Dehydrated Food Market Outlook, 2028

In a world marked by fast-paced lifestyles and increasing emphasis on convenience, the global dehydrated food products market has emerged as a viable solution for consumers seeking nourishing sustenance that withstands the test of time. Dehydrated foods, characterized by their minimal moisture content, offer a unique combination of convenience, extended shelf life, and retained nutritional value, making them a popular choice for individuals, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and emergency preparedness efforts alike. Dehydrated foods are products from which a significant portion of moisture has been removed through various methods, such as air drying, freeze drying, or sun drying. This dehydration process not only imparts an extended shelf life to these products but also serves to lock in essential nutrients and flavors. From dried fruits and vegetables to jerky, complete meal solutions, and powdered dairy products, the market offers a diverse array of options to cater to varying consumer preferences and dietary requirements. Drying is a process in which moisture or water content is removed from food products up to a desired level. Removal of moisture improves the shelf life of food by preserving its nutritive value. Changing consumer trends in terms of type of food consumed and the adoption of on-the-go eating habits is expected to boost demand for dried foods. Moreover, a focus on providing nutrition-rich dried products through their offerings of ready-to-cook or on-the-go meals and snacks remains one of the growth strategies of dehydrated vegetable providers. Burgeoning demand for processed diet is forcing food producers towards the introduction of new products, thereby providing nutritious and ready-to-eat food with an elongated shelf life. Dehydrated vegetables are rapidly evolving as favored snacks with people who prefer ready-to-eat vegetables in dehydrated form. The escalation in demand for the product is influencing the overall sales.

According to the research report, Global Dehydrated Food Products Market Outlook, 2028 the market is anticipated to cross USD 102.6 Billion by 2028 increasing from USD 70.84 Billion in 2022. Further, the market is projected to grow with 6.50% CAGR by 2023-28. Key drivers of the market are increasing acceptance of processed food in regular diet and technological improvements such as emergence of hybrid drying technologies. Continuous research on application of dried food in various end-use applications such as pharmaceuticals and healthcare will boost market demand. For example, dried plum is proven to be effective for bone protection in osteoporosis disease. Growing demand for instant natural fruit juices can boost demand for dried fruits and vegetables. The rapid expansion in the global market is mostly attributable to the soaring demand for goods with longer shelf lives. Veggies that have been dried have a longer shelf life than fresh vegetables. Dehydration also minimizes the amount of weight and space needed to store and move goods. In today's world, when most families have two working parents, dried vegetables are a practical alternative for those who don't have the time to go grocery shopping, clean, sort, and chop fresh produce. Product introduction is the main emphasis for producers as they try to meet consumer demand. For instance, Anuha Food Goods (AFPPL), a Hyderabad-based food processing firm, introduced a line of ready-to-cook (RTC) goods in December 2020 under its dehydrated gluten-free F&B brand Zilli. The increasing demand for food products with long shelf lives is notably driving the packaged dehydrated food market growth, although factors such as increasing adoption of the drying-at-home technique may impede market growth. The busy lifestyles and the rising working population, especially women have further fueled the demand for packaged dehydrated food products as they can be stored for long periods and yet retain their freshness. For instance; In June 2021, Sow Good Inc. announced the launch of its first product line of freeze-dried fruit and vegetable snacks and smoothies. Dehydrated foods retain their original flavor and nutritional benefits for a long time, which is driving the demand for such products in the forecast years.

Based on the region, Europe is leading the market in 2022 in global dehydrated food products market.

The fast-paced lifestyles of consumers have led to an increased demand for convenient food options, including dehydrated products. Ready-to-eat and instant meals made from dehydrated ingredients have gained popularity, especially among urban populations. Consumers in Europe are increasingly seeking healthier food options, and dehydrated products can offer a way to retain the nutritional value of ingredients while also providing longer shelf life. Dehydrated fruits, vegetables, and grains often retain a significant portion of their vitamins and minerals. Dehydrated products are known for their extended shelf life compared to fresh produce. This has made them attractive for consumers looking to reduce food waste and for those who want to stock up on non-perishable items. Dehydrated ingredients are being used creatively by chefs and home cooks to add unique flavors, textures, and appearances to dishes. This has led to innovation in the use of dehydrated foods in gourmet and high-end culinary applications. Europe's culture of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and backpacking, has driven demand for lightweight, portable, and nutritious dehydrated meals that are easy to carry and prepare in remote locations. The trend toward veganism and plant-based diets has boosted the demand for dehydrated plant-based protein sources, such as legumes and soy products, for use in a variety of meals. Additionally, the growth of online shopping has provided consumers with easier access to a wide variety of dehydrated food products. E-commerce platforms have expanded the reach of both local and international brands.

