Savory Ingredients Market

Savory Ingredients Market Size and Share:

The global savory ingredients market size was valued at USD 7.66 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 11.42 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.32% from 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 68.9% in 2024. The rapid expansion of the foodservice industry, shifting consumer preferences, recent advancements in food processing technology, and rising demand for convenience food are some of the factors boosting the savory ingredients market share.

The rapid expansion of the foodservice industry is a significant driver of the global savory ingredients market growth. In India, the food processing industry is expected to reach USD 535 billion by 2025-26, reflecting substantial growth in foodservice operations. This surge is mirrored in the United Kingdom, where the "accommodation and food service activities" sector experienced a notable 2.0% increase in output in November 2024. Additionally, median gross weekly earnings in the UK's "accommodation and food service activities" industry rose by 9.8% between 2023 and 2024, indicating a robust expansion. This global growth in foodservice establishments, including restaurants and catering services, has led to an increased demand for flavor enhancers and seasonings to meet diverse consumer palates. As a result, the savory ingredients market is increasing rapidly, driven by the need to adapt to changing consumer tastes and the foodservice industry's growing footprint.

The savory ingredients market share in the United States is 85.20%, driven by several key factors. A significant contributor is the increasing consumer demand for diverse and flavorful food options, reflecting a broader interest in ethnic cuisines and innovative taste experiences. This trend is evident in the rising popularity of products like pickles, which saw a substantial surge in 2024, becoming a $3.1 billion market. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported an increase in soybean production in 2024, which supports the availability of plant-based savory ingredients. This aligns with the growing consumer preference for plant-based diets, further fueling the demand for savory components derived from soy and other legumes. Moreover, the expansion of the processed food sector contributes to the market's growth. The USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service highlights the increasing exports of processed food products, indicating a robust domestic production capacity that supports the inclusion of savory ingredients in a variety of food items.

Savory Ingredients Market Trends:

Changing Consumer Preferences

The growing demand for healthier and more delicious food options is the primary driver boosting the savory ingredients market demand. As consumers are increasingly looking for products that not only provide superior taste but do not compromise nutritional value, the role of herbs, spices, and natural flavor enhancers has become increasingly prominent in food formulations. Nielsen found that 88% of customers are prepared to spend extra for healthier meals, indicating a move toward nutrition-conscious eating. This trend is driving food manufacturers to innovate and incorporate savory ingredients that improve flavor profiles while aligning with consumer preferences for clean, natural, and functional ingredients. As the awareness about health and wellness continues to rise, savory ingredients are becoming crucial in catering to the increasing demand for delicious yet healthy food, which will continue to propel the growth of the savory ingredients market globally.

Advancements in Food Processing Technologies

Innovations in food processing and flavor science are driving the growth of the savory ingredients market through the development of new ingredients that enhance taste and extend shelf life. Improving the flavor and nutritional value of food is essential to expanding applications for savory ingredients, and technological advancements such as fermentation are at the forefront of this process. Research on fermentation techniques has been actively pursued by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), with research emphasis focused on developing sustainable and health-conscious savory ingredients. Fermented ingredients such as miso, soy sauce, and fermented vegetables are increasingly attractive for their deep umami flavors and their health benefits. According to the reports in the National Food Safety and Toxicology Center, USDA. The "Farm to Fork" strategy of the European Green Deal aims to fuel innovation and reduce the carbon footprint linked with food production by fostering natural and sustainable savory ingredients. These regulatory and technological advances are trending the growth of the savory ingredients market as consumers and manufacturers learn to value sustainability, flavor, and health.

