Flour Rice and Malt

Flour Rice and Malt Market Outlook

The global rice flour and malt market size is projected to reach approximately USD 10 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of around 6% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2035. Factors driving this growth include the increasing demand for gluten-free alternatives, the rising trend of healthy eating, and the expansion of applications in various sectors such as bakery, beverages, and snacks. The surge in popularity of rice-based products due to their versatility and nutritional benefits is also a significant contributor to market growth. Furthermore, the growing health-conscious consumer base is influencing manufacturers to innovate and diversify their product offerings, thus enhancing market dynamics.

Growth Factor of the Market

One of the primary growth factors for the rice flour and malt market is the rising awareness regarding gluten intolerance and celiac disease among consumers, leading to a sharp rise in demand for gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, the increasing incorporation of rice flour in various food products, due to its nutritional advantages such as high fiber content and low fat, is propelling market growth. The trend towards vegetarianism and veganism is also magnifying the utilization of rice flour, as it aligns well with plant-based diets. Furthermore, the expansion of e-commerce and online grocery shopping has made it easier for consumers to access a variety of rice-based products, contributing to market growth. Innovations in product formulations and the introduction of organic and specialty rice flours are also pivotal in attracting health-conservative buyers.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The market is witnessing a significant surge in demand for gluten-free products.
• Innovative product launches are enhancing the offerings in rice flour and malt.
• Increased consumption of rice flour in the bakery and confectionery sector.
• Rising health consciousness is driving growth in organic rice flour.
• E-commerce is becoming a critical distribution channel for rice-based products.

By Product Type

White Rice Flour:

White rice flour is produced by milling white rice and is widely used in various culinary applications. This type of flour is favored for its neutral flavor and fine texture, making it an excellent choice for baked goods, sauces, and desserts. Its high digestibility adds to its appeal, particularly among consumers looking for lighter options. The rising popularity of Asian cuisines where white rice flour is a staple is driving its demand in the global market. Additionally, the ability of white rice flour to blend well with other flours is enhancing its utilization in creating gluten-free bakery products, thereby contributing to its growth in the segment.

Brown Rice Flour:

Brown rice flour is gaining traction due to its nutritional benefits. Unlike white rice flour, brown rice flour retains the bran and germ, making it a rich source of fiber and essential nutrients. Its nutty flavor adds a unique taste profile to baked goods, contributing to consumer preference for healthier options. The growing trend of integrating whole grains into diets is elevating the demand for brown rice flour, particularly among health-conscious consumers. Furthermore, its versatility in various applications such as pancakes, muffins, and bread is increasing its popularity in the bakery sector, thus driving market growth.

Glutinous Rice Flour:

Glutinous rice flour, also known as sweet rice flour, is primarily used in Asian cuisine for making traditional desserts and dumplings. Its unique sticky texture makes it an essential ingredient in various delicacies, such as mochi and rice cakes. The rising global interest in Asian culinary practices is contributing to the increased demand for glutinous rice flour. Furthermore, its application in gluten-free products is enhancing its appeal among consumers with dietary restrictions. As more individuals explore diverse cuisines, the market for glutinous rice flour is expected to expand significantly.

Organic Rice Flour:

Organic rice flour is produced from organically grown rice, free from pesticides and chemical fertilizers, catering to the health-conscious consumer market. The demand for organic products has surged in recent years due to rising awareness regarding sustainability and health benefits. This segment is particularly attractive to consumers who prioritize clean eating and are willing to pay a premium for organic products. The versatility of organic rice flour in various applications, including baking and cooking, further supports its growth, as consumers increasingly seek wholesome alternatives in their diets.

Specialty Rice Flour:

Specialty rice flour includes various types of rice flour that cater to specific dietary needs or culinary purposes, such as high protein or low glycemic index varieties. The increasing innovation in specialty rice flours is in response to the demand for tailored nutritional products. These flours often find applications in health-focused recipes and specialized diets, unveiling new opportunities within the market. The growth of the health and wellness trend is propelling the development and adoption of specialty rice flours, thereby expanding their market share significantly.

By Application

Bakery & Confectionery:

The bakery and confectionery sector is one of the largest applications for rice flour, primarily due to its gluten-free properties, which make it an ideal substitute for traditional wheat flour. Rice flour is utilized in a wide range of baked products including bread, cakes, cookies, and pastries. The growing trend of gluten-free diets is driving the demand for rice flour in this sector, as consumers seek healthier alternatives without compromising on taste. Additionally, the ability of rice flour to impart a unique texture and flavor to baked goods enhances its desirability among consumers and manufacturers alike, leading to an increase in its incorporation into various recipes.

