Sunflower Seed Market Size - By Product Type (Oilseed, Non-Oilseed), By Application (Snacks, Bakery Products, Confectionery), Growth Drivers, Regional Insights & Global Forecast, 2024 – 2032

Sunflower Seed Market Size

Sunflower Seed Market size was valued at USD 32.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to expand at around 9.4% CAGR between 2024 and 2032. Driven by the increasing awareness among consumers about the health benefits of the product. The increasing demand for healthy snacks from health-conscious consumers is pushing the industry growth. Moreover, the product is being used increasing in the food industry applications. The versatility and nutritional benefits of sunflower seeds are encouraging food manufacturers to experiment with variety, further benefiting the market.
 

Sunflower Seed Market Growth Drivers & Restraints

The government support for farming of sunflower seeds, such as subsidies, incentives, and R&D initiatives will stimulate the market expansion. The vulnerability of sunflower crops to adverse weather conditions, such as droughts, floods, and extreme temperatures will pose a major challenge. Unpredictable weather patterns can lead to decreased yields and affect the overall supply, leading to price fluctuations and potential shortages. In addition, competition from other snack options and cooking oils is likely to restrain industry growth.
 

COVID-19 Impact

The disruptions in the supply chain and logistics caused by the COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges to the distribution of sunflower seeds, affecting both production and availability. The restrictions on social gatherings and closure of foodservice outlets led to a decline in the consumption of sunflower seed-based snacks in certain regions. However, the pandemic also highlighted the significance of healthy eating habits, driving the demand for nutritious snacks, including sunflower seeds. The changing consumer behaviors with the growing awareness of the health benefits associated with sunflower seeds are currently shaping the industry outlook.
 

Sunflower Seed Market Trends

There is a noticeable shift in consumer perspective which is seeking products sourced from sustainable and eco-friendly practices, including organic and non-GMO sunflower seeds. According to the survey by Food Dive, over two-thirds of shoppers in the U.S. expressed a higher inclination to purchase products having Non-GMO Project verification. Innovative product offerings, such as flavored and seasoned sunflower seeds, are gaining traction, catering to diverse customer preferences. Moreover, the rise of e-commerce and online retail platforms has facilitated easier access to a wide range of sunflower seed products, enabling manufacturers to reach a broader customer base.
 

Sunflower Seed Market Analysis

The non-oilseed segment of sunflower seed market is expected to gain traction during 2023 and 2032. Non-oilseed sunflower seeds are utilized in the food sector as a nutritious ingredient in baked goods, salads, snacks, and confectionery products, owing to their health benefits and flavor-enhancing qualities. These seeds are also utilized in the animal feed as a source of nutrition for livestock and poultry.
 

As per AFIA (American Feed Industry Association) data, there are more than 5800 animal food production facilities in the U.S., yielding over 284 million tons of animal food each year.  The rising focus on animal health and productivity is creating lucrative opportunities for animal feed manufacturers to explore sunflower seeds. This factor, in consort with the versatile nature of sunflower non-oilseed is supporting the segmental growth.
 

The snacks application held approximately 35% share of the sunflower seed market in 2022 and is poised to surge notably through 2032, owing to the increasing popularity of the product as a healthy and convenient snacking option. The uniqueness of sunflower seeds allows them to be incorporated into various snack products, such as roasted and flavored seeds, trail mixes, and energy bars, providing consumers with a delectable and guilt-free snacking experience. As health-conscious consumers continue to seek wholesome alternatives, the availability of nutritious on-the-go choices made from sunflower seeds will fuel the industry size.
 

North America sunflower seed market surpassed USD 10.5 billion in 2022 and is touted to showcase impressive growth trends over 2023 to 2032. The increasing awareness of health and wellness has led to a growing demand for nutritious snacks, making sunflower seeds a popular choice among consumers. There is widespread adoption of sunflower seeds in the food industry as ingredients in various products like baked goods and salads. Furthermore, the favorable agricultural policies and technological advancements in sunflower cultivation have contributed to the robust production and supply, solidifying North America position as a prominent player in the market.
 

Sunflower Seed Market Share

Some prominent players in the global sunflower seed market are

• Monsanto Company (acquired by Bayer AG)
• Syngenta AG (acquired by ChemChina)
• Corteva Agriscience
• BASF SE
• Advanta Seeds (acquired by UPL Limited)
• Nuseed Pty Ltd (a subsidiary of Nufarm Limited)
• Groupe Limagrain Holding SA
• Land O'Lakes, Inc.
• Sakata Seed Corporation
• Agrofy Seeds 
   

Sunflower Seed Industry News

• In July 2023, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced $33 million in funding to 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to bolster R&D initiatives. Administered through the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the funding will support a total of 82 projects focusing on sustainable farming practices, including reducing plastic usage, improving the nutritional value of vegetables, and finding solutions for sunflower seed oil shortages.
   

This sunflower seed market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) & volume (Kilo Tons) from 2018 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Product Type

• Oilseed
• Non-Oilseed

Market, By Application

• Snacks
• Bakery Products
• Confectionery
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Egypt