Based on the method, spray dried dehydration method is dominating the global market in 2022.

Dehydration, as a preservation method, comes in various forms, with each technique offering distinct advantages and applications. One method that has particularly gained prominence in the global dehydrated food products market is spray drying. This technology has revolutionized the food industry by enabling the production of high-quality, shelf-stable dehydrated products on a large scale. Spray drying is a process that involves converting a liquid or slurry into fine particles through the application of heat. In the context of the food industry, it is widely used to create powdered or granulated forms of various food products, including dairy, fruits, vegetables, and even beverages. Spray drying operates at relatively low temperatures, which helps to preserve the nutritional content of the food. Vitamins, minerals, and other sensitive nutrients are less likely to degrade during the process compared to some other drying methods. In addition to that, the rapid evaporation in spray drying leads to the formation of small particles with high surface area. This results in improved solubility, making spray-dried products suitable for instant mixes, such as soups, beverages, and sauces. The removal of moisture through spray drying inhibits the growth of spoilage-causing microorganisms, thereby extending the shelf life of the products. This is especially beneficial for products that need to be stored for extended periods. As the demand for dehydrated food products continues to rise, the role of spray drying in shaping the market's landscape is set to remain pivotal.

Based on the product type, milk powder segment is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.

In the vast expanse of the global dehydrated food products market, one product has managed to secure a position of unparalleled dominance - milk powder. With its widespread use and multifaceted applications, milk powder has established itself as a staple in kitchens, pantries, and industries worldwide. Milk powder's versatility in culinary applications is a key driver behind its dominance. It serves as a fundamental ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes, offering a rich and creamy flavor profile. From enriching sauces and soups to enhancing the texture of baked goods and confectionery, milk powder brings a touch of creaminess that's both comforting and delectable. One of the most significant advantages of milk powder is its extended shelf life. By removing the moisture content through dehydration, milk powder becomes less susceptible to spoilage, thus offering an extended storage period. This characteristic is especially valuable in regions where access to fresh milk might be limited. Furthermore, the lightweight and compact nature of milk powder make it an excellent choice for situations where portability is crucial, such as camping trips, hiking expeditions, or emergency food supplies. Its convenience and long shelf life have positioned milk powder as a reliable source of nutrition in a wide range of scenarios. Also, the global appetite for dairy products remains insatiable, and milk powder caters to this demand efficiently. It's a versatile ingredient that can be reconstituted into liquid milk or used as a flavor enhancer in numerous recipes. In regions where dairy farming might be challenging due to factors like climate or geographical constraints, milk powder offers a viable alternative.

Based on the form, powder & granules segment is leading in 2022 in global dehydrated food products market.

Powder & Granules form is likely to continue experiencing growth due to its versatility and convenience. Dehydrated powders and granules are used as flavor enhancers, nutritional supplements, and in the production of various food items, including sauces, soups, seasonings, and beverages. The demand for convenient cooking solutions and flavor customization has contributed to the growth of this segment. Dehydrating food removes water content, which is essential for microbial growth. This significantly extends the shelf life of the product. When properly packaged and stored, dehydrated food can last for months to even years without spoiling. Removing water content reduces the weight and volume of the food, making it much lighter and compact. This is especially beneficial for outdoor activities, camping, and emergency food supplies, where space and weight are crucial factors. Also, dehydrated powders and granules can be easily incorporated into a wide range of recipes, both savory and sweet. They can be used as flavor enhancers, soup bases, seasoning blends, baking ingredients, and more. Powdered and granulated dehydrated foods are popular choices for emergency food storage. They require minimal preparation and can be easily stored for extended periods, making them valuable for disaster preparedness.

Based on the application, desserts and ice cream segment is expected to grow high CAGR by 2023-28 in global dehydrated food products market.

Dehydrated food products are often used in desserts and ice cream for several reasons, including flavor enhancement, texture modification, convenience, and extended shelf life. Dehydrating fruits, nuts, and other ingredients removes their water content, concentrating their natural flavors. This intensification of flavors can add a burst of taste to desserts and ice cream, enhancing the overall sensory experience. They can provide a pleasant textural contrast to the creamy and smooth nature of desserts and ice cream. Crunchy or chewy dehydrated elements can create an interesting mouth feel and enhance the overall enjoyment of the dessert. Dehydrated ingredients can be used to provide flavors and textures that might not be available or in season year-round. This enables chefs and food manufacturers to create consistent and varied dessert offerings regardless of the time of year. These ingredients are easy to use and incorporate into dessert recipes. They don't require the same level of preparation as fresh ingredients and can be stored conveniently until needed. Also, these ingredients are often used as toppings for desserts and ice cream, allowing for portion control and enabling customers to customize their treats according to their preferences.

