PUBLISHER: Grand View Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1609998
PUBLISHER: Grand View Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1609998
The global chickpea protein market size was estimated at USD 61.02 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% from 2025 to 2030. One of the primary drivers is the increasing demand for plant-based proteins, as more consumers shift towards vegetarian and vegan diets. This trend is particularly pronounced in regions like North America and Europe, where health consciousness is rising, leading to greater consumption of chickpeas as a nutritious alternative to meat products.
In addition to dietary shifts, the chickpea market benefits from its established role in traditional cuisines, especially in South Asia. India, the largest producer and consumer of chickpeas, contributes substantially to global supply and demand. The country's production has steadily increased, reflecting a growing area under cultivation and enhanced agricultural practices. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate market growth due to urbanization, rising household incomes, and changing consumer preferences toward healthier food options.
The advantages of chickpeas over other protein sources are significantly driving the growth of the chickpea market globally. As consumers increasingly seek healthier dietary options, chickpeas stand out due to their impressive nutritional profile. They provide about 8.9 grams of protein per 100 grams cooked, along with a high fiber content of approximately 7.6 grams, making them an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake without the saturated fats found in animal proteins like beef, which contains around 25.4 grams of protein and 7.3 grams of saturated fat per 100 grams.
This shift in consumer preference towards plant-based proteins is reflected in the rising demand for chickpeas, particularly in regions with growing health awareness and dietary changes, such as North America and Europe. Moreover, the sustainability aspect of chickpeas enhances their market appeal. Chickpeas require significantly less water compared to animal farming, making them a more environmentally friendly protein source. This aligns with the increasing consumer focus on sustainable eating practices, further propelling market growth.
In addition, the versatility of chickpeas in various culinary applications-from traditional dishes in South Asia to innovative snacks and ready-to-eat meals-contributes to their rising popularity. The introduction of chickpea-based products like snacks and gluten-free alternatives is appealing to health-conscious consumers and those following vegan or vegetarian diets. For instance, the launch of products like chickpea pasta and snacks has tapped into the growing trend of functional foods that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
Health benefits associated with chickpeas also play a crucial role in their market expansion. Chickpeas are rich in protein and fiber while low in fat, making them an attractive option for health-conscious consumers. They are linked to various health benefits, including improved digestion, blood sugar stabilization, and reduced risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues. The rising awareness of these health benefits is driving demand for whole chickpeas and chickpea-based products such as snacks and flour used in gluten-free diets.
Moreover, the growing trend of functional foods-products that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition-has led to innovations in chickpea-based food items. Companies are increasingly developing snacks and ready-to-eat meals that incorporate chickpeas, tapping into the convenience factor sought by modern consumers. Diversifying product offerings enhances market accessibility and caters to varying consumer preferences.
Lastly, sustainability concerns are influencing market dynamics as consumers prefer environmentally friendly ingredients. Chickpeas require less water than other crops and contribute positively to soil health through nitrogen fixation, aligning with the global push towards sustainable agricultural practices. This alignment with environmental sustainability is expected to further bolster the demand for chickpeas in the coming years.
A primary restraint for the market is the competition from other protein types. Chickpea protein competes with established alternatives like soy, pea, and rice proteins, which have a strong market presence due to their versatility and established consumer bases. For instance, soy protein is often preferred for its complete amino acid profile and functionality in various food applications. As the plant-based protein market expands, chickpea protein producers must differentiate their products to capture market share.
Chickpeas' unique flavor and texture may appeal to only some consumers or fit seamlessly into every dish. While chickpeas are an excellent meat substitute, their distinct taste can limit their application in specific culinary contexts. This challenge necessitates the development of innovative processing techniques to enhance flavor and texture, which can complicate production and increase costs. Some consumers experience digestive discomfort when consuming chickpeas or chickpea protein, including bloating and acidity. These side effects can deter potential customers from adopting chickpea-based products, limiting market growth.
Global Chickpea Protein Market Report Segmentation
This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional, and country levels and analyzes the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global chickpea protein market report by type, application, and region: