Global Gluten-Free Food Market to Reach $14.13 Billion by 2033, Driven by Health Awareness and Dietary Shifts

Gluten-Free Food Market Overview

The global gluten-free food market is entering a new growth phase, powered by changing consumer preferences and rising awareness of gluten-related health issues. Valued at USD 6.64 billion in 2024, the market is expected to more than double, reaching USD 14.13 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.75% between 2025 and 2033.

Once considered a niche dietary category for those suffering from celiac disease or gluten intolerance, gluten-free foods have now gone mainstream. From bakery and snacks to beverages and ready meals, gluten-free alternatives are increasingly available in supermarkets, online platforms, and restaurants. With clean-label trends and plant-based diets gaining momentum, gluten-free products are well-positioned to capture a broader health-conscious consumer base worldwide.

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What Are Gluten-Free Foods?

Gluten is a protein naturally found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. For individuals with celiac disease, consuming gluten triggers an autoimmune response that damages the intestines. Others with gluten sensitivity or intolerance also avoid gluten to prevent digestive and health complications.

Gluten-free products include naturally gluten-free grains such as rice, quinoa, and corn, along with food made from alternative flours like almond, coconut, and chickpea. Today, the category has expanded to include everything from cookies and pasta to frozen meals and beverages—appealing not just to those with medical conditions but also to people embracing healthier and allergy-friendly lifestyles.

Key Drivers of Market Growth

1. Rising Prevalence of Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity

Global awareness of celiac disease has grown significantly due to improved diagnostic tools and broader medical knowledge. Studies published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology estimate that 1.4% of the global population is affected by celiac disease. In the U.S. alone, nearly 1 in 133 people live with the condition.

As gluten avoidance is the only treatment option, demand for gluten-free products continues to rise. The prevalence is especially high among women and children, fueling product demand across demographics.

2. Growing “Free-From” and Clean-Label Movement

Consumers are increasingly drawn to the “free-from” category, seeking foods without allergens, additives, or artificial ingredients. Gluten-free has become part of a larger trend that includes dairy-free, sugar-free, and plant-based diets.

Manufacturers are responding with innovative product launches. For example, Base Culture introduced a new gluten-free bread line in 2024 under its “Simply” brand, using flours like tapioca, hemp, and chickpea. Similarly, Feel Good Foods expanded its U.S. breakfast range in 2022 with gluten-free bagels filled with cream cheese, highlighting growing demand for convenient, allergen-friendly products.

3. Policy Support and Certifications

Governments and industry organizations are actively encouraging gluten-free adoption. At the 2022 AAHAR food show in India, APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) launched gluten-free millet-based products at accessible price points, promoting affordability and awareness.

Meanwhile, certification schemes like the AOECS Crossed Grain Symbol provide credibility to brands and build consumer trust. Partnerships between certification bodies and testing organizations are also making gluten-free certification more accessible and affordable for food manufacturers.

4. E-Commerce and Retail Expansion

Online platforms have become a major growth channel for gluten-free foods, making products widely accessible even in regions where specialty items are not readily available. Major retailers and foodservice chains are also expanding gluten-free offerings, ensuring that consumers can find alternatives in mainstream supermarkets, restaurants, and cafés.

Regional Insights

North America

North America leads the global gluten-free food market, driven by high awareness levels, strong retail infrastructure, and rising diagnoses of celiac disease. The U.S. market is among the largest, with a wide range of gluten-free baked goods, pasta, and snacks widely available. Innovative product launches and consumer demand for healthy, allergen-free diets are expected to sustain growth.

Europe

Europe is the second-largest market, with demand boosted by consumer preference for health-conscious foods. Countries like the UK, Germany, and Italy report high rates of gluten intolerance, leading to greater product availability and innovation in gluten-free bakery and ready meals.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific market is growing rapidly, particularly in India, Japan, and Australia, where health awareness and changing diets are driving adoption. India’s growing middle class, combined with increased recognition of celiac disease, is creating strong demand for gluten-free breads, snacks, and packaged goods.

Middle East & Africa

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are witnessing rising demand as consumers adopt healthier diets. Supermarkets and online platforms have expanded gluten-free ranges, offering bread, cereals, and snacks to meet lifestyle and medical needs.

Market Segmentation

The gluten-free food market is diverse, spanning multiple categories:

• By Product Type: Bakery, Confectionery, Snacks, Beverages, Dairy Products, Ready Meals, Baby Food
• By Form: Solid, Liquid
• By Source: Plant-based (rice, corn, pulses, oilseeds), Dairy, Meat
• By Distribution Channel: Conventional stores, E-retailers, Hotels & Restaurants, Specialty stores, Hospitals & Pharmacies

Among these, bakery and snacks dominate due to consumer familiarity and rising demand for convenient gluten-free alternatives.

Key Players

Several global companies are investing in gluten-free innovation and expansion:

• 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.

These companies are launching new products, expanding into emerging markets, and leveraging e-commerce to capture consumer attention.

Future Outlook

The gluten-free food industry is expected to remain on a high-growth trajectory through 2033. Rising health consciousness, product innovation, and the mainstreaming of “free-from” foods will expand the market far beyond its medical consumer base.

Key trends to watch include:

1. Increased focus on plant-based gluten-free foods
2. Greater emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly packaging
3. Expansion of gluten-free offerings in foodservice and quick-service restaurants (QSRs)
4. Wider adoption of certification and labeling standards to build consumer trust

With global sales projected to exceed USD 14 billion by 2033, the gluten-free sector is set to remain a vital part of the future food landscape.

Conclusion

The gluten-free food market has evolved from a niche dietary requirement to a mainstream lifestyle choice. With growing awareness of gluten intolerance, supportive policies, innovative products, and expanding retail access, the industry is experiencing rapid global adoption.

As consumers continue to prioritize health, wellness, and “free-from” diets, gluten-free foods are not just a necessity for some—they are becoming a preferred choice for many. This shift positions the market as one of the most dynamic segments in the global food and beverage industry.

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