Carob Market Size, Share, Opportunities, And Trends By Application (Food And Beverages, Animal Feeds, Supplements And Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics), By Procedure (Organic, Conventional), By End-User (Individuals, Industry), And By Geography - Forecasts From 2024 To 2029

The carob tree, scientifically named Ceratonia siliqua, stands as an evergreen flowering tree within the legume family, Fabaceae. Its extensive cultivation in gardens and landscapes is attributed to its dual value, serving both as a source of highly prized edible pods and an appealing ornamental addition. Originating from the Mediterranean and Middle East regions, the carob plant has garnered widespread popularity on a global scale. Within health food stores, health-conscious consumers frequently encounter carob bars, positioned as an alternative to conventional chocolate bars.

In the carob market, a segmentation by procedure, distinguishing between organic and conventional methods. Additionally, the market is categorized based on end-users, with a division into individuals and industry. This approach captures the diverse facets of the carob industry, ranging from cultivation methods to end-user applications.

Market Drivers

• Rising awareness about health benefits

The increasing awareness of health benefits has become a driving force. Carob stands out naturally for its sweetness, eliminating the need for additional sweeteners unlike cacao, which is naturally bitter and requires sweeteners. Furthermore, carob lacks caffeine and theobromine, stimulants present in chocolate, adding to its appeal. Health-conscious individuals find carob powder enticing due to its high fiber content, zero fat, and low cholesterol levels. A noteworthy mention is its sodium-free nature, making it an ideal choice for those adhering to a low-sodium diet. Marketed as a caffeine-free substitute, carob is also recognized as a pet-friendly alternative to chocolate. Such as Sattvic Foods offers Carob Powder in various sizes, with the added convenience of a free sample for a single serving (3-10 g) trial. These factors are poised to drive market growth significantly, given the myriad health benefits associated with carob consumption.

• Versatile uses of Carob

Carob finds versatile applications as a cocoa alternative, extending its influence into various domains. For instance, in cosmetics like Navita's organic touch shampoo carob 250ml priced at 24.90 eur, carob independently imparts its distinctive flavor. Originating from the Arabic term "Kharoub" and native to the Mediterranean, carob extends its utility to beverages like the Nuba carob drink, which is a naturally sweet and refreshing drink.

Moreover, Chirositol®, specifically d-chiro inositol derived from carob, is extracted without solvents from carob pods. The recommended daily dosage ranges from 200-500 mg per day, showcasing the versatility of carob in nutritional supplements.

These diverse applications underscore carob's appeal as a sought-after ingredient, valued for its multipurpose utility and ability to cater to different market segments.

Market Restraints

• Price fluctuations of Carob

The global supply shortage of carob powder is limiting its integration into various food products. Furthermore, the availability of alternatives like cocoa beans and powder adds to the strain on the carob market, leading to a decline in demand. The availability of substitutes amplifies the impact on the carob market, affecting its overall market dynamics and positioning.

Europe is anticipated to hold a significant share of the Carob market-

Europe is expected to hold a notable position in the Carob market, driven by various factors. The consumption of bakery and confectionery products, coupled with a noteworthy demand for dairy items, significantly influences the European market for carob products. Additionally, the incorporation of carob in pet food and other animal feed applications, as well as its use as a chocolate substitute, the average per capita consumption in Europe is approximated at 5.0 kilograms, has become a contributing factor to the overall carob market growth in Europe.

Market Developments-

• June 2023- The food tech start-up CarobWay introduced its clean-label sweetener with a low glycemic index. The company demonstrated the innovative sweetener through prototypes of gummies and energy bars, both derived from whole carob fruit. It could be seamlessly incorporated into a wide range of food and beverage applications. Notably, the products were plant-based and non-GMO.
• October 2023- WNWN, a recently launched startup, aims to provide a chocolate alternative. The company introduced three new bars devoid of dairy, palm oil, and caffeine, utilizing barley and carob to recreate the flavor typically associated with chocolate. This innovative approach not only offers consumers an alternative treat but also presents a sustainable food supply option as a replacement for traditional chocolate made from cocoa.

Company Products

• Kessler Carob Pet Food- This 100% natural pet food is a product suitable for a variety of animals, including horses, birds, dogs, and rodents. Additionally, carob has demonstrated the ability to inhibit tumor formation in various types of cancer. The product is available in brown, with each piece measuring approximately 10mm, and comes in a convenient 20kg packaging bag.
• Vehgro Locust Bean Gum Organic- Carob Bean Gum, is a powder ranging from white to yellowish-white, with minimal to no odor, derived from grinding the germinating seeds of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua). Primarily utilized as a thickening agent in the food industry, organic certification ensures product authenticity.
• Honest to Goodness Organic Carob Powder - Honest to Goodness offers an Organic Carob Powder that is naturally caffeine-free composition, featuring a distinctive sweet yet earthy malt taste. Sourced and crafted in Australia, the powder is derived from selectively chosen carob trees, focusing on their thick, luscious pods rather than the seeds. It can be seamlessly substituted for cocoa or cacao in a 1:1 ratio, making it a versatile option to impart a carob-inspired twist to cakes, biscuits, and desserts.

Market Segmentation

• By Application
  • Food and Beverages
  • Animal feeds
  • Supplements and Pharmaceuticals
  • Cosmetics
• By Procedure
  • Organic
  • Conventional
• By End-User
  • Individuals
  • Industry
• By Geography
  • North America
    • USA
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • South America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Others
  • Europe
    • UK
    • Germany
    • France
    • Spain
    • Others
  • Middle East and Africa
    • Saudi Arabia
    • UAE
    • Israel
    • Others
  • Asia Pacific
    • Japan
    • China
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Indonesia
    • Thailand
    • Others