Chickpea

Chickpea Market Outlook

The global chickpea market is projected to reach approximately USD 12 billion by 2035, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 6.5% from 2025 to 2035. This growth can be attributed to the increasing consumer demand for plant-based protein sources, the rise in health consciousness, and the growing adoption of chickpeas as a versatile ingredient in various cuisines. Additionally, the increasing trend toward veganism and vegetarianism is further fueling the market, along with the rise of gluten-free products, as chickpeas serve as a suitable alternative for those with gluten intolerance. The diversification of chickpea products into snacks, pasta, and flour is also enhancing their appeal, thereby bolstering their market presence globally.

Growth Factor of the Market

Several growth factors are propelling the chickpea market forward. Firstly, the rising awareness of the nutritional benefits of chickpeas, which are rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, is influencing consumer purchasing behavior. Secondly, the increasing use of chickpeas as a key ingredient in plant-based diets is driving demand, especially among millennials and health-conscious consumers. The prevalence of chickpeas in various global cuisines, including Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, is expanding their market reach. Furthermore, the continuous innovation in chickpea-based products, such as snacks and pasta alternatives, caters to evolving consumer preferences. Lastly, support from governmental policies promoting legume cultivation as a sustainable farming practice enhances production levels, thus positively impacting the market.

Key Highlights of the Market

• Chickpeas are projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2025 to 2035.
• The demand for plant-based protein sources is driving market expansion.
• Regions such as Asia Pacific are experiencing significant growth due to increasing consumption.
• Product diversification, including snacks and pasta, enhances market appeal.
• Government policies promoting sustainable agriculture positively influence production levels.

By Product Type

Whole Chickpeas:

Whole chickpeas are one of the most traditional forms available in the market, known for their versatility and rich nutritional profile. These legumes are used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads and curries, making them a staple in many cuisines worldwide. The increasing trend towards healthy eating and home cooking has spurred demand for whole chickpeas, as consumers seek out nutritious and cost-effective ingredients. Their long shelf-life and ease of storage also contribute to their popularity among both individual consumers and commercial kitchens. With a focus on plant-based diets, the consumption of whole chickpeas is projected to continue increasing, reflecting their importance in everyday meals.

Chickpea Flour:

Chickpea flour, also known as besan, is gaining traction as a gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat flour. It is increasingly used in baking and cooking, particularly in the preparation of pancakes, breads, and as a thickening agent in sauces. The growing awareness of gluten intolerance and celiac disease is driving the demand for gluten-free products, with chickpea flour emerging as a favored option due to its high protein and fiber content. Moreover, the flour is popular in vegan cooking, where it is used to create egg substitutes. This segment is expected to witness substantial growth, supported by an expanding consumer base seeking healthier and gluten-free choices.

Canned Chickpeas:

Canned chickpeas offer convenience and ease of use, making them a popular choice among busy consumers. They are pre-cooked and ready to eat, allowing for quick meal preparation, which is a significant advantage in today’s fast-paced lifestyle. The rise in the popularity of convenience foods, coupled with a growing interest in home cooking, has boosted the sales of canned chickpeas. Additionally, they provide an excellent source of protein, making them an ideal choice for adding nutrition to salads, wraps, and various dishes. The expansion of retail channels and the growth of online grocery shopping are also expected to enhance the availability of canned chickpeas, stimulating market growth further.

Chickpea Snacks:

The chickpea snacks segment has witnessed remarkable growth, driven by the increasing consumer preference for healthy snacking options. Chickpea-based snacks, such as roasted chickpeas and chickpea chips, are being marketed as nutritious alternatives to traditional snacks like chips and pretzels. They are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, which aligns with the growing trend of health consciousness among consumers. The innovative flavor profiles and convenient packaging of chickpea snacks have also contributed to their rising popularity. This segment's growth is indicative of a broader shift in snacking behavior, where consumers seek out healthier, more satisfying options.

Chickpea Pasta:

Chickpea pasta is an innovative product that has emerged as a favorite among health-conscious consumers and those following gluten-free diets. Made primarily from chickpea flour, this pasta alternative provides a higher protein content and has a lower glycemic index compared to conventional pasta. This segment is particularly appealing to those seeking to incorporate more plant-based proteins into their diets. The versatility of chickpea pasta in various dishes, from traditional spaghetti to salads, adds to its marketability. As the demand for gluten-free and high-protein food options continues to rise, chickpea pasta is expected to experience substantial growth in the coming years.

By Application

Food & Beverages:

The application of chickpeas in the food and beverage industry is extensive, encompassing a wide range of products, from hummus to salads and snacks. Chickpeas are increasingly recognized for their nutritional benefits, including high protein and fiber content, making them a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan diets. Their versatility allows them to be used in various cuisines, enhancing flavor and nutrition. The rise in health-conscious eating habits and the popularity of plant-based diets are key factors contributing to the growth of this segment. As consumers continue to seek healthier options, chickpeas are expected to play an increasingly prominent role in the food and beverage sector.

