen waffles. This product is the brand's first deviation into the breakfast sector and its second offering in the freezer case. The brand also includes chickpea-based versions of pasta, macaroni & cheese, and rice.
Segment Analysis
The global chickpea flour market can be segmented based on application, distribution channel, and region. In terms of application, chickpea flour finds extensive use in various culinary applications such as bakery products, snacks, sauces, and soups. Its gluten-free nature makes it particularly popular among consumers with gluten intolerance or those seeking healthier alternatives. The increasing adoption of chickpea flour in gluten-free baking mixes, bread, cookies, and pancakes underscores its versatility and growing market demand.
From a distribution channel perspective, the chickpea flour market is segmented into supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retail, and others. Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain dominant distribution channels due to their extensive product range and consumer trust. However, the online retail segment is witnessing rapid growth, driven by increasing e-commerce penetration and consumer preference for convenient shopping experiences. Online platforms offer a wide array of chickpea flour products, often catering to niche dietary preferences and providing accessibility to a global consumer base.
Global Chickpea Flour Market Analysis
The Global Chickpea Flour Market has been segmented by Product Type , Distribution Channel, Application and Geography.
Global Chickpea Flour Market, Segmentation by Product Type
The Global Chickpea Flour Market has been segmented by Product Type into Desi and Kabuli.
Desi and Kabuli. Desi chickpeas, characterized by their smaller size and darker seed coat, typically produce a flour with a slightly nuttier flavor and denser texture. This variety is commonly used in traditional South Asian cuisines for dishes like pakoras, bhajis, and various savory snacks. Desi chickpea flour is also valued for its higher fiber content compared to Kabuli chickpea flour, appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking dietary fiber in their diets.
On the other hand, Kabuli chickpeas are larger in size with a smoother, lighter-colored seed coat. The flour derived from Kabuli chickpeas tends to have a milder taste and finer texture, making it versatile for use in both savory and sweet dishes across Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Its neutral flavor profile allows Kabuli chickpea flour to be used in baked goods, such as bread, cakes, and cookies, where it can substitute for wheat flour in gluten-free recipes. The growing demand for gluten-free alternatives and the nutritional benefits associated with chickpea flour varieties contribute to the expanding market presence of both Desi and Kabuli chickpea flour globally.
Global Chickpea Flour Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel
The Global Chickpea Flour Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Food Chain Services, Modern Trade, Convenience Store, Departmental Store, Online Store and Other Distribution Channel.
Food chain services, encompassing restaurants, cafes, and catering services, play a significant role in the distribution of chickpea flour products, particularly in prepared foods and bakery items. These establishments often integrate chickpea flour into their menus to offer gluten-free and nutritious options, appealing to health-conscious patrons seeking alternatives to traditional wheat-based products.
Modern trade outlets, such as supermarkets and hypermarkets, dominate the distribution landscape for chickpea flour. These large-scale retail environments provide extensive product selections and offer convenience to consumers looking to purchase chickpea flour alongside other grocery items. Convenience stores and departmental stores also contribute to the market by offering quick and accessible options for purchasing chickpea flour, catering to busy urban lifestyles and impulse purchases. Additionally, the rise of online stores has revolutionized the availability of chickpea flour, allowing consumers to browse and purchase products from the comfort of their homes. This distribution channel facilitates easy access to a wide range of chickpea flour brands and variants, often appealing to niche dietary preferences and promoting global market expansion.
Global Chickpea Flour Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Chickpea Flour Market has been segmented by Application into Bakery and Confectionery, Extruded products, Beverages, Animal Feed, Dairy Products and Other Applications.
Bakery and confectionery applications lead the market, with chickpea flour being used extensively in gluten-free baking mixes, breads, cookies, and cakes. Its nutty flavor and nutritional profile, which includes high protein and fiber content, make it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to traditional wheat-based products.
Extruded products also utilize chickpea flour for its binding and texturizing properties, enhancing the nutritional value of snacks like pasta, noodles, and breakfast cereals. Beverages represent another growing segment, where chickpea flour is used in fortified drinks and plant-based milk alternatives due to its protein content and creamy texture. Additionally, chickpea flour finds application in animal feed formulations, contributing essential nutrients to pet food and livestock feed. In dairy products, it serves as a thickening agent in yogurt and cheese substitutes, catering to lactose-intolerant individuals and those opting for vegan alternatives. The diverse applications of chickpea flour across these segments underscore its adaptability and growing market demand in both developed and emerging economies worldwide.
Global Chickpea Flour Market, Segmentation by Geography
The Global Chickpea Flour Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Chickpea Flour Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America and Europe are significant markets driven by the increasing prevalence of gluten-free diets and growing consumer awareness of chickpea flour's nutritional benefits. These regions witness robust demand for chickpea flour in bakery products, snacks, and alternative dairy and meat products, supported by a health-conscious consumer base seeking sustainable and plant-based food options.