Beverages:

Rice flour is increasingly finding applications in the beverage industry, particularly in the production of rice-based drinks and smoothies. The growing health consciousness among consumers is spurring demand for nutritious beverage options, and rice flour serves as a natural thickening agent and provides a smooth texture to drinks. Moreover, rice-based beverages, often considered vegan and gluten-free, are attracting a wide range of health-focused consumers. This trend is further supported by the rise in popularity of plant-based diets and the demand for alternative milk products, thereby boosting the application of rice flour in beverage formulations.

Snacks:

The snack industry is experiencing a significant shift towards healthier options, leading to an increased usage of rice flour in various snack products. Rice flour provides a desirable crunch and texture to snacks such as rice crackers, chips, and puffs. With a growing number of consumers seeking gluten-free and low-calorie snack alternatives, rice flour has become a preferred ingredient due to its nutritional profile. The versatility of rice flour allows manufacturers to innovate and create diverse snacks that cater to different taste preferences, further propelling the segment’s growth in the rice flour market.

Baby Food:

Baby food is another significant application area for rice flour, primarily due to its digestibility and nutritional benefits. Rice flour is often used as a base for infant cereals and purees, providing essential nutrients necessary for a child's development. The increasing awareness among parents regarding the importance of healthy eating habits for their children is driving the demand for rice flour-based baby food products. Additionally, the simplicity and safety of rice flour make it a preferred ingredient for parents looking for wholesome and easily digestible food options for their infants, thus contributing to the growth of this application segment.

Others:

Beyond the aforementioned applications, rice flour is also utilized in various culinary and industrial processes. This includes its use in sauces, soups, and gravies as a thickening agent, as well as its application in the production of non-food items like cosmetics and bio-degradable packaging. The versatility of rice flour across diverse applications is enhancing its market appeal, encouraging manufacturers to explore new avenues for its utilization. As consumers continue to seek innovative products, the other application segment is expected to experience steady growth, contributing to the overall expansion of the rice flour and malt market.

By Distribution Channel

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets:

Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain a dominant distribution channel for rice flour and malt products due to their extensive reach and variety of offerings. These retail formats provide consumers with the convenience of one-stop shopping, allowing them to access a wide range of rice flour products under various brands. The organized retail sector has witnessed significant growth in recent years, as consumers increasingly prefer shopping in these stores for quality assurance and product variety. Moreover, promotional activities and discounts offered by supermarkets and hypermarkets further drive sales, solidifying their position as a key distribution channel for the rice flour market.

Convenience Stores:

Convenience stores have emerged as a notable distribution channel for rice flour and its derivatives, catering to the on-the-go consumer demographic. The appeal of convenience stores lies in their strategic locations, making them a popular choice for consumers seeking quick purchases. The growing trend of snacking and the demand for instant food products have led to an increase in the availability of rice flour-based snacks and ready-to-cook items in convenience stores. As consumer lifestyles become more fast-paced, the convenience store segment is expected to see continued growth in the distribution of rice flour products, capitalizing on the need for accessibility and quick shopping solutions.

Online Retail:

The online retail segment is witnessing exponential growth, driven by the rising shift towards digital shopping and e-commerce platforms. The demand for rice flour and malt products has surged on online platforms, offering consumers the flexibility to shop from the comfort of their homes. The availability of various brands, coupled with the convenience of home delivery, has made online retail an attractive option for consumers. Additionally, online retailers often provide detailed product information and customer reviews, helping consumers make informed choices. This trend is expected to continue, significantly influencing the distribution dynamics of the rice flour market in the coming years.

Specialty Stores:

Specialty stores focusing on organic or health-centric products are increasingly becoming popular distribution channels for rice flour and malt products. These stores cater to health-conscious consumers who are actively seeking gluten-free, organic, or specialty rice flour options. The knowledgeable staff in specialty stores often provide personalized assistance, enhancing the shopping experience for consumers looking for specific dietary needs. The growing consumer shift towards health and wellness is propelling the demand for rice flour in specialty stores, as these outlets highlight quality and niche products, thus contributing positively to the market.

Others:

Other distribution channels include local markets, farmers' markets, and direct-from-farm sales, which are gradually gaining traction in the rice flour and malt market. These channels provide consumers with fresh and locally sourced products, appealing to the growing demand for farm-to-table options. The increasing interest in sustainable and ethical purchasing is driving consumers towards these alternative distribution channels, as they seek transparency and quality assurance in their food sources. As awareness regarding local produce grows, these distribution channels may experience steady growth in the rice flour market, diversifying the landscape of product availability.

By Ingredient Type

Malted Barley:

Malted barley is one of the primary ingredient types used in the production of malt products, particularly in the brewing and food industries. The malting process enhances the flavor and enzymatic properties of barley, making it a sought-after ingredient for various applications. The rise in craft brewing and the growing popularity of malt-based beverages are driving demand for malted barley. Additionally, malted barley is used in baking and snack production, contributing to its significance in the rice flour and malt market. As consumer preferences shift towards artisanal and quality products, malted barley is expected to maintain a robust position within the industry.