Snacks & Convenience Foods:

Chickpeas have become a popular ingredient in snacks and convenience foods due to their health benefits and convenience factor. The growing trend of healthy snacking has led to an increased demand for chickpea snacks, such as roasted chickpeas and chickpea chips, which offer a nutritious alternative to traditional snack foods. The versatility of chickpeas allows them to be flavored in various ways, appealing to a broad consumer palate. Additionally, the rise in on-the-go eating habits among consumers has propelled the growth of chickpea-based convenience foods, making them a staple in modern diets.

Pet Food:

The application of chickpeas in pet food is an emerging segment that reflects the growing trend of incorporating plant-based ingredients into animal diets. Chickpeas are recognized for their nutritional benefits, including being a source of protein and fiber, which can contribute to the overall health of pets. As pet owners become more conscious of what they feed their animals, the demand for natural and healthy ingredients in pet food is increasing. Chickpeas are being used in various pet food formulations, providing a balanced diet for pets. This trend is expected to continue, fostering growth in this unique application of chickpeas.

Others:

Beyond food and beverages, snacks, and pet food, chickpeas find applications in various other sectors, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Their high nutritional profile and beneficial properties have led to their incorporation into cosmetic products, particularly in formulations targeting skin health and nourishment. Additionally, chickpeas are being explored for their potential health benefits in dietary supplements and functional foods. This diverse application landscape illustrates the versatility of chickpeas as an ingredient, expanding their market reach and creating opportunities for growth in non-food sectors.

By Distribution Channel

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets:

Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain one of the primary distribution channels for chickpea products, offering a wide selection of goods under one roof. The convenience of shopping in these large retail spaces allows consumers to easily find various chickpea products, from whole chickpeas to processed chickpea snacks. The growing trend of health-conscious shopping has led to an increase in the availability of organic and specialty chickpea products in these channels. Additionally, in-store promotions and the ability to see and compare brands enhance customer engagement and drive sales. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier options, supermarkets and hypermarkets are expected to adapt their offerings to include more chickpea-based products.

Online Retail:

The online retail segment is witnessing significant growth as an increasing number of consumers turn to e-commerce platforms for their grocery shopping. Online shopping provides convenience, enabling consumers to browse a broad range of chickpea products and read reviews before making a purchase. This channel is particularly favored by tech-savvy millennials and health-conscious individuals who seek quick and easy access to nutritious food options. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards online grocery shopping, and this trend is likely to continue, supporting the growth of chickpea products sold through e-commerce platforms.

Convenience Stores:

Convenience stores play an essential role in the distribution of chickpea products, catering to consumers seeking quick meal solutions and snacks. The growing demand for healthy on-the-go options has prompted convenience stores to stock a variety of chickpea-based snacks, such as roasted chickpeas and chickpea chips. These stores provide easy access for consumers who are looking for nutritious snacks during their busy lifestyles. The strategic location of convenience stores, often found in high-traffic areas, ensures that chickpea products reach a broad audience, further promoting their consumption.

Specialty Stores:

Specialty stores, including health food stores and organic markets, are becoming increasingly popular for purchasing chickpea products. These stores cater to health-conscious consumers who prioritize organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. The focus on quality and nutrition aligns well with the benefits of chickpeas, making them a favored choice in these outlets. Specialty stores often provide a curated selection of chickpea products, including organic chickpeas and unique chickpea-based snacks, appealing to consumers looking for niche products. This segment is expected to grow as more consumers become aware of and seek out healthier food options.

Others:

Other distribution channels for chickpeas include local farmers' markets and direct-to-consumer sales, which are gaining traction among consumers seeking fresh and locally sourced products. The trend towards supporting local agriculture and sustainable practices is driving interest in these channels. Farmers' markets provide a platform for consumers to purchase fresh chickpeas directly from growers, fostering a connection to the source of their food. These alternative channels also allow for the exploration of unique chickpea varieties and products that may not be available in traditional retail settings. As consumers become more invested in their food sources, these channels are expected to grow in importance.

By Ingredient Type

Organic Chickpeas:

Organic chickpeas are increasingly sought after due to their perceived health benefits and the growing consumer preference for organic food products. These chickpeas are cultivated without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. The organic segment is experiencing robust growth, fueled by the rising trend of organic diets and the demand for clean-label products. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for organic options, which is driving the expansion of this segment in retail markets. As awareness of sustainable farming practices continues to rise, organic chickpeas are expected to capture a more significant share of the market.

