Millet Market Size, Share, Opportunities, And Trends By Product Type (Pearl Millet, Proso Millet, Little Millet, Others), By End-users (Residential, Commercial), By Distribution Channel (Online, Offline), And By Geography - Forecasts From 2023 To 2028

The millet market is anticipated to show steady growth during the forecast period.

Millets, once a dietary staple in Asia and Africa, has been gaining recognition as a climate-resilient crop, offering a sustainable solution to combat hunger amidst changing global climates. Possessing resistance to climatic stress, pests, and diseases, millets contribute to nutritional security, serving as nutrient powerhouses rich in iron, folate, calcium, zinc, and more. With high dietary fiber, gluten-free nature, and a low glycemic index, millets prove beneficial for diabetics, fighting heart disease and nutritional deficiencies. Recognized for their protein and fiber content, millets serve as a sustainable and drought-tolerant crop, particularly vital for farmers in developing nations and regions impacted by climate change. Offering essential amino acids, proteins, fats, and dietary fiber, millets also present a rich array of antioxidants and bioactive substances, positioning them as a valuable nutraceutical and functional food ingredients with potential health benefits.

Market Drivers

• Growing world population

According to the UN, the world's population has surged to over 8.0 billion in mid-November 2022, a significant threefold increase from approximately 2.5 billion in 1950. With 1 billion added since 2010 and 2 billion since 1998, projections indicate a further increase by nearly 2 billion people over the next 30 years, reaching 9.7 billion in 2050 and potentially peaking at nearly 10.4 billion in the mid-2080s.

This population expansion poses a profound challenge to food security on a global scale. As the world grapples with the implications of this growth, ensuring access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food becomes increasingly complex. In this context, millet emerges as a sustainable solution for addressing hunger amidst a changing global climate. Resilient to climatic stress, pests, and diseases, millets offer a robust food supply. Notably, their minimal water and input requirements make millets a sustainable approach to combat climate change and establish resilient agri-food systems.

• Growing awareness of the health benefits of millets

The increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with millets is driving their popularity. Millets are rich sources of essential nutrients, providing 65% carbohydrates, 9% proteins, 3% fats, and 2-7% dietary fiber. These nutri-cereals are also abundant in vitamins A, C, and B-complex, along with essential minerals like magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and iron. In comparison to maize and barley, millets excel with 60% higher crude protein, 40% greater lysine and methionine content, and 30% more threonine. Their composition includes antioxidants, bioactive substances such as resistant starch, oligosaccharides, lipids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, and phytosterols, making millets valuable as nutraceutical and functional food ingredients for addressing various health concerns. Particularly noteworthy is their suitability for individuals with Celiac disease due to their gluten-free nature, aligning with the growing demand for gluten-free foods driven by the rising diagnoses of celiac disease and gluten intolerance.

Market Challenges

A significant challenge facing the millet market is the limited availability and accessibility. The supply of millets is susceptible to fluctuations influenced by factors such as weather conditions, cultivation practices, and storage facilities. The inefficiencies in millet value chains exacerbate the problem, imposing high costs on small processors who struggle to establish new markets through retailers that charge substantial margins. The absence of consistent demand and public procurement further impacts the pricing dynamics, preventing optimal prices at harvest time. Additionally, the relatively short shelf life of millet flours (20-30 days) prompts companies to consider higher pricing to cover costs and ensure business sustainability. Consequently, targeting, health-conscious customers has led to an overall increase in market prices.

The millet market, categorized by product type, is segmented into -pearl millet, proso millet, little millet, and others

The segmentation by product type includes pearl millet, known for its weight loss benefits and digestive health maintenance. This millet's high magnesium content also proves effective in mitigating respiratory issues such as asthma. Another segment, proso millet, stands out for its richness in fiber, protein, and minerals, along with its high antioxidant properties, offering potential protection against cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Little millet, with its nutty flavor and versatile culinary applications, has garnered popularity as a nutritious and environmentally friendly grain choice. The market also encompasses other millet varieties like foxtail, barnyard, Kodo, browntop, sorghum, and finger millet.