Malted Wheat:

Malted wheat serves a similar purpose as malted barley but is often preferred for its unique flavor profile and functional properties in diverse applications. It is widely used in the production of breads and baked goods, imparting a distinct taste and improving texture. The increasing trend of whole grain consumption and health-focused eating is driving demand for malted wheat as part of healthier formulations. Moreover, the versatility of malted wheat allows it to be incorporated into cereals and snack foods, further enhancing its appeal in the rice flour and malt market. As manufacturers continue to innovate, malted wheat is likely to see a growing presence in various food products.

Malted Rye:

Malted rye is primarily used in specialty bread and whiskey production, with its unique flavor profile adding depth to baked goods and beverages. The growing interest in artisanal and craft production methods is boosting the demand for malted rye, as consumers are increasingly drawn to distinctive flavors and traditional processes. Malted rye also offers various health benefits, such as being a source of dietary fiber, which appeals to health-conscious consumers. As the trend towards unique and flavorful products continues, malted rye is expected to carve out a substantial niche in the rice flour and malt market, supporting growth in specific applications.

Malted Oats:

Malted oats are gaining recognition for their nutritional profile and are increasingly being utilized in health-focused food products. The malting process enhances the digestibility and flavor of oats, making them a versatile ingredient for porridge, snacks, and baked goods. The rising trend of incorporating oats into diets due to their health benefits is driving demand for malted oats. Additionally, as consumers become more aware of the importance of whole grains, malted oats are positioned well to capture market share in the rice flour and malt sector, bolstering growth in various applications.

Others:

Other ingredients used in the rice flour and malt market may include malt extracts and specialty malts that cater to specific flavor and functional requirements. These ingredients are often utilized in niche applications, providing manufacturers with the flexibility to create unique products tailored to consumer preferences. The increasing trend of experimentation in food and beverage formulations is driving the demand for diverse malt ingredients. As consumers seek novelty and enhanced flavors, the segment of other malted ingredients is expected to grow, contributing to the overall expansion of the market.

By Region

In North America, the rice flour and malt market is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 5.5% during the forecast period. The region's growth is driven by a significant increase in health-conscious consumers seeking gluten-free and organic dietary options. Additionally, the rise in innovative product launches from established brands in the bakery and snack sectors is further propelling market expansion. Moreover, the increasing presence of specialty food stores and online retailers is enhancing product accessibility, making it easier for consumers to purchase rice flour and malt products, thereby amplifying market growth in North America.

The European region is also witnessing substantial growth in the rice flour and malt market, primarily due to the rising demand for gluten-free products across various countries. A significant number of consumers are increasingly adopting gluten-free diets, leading to an increase in the consumption of rice flour in various applications, including bakery products and snacks. Furthermore, the European market is characterized by a growing trend towards organic and natural ingredients, which aligns well with the offerings of rice flour and malt products. As a result, the region is poised to experience consistent growth in the market, capitalizing on the health and wellness trends sweeping across Europe.

Opportunities

The rice flour and malt market presents numerous opportunities, particularly due to the growing demand for gluten-free products. As consumers become more health-conscious and aware of dietary restrictions, the inclination towards gluten-free alternatives is expected to continue to rise. This trend offers manufacturers an opportunity to innovate and diversify their product lines to cater to the needs of gluten-sensitive individuals. Additionally, the surge in demand for organic and natural food products opens avenues for rice flour and malt producers to develop organic offerings, meeting the expectations of a health-centric consumer base. Collaborations with health food brands and the development of specialty products could further enhance market opportunities in the coming years.

Another significant opportunity lies in the expanding e-commerce sector, which has transformed the way consumers shop for food products. With the rise of online grocery shopping, rice flour and malt manufacturers have the chance to reach a broader audience beyond traditional retail channels. Leveraging digital marketing and targeted promotions can drive awareness and sales of rice flour products through online platforms. Additionally, partnerships with e-commerce retailers can facilitate access to new consumer segments, especially those in remote areas. Thus, by capitalizing on the e-commerce trend, businesses can enhance their market presence and cater to the evolving shopping habits of consumers.

Threats

Despite the promising growth, the rice flour and malt market faces several threats, including the potential fluctuation in raw material prices. The agricultural sector is often subject to changes in climate, crop yields, and global demand, which can impact the availability and pricing of rice and malt ingredients. Such fluctuations can pose challenges for manufacturers in maintaining consistent pricing strategies, thereby affecting their profitability. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of alternative gluten-free ingredients, such as almond flour and coconut flour, poses a competitive threat to the rice flour market. As consumers explore various options, manufacturers must adapt to the evolving landscape by continuously innovating and differentiating their products.

