Middle East & Africa Dehydrated Food Market Outlook, 2028

Dehydrating food has been a practical way to preserve surplus produce in regions where fresh ingredients might be scarce during certain seasons. The dry climate in parts of the Middle East and Africa makes sun-drying an effective preservation method. There has been an increased interest in dehydrated foods due to their long shelf life, convenience, and nutritional value. This has led to the commercial production of various dehydrated snacks and ingredients. In addition to fruits and vegetables, grains and legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and couscous are often dehydrated and used in various dishes. These dried staples can be stored for extended periods and are essential components of many traditional recipes. Dehydrated herbs and plants have been used for their medicinal properties in traditional Middle Eastern and African herbal medicine. These dried herbs are often used to make teas, infusions, and remedies to address various health concerns. While sun-drying remains a traditional and widely used method, modern technology has introduced other methods like air-drying, freeze-drying, and dehydrator machines. These methods allow for more controlled drying processes and can be used to preserve a wider range of foods. In coastal regions of the Middle East and Africa, drying seafood such as fish and shrimp is a traditional practice. Dried fish, for example, is often used to add umami flavor to dishes and is a valuable protein source in regions where fresh seafood might not be readily available.

According to the research report, “Middle East & Africa Dehydrated Food Product Market Outlook, 2028” the market is anticipated to cross more than USD 7.50 Billion market size by 2028. Rapid urbanization across the Middle East and Africa has led to busier lifestyles and a higher demand for convenient and shelf-stable food options, making dehydrated foods an attractive choice. As consumers become more health-conscious, there is a growing interest in snacking on natural, minimally processed foods. Dehydrated fruits, vegetables, and nuts align with these preferences. The rise of culinary tourism has prompted interest in exploring local flavors and ingredients. Dehydrated foods are often integral to traditional dishes that tourists seek to experience. The trend towards healthier eating has increased the demand for nutrient-dense snacks and ingredients. Dehydrated fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are perceived as wholesome choices. The hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants, and catering services, often rely on dehydrated ingredients to ensure consistent quality and reduce food wastage. The rise of plant-based diets has led to greater demand for plant-based snacks and ingredients. Dehydrated fruits and vegetables are integral to these diets, serving as convenient and versatile options. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of packaging. Brands are exploring sustainable packaging options for dehydrated products to reduce waste. Beyond single ingredients, there's a rise in dehydrated sauces, spice blends, and condiments that add depth and complexity to dishes. The minimalist cooking movement is driving interest in dehydrated ingredients as a way to simplify and elevate meals.

Based on countries, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, among them the Saudi Arabia dominate the Middle East & Africa Dehydrated Food Product market in 2022.

Saudi Arabia boasts a robust and diverse economy with a high GDP compared to many other countries in the Middle East & Africa. This economic strength translates into greater consumer purchasing power and investment capacity in the food industry. The country has been actively investing in its food processing and manufacturing infrastructure, fostering the growth of the dehydrated food sector. Saudi Arabia has a sizable population, including a significant expatriate community. The demand for convenient and longer-lasting food products, such as dehydrated foods, is higher in densely populated regions. Rapid urbanization in Saudi Arabia has led to changes in lifestyle and dietary habits. Urban consumers often seek convenient and ready-to-eat food options, which include dehydrated foods. Saudi Arabian consumers, like many others globally, appreciate the convenience offered by dehydrated food products. These products align with busy urban lifestyles. The Saudi population enjoys a diverse range of traditional and international cuisines, where dehydrated ingredients can be used in various recipes. Saudi Arabia has been investing in initiatives to enhance food security by increasing domestic food production. Dehydrated foods, with their longer shelf life, contribute to food security efforts by reducing food loss and waste. Saudi Arabia serves as a major trade hub in the Middle East & Africa region, facilitating the import and export of dehydrated food products to and from neighbouring countries. Saudi Arabia, being the birthplace of Islam, has stringent halal certification requirements. Dehydrated food manufacturers often comply with these standards to cater to the Muslim population.

Based on method, the market is divided into Spray dried, Air dried/Sun dried, Vacuum dried/ Microwave dried, Freeze dried and others (drum dried, etc.)

Air drying and sun drying are traditional methods of food preservation in many Middle Eastern and African cultures. These methods have been passed down through generations, preserving culinary traditions and flavors. These drying methods have been used for centuries in the region to extend the shelf life of seasonal produce and ensure food availability during periods of scarcity. Air drying and sun drying involve minimal processing and do not typically require the use of additives or preservatives. This aligns with consumer preferences for clean label and minimally processed foods. These methods often retain a higher percentage of the original nutrients, flavors, and aromas compared to some other drying techniques, making them appealing to health-conscious consumers. Air drying and sun drying can intensify the natural flavors of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. This flavor concentration is valued in Middle Eastern and African cuisines, which are known for their bold and aromatic flavors. Traditional dishes in the Middle East and Africa often rely on air-dried or sun-dried ingredients for authenticity. These dried foods are used in recipes like stews, tagines, and couscous. A wide range of products can be air-dried or sun-dried, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and even meats. This diversity caters to different culinary needs and preferences. The region's rich culinary heritage attracts tourists interested in authentic food experiences. Air-dried and sun-dried ingredients play a crucial role in these culinary tourism offerings.

