The global chicory market size was valued at USD 786.56 million in 2024 and is projected to reach from USD 840.83 million by 2025 to USD 1433.94 million in 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.9% over the forecast period (2025-2033).
Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a versatile perennial herb belonging to the dandelion family, Asteraceae, commonly recognized by its striking blue flowers, with occasional pink or white blooms. This plant is cultivated in various forms, including leafy salads, chicons, and roots, which are often baked and ground to serve as a coffee substitute or additive.
Chicory has become increasingly popular due to its rich content of bioactive compounds, offering multiple health benefits. It contains essential sesquiterpene lactones such as lactucopicrin, sonchuside C, and guaianolid glycosides like chicoroisides B and C. Cichorium intybus is also abundant in inulin, a prebiotic fiber, alongside proteins, fats, flavonoids, hydroxycoumarins, oils, terpenoids, and a variety of vitamins.
Particularly notable are its caffeic acid derivatives—such as isochlorogenic acid, chicoric acid, dicaffeoyl tartaric acid, and chlorogenic acid—which contribute to its antioxidant properties. With its array of health-promoting compounds, chicory is rapidly gaining traction in both culinary and nutraceutical markets.
The below table shows world-age standardized prevalence estimates (%) of diabetes among 20-79 years of age in 2019 vs. 2030
Year |
2019 |
2030 |
World |
8.3 |
9.2 |
Middle East & North Africa |
12.2 |
13.3 |
Western Pacific |
11.4 |
12.4 |
Southeast Asia |
11 |
12.2 |
North America & Caribbean |
11.1 |
12.3 |
South & Central America |
8.5 |
9.5 |
Europe |
6.3 |
7.3 |
Africa |
4.7 |
5.1 |
Source: Annual Reports, Investor Presentations & Straits Research Analysis
Chicory Root is experiencing a surge in popularity as a coffee substitute, driven by the rising demand for caffeine-free beverages. This trend is particularly noticeable among health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to regular coffee. With a flavor profile similar to coffee but without caffeine, Cichorium Intybus coffee has become a favored choice for individuals looking to reduce caffeine intake for health reasons or personal preferences.
This dual appeal of flavor and health benefits is further driving demand in markets that emphasize wellness, such as North America and Europe.
Chicory root’s rich inulin content makes it highly sought after for its health benefits, particularly in supporting digestive health. Inulin, a prebiotic fiber, promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving digestion and enhancing bowel regularity. Research has also linked inulin to improved satiety, which can aid in weight management by reducing appetite. Furthermore, Cichorium intybus possesses anti-inflammatory properties and is beneficial in managing blood sugar levels, adding to its appeal among consumers, especially those managing conditions like diabetes.
These health attributes are not only attracting health-conscious consumers but are also driving demand across the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries, where Cichorium intybus-based products are promoted for their digestive and metabolic benefits.
The global shift toward plant-based diets and functional foods is fueling the demand for chicory as a versatile, health-promoting ingredient. With a growing number of consumers prioritizing natural, plant-based components in their diets, Cichorium Intybus has found applications in products ranging from coffee substitutes to health supplements.
As a natural source of inulin, Cichorium intybus is widely used in functional food products aimed at improving gut health, promoting satiety, and supporting weight management, meeting the needs of health-conscious consumers. This growth aligns with the demand for functional foods, making chicory an increasingly popular choice in plant-based product formulations.
The plant is primarily cultivated in regions with temperate climates, and variations in weather conditions can significantly impact crop yield. Droughts, excessive rainfall, or other adverse weather events can reduce the availability of Cichorium intybus roots, leading to fluctuations in supply and price volatility.
Moreover, the reliance on specific growing regions limits the global supply chain, which can create bottlenecks in production if any region experiences unfavorable climatic events. These factors make the chicory market vulnerable to external environmental influences, restricting its consistent availability and leading to higher operational costs for producers and suppliers when conditions are not optimal.
The rising awareness around digestive health is driving a significant opportunity in the market for prebiotic-rich foods, with chicory emerging as a leading source. Cichorium intybus root’s inulin—a naturally occurring prebiotic fiber—supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to improved digestion and enhanced gut health.