A notable restrainer in the market is the limited consumer awareness regarding the benefits of rice flour and malt products compared to traditional flour. Despite the growing popularity of gluten-free diets, many consumers still have limited knowledge about the applications and advantages of rice-based products. This lack of awareness can hinder market growth, as potential customers may opt for more familiar alternatives. To counter this, manufacturers need to invest in educational marketing campaigns that highlight the nutritional benefits and versatility of rice flour and malt products. By increasing consumer awareness and understanding, the market can foster greater acceptance and demand for these offerings.

Competitor Outlook

• Bob's Red Mill
• King Arthur Flour Company
• General Mills, Inc.
• Archer Daniels Midland Company
• Hodgson Mill
• Rice Flour Company
• Blue Diamond Growers
• Restaurant Depot
• Nature's Path Foods
• VitaFiber
• Grain Millers, Inc.
• SunRice
• Wells Enterprises, Inc.
• Health Canada
• Wheat Foods Council

The competitive landscape of the rice flour and malt market is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging brands. Major companies dominate the market by leveraging their extensive distribution networks, innovative product offerings, and strong brand recognition. These companies continuously engage in strategic collaborations, acquisitions, and partnerships to expand their market reach and enhance their product portfolios. Additionally, the emphasis on research and development allows these firms to introduce novel rice flour and malt products that cater to the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers.

Bob's Red Mill is a prominent player in the market, known for its wide range of gluten-free products, including rice flour and malt. The company has built a strong reputation for quality and sustainability, making it a favorite among health-aware consumers. Their commitment to using whole grains and natural ingredients aligns well with the growing trend towards healthier eating, positioning them favorably in the rice flour and malt market. Furthermore, Bob's Red Mill actively engages in community outreach and education, promoting the benefits of gluten-free diets and expanding consumer awareness.

Another major competitor, Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), has a vast portfolio of agricultural products, including rice flour and malt. With a global presence and extensive supply chain capabilities, ADM is well-positioned to meet the rising demand for rice-based products. Their focus on sustainability and innovation enables them to develop high-quality rice flour and malt options that cater to diverse consumer preferences. Additionally, ADM's investment in research and development allows them to stay ahead of market trends and continually introduce new products that resonate with health-conscious consumers.

• 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 SunRice
    • 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 VitaFiber
    • 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 Hodgson Mill
    • 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 Health Canada
    • 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 Bob's Red Mill
    • 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 Restaurant Depot
    • 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 Rice Flour Company
    • 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 General Mills, Inc.
    • 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 Grain Millers, Inc.
    • 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 Nature's Path Foods
    • 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 Wheat Foods Council
    • 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 Blue Diamond Growers
    • 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 Wells Enterprises, Inc.
    • 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 King Arthur Flour Company
    • 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 Archer Daniels Midland Company
    • 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 Flour Rice and Malt Market, By Application
    • 6.1.1 Bakery & Confectionery
    • 6.1.2 Beverages
    • 6.1.3 Snacks
    • 6.1.4 Baby Food
    • 6.1.5 Others
  • 6.2 Flour Rice and Malt Market, By Product Type
    • 6.2.1 White Rice Flour
    • 6.2.2 Brown Rice Flour
    • 6.2.3 Glutinous Rice Flour
    • 6.2.4 Organic Rice Flour
    • 6.2.5 Specialty Rice Flour
  • 6.3 Flour Rice and Malt Market, By Ingredient Type
    • 6.3.1 Malted Barley
    • 6.3.2 Malted Wheat
    • 6.3.3 Malted Rye
    • 6.3.4 Malted Oats
    • 6.3.5 Others
  • 6.4 Flour Rice and Malt Market, By Distribution Channel
    • 6.4.1 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 6.4.2 Convenience Stores
    • 6.4.3 Online Retail
    • 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 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 India
      • 10.2.1.2 China
      • 10.2.1.3 Japan
      • 10.2.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.3 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.3.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.3.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.4 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 USA
      • 10.4.1.2 Canada
  • 10.5 Flour Rice and Malt Market by Region
  • 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 Flour Rice and Malt market is categorized based on

By Product Type

• White Rice Flour
• Brown Rice Flour
• Glutinous Rice Flour
• Organic Rice Flour
• Specialty Rice Flour

By Application

• Bakery & Confectionery
• Beverages
• Snacks
• Baby Food
• Others

By Distribution Channel

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

By Ingredient Type

• Malted Barley
• Malted Wheat
• Malted Rye
• Malted Oats
• Others

By Region

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

Key Players

• Bob's Red Mill
• King Arthur Flour Company
• General Mills, Inc.
• Archer Daniels Midland Company
• Hodgson Mill
• Rice Flour Company
• Blue Diamond Growers
• Restaurant Depot
• Nature's Path Foods
• VitaFiber
• Grain Millers, Inc.
• SunRice
• Wells Enterprises, Inc.
• Health Canada
• Wheat Foods Council