Fruit powder is fruit in its desiccated state, ground to a powdery, dried consistency. The procedure frequently involves employing methods such as freeze-drying, spray-drying, or air-drying to extract the moisture from the fruit. Consequently, an exceedingly concentrated powder is generated, effectively retaining a substantial fraction of the initial fruit's flavor, aroma, and nutritional composition. Berry powders, fruit powders made from citrus fruits, fruit powders made from tropical fruits, and other varieties are all possible.
Fruit powders are commonly utilized in the food and beverage sector to enhance the flavor and visual appeal of various products, such as baked goods, juices, smoothies, desserts, and condiments. Moreover, fruit powders can function as constituents in the production of dietary supplements, other health-promoting goods, and natural alternatives to artificial sweeteners. Fruit powder provides the advantage of convenience and an extended storage period when compared to fresh fruit.
Health-conscious consumers' growing demand for natural, nutrient-dense foods significantly expands the fruit powder market. Fruit powders, readily available and loaded with essential vitamins and antioxidants, align with the prevailing trend by offering an efficient and effortless means of obtaining nourishment. It can enhance the taste, aesthetic appeal, and nutritional composition of various food products while preventing the addition of extra calories or sugar.
In recent times, consumer preference for natural and health-oriented products has increased substantially, according to a report by Nielsen. A significant proportion of global consumers (41%) indicate a strong inclination to pay a premium for products comprised entirely of natural or organic components. This number illustrates a substantial increase in the demand for natural foods, contributing to expanding the global market.
In recent times, market participants have actively introduced novel fruit powders derived from various fruit varieties, thus generating prospects for market expansion. For instance, Wilderness Poets is enthusiastic about introducing its newest superfood powder, USDA Organic Freeze-Dried Acai Powder, derived from acai berries, to consumers in October 2021. Freeze-drying the organic acai powder from Wilderness Poets preserves the antioxidant, anthocyanin, and plant-based Omega-3 content. It is pigmented a vibrant purple, is abundant in antioxidants, and is sugar-free.
Furthermore, Diana Food, a subsidiary of the Symrise Group, announced in September 2020 the launch of a Fair Trade-certified, clean-label acerola powder. This product is being introduced to the market for the first time as a nutritious offering. Diana Food states that this antioxidant-rich acerola powder is permissible in specific countries for functional foods, beverages, capsules, and food preservation. FFL certified the powder as pure as acacia fiber desiccated, thereby providing distinctive benefits.
Europe is the most significant global fruit powder market shareholder and is expected to expand substantially over the forecast period. The European fruit powder market is experiencing the effects of the growing consumer demand for gluten-free products, with the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy being particularly affected. As a result, individuals in this region prefer food products with simple, natural ingredients that are free from allergens and additives. The Association of European Coeliac Societies (AOECS) estimates that coeliac disease affects one in every one hundred individuals in Europe. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder distinguished by the immune system's selective attack on self-tissues in response to gluten ingestion. According to the ratio mentioned above, it is possible to hypothesize that the prevalence of coeliac disease in Europe surpasses 7 million people. However, only 25 percent of those affected have received a formal diagnosis.
Furthermore, the European fruit powder market is characterized by a growing emphasis on sustainability, abundant organic substitutes, and the extensive application of fruit powders within the confectionery and confectionary sectors. According to Eurostat, there has been a steady increase in the land area designated for organic agricultural production inside the European Union (EU). Agricultural land in the European Union (EU) experienced a growth rate of 15.91 million ha in 2021, representing a 9.9% increase from the total used agricultural area (UAA) of 14.71 million ha in 2020. A positive correlation exists between adopting organic practices and growing demand for natural and clean-label products, including fruit powders.