The market share of the fruits segment will grow significantly during the forecast period. The fruits segment was the largest in the global dried food market in 2022 and will continue its dominance during the forecast period. This can be attributed to the growing awareness of healthy food products. The high nutritional value of dried fruits is driving its demand among consumers. To make dried fruits, raw fruits are processed through the heating process which results in the loss of heat-sensitive vitamins such as vitamin C. However, dried fruits sustain important nutrients such as fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. Dried fruits are an excellent source and are a healthier alternative to processed snacks, and such dried fruits are highly preferred nutritious snacks the health-conscious consumers.
- The increasing awareness around the health benefits of dried food products is expected to boost the dried food market growth during the forecast period. Health benefits refer to the positive effects of a product or service on the physical or mental health of consumers. There are many dried foods that are considered healthy due to their high nutritional and low-fat content, boosting their consumption among health-conscious consumers.
- For example, dried fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron. Hence, they are often considered as a healthier alternative to processed snacks that are high in sugar and fat. Besides, dried nuts, namely almonds and walnuts, are high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, thereby a recommended snack option. Moreover, as many dried foods are naturally low in fat, they offer significant benefits to consumers seeking to maintain a healthy diet or lose weight.
- The recent years have witnessed an escalation in the demand for healthy food options due to the growing concerns over diet-related diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. This trend is expected to continue in the upcoming years.
Challenges in the Dried Food Market
- The increasing number of product recalls for dried food products will pose a challenge to the dried food market growth during the forecast period. Most manufacturers purchase or source raw materials from third-party suppliers. The improper handling of raw materials or supplies can adversely affect the safety and quality of finished products.
- Food regulatory and compliance authorities in any country have the power to shut down a business and recall its products from the market if they are found to pose a threat to the well-being of consumers. A product recall can significantly hamper the brand image as well as operations and sales of a company. Furthermore, manufacturing and packaging defects can hamper a company’s sales. For instance, in 2020, the FDA issued a recall for dried herbs sold under the brand names, namely Spice Hunter and Cost Plus World Market, upon discovering potential salmonella contamination.
- Hence, to address quality control issues, companies should ensure processing, storage, and transportation under strict quality control standards. This includes frequent contaminant and allergen testing, coupled with proper storage and handling practices to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Besides, companies should ensure transparency in their quality control processes and respond quickly to any quality control issues that arise.