This aligns perfectly with the preferences of today’s health-conscious consumers, who increasingly seek foods that promote overall well-being.
With chicory’s adaptability and recognized benefits for gut health, food manufacturers are well-positioned to expand their product lines with inulin-enriched options that align with this growing consumer demand for functional and health-enhancing foods.
Study Period | 2021-2033 | CAGR | 6.9% |
Historical Period | 2021-2023 | Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 | Base Year Market Size | USD 786.56 million |
Forecast Year | 2033 | Forecast Year Market Size | USD 1433.94 million |
Largest Market | Europe | Fastest Growing Market | North America |
The region’s dominance is largely driven by its long-standing tradition of chicory cultivation and consumption, particularly in countries like Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. These nations have been cultivating chicory for decades, both for its root, used as a coffee substitute and inulin extraction, and its leaves, consumed in culinary dishes like salads. The robust demand for Cichorium intybus products across Europe is further supported by the strong trend towards plant-based foods, functional ingredients, and digestive health awareness.
Additionally, Europe is home to several leading players in the chicory industry, which facilitates widespread availability and further innovation in product applications. The European food and beverage industry has also embraced Cichorium intybus as a natural ingredient in low-sugar, high-fiber, and functional food products, aligning with increasing consumer preference for healthier options.
The region has witnessed increasing consumer interest in health and wellness, leading to rising demand for functional foods, dietary supplements, and natural ingredients. Chicory, particularly inulin derived from Cichorium intybus root, is gaining popularity due to its prebiotic properties, which support digestive health, weight management, and blood sugar regulation. As more consumers seek out foods that promote gut health, the demand for chicory as a natural fiber additive has grown in food and beverage applications across the U.S. and Canada.
Moreover, the North American market is also benefiting from the rising adoption of plant-based diets. With Cichorium intybus used as a natural ingredient in many vegan, gluten-free, and clean-label products, the market is expanding in line with the broader trend toward plant-based nutrition.
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Instant chicory powder is anticipated to see substantial growth due to its convenience and alignment with consumers’ desire for quick, health-conscious beverage options. As more people seek alternatives to traditional coffee, instant chicory powder offers a caffeine-free choice that is well-suited for busy lifestyles. Moreover, its instant solubility makes it ideal for manufacturers in the ready-to-drink, health beverage, and coffee blend markets. The growing recognition of chicory’s digestive health benefits, largely due to its high inulin content, is also driving its demand in the functional food and beverage sector.
Chicory root holds a significant market share, largely due to its prebiotic properties that support gut health by fostering beneficial gut bacteria. This is increasingly relevant as consumer focus shifts toward digestive health, with rising demand for high-fiber and prebiotic foods. Cichorium intybus root is also popular as a natural coffee substitute and is commonly used in plant-based and sugar-reduced products, making it a valuable component in the food and beverage industry.
With health-conscious consumers looking for natural and functional ingredients, chicory root’s adaptability and health benefits are expected to sustain its leading role in the global chicory market.
The food and beverage sector is projected to be the largest application segment, as chicory is widely used as a coffee substitute. Given consumers’ preference for natural, plant-based ingredients, chicory’s role as a caffeine-free coffee alternative, fiber source, and digestive health enhancer ensures its continued appeal. The industry’s movement toward reducing sugar and fat in processed foods has also fueled the demand for Cichorium intybus-derived inulin, a natural fat and sugar replacer that improves texture and adds health benefits.
With a growing emphasis on gut health, clean-label ingredients, and functional foods, the food and beverage sector is expected to remain the primary growth driver for Cichorium Intybus in the coming years.
The global chicory market is experiencing steady growth, primarily fueled by a significant increase in consumer demand for health-conscious products. As more individuals prioritize their health and wellness, Cichorium intybus is gaining attention as a versatile ingredient that offers numerous benefits.
Market players are responding to this shift by diversifying their product portfolios to include a wide range of chicory-based foods, beverages, and dietary supplements. This diversification strategy aims to meet the rising demand for natural, caffeine-free alternatives, catering to consumers looking for healthier options.
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