The gluten-free market is cementing its staying power as more than a mere dietary fad and continues to make national headlines. In the retail sector, sales of gluten-free foods posted an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 34% over the five-year period ending in 2014, according to market research publisher Packaged Facts in the recently released report Gluten-Free Foods in the U.S., 5th Edition. Additionally, survey data reveals that more than a third of consumers claim gluten-free/wheat-free is an important factor when they are shopping for food.
“Retailers have embraced the gluten-free trend by stocking more gluten-free items, featuring them in store, and launching their own private label brands. In addition, retail chains have been courting the gluten-free consumer with a variety of festivals and events,” says Packaged Facts research director David Sprinkle.
Looking ahead, the gluten-free market’s momentum isn’t expected to wane anytime soon. Packaged Facts projects sales will exceed $2 billion in 2019. Gluten-Free Foods in the U.S., 5th Edition highlights several key factors favoring continued growth in the market, including:
Consumer trends, including use of, interest in, and opinions about gluten-free foods;
Growth in demographic groups showing a strong propensity to purchase gluten-free foods;
The escalating prevalence of health problems associated with diet;
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More and better-quality gluten-free food products that are readily available in mainstream retail channels;
The growing presence of large marketers in the segment; and
A ruling by the Food and Drug Administration on the definition of “gluten free” that will level the playing field among manufacturers.
In Gluten-Free Foods in the U.S., 5th Edition, Packaged Facts’ analysis focuses on traditionally grain-based products in the following categories: salty snacks, crackers, pasta, bread, cold (ready-to-eat) cereal, cookies, baking mixes, frozen bread/dough, and flour. For further insights from this and other reports in Packaged Facts’ industry leading catalog of food and beverage reports, please visit www.packagedfacts.com.