Rising Demand for Convenience Foods

An increase in the consumption of ready-to-eat (RTE) and convenience foods has become a primary growth driver for the savory ingredients market. They are being used in enhancing the flavor profiles of products because consumers increasingly opt for more processed and packaged products due to their convenience. According to the International Food Information Council, in 2023, nearly 40% of U.S. consumers reported eating at least one meal per day from convenience food options. This growing reliance on convenience foods creates a higher demand for savory ingredients that can improve taste, texture, and overall appeal. As lifestyles become busier, the demand for ready-to-eat, tasty meals is pushing innovation in the savory ingredients sector, making it an integral part of the food industry's evolution. These trends are expected to continue fueling market growth as consumers prioritize both convenience and taste in their food choices.

Savory Ingredients Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global savory ingredients market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, form, application, and source.

Analysis by Type:

• Starches
• Proteins
  • Vegetable Protein
  • Animal Protein
• Yeast
• Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
• Others

As per the latest savory ingredients market outlook, monosodium glutamate (MSG) is one of the most known savory ingredients at 62.9% in market share. It is vastly used due to its powerful enhancement of umami flavor. For the global market of savory ingredients, MSG commands a very key position as its share of market is substantial, and it also has the strong ability to fortify taste profile, making MSG a standard and staple in diversified food applications - processed foods and snacks, along with seasonings. The reason MSG became so widely adopted is because of its cost effectiveness and ability to enhance palatability, fitting consumer preferences for flavorful and convenient food options. Despite ongoing debates regarding its health implications, regulatory bodies have determined that MSG is safe for consumption within established limits, further establishing its prevalence in the food industry. Demand for savory and umami-rich products is expected to continue rising; thus, MSG is likely to maintain its market dominance based on its functional benefit alongside the widespread acceptance by food manufacturers.

Analysis by Form:

• Powder
• Liquid
• Paste

In terms of form, powder-based savory ingredients command a significant portion of the market. The preference for powdered forms stems from their ease of integration into various food products, extended shelf life, and consistent flavor delivery. Powdered savory ingredients, such as yeast extracts, hydrolyzed vegetable proteins, and flavor enhancers like MSG, are extensively used in the production of snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and instant soups. Their versatility allows for uniform distribution in dry mixes and precise flavor control during food processing. Additionally, the convenience of storage and transportation of powdered forms contributes to their widespread adoption among food manufacturers. As the processed food industry continues to expand, the demand for powdered savory ingredients is anticipated to maintain its upward trajectory, reinforcing its leading position in the market.

Analysis by Application:

• Food
• Feed

According to the recent savory ingredients market forecast, the food industry, which constitutes the majority of the market share, is the main application of savory ingredients. These ingredients enhance the taste, aroma, and overall sensory experience of a wide range of food products. Processed meats, savory snacks, bakery items, and dairy products are some examples of products that contain savory ingredients, thereby satisfying consumer expectations in terms of flavor and quality. The increasing world demand for ready-to-eat foods, plus a growing appreciation for diverse, exotic flavors, has driven the adoption of savory ingredients in diverse food applications. The food industry's ongoing new product development process to create newer products that fulfill the changing demands of consumers and continue to retain the leading use of savory ingredients in the food market further facilitates this trend.

Analysis by Source:

• Natural
  • Vegetable Extracts
  • Animal Derived
  • Microbial
• Synthetic

Source-wise, natural savory ingredients hold the majority of the market share. The driver behind this is rising consumer preference for clean-label products and increasing transparency across food sourcing. Natural savory ingredients, derived from plant, animal, or microbial sources, are preferred due to their perceived health benefits and minimal processing. More and more of the ingredients like yeast extracts, plant-based hydrolyzed proteins, and natural flavor blends are used to cope with the increased demand for natural and wholesome flavor. Food producers have responded by reformulating some of their products to replace synthetic additives with naturally occurring alternatives and in line with consumer preferences as well as regulation guidelines. It would be more accurate to say that as the population becomes more concerned with health and wellness, further expansion in natural savory ingredients will increase market share, strengthening its position in this industry.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