Conventional Chickpeas:

Conventional chickpeas remain a staple in the market, offering a cost-effective option for consumers. These chickpeas are widely available and used in various culinary applications, making them a popular choice among families and budget-conscious shoppers. While organic products are gaining traction, conventional chickpeas continue to maintain a strong presence due to their affordability and versatility. This segment is bolstered by the growing consumption of chickpeas in traditional dishes across different cultures, ensuring a consistent demand for conventional chickpeas in both local and international markets.

Roasted Chickpeas:

Roasted chickpeas have emerged as a popular snack alternative, celebrated for their crunchy texture and nutritional benefits. As consumers increasingly seek healthy snacking options, roasted chickpeas provide a high-protein, low-calorie alternative to traditional snacks. The variety of flavors and seasonings available has contributed to their appeal, allowing consumers to enjoy different taste experiences. This segment's growth is indicative of the broader trend towards healthier snack choices, and as more brands enter the market with innovative products, the demand for roasted chickpeas is expected to continue rising.

Flavored Chickpeas:

Flavored chickpeas are gaining popularity as consumers seek variety and excitement in their snacking habits. These chickpeas are available in numerous flavors, ranging from savory to spicy, catering to a wide range of taste preferences. The innovation of flavored chickpeas aligns with the trend of consumers looking for unique and enjoyable snacking experiences. Brands are continually experimenting with new flavor profiles, which drives interest and keeps consumers engaged. As the demand for convenient and flavorful snack options rises, flavored chickpeas are likely to experience sustained growth in the market.

Others:

In addition to the aforementioned categories, various other ingredient types made from chickpeas are emerging, including chickpea protein isolates and extracts used in functional foods and beverages. These products cater to the growing consumer interest in high-protein diets and functional nutrition. Chickpea protein is gaining attention for its potential health benefits, making it a valuable addition to protein shakes, bars, and other health-focused products. This segment is expected to grow as more consumers become aware of the benefits of chickpeas and seek out innovative ways to incorporate them into their diets.

By Region

The chickpea market exhibits varying dynamics across different regions, with North America and Europe being prominent markets. North America, valued at approximately USD 3 billion in 2023, is expected to witness a CAGR of 6% through 2035, driven by the rising demand for plant-based protein and the popularity of health-conscious eating. The increasing incorporation of chickpeas in various food applications, including snacks and convenience foods, is also noteworthy. Meanwhile, Europe has a well-established market, driven by the growing trend of veganism and the popularity of Mediterranean cuisine, which heavily features chickpeas. The European market is projected to account for around 25% of the global share, reflecting the region's strong culinary ties to chickpeas.

In the Asia Pacific region, the chickpea market is also on the rise, with India being one of the largest producers and consumers of chickpeas globally. The market in this region is expected to grow significantly, fueled by the rising demand for protein-rich foods, particularly in countries with large vegetarian populations. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually emerging markets, with chickpeas being incorporated into traditional dishes. The overall growth across these regions highlights the increasing global awareness of the nutritional benefits of chickpeas and their potential as a staple food source. By 2035, the Asia Pacific region is projected to capture approximately 30% of the global market share for chickpeas.

Opportunities

The chickpea market presents numerous opportunities driven by evolving consumer preferences and dietary trends. One significant opportunity lies in the development of innovative chickpea-based products aimed at health-conscious consumers. With the growing awareness of plant-based diets, there is potential for brands to create new offerings, such as high-protein snacks, chickpea-infused beverages, and ready-to-cook meal kits featuring chickpeas as a key ingredient. Furthermore, the rise in gluten-free diets has opened avenues for chickpea flour and pasta products, allowing brands to cater to consumers seeking alternatives to traditional grains. The potential for product diversification into various food segments positions chickpeas as a versatile ingredient with significant growth potential.

Another opportunity exists in expanding distribution channels to reach a broader audience. The increasing popularity of e-commerce provides an avenue for brands to connect with consumers directly and offer a wider range of products. Collaborations with online grocery platforms can enhance visibility and accessibility, tapping into the growing trend of online shopping. Moreover, local farmers' markets and specialty stores focusing on organic and sustainably sourced products provide additional routes for distribution. As awareness of the health benefits of chickpeas continues to rise, there is ample opportunity for brands to capitalize on this trend through strategic marketing and product placement.

Threats

Despite the growth potential in the chickpea market, several threats could impact its trajectory. One significant challenge is the fluctuation in chickpea supply due to climate change and adverse weather conditions. As a crop that requires specific growing conditions, chickpeas are susceptible to drought and extreme temperatures, which can affect yield and availability. Such supply chain disruptions could lead to increased prices and negatively influence consumer purchasing behavior. Additionally, the rise of alternative protein sources, such as pea protein and various meat substitutes, poses competition to chickpeas, as consumers may diversify their plant-based protein sources. Brands must continuously innovate to differentiate their chickpea products and maintain consumer interest in a competitive landscape.

