Gluten Free Food Market Size and Forecast 2025–2033

The global food industry is undergoing a major transformation—and gluten-free food is at the heart of this shift. According to Renub Research, the Global Gluten Free Food Market will reach US$ 14.13 Billion by 2033, rising from US$ 6.64 Billion in 2024, registering a CAGR of 8.75% between 2025 and 2033. This high-growth trajectory reflects the global population’s changing dietary patterns, increasing health consciousness, and rising diagnosis of gluten intolerance and celiac disease.

Once a niche category reserved for people with medical requirements, gluten-free food has now gone mainstream. From supermarkets and cafes to high-end restaurants and e-commerce platforms, gluten-free products are everywhere. This surge signals not only a growing demand for “free-from” foods but also a cultural shift toward clean-label, transparency-driven nutrition.

Understanding the Gluten-Free Food Market

Gluten-free foods exclude gluten—a protein commonly found in wheat, barley, rye, and related grains. These products are essential for individuals diagnosed with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or wheat allergy. But today, their appeal stretches far beyond this medical base.

Consumers are increasingly opting for gluten-free as part of healthier lifestyles, weight management routines, and anti-inflammatory diets. This has broadened the consumer base, giving the sector robust long-term growth prospects.

Natural gluten-free staples include rice, quinoa, oats, millet, corn, and buckwheat. Meanwhile, innovations in gluten-free baking and processing have made it easier for brands to formulate breads, snacks, pastries, and even beverages without sacrificing taste or texture—once the biggest challenge of gluten-free food development.

Key Growth Drivers Propelling the Gluten-Free Market

1. Supportive Government Policies Boosting Accessibility

Government agencies are actively promoting gluten-free diets through policies, awareness campaigns, and subsidized product initiatives. For instance:

India’s APEDA launched a range of affordable millet-based gluten-free products at the AAHAR Food Show 2022, priced between ₹5 and ₹15—making gluten-free accessible for all income groups.

Globally recognized certification systems such as the AOECS Crossed Grain Symbol help consumers identify safe gluten-free items, pushing brands toward cleaner labeling and higher safety standards.

These policy-level interventions are bridging gaps in affordability, awareness, and quality—creating fertile ground for market expansion.

2. Rising Global Incidence of Gluten Intolerance & Celiac Disease

The scientific community continues to report a significant rise in gluten-related disorders. According to Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 1.4% of the world’s population is diagnosed with celiac disease. However, studies also suggest a vast number remain undiagnosed.

The incidence is notably higher among women and children.

The Celiac Disease Foundation reports a 7.5% annual increase in global prevalence over the last few decades.

As early diagnosis improves and awareness spreads, more individuals are discovering the need for lifelong gluten elimination—fueling exponential demand for gluten-free food.

3. Growing Popularity of “Free-From” and Clean-Label Diets

The rise of clean-label eating is undeniably shaping the future of food. Gluten-free in particular has become synonymous with:

Minimal processing

Better digestion

Natural ingredients

Transparency-driven nutrition

Manufacturers are responding quickly. For example:

In February 2024, Base Culture in the U.S. launched new gluten-free shelf-stable breads under its “Simply” brand—made from clean flours such as coconut, tapioca, flax, and hemp.

Technological advancements in flour blends, extrusion processes, and flavor masking continue to elevate product quality, attracting both gluten-sensitive and trend-driven consumers.

Regional Market Overview

North America: The Global Leader

North America, led by the United States, continues to dominate due to:

High diagnosis rates of celiac disease

Widespread adoption of allergy-free diets

Strong presence of gluten-free food manufacturers

Solid retail and online distribution networks

In the U.S., nearly 1 in 133 people are estimated to have celiac disease, though newer screenings suggest even higher prevalence. Gluten-free breads, snacks, frozen meals, and pastas are now standard offerings in supermarkets and restaurants.

Major product innovations further boost the market. For example:

In November 2022, Feel Good Foods launched gluten-free mini bagels stuffed with cream cheese—introducing a convenient gluten-free breakfast option.

Europe: Second-Largest Consumer Market

Europe closely follows North America, fueled by strong health consciousness and reliable gluten-free certification systems. Countries like Germany, Italy, the UK, and Spain have well-established gluten-free retail segments.

The presence of established celiac societies and government guidelines ensures accessibility, safety, and clear labeling, encouraging consumer trust.

Asia-Pacific: Fastest-Growing Region

Countries like India, Japan, China, Australia, and South Korea are witnessing explosive demand due to:

Rising lifestyle diseases

Growing diagnosis of gluten intolerance

Larger middle-class purchasing power

E-commerce-led availability

In India specifically, demand for gluten-free flour blends, bakery products, and millet-based items is skyrocketing. Social media awareness and fitness culture are further accelerating adoption.

United Kingdom: A Mature and Expanding Market

According to Coeliac UK, 1 in 100 people in the UK suffer from celiac disease, driving strong demand for dedicated gluten-free sections in supermarkets. Gluten-free ready meals, bakery items, and snacks have become mainstream offerings.

The UK's shift toward wellness, sustainable eating, and allergen-safe diets ensures consistent market expansion.

Middle East: Steady Growth Led by Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is emerging as a promising gluten-free market due to:

Rising health-conscious consumers

Increasing awareness of gluten intolerance

Expanding supermarket and e-commerce penetration

Growth in youth population seeking healthier diets

Brands are launching gluten-free cereals, breads, biscuits, and dairy alternatives to meet demand.

Market Segmentation Snapshot

By Product Type

Bakery

Confectionery

Snacks

Beverages

Dairy Products

Ready Meals

Baby Food

Others

By Form

Liquid

Solid

By Source

Animal Sources (Dairy, Meat)

Plant Sources (Pulses, Oilseeds, Rice, Corn, Others)

By Distribution Channel

Conventional Stores

E-Retailers

Specialty Services

Hotels & Restaurants

Educational Institutes

Hospitals & Drug Stores

Regional Scope

North America (U.S., Canada)

Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, etc.)

Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Australia, etc.)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina)

Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa)

Competitive Landscape

The gluten-free food market features both established players and agile innovators. Key companies include:

General Mills

The Hain Celestial Group Inc.

Kellogg’s Company

ConAgra Brands Inc.

The Kraft Heinz Company

Raisio PLC

Hero Group AG

DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

Brands are heavily investing in:

Clean-label formulations

Alternative flours

Flavor innovation

Eye-catching, eco-friendly packaging

Wider retail and e-commerce availability

Recent strategies also highlight mergers, acquisitions, and new product launches to strengthen global presence.

Final Thoughts

The gluten-free food market is no longer a niche segment—it’s a global movement driven by health awareness, technological innovation, and evolving consumer preferences. With a projected value of US$ 14.13 Billion by 2033, the gluten-free industry is positioned for sustained growth.

As more consumers shift toward personalized nutrition, allergen-free diets, and clean-label food choices, gluten-free products will continue to gain prominence across supermarkets, restaurants, online marketplaces, and homes worldwide.

With strong government support, smarter labeling, and breakthrough product innovation, the next decade will redefine how gluten-free food shapes the future of global nutrition.