Chicory Market

Chicory Market Analysis

The Chicory Market size is estimated at USD 0.93 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 1.15 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.20% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

Heightened awareness of chicory's health benefits is propelling its market growth. Chicory serves various medicinal purposes, treating conditions like constipation, high blood pressure, appetite loss, gallbladder disorders, and even cancer. Moreover, a paste made from chicory leaves can be applied topically to alleviate swelling and inflammation. The rising obesity epidemic further amplifies the demand for chicory. For instance, a 2023 study by the Indian Council of Medical Research – India Diabetes (ICMR INDIAB) found that 101 million people in India are diabetic. Chicory recognized for its low-calorie content and potential role in weight management, is increasingly sought after as a dietary fiber supplement. Beyond its health advantages, chicory's applications in the food and beverage sector are set to further bolster its demand.

The surging trend of plant-based and functional foods, frequently incorporating chicory, underscores the market's expansion. Furthermore, advancements in chicory extraction and processing technologies have enhanced product quality and availability, piquing consumer interest. The rising appetite for gluten-free appetizers is also set to elevate chicory consumption. Innovative chicory recipes are emerging, further stimulating demand. Chicory's growing presence in salads, appetizers, and as a substitute for crackers and gluten-based products is anticipated to boost its consumption. In response to this surging demand, market players are broadening their operations and storage capabilities. For instance, in June 2023, Cosucra secured USD 49 million in investments, aiming to enhance its chicory plant's production capacity and continue its energy transition.

Chicory Market Trends

Food and Beverages is Growing at a Faster Rate Due to its Diverse Use in Various Dishes

The food and beverage (F&B) sector is the leading force in the chicory market, attributed to its diverse applications, health advantages, and heightened consumer awareness. Chicory can be integrated into a variety of food products, including baked goods, snacks, and dairy items, thereby enhancing fiber content and improving texture while maintaining flavor integrity. Its incorporation into gluten-free offerings is also on the rise, reflecting the increasing prevalence of dietary restrictions. As consumers show a growing preference for natural and minimally processed foods, chicory emerges as a suitable option, being a plant-based ingredient that meets clean label criteria.

Moreover, the surge in popularity of roasted coffee substitutes is bolstering the chicory market within the food and beverages sector. As consumers gravitate towards caffeine-free coffee alternatives, roasted chicory emerges as a flavorful choice, boasting inulin content that supports digestive health and overall wellness. Moreover, chicory's cost-effectiveness compared to coffee makes it a go-to substitute for manufacturers aiming to cut costs, especially in light of rising coffee prices. This economic advantage not only prompts coffee companies to incorporate chicory into their offerings but also amplifies their market presence. Additionally, with the burgeoning demand for caffeine-free and health-centric beverages, numerous countries are ramping up imports of roasted coffee substitutes, including chicory. For instance, data from the World Integrated Trade Solution reveals that in 2023, Germany led imports with USD 21.3 million worth of roasted coffee substitutes, including chicory, followed by Italy at USD 13.7 million.

Asia-Pacific Holds a Substantial Share of the Chicory Market

The Asia Pacific region leads the global chicory market, primarily due to heightened consumer awareness regarding chicory's health benefits, especially in nations like China, India, and Japan. As health-conscious eating trends rise and lifestyle diseases become more prevalent, the demand for chicory-based products surges in this region. Moreover, the region's robust food and beverage and pharmaceutical industries, combined with advancements in chicory cultivation and production, bolster its dominant market position. Factors such as a vast population and an expanding middle class further shape the chicory market dynamics. Rising disposable incomes and a shift towards natural, healthy ingredients fuel this market growth.

Furthermore, embracing sustainable farming and production methods in the chicory sector presents significant growth prospects. With consumers becoming more aware of the environmental ramifications of their food choices, adopting eco-friendly practices can elevate the appeal of chicory products. Such initiatives encompass organic farming, water conservation, and responsible waste management. For example, data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlights that in 2022, China led the Asia-Pacific region in chicory and lettuce production, churning out around 14.9 million metric tons, followed by India at 1.1 million metric tons.

Chicory Industry Overview

The Chicory Market is fragmented and highly competitive due to multiple global and regional players. Some of the leading manufacturers operating in the Chicory market are Beneo Gmbh, Royal Cosun, Cargill, Incorporated, Cosucra Groupe Warcoing SA, and Starwest Botanicals, Inc. These key players are channeling substantial investments into R&D, aiming to diversify their product portfolios and further stimulate market growth. In response to significant industry shifts, such as new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, heightened investments, and collaborations, market participants are actively pursuing various strategic initiatives to bolster their presence.

Chicory Market Leaders

Chicory Market News

• August 2024: DKSH has expanded its exclusive distribution agreement with Cosucra in Australia and New Zealand, focusing on the distribution of chicory root-based dietary fibers and plant-based proteins. This partnership will enable DKSH to offer Cosucra’s products, including Fibruline and Fibrulose (chicory root fibers), to these regions' food and beverage industries.
• November 2023: BENEO, a prominent provider of functional ingredients, has announced the expansion of a production line at its Pemuco plant in Chile. This enhancement boosts the processing capabilities for producing its liquid chicory root fiber, Orafti Oligofructose LL, boasting a notably extended shelf life of one year.
• March 2023: Cargill unveiled its Oliggo-FiberTM brand, showcasing Oliggo-FiberTM chicory root fiber products at the Shanghai National Exhibition and Convention Center in China. Oliggo-FiberTM chicory root fiber, a prebiotic, boasts a high dietary fiber content.