Asia Pacific holds a prominent share in the chickpea flour market, particularly in countries like India and Pakistan, where chickpea flour, known locally as besan, is a staple ingredient in traditional cuisines. The region also sees rising demand for chickpea flour in gluten-free products and as a base for savory snacks. In the Middle East and Africa, chickpea flour finds extensive use in dishes like falafel and hummus, driving market growth alongside increasing adoption in gluten-free bakery products. Latin America, although a smaller market compared to other regions, is experiencing growth due to the incorporation of chickpea flour in snacks and baked goods, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking nutritious alternatives.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Chickpea Flour Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Rising Demand for Gluten-Free Products:
- Growing Popularity of Plant-Based Proteins:
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Expanding Application in Culinary Uses: Chickpea flour, known for its versatility and nutritional benefits, is increasingly gaining traction in culinary applications across various cuisines globally. In traditional cooking, especially in South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines, chickpea flour, also called besan or gram flour, plays a central role in creating a wide array of dishes. It serves as a key ingredient in popular snacks like pakoras, bhajis, and falafel, where its binding and texturizing properties contribute to crispy coatings and savory fillings. Moreover, chickpea flour is used to thicken sauces, soups, and stews, imparting a distinctive nutty flavor and enhancing the nutritional profile of these dishes.
In Western cuisines, chickpea flour has found a place in gluten-free baking mixes, offering a healthier alternative to wheat flour. It is used in recipes for bread, pancakes, muffins, and cookies, providing a dense texture and adding a subtle nutty taste. The rise of gluten-free diets and increasing consumer awareness of chickpea flour's high protein and fiber content have further fueled its adoption in culinary innovations. Beyond traditional uses, chickpea flour is also being explored in new product formulations such as plant-based meat alternatives, extruded snacks, and fortified beverages, highlighting its potential to cater to evolving dietary trends and preferences globally.
Restraints:
- Price Volatility of Chickpeas:
- Challenges in Supply Chain Management:
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Limited Awareness and Consumer Acceptance: Limited awareness and consumer acceptance pose challenges to the broader adoption of chickpea flour in global markets. Despite its nutritional benefits and versatile culinary applications, chickpea flour remains relatively unknown to many consumers outside of regions where it is traditionally used. In some markets, there is a lack of education about the benefits of chickpea flour, including its gluten-free nature, high protein content, and suitability for various dietary preferences such as vegan and vegetarian diets. This lack of awareness can deter potential consumers from trying chickpea flour-based products or integrating them into their regular cooking routines.
Consumer acceptance can be influenced by taste preferences and familiarity with traditional uses of ingredients. Chickpea flour's distinct nutty flavor may not appeal to all palates, especially in regions where it is not commonly used. Cultural factors and culinary traditions also play a role in shaping consumer perceptions and acceptance of new ingredients like chickpea flour. Overcoming these barriers requires targeted marketing efforts, culinary education initiatives, and product innovation that aligns chickpea flour with current food trends and consumer preferences. As awareness grows and more consumers experience the benefits and versatility of chickpea flour firsthand, its acceptance in global markets is likely to expand.
Opportunities:
- Expanding Applications in Ready-to-Eat and Convenience Foods:
- Rising Demand in Emerging Markets:
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Innovations in Product Development: Innovations in chickpea flour product development are driving its market expansion and consumer acceptance worldwide. One key area of innovation is the development of gluten-free and plant-based products. Chickpea flour serves as a crucial ingredient in gluten-free baking mixes, offering a nutritious alternative to wheat flour while meeting the dietary needs of consumers with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. Moreover, advancements in extrusion technology have enabled the creation of chickpea flour-based snacks such as chips, crackers, and pasta, catering to the growing demand for healthier snack options. These products not only capitalize on chickpea flour's nutritional benefits—like its high protein and fiber content—but also appeal to consumers seeking convenient, on-the-go snacks that align with their dietary preferences.
Another area of innovation lies in the enhancement of chickpea flour's functional properties for use in food formulations. Manufacturers are exploring ways to improve chickpea flour's texture, binding capacity, and flavor neutrality to expand its application scope in various culinary and food processing industries. For instance, chickpea flour is being incorporated into plant-based meat alternatives, dairy substitutes, and ready-to-eat meals, offering consumers more diverse and sustainable food choices. By continuously innovating and adapting chickpea flour to meet evolving consumer preferences and market demands, food companies are unlocking new opportunities for growth in the global food ingredient market.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Chickpea Flour Market include:
- SunOpta
- Ingredion
- The Scoular Company
- Anchor Ingredients
- Diefenbaker Spice & Pulse
- Great Western Grain
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Product Type
- Market Snapshot, By Distribution Channel
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Chickpea Flour Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Rising Demand for Gluten-Free Products
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Growing Popularity of Plant-Based Proteins
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Expanding Application in Culinary Uses
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- Restraints
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Price Volatility of Chickpeas
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Challenges in Supply Chain Management
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Limited Awareness and Consumer Acceptance
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- Opportunities
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Expanding Applications in Ready-to-Eat and Convenience Foods
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Rising Demand in Emerging Markets
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Innovations in Product Development
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Chickpea Flour Market, By Product Type , 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Desi
- Kabuli
- Global Chickpea Flour Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Food Chain Services
- Modern Trade
- Convenience Store
- Departmental Store
- Online Store
- Global Chickpea Flour Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Bakery and Confectionery
- Extruded products
- Beverages
- Animal Feed
- Dairy Products
- Global Chickpea Flour Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Chickpea Flour Market, By Product Type , 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- SunOpta
- Ingredion
- The Scoular Company
- Anchor Ingredients
- Diefenbaker Spice & Pulse
- Great Western Grain
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market