Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In August 2022, Ben & Jerry's expanded its gluten-free ice cream range to include new flavors with clean label ingredients, responding to consumer demand for allergen-free products

• In June 2023, Häagen-Dazs introduced a range of gluten-free ice cream flavors, tapping into the growing trend of gluten-free frozen desserts​

The global market for gluten-free desserts and ice creams can be segmented into various types and distribution channels across different geographic regions.

Within the gluten-free desserts and ice creams market, products can be categorized into yogurt-based desserts, gluten-free pastries, and other assorted treats. Yogurt-based desserts offer a creamy and tangy alternative, while gluten-free pastries encompass a wide range of baked goods like cakes, cookies, and pies made without traditional gluten-containing flours.

The distribution of gluten-free desserts and ice creams occurs through multiple channels to cater to diverse consumer preferences and accessibility. These channels include supermarkets and hypermarkets, which provide a wide variety of options in one location, convenience stores that offer quick access to popular items, specialty stores that focus on health foods and dietary-specific products, online retailers that provide convenient home delivery options, and other outlets catering to specific consumer needs and preferences.

Geographically, the market spans across key regions including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. Each region exhibits unique consumption patterns influenced by cultural preferences, dietary habits, and the availability of gluten-free products. North America and Europe lead in market share due to high consumer awareness and stringent regulations governing food labeling. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is witnessing rapid growth driven by increasing health consciousness and dietary changes among the populace.

Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market has been segmented by Type, Distribution Channel and Geography.

Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market has been segmented by Type into Yogurt, Pastries and Others.

The global market for gluten-free desserts and ice creams offers a diverse array of products catering to various consumer preferences and dietary needs. This segment can be classified into yogurt-based desserts, gluten-free pastries, and other innovative products designed to exclude gluten-containing ingredients like wheat, barley, and rye.

Yogurt-based gluten-free desserts are popular for their creamy texture and probiotic benefits, appealing to health-conscious consumers looking for indulgent yet nutritious options. These desserts often include variations such as yogurt parfaits, frozen yogurt, and yogurt-based smoothies, all crafted without gluten to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Gluten-free pastries encompass a wide range of baked goods traditionally made with wheat flour but reformulated with gluten-free alternatives. This category includes gluten-free cakes, cookies, pies, muffins, and other bakery items, ensuring that consumers with gluten intolerance or celiac disease can enjoy traditional treats without compromising taste or texture.

Beyond yogurt and pastries, the market also features a variety of innovative gluten-free desserts and ice creams. These may include gluten-free ice creams, gelatos, sorbets, and frozen novelties made with alternative flours and natural ingredients to replicate traditional flavors while meeting gluten-free standards.

Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel

The Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Supermarket/Hypermarket, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, Online retailers and Others.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets are key distribution channels for gluten-free desserts and ice creams, offering a wide range of products under one roof. These retail giants provide convenience and choice to consumers, with dedicated sections for health foods and dietary-specific products, including gluten-free options.

Convenience stores play a significant role in the distribution of gluten-free desserts and ice creams, offering quick access to popular products for consumers on the go. These outlets stock a selection of ready-to-eat and grab-and-go items, making it convenient for customers to purchase gluten-free treats alongside their regular groceries.

Specialty stores focusing on health foods and dietary-specific products are essential channels for gluten-free desserts and ice creams. These stores cater specifically to consumers seeking gluten-free options, providing a curated selection of high-quality products that meet stringent dietary requirements and preferences.

Online retailers have become increasingly popular for purchasing gluten-free desserts and ice creams, offering convenience through home delivery and a wide assortment of products. E-commerce platforms enable consumers to explore and purchase gluten-free treats from various brands and specialty suppliers, often providing detailed product information and customer reviews.

This category includes various other distribution channels such as health food stores, organic markets, food cooperatives, and direct sales channels (e.g., manufacturer websites, farmers' markets). These channels cater to niche markets and specific consumer segments seeking specialty and artisanal gluten-free desserts and ice creams.

Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

Certainly! Here's an introduction to the global gluten-free desserts and ice creams market segmented by geography into five regions:

North America represents a significant market for gluten-free desserts and ice creams, driven by high consumer awareness of gluten intolerance and celiac disease. The region boasts a well-established market infrastructure with widespread availability of gluten-free products across supermarkets, specialty stores, and online retailers. Innovations in product formulations and flavors cater to diverse dietary preferences, contributing to the region's robust market growth.

