Global Hazelnut Meal Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Hazelnut Meal Market Size

• The global hazelnut meal market size was valued at USD 730.76 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1182.42 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 6.20% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fueled by the increasing consumer preference for plant-based, nutrient-rich, and functional ingredients, driving higher adoption of hazelnut meal in bakery, confectionery, dairy alternatives, and nutraceutical products
• Furthermore, rising awareness of health, wellness, and protein-enriched diets is establishing hazelnut meal as a preferred ingredient for both commercial manufacturers and home cooks. These converging factors are accelerating the uptake of hazelnut meal, thereby significantly boosting the industry’s growth

Hazelnut Meal Market Analysis

• Hazelnut meal is a nutrient-dense ingredient derived from ground hazelnuts, available in raw, blanched, toasted, defatted, coarse, and fine forms. It is widely used for its flavor, texture, and high protein and healthy fat content across food, beverage, and nutraceutical applications
• The escalating demand for hazelnut meal is primarily driven by the growing adoption of plant-based foods, clean-label products, and functional ingredients, coupled with increasing consumer focus on healthy snacking, bakery indulgence, and nutritional supplementation
• Europe dominated hazelnut meal market with a share of 65.4% in 2024, due to increasing consumer preference for plant-based and nutrient-rich ingredients
• Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing region in the hazelnut meal market during the forecast period due to increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and growing health consciousness in countries such as China, Japan, and India
• Food and beverage industry segment dominated the market with a market share of 48.3% in 2024, due to strong utilization in bakery, confectionery, dairy alternatives, and beverage formulations. The rich flavor, texture-enhancing properties, and natural nutritional profile of hazelnut meal make it a key ingredient for premium bakery and plant-based product launches. Growing consumer preference for healthy indulgence and natural flavoring further supports demand within this segment

Report Scope and Hazelnut Meal Market Segmentation      

Hazelnut Meal Market Trends

Increasing Demand from the Gluten-Free and Plant-Based Food Industries

• The hazelnut meal market is expanding as demand grows in gluten-free and plant-based food industries, supported by consumer prioritization of health, taste, and clean-label alternatives. Hazelnut meal provides a nutritious, protein-rich, and flavorful substitute for wheat flour in specialty diets
  • For instance, Oregon Hazelnuts and Ferrero suppliers are increasingly promoting hazelnut meal as a versatile ingredient in bakery, confectionery, and dairy alternatives. These moves highlight the role of hazelnut derivatives in premium gluten-free and vegan food applications
• The popularity of allergen-friendly foods has also boosted hazelnut meal adoption, as it caters to consumers avoiding gluten while maintaining familiar textures and flavors in baked goods. Its high nutritional profile, containing healthy fats and antioxidants, further reinforces appeal
• In addition, hazelnut meal is benefitting from the growth of artisanal and premium bakery trends. Products such as cakes, cookies, and spreads with hazelnut bases resonate with consumers seeking indulgence coupled with healthier ingredients
• As plant-based and free-from food categories accelerate globally, hazelnut meal is emerging as a core ingredient bridging indulgence with nutritional benefits. This evolution is positioning it strongly within niche yet fast-growing segments of the specialty foods market

Hazelnut Meal Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing Popularity of Plant-Based Diets

• The rising adoption of plant-based diets is a key driver for hazelnut meal demand, with consumers shifting preferences toward dairy- and meat-free alternatives. Hazelnut meal, rich in protein and fiber, contributes to formulating nutritionally complete vegan-friendly foods
  • For instance, Blue Diamond Growers and smaller specialty players are innovating with nut-based flours to provide plant-based protein for baked products and snacks. Hazelnut meal’s taste profile offers added value compared to neutral protein sources, making it popular in gourmet formulations
• The growing category of plant-based dairy alternatives, such as nut-based yogurts and beverages, has further expanded application opportunities. Hazelnut meal serves as a functional ingredient in enhancing taste, creaminess, and nutritional richness in these offerings
• In addition, rising consumer demand for sustainably sourced, natural plant ingredients strengthens the use of hazelnut meal in packaged foods. Its alignment with eco-conscious diets and reduced reliance on animal proteins makes it a high-potential ingredient for long-term growth
• Altogether, the momentum of plant-based diets globally establishes hazelnut meal as a versatile and sustainable ingredient. Its role in premium, gourmet, and health-oriented foods positions it strongly within the evolving food innovation landscape

Restraint/Challenge

High Cost of Production

• A major challenge in the hazelnut meal market is its relatively high cost of production compared to conventional flours. Factors such as specialized sourcing, limited regional cultivation, and processing challenges restrict affordability and widespread use
  • For instance, suppliers such as Olam Group face high raw material costs due to hazelnut cultivation’s concentration in regions such as Turkey and Italy. Variability in weather conditions and supply chain disruptions further add to cost volatility across global markets
• The premium pricing of hazelnut meal makes it inaccessible to price-sensitive consumers, confining its adoption largely to gourmet, premium, and health-conscious niches. This limits broader market penetration, particularly in emerging economies where affordability is critical
• In addition, processing into flour and meal requires specialized equipment to maintain nutrient integrity and prevent rancidity, raising production costs further. These additional steps elevate barriers for smaller producers and hinder scaling efforts
• Overcoming cost challenges will require optimizing supply chains, expanding hazelnut cultivation regions, and investing in efficiency-enhancing technologies. Reducing costs without compromising premium quality will be critical to ensuring sustainable growth of the hazelnut meal market

Hazelnut Meal Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of product type, application, and distribution channel.

