The allergen-free food products market has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, driven by increasing consumer awareness of food allergies and intolerances. This surge in demand has led to significant developments and emerging trends within the industry.
Market Growth and Projections
The global allergen-free food market has been on an upward trajectory. In 2024, the market was valued at approximately USD 51.3 billion and is projected to reach over USD 103.7 billion by 2034, exhibiting a robust CAGR of 8.4% during the forecast period.
Similarly, other reports indicate the market size was valued at USD 79.7 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 108 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.9% from 2024 to 2030.
This growth reflects a heightened consumer demand for safe and reliable food options catering to specific dietary needs.
Key Trends Shaping the Market
Expansion Beyond Traditional Allergens: While gluten, dairy, nuts, soy, and eggs have been the primary focus, there's a growing demand for products free from other allergens such as sesame, mustard, sulfites, celery, and lupin. This shift is partly due to regulatory changes, like the U.S. FDA's recent classification of sesame as a priority allergen, prompting companies to reformulate recipes and update labeling standards.
Advancements in Food Technology: Innovations such as fermentation-based and microbial-derived proteins are enhancing product quality while avoiding common allergens. Companies like Perfect Day and The Every Company are pioneering the development of allergen-free alternatives that closely mimic traditional food products in taste and texture.
Growth in Allergen-Free Beverages: The beverage sector is witnessing a surge in nut-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free options. This includes ready-to-drink protein shakes, cold-pressed juices, and plant-based milk alternatives, catering to both allergy sufferers and health-conscious consumers.
E-commerce and Online Retail: Online platforms have become crucial in distributing allergen-free products, offering consumers a wider selection and convenient access. In 2024, online retail channels reported a 20% growth in allergen-free product sales, highlighting the importance of e-commerce in this market.
Recent Developments
Product Recalls and Safety Measures: In December 2024, Gardners Candies recalled certain Cappuccino Meltaway Bars due to undeclared tree nuts (cashews), underscoring the importance of accurate labeling and stringent quality control in allergen-free food production.
Regulatory Initiatives: The UK has been addressing its allergy epidemic, with approximately 20 million people affected, including over two million with food allergies. Supermarkets like Morrisons are improving food safety by supporting Natasha's Law, which mandates clear allergen labeling on all prepackaged food items made on-site.
The allergen-free food products industry is rapidly evolving, driven by consumer demand, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. Companies that innovate and adapt to these trends are well-positioned to meet the needs of a growing segment seeking safe and diverse food options.