Geographically, the Asia Pacific region dominates the savory ingredients market, accounting for 68.9% share. This dominance is attributed to several factors, including the region's large population, rapid urbanization, and a strong culinary tradition that emphasizes savory flavors. Countries such as China, Japan, and India have high consumption rates of processed foods, instant noodles, and snacks, all of which extensively utilize savory ingredients. Furthermore, the growing middle-class population and rising disposable incomes have resulted in an increase in demand for convenience foods, strengthening the industry in this region. The presence of major food manufacturers and a well-established supply chain infrastructure also contribute to the Asia Pacific's leading position in the savory ingredients market. As these trends continue, the region is poised to maintain its dominance, driven by sustained economic growth and evolving dietary patterns.

Key Regional Takeaways:

North America Savory Ingredients Market Analysis

The savory ingredients market in North America is expanding due to shifting consumer preferences, technological advancements in food processing, and a growing demand for convenience foods. Consumers are increasingly seeking bold and complex flavors, influenced by global cuisines, leading to higher adoption of umami-rich components such as yeast extracts, hydrolyzed vegetable proteins, and monosodium glutamate (MSG). The rise in plant-based diets is also driving demand for natural and clean-label savory ingredients, particularly those derived from fermentation and botanical sources. The expansion of the processed and packaged food sector is another major factor. Ready-to-eat meals, snack foods, and frozen products require high-quality flavor enhancers, boosting demand for savory ingredients. Food manufacturers are responding with reformulations that maintain taste while reducing sodium, sugar, and artificial additives. Advancements in food technology, including precision fermentation and enzymatic processes, are also contributing to market growth. These innovations enable the development of sustainable, high-impact flavors that appeal to health-conscious consumers.

United States Savory Ingredients Market Analysis

The growing pet industry and the rise of plant-based food consumption in the U.S. are driving significant growth in the savory ingredients market. According to an industry report, over 66% of U.S. households own a pet, collectively spending over USD 136 Billion annually on pet care, with pet food being a major contributor. This upsurge in pet spending implies a demand for high-quality, flavorful pet food, which opens the doors to savory ingredients within this sub-sector. Another key driver is that of the U.S. retail plant-based food market, which, at 2023, has valued itself at USD 8.1 Billion, as per reports. With many consumers increasingly adopting diets on the plant-based side, there has been a renewed surge in demand for savory ingredients that complement flavor profiles to ensure nutritional value. Rising need for flavor innovation in both the pet food and plant-based food segments is boosting the growth of savory ingredients in the U.S. As consumer trends continue this way, there will be growth in the savory ingredients market with steady growth expected in the forecast period.

Europe Savory Ingredients Market Analysis

The varied food choices in Europe are significantly propelling the growth of the savory ingredients market. As of 2023, 62% of European consumers across ten countries considered themselves an omnivores, while 27% flexitarian, 4% pescatarian, 5% vegetarian, and 3% vegan, according to GFI Europe. This diverse range of diet options is therefore creating demand for flexible savory products that could adapt to multiple demands, such as plant-based products to more conventional meat-based offerings. In addition, the increase in flexitarianism- where consumers wish to reduce meat intake but continue with savory tastes-has been further motivating the adoption of plant-based savory ingredients for taste and sensory profile enhancement in the meat substitute food. As European consumers adopt a broader set of diets, the demand for innovative, sustainable, and flavor-rich savory ingredients is expected to increase, propelling market growth across the continent.

Asia Pacific Savory Ingredients Market Analysis

Lactose intolerance is a significant growth driver for the Asia Pacific savory ingredients market. Statistics by the National Institute of Health indicate that lactose intolerance has a prevalence of 70 to 100% in the East Asian population, and it's a common problem in many countries across the region. Therefore, the demand for savory products with dairy-free and plant-based alternatives is observed more. These may include plant-based cheeses, yogurts, and sauces. This shift in consumer preference is also encouraging the development and use of savory ingredients for lactose-intolerant consumers as well as those seeking healthier, plant-based options. Flexitarian and vegan diets are gaining popularity, thereby further fueling demand for new savory ingredients providing rich, umami flavors that do not depend on dairy. The need for dairy-free and plant-based savory ingredients will generate significant market expansion as the Asia Pacific region embraces these dietary reforms.

