Gluten-Free Beverages Market - Forecasts from 2024 to 2029

The gluten-free beverages market was estimated at US$2.011 billion in 2022.

Gluten-free beverages are drinks meticulously crafted to avoid gluten, a protein compound commonly found in wheat, barley, rye, and oats. While most beverages like juices, sodas, and sports drinks naturally lack gluten, certain alcoholic beverages such as beer, whisky, and ales may contain gluten due to their malt content.

The rising prevalence of celiac disease and gluten allergies has significantly propelled the popularity of gluten-free beverages. Additionally, individuals with conditions like autism, ADHD, multiple sclerosis, and IBS may also experience adverse effects from gluten consumption.

Alcoholic beverages like distilled liquors and hard ciders stand out as gluten-free alternatives. The global market for gluten-free beverages is witnessing remarkable growth, driven by heightened awareness of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. Moreover, the growing interest in health and wellness is prompting many to adopt gluten-free diets, spurred by perceived health benefits linked with gluten-free living.

Enhanced taste and quality are drawing a broader consumer base to gluten-free beverages, even among those without strict dietary requirements. Accessibility is also improving, with gluten-free options becoming more prevalent in supermarkets, online retailers, and specialty stores. This heightened accessibility facilitates easier incorporation of gluten-free alternatives into consumers' diets.

Clear labeling and a focus on natural ingredients are increasingly sought after by consumers, driving the popularity of gluten-free beverages that align with these preferences. The surge in demand for organic and functional beverages further complements the gluten-free market, as consumers seeking health-benefiting ingredients often gravitate toward gluten-free options.

By catering to the needs of individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or specific dietary preferences, the global gluten-free beverage market is poised for sustained growth.

Market Drivers:

The growing cases of gluten-related allergies are augmenting the gluten-free beverages market growth

Gluten intolerance, a medical condition characterized by the body's inability to digest gluten, can cause various symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, diarrhea, joint pain, bloating, gas, and abdominal pain. According to recent data from the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 1 in 3 U.S. adults and over 1 in 4 U.S. children reported experiencing seasonal allergies, eczema, or food allergies in 2021.

Around 6% of U.S. adults and children are affected by food allergies. The increasing prevalence of gluten allergies and celiac disease has sparked a rising demand for gluten-free products, which is expected to further drive market growth.

Growing health consciousness

With a growing emphasis on health consciousness, consumers are increasingly seeking out products perceived as healthier. However, for certain individuals, the consumption of gluten can lead to various health issues. In those with a hereditary predisposition, gluten intake can trigger celiac disease, a severe autoimmune condition. Gluten ataxia, although rare, is another disorder characterized by an immunological response to gluten, resulting in damage to the cerebellum and consequent impairment of balance and coordination.

Fortunately, numerous gluten-free grains are available, such as rice, quinoa, millet, and buckwheat. These grains can serve as excellent alternatives in a variety of gluten-free recipes, including stir-fries and salads. Ultimately, transitioning to a gluten-free diet may be a personal choice aligned with one's health goals.

Market Restraint:

High price as a market restraint

During the projection period, the widespread adoption of gluten-free beverages faced significant challenges due to their higher prices compared to other drinks and the volatile prices of raw materials. Key market players encountered opportunities through continuous product innovation and the introduction of new and exciting flavor profiles, particularly in the alcoholic beverage segment.

Gluten-free ingredients such as sorghum, millet, and brown rice tended to be more expensive than traditional barley or wheat used in conventional beverages. Moreover, the special processing techniques required for gluten-free certification added to production costs. Consequently, these higher costs often resulted in elevated retail prices for gluten-free beverages, potentially limiting consumer adoption, especially among budget-conscious shoppers.

Furthermore, some individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity may have been unaware of the availability of gluten-free beverage options. This lack of awareness further hindered the market penetration of gluten-free beverages despite their potential benefits for those with specific dietary needs.

Global gluten-free beverages market segmentation by distribution channel into health stores, convenience stores, supermarkets/hypermarkets, online retailers, and others.

The global market for gluten-free beverages can be segmented by distribution channel, which includes Health Stores, Convenience Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Online Retailers, and Others. Health Stores specializes in natural and organic products, encompassing gluten-free food and beverages within their offerings.

Convenience stores typically offer a limited range of daily essentials, including a modest selection of gluten-free beverages. Supermarkets and hypermarkets, on the other hand, offer a wide array of food and beverage options, including an expanding assortment of gluten-free choices.

Online retailers cater to a diverse range of gluten-free beverages, often featuring products not easily found in local brick-and-mortar stores. Other distribution channels encompass specialty stores catering to specific dietary needs, vending machines, and direct-to-consumer sales facilitated by manufacturers.

North America is anticipated to hold a significant share of the Gluten-free beverages market:

North America is anticipated to hold a significant market share in gluten-free beverages. This region will experience rapid expansion throughout the projection period due to the rising prevalence of gluten-related allergies among North Americans. This region's market is also expanding due to the growing millennial population.

This region's market is expanding due to changing eating habits and rising demand for healthy beverages. Growing demand for gluten-free products in countries like the United States also propels regional market demand. In addition, the prevalence of key market players such as Coco Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, DSM, and others also spurs the growth of gluten-free beverages in this region.

Market Developments:

• March 2024 -  Tirlán launched a new Truly Gluten-Free Premium Irish Oat drink made with Irish oats into the US market. Upholding the company's commitment to its Irish farming tradition and heritage, the Truly Gluten-Free Oat Beverage Range was made with 100% gluten-free premium Irish oats, creating the purest, creamiest flavor.
• March 2023 -  Wormtown Brewery introduced its latest line of alcoholic beverages, known as SHOOK. Crafted from fermented cane sugar and fruit juice, these beverages were potent and gluten-free, boasting an ABV of 8 percent. The initial offerings included two flavors, Mai Tai and Cape Codder, which drew inspiration from classic cocktails. SHOOK was distributed in four packs of 16-ounce cans.
• June 2022 -  Joyburst announced its launch into the U.S. market with a new flavor created with music icon Vanilla Ice. With all-natural, easy-to-read, straightforward ingredients, these drinks had no sugar and zero calories and were also keto-verified and gluten-free. 

Market Segmentation:

By Product

• Alcoholic beverage
• Fermented
• Distilled
• Others 
• Non-alcoholic beverage
• Carbonated
• Non-carbonated

By Distribution Channel

• Health Stores
• Convenience Stores
• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Online retailers
• Others

By Geography

• North America
• USA
• Canada
• Mexico
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Others
• Europe
• Germany
• France
• UK
• Spain
• Others
• Middle East and Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Israel
• Others
• Asia Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• South Korea
• Indonesia
• Thailand
• Others