• By Product Type

On the basis of product type, the hazelnut meal market is segmented into raw hazelnut meal, blanched hazelnut meal, toasted hazelnut meal, defatted hazelnut meal, coarse hazelnut meal, and fine hazelnut meal. The blanched hazelnut meal segment dominated the largest market revenue share in 2024, driven by its versatility and wide use in bakery, confectionery, and premium dessert applications. Blanching removes the skin, resulting in a smoother texture and mild flavor that appeals to both consumers and manufacturers. The increasing demand for clean-label ingredients and premium bakery goods further strengthens the adoption of blanched hazelnut meal in developed markets.

The defatted hazelnut meal segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, supported by its high protein content and reduced fat profile, making it attractive for health-conscious consumers. Defatted varieties are gaining traction in sports nutrition, protein supplements, and functional food formulations where nutrient density is prioritized. Rising interest in plant-based and gluten-free protein alternatives further propels demand, positioning defatted hazelnut meal as a preferred ingredient for nutraceuticals and high-protein diets.

• By Application

On the basis of application, the hazelnut meal market is segmented into food and beverage industry, cosmetics and personal care, nutraceuticals, and others. The food and beverage industry segment dominated the largest market share of 48.3% in 2024, driven by strong utilization in bakery, confectionery, dairy alternatives, and beverage formulations. The rich flavor, texture-enhancing properties, and natural nutritional profile of hazelnut meal make it a key ingredient for premium bakery and plant-based product launches. Growing consumer preference for healthy indulgence and natural flavoring further supports demand within this segment.

The nutraceuticals segment is projected to witness the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2032, fueled by rising demand for functional foods, dietary supplements, and plant-based protein alternatives. Hazelnut meal offers essential nutrients, antioxidants, and amino acids that align with preventive health trends and active lifestyle preferences. With the expanding clean-label protein market and increasing awareness of nut-based superfoods, nutraceutical manufacturers are increasingly incorporating hazelnut meal into protein powders, energy bars, and fortified snacks.

• By Distribution Channel

On the basis of distribution channel, the hazelnut meal market is segmented into direct sales and indirect sales. The indirect sales segment dominated the market in 2024, supported by the strong presence of supermarkets, specialty health stores, online retail, and food ingredient distributors. This channel allows manufacturers to reach a broader consumer base and enables visibility in both B2B and B2C spaces. The growing trend of online retailing, offering product comparisons and bulk purchasing options, further drives sales within this segment.

The direct sales segment is expected to witness the fastest growth from 2025 to 2032, driven by the rising preference of food and cosmetic manufacturers to engage directly with ingredient suppliers. Direct channels provide benefits such as cost efficiency, better quality control, and long-term supplier partnerships. With increasing demand for customized hazelnut meal solutions in nutraceutical and functional food applications, direct procurement is emerging as a favorable channel for bulk buyers seeking transparency and reliability.

Hazelnut Meal Market Regional Analysis

• Europe dominated the hazelnut meal market with the largest revenue share of 65.4% in 2024, driven by increasing consumer preference for plant-based and nutrient-rich ingredients
• Stringent food quality regulations and the growing trend of clean-label products are fostering adoption in bakery, confectionery, nutraceuticals, and dairy alternatives
• European consumers value both nutritional benefits and flavor, boosting demand for blanched and defatted hazelnut meal. The region’s mature food processing infrastructure, coupled with innovative product launches and rising awareness of sustainable sourcing, further strengthens Europe’s leadership position in the global market

U.K. Hazelnut Meal Market Insight

The U.K. hazelnut meal market is anticipated to grow steadily, supported by rising demand in bakery, confectionery, and nutraceutical applications. Consumers are increasingly seeking plant-based, high-protein ingredients, driving the incorporation of hazelnut meal into functional foods, snacks, and dietary supplements. In addition, the U.K.’s well-developed retail and online distribution channels enhance accessibility, while the growing emphasis on clean-label, natural, and sustainably sourced ingredients encourages manufacturers to innovate and expand product offerings.