Latin America Savory Ingredients Market Analysis

The rapid urbanization in Latin America is propelling the growth of the savory ingredients market in the region. The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2050, 90% of Latin Americans would live in cities, with over 55 cities having populations of one million or more. This urban migration is creating increased demand for handy, ready-to-eat and processed food with high savory taste to enhance palatability and appeal. To satisfy the quest of urbanized consumers for much more diverse yet accessible food variety, there exists an increase in the consumption of convenience foods and fast foods that use savory elements to suit their lifestyle. In addition, expanding the Latin American middle class continues to push forward the demand for higher-quality products with added flavors, hence boosting the growth for the savory ingredients market. Further, a greater urban population coupled with shifting habits of the consuming population are most likely to give the industry increased growth prospects.

Middle East and Africa Savory Ingredients Market Analysis

The multicultural dining ecosystem of the vast expatriate community in the UAE, constituting around 80% of the population in 2024, as quoted by various industry reports, is a strong driver for the growth of the savory ingredients market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). This diverse population presents a range of culinary preferences. This then evokes a diverse demand for several savory ingredients which cater to their different taste profiles. Increased international flavors, fusion cuisines, and ethnic food demand will grow the requirement of a variety of savory seasonings, sauces, and spices. Additionally, with the pace of urbanization speeding up in the region, the ease of access to convenience foods, ready-to-eat foodstuffs, and dining out all work in favor of these ingredients. The growth in the expatriate population of the MEA region and its effect on food culture are driving the growth of savory ingredients, making it a significant market for flavor enhancers.

Competitive Landscape:

Leading competitors in the savory ingredients market are working on a number of strategic initiatives to increase their market position and fulfill changing customer needs. Companies are actively investing in product innovation, developing clean-label and natural alternatives to synthetic flavor enhancers such as MSG. The shift toward yeast extracts, plant-based hydrolyzed proteins, and enzyme-modified savory ingredients is gaining traction to align with consumer preferences for healthier and more sustainable food options. To expand their market reach, major players are engaging in strategic acquisitions and partnerships, allowing them to integrate advanced technologies, enhance production capabilities, and diversify product portfolios. R&D investments are also a priority, particularly in precision fermentation and enzyme-based modifications, which improve flavor profiles and optimize ingredient functionality. Sustainability is a key focus, with companies working on carbon footprint reduction, eco-friendly sourcing, and waste minimization in production processes.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the savory ingredients market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Ajinomoto Co. Inc.
• AngelYeast Co. Ltd.
• Archer-Daniels-Midland Company
• Associated British Foods plc
• Cargill Incorporated
• Givaudan
• Kerry Group plc
• Koninklijke DSM N.V.
• Novozymes A/S
• Sensient Technologies Corporation
• Symrise AG
• Tate & Lyle PLC

Latest News and Developments:

• June 2024: Lesaffre, one of the largest fermentation and microorganisms companies, announced an agreement with dsm-firmenich, the leading innovator in nutrition, health, and beauty, on the acquisition of its yeast extract business.
• February 2024: Released the Savory Chili McDonald's Sauce, available temporarily for this year's campaign promoting an anime series and manga-inspired packaging for their packaging. This sauce is made with a blend of garlic, soy, and other ingredients.
• December 2021: Solina, the biggest savory ingredient solution provider for the food industry in Europe, acquired Asenzya, previously known as Foran Spice Company. Focus on innovation and culinary development helped Asenzya offer unique mixes of seasoning and solution. This acquisition will bring Asenzya more locations with more plants and enormously strengthen its capabilities.

Savory Ingredients Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the savory ingredients market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global savory ingredients market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the savory ingredients industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.