Based on the product types, the market is divided into milk powder, other dairy products, fruits, vegetables, herbs, fish and seafood, meat, and others (pet foods).

Dehydrated fruits often retain their natural sweetness, making them a healthier alternative to sugary snacks. Consumers seeking sweet treats with fewer added sugars are drawn to dehydrated fruits. The dehydration process can intensify the flavors of fruits, making them more appealing to consumers looking for bold and satisfying taste experiences. Dehydrated fruits typically retain a significant portion of their original nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. This appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking nutritious snacks. Dehydrated fruits have a longer shelf life compared to fresh fruits, reducing the frequency of grocery shopping and the risk of food waste. Many consumers in the Middle East and Africa include dehydrated fruits in their emergency preparedness kits due to their long shelf life and nutritional value. Dehydrated fruits are easy to carry and consume on the go, making them a convenient choice for busy individuals and families. Dehydrated fruits can be used in baking and cooking, adding a natural sweetness and fruity flavor to a wide range of dishes, from desserts to savory meals. In many Middle Eastern and African cultures, dried fruits have a long history of use in traditional desserts and dishes, contributing to their continued popularity. Dehydrated fruits are a quick source of natural energy due to their carbohydrate content, making them popular among athletes and individuals seeking an energy boost.

Based on the form, the market is divided into powder and granules, minced and chopped, slices and cubes, flakes, and others (whole).

Powdered and granulated dehydrated foods are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. They can be quickly incorporated into a variety of recipes, from soups and stews to sauces and gravies. This versatility appeals to both home cooks and professional chefs who appreciate the convenience of readily available ingredients. Powdered and granulated dehydrated foods rehydrate almost instantly when mixed with hot water or other liquids. This makes them ideal for quick meal preparation, especially for individuals with busy lifestyles. Hikers, campers, and travelers often prefer these forms because they are compact and lightweight, making them convenient for outdoor adventures and travel. Some powdered and granulated dehydrated foods retain a significant portion of their original nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. These appeals to health-conscious consumers looking for nutritious meal options. Powdered and granulated forms of dehydrated foods are readily available in both traditional brick-and-mortar retail stores and through e-commerce platforms. This widespread availability ensures easy access for consumers across the Middle East & Africa. Many countries in the Middle East and Africa are involved in the local production of dehydrated food products in powder and granules form, supporting domestic industries and reducing reliance on imports.

According to the application, the market is divided into desserts and ice cream, bakery and confectionery, yoghurt and smoothies, salads and pastries, soups and snacks, pet food and treats, dips, dressings and seasoning mixes, and others (breakfast cereals).

Dehydrated pet foods often retain a higher proportion of their original nutrients compared to some other processing methods. Pet owners are increasingly focused on providing their pets with nutritious and balanced diets. Dehydrated pet foods are perceived as having higher-quality ingredients, which aligns with pet owners' desires to offer the best nutrition to their pets. Dehydrated pet foods are convenient for pet owners as they can be quickly prepared by adding water. This convenience suits busy lifestyles. Owners can easily control portion sizes when using dehydrated pet foods, helping to manage their pets' weight and dietary requirements. Some dehydrated pet foods are available in hypoallergenic or grain-free formulations, which cater to pets with food sensitivities and allergies. Dehydrated pet foods have a longer shelf life compared to traditional pet foods, reducing the need for frequent purchases and minimizing food waste. Dehydrated pet foods can be customized to cater to pets with specific dietary needs, such as senior pets, puppies, or pets with medical conditions. Dehydrated pet foods and treats are readily available in both traditional pet stores and through online retailers, ensuring easy access for pet owners across the region. The growth of pet-friendly hospitality services in the region has led to increased demand for convenient and high-quality pet food options, including dehydrated products.

Companies Covered in this report:

Olam International ,Maruha Nichiro Corporation,McCormick & Company,Dohler Group SE,Sensient Technologies Corporation,Nestlé S.A. ,Cargill, Incorporated,Arla Foods amba and Red River Foods.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Middle East & Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Middle East & Africa Dehydrated Food Product market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Dehydrated Food Product market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Country covered in the report:

• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Method Type

• Spray dried
• Air dried/Sun dried
• Vacuum dried/ Microwave dried
• Freeze dried
• Others (drum dried, etc)

By Product Type

• Milk powder
• Other Dairy Products
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Herbs
• Fish and Seafood
• Meat
• Others (prepared meals, pet foods)

By Form

• Powder & Granules
• Minced & Chopped
• Slice & Cubes
• Flakes
• Others (whole)

By Application

• Desserts and Ice Cream
• Bakery and Confectionery
• Yogurt and Smoothies
• Salads and Pasta
• Soups and Snacks
• Pet Food and Treats
• Dips, Dressings & Seasoning mix
• Others (Breakfast Cereals)

By Nature

• Conventional
• Organic

By Distribution Channel

• Food Manufacturer
• Food Service
• Retails

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the Dehydrated Food Product industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.