Based on the nature, conventional dehydrated food products grew prominent CAGR from 2017 to 2022 in global dehydrated food products market.

Conventional dehydrated food products are experiencing growth for several reasons, driven by changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, economic factors, and sustainability considerations. Busy lifestyles and the demand for convenient, ready-to-eat or easy-to-prepare foods have led to increased interest in dehydrated products. Dehydrated foods are quick to rehydrate and use, making them a convenient option for modern consumers. Dehydrated foods have a significantly longer shelf life compared to fresh products. This makes them appealing for consumers who want to stock up on non-perishable items, especially during emergencies or for outdoor activities. Dehydration helps to reduce food waste by preserving the shelf life of perishable ingredients. This aligns with the growing awareness of sustainability and the desire to make more environmentally conscious choices. Consumers are becoming more adventurous with their food choices, exploring flavors and ingredients from around the world. Dehydrated foods can offer access to unique ingredients that may not be locally available. The uncertainties posed by natural disasters, supply chain disruptions, and other emergencies have led consumers to seek out dehydrated foods as part of their food security and emergency preparedness plans. Dehydrated foods are lightweight and have a lower volume compared to fresh foods, making them suitable for backpacking, camping, and other outdoor adventures. Their portability is a significant advantage for individuals on the go.

Based on the distribution channel, food manufacturer is expected to add market share from 2023 to 2028.

Food manufacturers play a critical role in producing and supplying dehydrated food products to various distribution channels. They often produce bulk quantities of dehydrated ingredients, additives, and ready-to-eat meals that are then distributed to other sectors of the food industry. Dehydrated ingredients, such as dried fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs, are sold to other food manufacturers for use in their products. These ingredients can be found in packaged snacks, cereals, soups, sauces, and more. Dehydrated additives like flavor enhancers, seasonings, and food colorings are used by food manufacturers to create specific flavors and appearances in their products. Food manufacturers can produce dehydrated products that are later rebranded for various retail and foodservice establishments. This allows for customization and branding flexibility.

Key Market Insights

The market includes tier-1, tier-2, and local players. The key market participants generally pursue the new market for dehydrated fruits & vegetables categories. In manufacturing, specialized for a particular environment is generally preferable to the dehydrated fruits & vegetable industry. For instance, in January 2022, with a collection of producers and retailers, Ice-Make Refrigerator Limited concluded a deal, and the producers and retailers used the refrigeration system for the food products. It has been much simpler to use food products such that there is no food wasted with the invention of the dehydration machine. Prominent players in the dehydrated fruits & vegetables market research include Olam International, Maruha Nichiro Corporation, McCormick & Company, Dohler Group SE, Sensient Technologies Corporation, Nestlé S.A., Cargill, Incorporated, Arla Foods amba, BCFoods Inc., Red River Foods, Tong Garden Co. Ltd., European Freeze Dry, Silva International, Inc, Kiril Mischeff Limited, Berrifine A/S, Van Drunen Farms, ITC Limited, Hormel Foods Corporation, Link Snacks, Inc., Catz International.

Key developments

• In June 2022, Systm Foods, a platform for food and beverage brand sales, purchased the Chameleon Organic Coffee brand from Nestlé.
• In January 2022, Crispy Green released a new 'Chilli Lime' flavour variation of Piña Picante, a freeze-dried pineapple snack. It is made from imported Costa Rican pineapples that have been infused with a specialty blend of species before being air-dried.

Covid-19 Impacts

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a shift in the spending patterns of US, Canada, and Mexico consumers on food. Consumers increased their expenditure on food from grocery stores and other retail food establishments and simultaneously reduced their spending on takeaway food in 2020. Additionally, due to the lockdown restrictions, several consumers stocked up on essential groceries to avoid food shortages and to reduce their potential exposure to COVID-19 by venturing outside. One of the major reasons for this is the shift toward healthy packaged dehydrated food and the rising popularity of buying these products on e-commerce channels due to the lower chances of contamination and the higher shelf life of food. This will propel the growth of the regional packaged dehydrated food market during the forecast period.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Global Dehydrated Food Products with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Region-wise Dehydrated Food Products market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regions & Countries covered in the report:

• North America (United States, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, Russia)
• Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea)
• South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia)
• Middle-East & Africa (UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa)

By Method

• 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 (pet foods)

By Form

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

By Nature

• Conventional
• Organic

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 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 organizations related to the Dehydrated Food Products 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.