APAC is anticipated to hold a significant share of the millet market.

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is anticipated to hold a notable share in the millet market, driven by the fact that 60% of the global population, approximately 4.3 billion people, resides in this region. Notably, populous nations such as China and India contribute significantly to this demographic landscape. With a population of 1.4 billion, India stands as the most populous country globally. China, known for being a major agricultural producer and importer, plays a pivotal role in this scenario, importing a diverse range of products in substantial volumes, surpassing other nations. As a dominant player in the region, China's influence is reshaping the dynamics of the overall food product market, including the dedicated segment focused on millet and millet-based products. This shift signifies a noteworthy transformation in the regional food industry.

Market Developments

• September 2023-  Nestlé introduced a range of flavorful and nutritious millet-based porridges under the a+ Masala brand. These porridges are meticulously crafted to align with local nutritional preferences and tastes. Utilizing a blend of locally sourced ingredients, including pearl millet (bajra), barley, vegetables, and an assortment of 10 spices, the porridges offer a distinctive and authentic culinary experience. The product line features two enticing variants, Tangy Tomato and Veggie Masala, both of which can be conveniently prepared in just 2 minutes. Nestlé's launch caters to diverse palates while promoting the nutritional benefits of millets in a convenient and delicious format
• July 2023- Tata Soulfull, a rapidly growing brand in the millet-based packaged foods sector, announced its lead sponsorship collaboration with Reliance Retail for the upcoming Maha Millet Mela. This unique millet festival, taking place over July and August, aims to promote the nutritional benefits of millet and make them more accessible to households nationwide. Tata Soulfull is committed to reaching households with its diverse product range, including Millet Muesli, Ragi Bites breakfast cereals, and Masala Oats+. The collaboration with Reliance Retail underscores the shared dedication to popularizing millets.
• January 2023- ITC has initiated 'Mission Millet,' marking a significant commitment to promoting millet as a superfood. The conglomerate is strategically integrating its agri, food, and hospitality businesses to bolster its focus on millets. In a robust move, ITC plans to expand its product portfolio by introducing a range of millet-based offerings. These include innovative additions such as millet noodles, pasta, dosa and idli mixes, ragi vermicelli, as well as multi-millet-based cookies, confectionery, and snacks.

Company Products

• Aashirvaad - Multi Millet Mix.-  Aashirvaad Multi-Millet Mix, is a versatile flour blend comprising jowar, bajra, ragi, navane, and quinoa. This unique combination not only enhances the nutritional value but also provides a source of protein, zinc, magnesium, and dietary fiber. Ideal for creating a variety of dishes such as rotis, paranthas, pooris, idlis, and dosas, it ensures a delicious and wholesome culinary experience. Available in convenient packaging sizes of 80g, 500g, and 1kg.
• Zhmenka Millet - Zhmenka Millet, available in a convenient 1kg or 2.2 lb packaging size, is a premium product hailing from Ukraine. Designed for optimal convenience, each case contains 12 units, and a pallet holds 36 cases. With a generous storage life of 9 months at room temperature, Zhmenka Millet ensures long-lasting freshness and versatility in your pantry. Sourced from Ukraine, this quality millet product is crafted to meet high standards.
•  Pearl Millet (Bajra)-  Just Organik presents Organic Bajra Whole, featuring pure and organic pearl millet grains cultivated without the use of synthetic chemicals or pesticides, providing a wholesome and eco-friendly choice. This gluten-free and allergen-friendly product prioritizes health and well-being. Notably, Just Organik bajra contributes to blood sugar control due to its low glycemic index, making it a smart addition to a balanced diet. Packed with essential nutrients, including niacin, this organic bajra supports healthy skin and hair. Available in a convenient 500gm packaging, Just Organik's commitment to purity and health is evident in every grain.

Market Segmentation

• By product type
  • Pearl millet
  • Proso millet
  • Little millet
  • Others
• By End-users
  • Residential
  • Commercial
• By Distribution Channel
  • Online
  • Offline
• 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
    • Others
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Indonesia
    • Thailand
    • Taiwan
    • Others
    • Thailand
    • Others