Germany Hazelnut Meal Market Insight

The Germany hazelnut meal market held the largest share in European market, fueled by high consumer awareness of health and wellness, along with strong demand for premium bakery and plant-based products. Germany’s focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability encourages manufacturers to use blanched and defatted hazelnut meal in various food applications. The country’s robust industrial infrastructure, coupled with a preference for natural, nutrient-dense ingredients, supports the growing adoption of hazelnut meal in both commercial and home cooking applications.

North America Hazelnut Meal Market Insight

North America accounted for a significant share of the hazelnut meal market in 2024, driven by the rising demand for healthy, plant-based ingredients and increased awareness of functional foods. Consumers in the region are highly inclined towards nutritious and natural food products, encouraging manufacturers to incorporate hazelnut meal in bakery, confectionery, dairy alternatives, and protein-rich formulations. The region’s well-established food processing industry, coupled with high disposable incomes and strong retail and e-commerce networks, supports widespread availability and adoption of hazelnut meal across both commercial and home applications.

Asia-Pacific Hazelnut Meal Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific hazelnut meal market is poised to witness the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and growing health consciousness in countries such as China, Japan, and India. The region’s expanding bakery, confectionery, and nutraceutical industries are adopting hazelnut meal as a versatile ingredient to meet rising consumer demand for protein-rich, plant-based, and functional foods. Government initiatives promoting healthier diets, coupled with growing online and retail food channels, are further facilitating market expansion across Asia-Pacific.

Japan Hazelnut Meal Market Insight

The Japan hazelnut meal market is gaining traction due to the country’s strong focus on health, wellness, and premium food products. Consumers are increasingly incorporating hazelnut meal into bakery, confectionery, and functional food products, driven by its nutritional benefits and rich flavor. The integration of hazelnut meal in plant-based diets and protein-enriched foods, alongside a technologically advanced food processing sector, supports steady growth in the Japanese market.

China Hazelnut Meal Market Insight

China accounted for the largest share in the Asia-Pacific hazelnut meal market in 2024, attributed to rapid urbanization, a growing middle class, and increased awareness of nutritious ingredients. The country’s expanding bakery, snack, and functional food industries are driving demand for hazelnut meal. The push towards healthier diets and the availability of diverse hazelnut meal varieties, coupled with strong domestic manufacturing and distribution networks, are key factors propelling market growth in China.

Hazelnut Meal Market Share

The hazelnut meal industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Olam International (Singapore)
• Arslanturk S.A. (Turkey)
• Karimex Nuts (Turkey)
• Holmquist Hazelnut Orchards, LLC (U.S.)
• DurakFindik (Turkey)
• DeveHerbes (India)
• Azerstar LLC (Azerbaijan)
• American Hazelnut Company (U.S.)
• Hazelz New Zealand (New Zealand)
• Northwest Hazelnut Company (U.S.)
• Hazelnut Company Division, Ferrero (Italy)
• ADM (U.S.)
• Karin Gıda (Turkey)
• BALSU (Turkey)
• Poyraz Poyraz (Turkey)

Latest Developments in Global Hazelnut Meal Market

• In August 2024, the Turkish Hazelnut Association, in collaboration with the Nuts and Dry Fruits Council of India (NDFCI), launched the 'Miracle Nut' through a comprehensive four-year campaign targeting the Indian market. This initiative aims to introduce Turkish hazelnuts as a nutritious and versatile ingredient, capitalizing on their rich flavor and health benefits. The campaign is expected to significantly boost the consumption of hazelnut-based products in India, catering to the growing demand for healthy and plant-based food options
• In July 2024, Ferrero released its Hazelnut Charter and Action Plan for 2024–2026, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable sourcing and traceability. The plan outlines strategies to enhance the sustainability of the hazelnut supply chain, including improved agricultural practices and support for farmers. This initiative underscores Ferrero's dedication to responsible sourcing and is anticipated to positively impact the hazelnut meal market by promoting environmentally friendly practices and ensuring a steady supply of quality hazelnuts
• In June 2024, Ferrero published its annual Hazelnut Progress Report, highlighting achievements in sourcing and sustainability efforts. The report details the company's progress in enhancing traceability and supporting hazelnut farmers globally. These efforts are expected to strengthen the supply chain and foster consumer trust, thereby contributing to the growth of the hazelnut meal market by ensuring consistent quality and ethical sourcing
• In February 2024, Chosen Foods unveiled a healthier chocolate hazelnut spread crafted with 100% pure avocado oil. This innovative product offers a better-for-you alternative to traditional spreads by eliminating palm oil and reducing sugar content by 40%. The use of avocado oil enhances the spread's creamy texture and nutritional profile, appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking indulgent yet wholesome options
• In October 2023, Otto Nuts expanded its product portfolio by launching a new line of Turkish coffee and cocoa-coated hazelnut snacks. These protein-rich snacks combine the rich flavors of Turkish coffee and cocoa with the nutritional benefits of hazelnuts, catering to the growing demand for convenient and healthy snack options. The introduction of these products is expected to attract consumers looking for unique and flavorful alternatives in the snack market

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