Additionally, the increasing interest in organic and sustainably produced foods may lead to a price premium for organic chickpeas, potentially alienating price-sensitive consumers. While the organic segment is growing, conventional chickpeas still dominate the market, and if organic prices rise significantly, it may drive some consumers back to cheaper alternatives. This dynamic highlights the need for brands to balance pricing strategies and ensure that they remain accessible to a broad consumer base while catering to the growing interest in organic options.

Competitor Outlook

• Gardein
• Chickpea Company
• Tribe Hummus
• Westbrae Natural
• Banza
• Sabra
• Pipcorn
• Eat Real
• Hummus & Pita Co.
• Nutritional Foods
• Nature’s Earthly Choice
• Al-Rahma Foods
• Vegan Cuisine
• The Good Bean
• Frieda's Specialty Produce

The competitive landscape of the chickpea market is characterized by a mix of established players and newer entrants that are innovating to capture consumer interest. Major companies are increasingly focusing on product diversification and innovation to meet changing consumer preferences for healthy, plant-based options. The market is seeing a rise in the development of chickpea-based snacks, pastas, and flour products, which are appealing to health-conscious consumers. Additionally, marketing strategies that highlight the nutritional benefits of chickpeas, such as being high in protein and fiber, are being employed to engage consumers and differentiate brands from competitors.

Companies like Gardein and Banza are leading the way in creating innovative chickpea products that cater to the plant-based diet trend. Gardein, known for its range of plant-based meat alternatives, continues to expand its product portfolio to include chickpea-based options. Banza specializes in chickpea pasta, positioning itself as a healthier alternative to traditional pasta while offering a gluten-free option. These companies are leveraging social media and influencer marketing to reach younger demographics, further enhancing their market presence.

In addition to product innovation, companies are also focusing on sustainability in their sourcing and production practices. Brands like Sabra, which is known for its hummus products, are increasingly emphasizing the use of sustainably grown chickpeas sourced from local farms. This commitment not only supports local agriculture but also resonates with environmentally conscious consumers. The growing trend towards transparency in food sourcing and production processes will likely play a significant role in shaping consumer preferences in the future.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 Banza
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 Sabra
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 Gardein
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 Pipcorn
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 Eat Real
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 Tribe Hummus
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 The Good Bean
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 Vegan Cuisine
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 Al-Rahma Foods
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 Chickpea Company
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 Westbrae Natural
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 Hummus & Pita Co.
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 Nutritional Foods
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 Frieda's Specialty Produce
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Nature’s Earthly Choice
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Chickpea Market, By Application
    • 6.1.1 Food & Beverages
    • 6.1.2 Snacks & Convenience Foods
    • 6.1.3 Pet Food
    • 6.1.4 Others
  • 6.2 Chickpea Market, By Product Type
    • 6.2.1 Whole Chickpeas
    • 6.2.2 Chickpea Flour
    • 6.2.3 Canned Chickpeas
    • 6.2.4 Chickpea Snacks
    • 6.2.5 Chickpea Pasta
  • 6.3 Chickpea Market, By Ingredient Type
    • 6.3.1 Organic Chickpeas
    • 6.3.2 Conventional Chickpeas
    • 6.3.3 Roasted Chickpeas
    • 6.3.4 Flavored Chickpeas
    • 6.3.5 Others
  • 6.4 Chickpea Market, By Distribution Channel
    • 6.4.1 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 6.4.2 Online Retail
    • 6.4.3 Convenience Stores
    • 6.4.4 Specialty Stores
    • 6.4.5 Others

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.1.1 By Country
      • 10.1.1.1 UK
      • 10.1.1.2 France
      • 10.1.1.3 Germany
      • 10.1.1.4 Spain
      • 10.1.1.5 Italy
  • 10.2 Chickpea Market by Region
  • 10.3 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 India
      • 10.3.1.2 China
      • 10.3.1.3 Japan
      • 10.3.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.4 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.4.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.4.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.5 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.5.1 By Country
      • 10.5.1.1 USA
      • 10.5.1.2 Canada
  • 10.6 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.6.1 By Country
      • 10.6.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.6.1.2 Africa

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Chickpea market is categorized based on

By Product Type

• Whole Chickpeas
• Chickpea Flour
• Canned Chickpeas
• Chickpea Snacks
• Chickpea Pasta

By Application

• Food & Beverages
• Snacks & Convenience Foods
• Pet Food
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Online Retail
• Convenience Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Others

By Ingredient Type

• Organic Chickpeas
• Conventional Chickpeas
• Roasted Chickpeas
• Flavored Chickpeas
• Others

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Key Players

• Gardein
• Chickpea Company
• Tribe Hummus
• Westbrae Natural
• Banza
• Sabra
• Pipcorn
• Eat Real
• Hummus & Pita Co.
• Nutritional Foods
• Nature’s Earthly Choice
• Al-Rahma Foods
• Vegan Cuisine
• The Good Bean
• Frieda's Specialty Produce