Africa food ingredients market size projected to reach US$3B by 2034
Multinational corporations are gradually establishing local partnerships in the region to meet local demand and navigate the complex regulatory environment.
AFRICA – The Africa food ingredients market was valued at US$1.9 billion in 2024, and is projected to reach US$3 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.7%, according to a report released by Global Market Insights.
Rising urbanization, an emerging middle-class, and increased consumption of convenience and processed meals are fuelling the market’s growth.
The demand for natural products, organic ingredients, and clean-label components—particularly plant-based proteins, natural sweeteners, and functional additives—has also increased as consumers are becoming more health conscious.
Food makers are also being encouraged by this trend to restructure their goods using components that are healthier and more transparent.
In terms of innovation and distribution, the five major participants in the African food ingredients industry are the Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), Kerry Group, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Givaudan S.A., and Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
These businesses play significant roles by using their global experience to satisfy local demand for premium, useful, and sustainable ingredients.
ADM and Kerry offer customised solutions in nutrition, flavours, and plant-based ingredients, supporting food security and health objectives.
DuPont contributes with specialty food enzymes and texturants that help to extend shelf life and improve processing effectiveness.
Givaudan leads in natural flavours and sensory innovation, while Ajinomoto supports the savoury food segment with its cutting-edge umami technologies and seasonings tailored to African taste profiles.
Dupont successfully merged its Nutrition and Biosciences division with International Flavours & Fragrances company in February 2021, while The Kerry Group announced its acquisition of Afribon in December 2021. These mergers and acquisitions highlight the growing demand for food ingredients in the region.
Cape Food Ingredients established a new product development (NPD) laboratory in Nairobi, Kenya, in October 2023 with the goal of enhancing its capacity to develop and provide food ingredient solutions that are especially tailored for the East African market.
Owing to its sophisticated industrial base, robust retail industry, and consumer preference for packaged and health-conscious goods, South Africa leads the region in terms of market size.
In North Africa, especially in nations like Egypt and Morocco, demand is propelled by growing urbanization and the appeal of traditional bakery, confectionery, and dairy products, where flavour enhancers and emulsifiers are frequently used.
East Africa, with Kenya serving as a major market, is witnessing growth in nutritional and functional ingredients in order to combat food insecurity and malnutrition.
The West African market, with nations like Nigeria and Ghana, is developing quickly because of its dense population and rising snack and processed food consumption, which calls for stabilizers, colorants, and flavourants.
Despite being less developed, Central Africa is gradually embracing food ingredients in basic processing, frequently as a result of urban population development and international aid.
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