Europe is another prominent market for gluten-free desserts and ice creams, characterized by stringent food safety regulations and a strong consumer preference for health-conscious products. The region's market is buoyed by increasing adoption of gluten-free diets and growing demand for indulgent yet gluten-free treats. Specialty stores and supermarkets play a key role in distribution, offering a wide range of gluten-free options to cater to the diverse tastes of European consumers.

The Asia Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth in the gluten-free desserts and ice creams market, driven by changing dietary habits, increasing disposable incomes, and rising health awareness. Countries like Japan, Australia, and South Korea lead in adoption, with consumers seeking healthier alternatives to traditional desserts. Online retail platforms are gaining traction, providing convenient access to gluten-free products amidst urbanization and lifestyle changes across the region.

The Middle East and Africa region are emerging markets for gluten-free desserts and ice creams, influenced by growing health consciousness and dietary diversification. The market is expanding as international brands and local manufacturers alike introduce gluten-free offerings tailored to regional tastes and preferences. Specialty stores and hypermarkets are pivotal in distributing these products, catering to a burgeoning consumer base seeking dietary-specific options.

Latin America exhibits promising growth opportunities in the gluten-free desserts and ice creams market, driven by increasing consumer awareness of gluten-related health issues and dietary restrictions. Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are key markets within the region, characterized by a growing middle-class population and rising demand for premium health foods. Supermarkets and specialty stores are expanding their gluten-free product offerings, supported by evolving consumer preferences and a shift towards healthier eating habits.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Health consciousness
• Rising gluten intolerance
• Increasing celiac disease diagnoses

• Product innovation - Product innovation in the global gluten-free desserts and ice creams market is crucial for meeting the diverse preferences of consumers while ensuring compliance with dietary restrictions. Manufacturers and food developers are continuously innovating to enhance the taste, texture, and nutritional profiles of gluten-free products, driving growth and expanding market reach.

  Innovation in ingredients plays a pivotal role. Companies are exploring alternative flours such as almond flour, coconut flour, rice flour, and tapioca starch to replace traditional wheat flour. These alternatives not only cater to gluten-free requirements but also offer unique flavors and textures that appeal to consumers seeking healthier options.

  Technological advancements are driving product innovation in this market. Advanced food processing technologies enable manufacturers to maintain the integrity of gluten-free ingredients while achieving desirable textures and structures in frozen desserts. Techniques like cold extrusion for pasta and advanced freezing methods for ice creams help preserve product quality and enhance shelf life, meeting consumer expectations for both taste and convenience.

Restraints

• Higher product costs
• Ingredient sourcing challenges
• Taste and texture concerns

• Labeling regulations - Labeling regulations play a crucial role in the global gluten-free desserts and ice creams market, ensuring transparency and safety for consumers with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. These regulations are designed to inform consumers about the presence or absence of gluten in products, helping them make informed purchasing decisions and manage their dietary needs effectively.

  In many countries, including the United States and European Union, regulatory bodies have established specific criteria and thresholds for labeling products as gluten-free. For instance, in the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that products labeled as gluten-free must contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This threshold is considered safe for the vast majority of individuals with celiac disease.

  Labeling regulations also govern the use of terms like gluten-free, free from gluten, and similar claims on packaging. Companies must adhere to these standards to prevent misleading consumers and ensure compliance with health and safety guidelines. Additionally, regulations often mandate accurate ingredient listing and allergen declarations, which are crucial for consumers managing multiple dietary restrictions beyond gluten.

Opportunities

• Emerging markets
• New product development
• Online retail growth

• Health and wellness trends - Health and wellness trends are significantly influencing the global gluten-free desserts and ice creams market, shaping consumer preferences and driving innovation across the industry. These trends reflect a growing awareness of the relationship between diet and overall well-being, prompting consumers to seek healthier alternatives that align with their personal health goals.

  One prominent trend driving the demand for gluten-free desserts and ice creams is the rise in gluten intolerance and celiac disease diagnoses worldwide. As more individuals become aware of gluten-related health issues, there's a heightened demand for products that cater to dietary restrictions without compromising taste or quality.

  There is a broader shift towards clean label and natural ingredients in food products, including gluten-free desserts and ice creams. Consumers are increasingly scrutinizing ingredient lists and favoring products made with recognizable, wholesome ingredients. This trend has prompted manufacturers to reformulate their recipes, eliminating artificial additives, preservatives, and excessive sugars, while enhancing nutritional profiles with ingredients like fruits, nuts, and alternative sweeteners.

Key players in Global Gluten-Free Desserts & Ice Creams Market include;

• Unilever
• Nestle SA
• The Hain Celestial Group Inc.
• Conagra Brands, Inc.
• General Mills Inc.
• The Pastry Pantry

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