Diabetic Food Market

Market Overview

The global diabetic food market size was valued at USD 13.47 billion in 2023. It is estimated to reach USD 22.18 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period (2024–2032). The diabetes epidemic has been on the rise globally, primarily due to the adoption of unhealthy lifestyles and dietary choices, which is expected to drive the growth of the diabetic food market. Key industry players have responded by introducing a plethora of diabetic and dietary products, making them readily accessible to consumers, thus creating opportunities for global market expansion in the foreseeable future.

Diabetic food is a type of product designed specifically for people with diabetes to help them manage their blood sugar levels while also providing nutritional benefits. These foods are designed to be low in carbohydrates, sugar, and unhealthy fats but high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. The primary goal is to help diabetics regulate blood sugar levels while also supporting their overall health and well-being.

Diabetic foods frequently include low-carb and sugar-free options, high-fiber and protein-rich foods, and those containing healthy fats and oils. Some diabetic foods also contain specialized ingredients such as fiber-rich psyllium and protein-rich whey protein, which help with blood sugar management. These products are intended to be both nutritious and delicious, making it easier for diabetics to manage their condition while maintaining a healthy diet.

Highlights

• Dairy dominates the product segment.
• Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate the distribution channel segment.
• North America is the highest shareholder in the global market.

Market Dynamics

Diabetic Food Market Drivers

Increasing Prevalence of Diabetes and Rising Health Awareness

The global diabetic food market is primarily driven by the increasing prevalence of diabetes worldwide. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), in 2021, approximately 537 million adults aged 20-79 years were living with diabetes, and this number is projected to rise to 643 million by 2030 and 783 million by 2045. This alarming increase in diabetic cases necessitates the adoption of specialized dietary products to manage blood sugar levels, spurring demand for diabetic foods.

Furthermore, rising health awareness and a growing focus on preventive healthcare are contributing to market growth. Consumers are becoming more conscious about the nutritional content of their food, opting for products that help manage and prevent diabetes. The increasing availability of diabetic-friendly foods, such as low-calorie sweeteners, whole grains, and sugar-free beverages, in supermarkets and online platforms is making it easier for consumers to make healthier choices. This trend is further supported by government initiatives promoting healthy eating habits and the introduction of sugar taxes in several countries to curb the consumption of sugary foods and beverages.

Diabetic Food Market Restraint

High-Cost Associated with Diabetic Foods

A significant restraint in the Global Diabetic Food Market is the high cost associated with specialized diabetic products. According to a 2023 survey by the American Diabetes Association, 63% of diabetic individuals identified cost as a major barrier to accessing these foods, up from 57% in 2022. The high expense is attributed to the need for specialized ingredients and processing methods, which inflate production costs.

For example, the International Diabetes Federation found that diabetic-friendly snacks were 28% more expensive than regular snacks in 2023, compared to 22% in 2022. Additionally, the CDC reported that households with diabetic members faced an extra USD 1,921 in annual food and medical expenses in 2023, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. This financial strain restricts access to necessary diabetic foods, especially for low-income individuals and families, impacting their ability to effectively manage their condition through a balanced diet.

Diabetic Food Market Opportunities

Technological Advancements and Product Innovations

Technological advancements and continuous product innovations are significant opportunities for the growth of the global diabetic food market. Food manufacturers are increasingly investing in research and development to create innovative products that cater to the specific dietary needs of diabetic patients. For instance, the development of functional foods and beverages enriched with fibers, proteins, and essential nutrients that help in blood glucose management is gaining traction.

The introduction of new sugar substitutes, such as stevia and monk fruit, which provide sweetness without the caloric content of sugar, is also fueling market growth. Companies are also leveraging advanced food processing technologies to enhance the taste and texture of diabetic-friendly foods, making them more appealing to consumers. For example, Nestlé has developed a range of diabetic-friendly products under its brand, Nestlé Health Science, which includes meal replacements and snacks formulated to help manage blood sugar levels. Additionally, the use of e-commerce platforms to market and distribute diabetic foods is expanding the reach of these products, making them accessible to a larger population.

Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market is bifurcated into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. 

North America Dominates the Global Market

North America is the most significant global market shareholder and is expected to expand substantially during the forecast period, largely due to its high prevalence of diabetes and advanced healthcare infrastructure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 34.2 million Americans have diabetes, representing around 10.5% of the U.S. population. This significant diabetic population drives the demand for specialized dietary products designed to manage blood glucose levels effectively. Consumer awareness regarding diabetes management is notably high in North America, contributing to the market's growth. The region's population is well-informed about the health benefits of diabetic-friendly foods, which has led to increased consumption of products such as low-calorie sweeteners, whole grains, and sugar-free beverages.

Additionally, government initiatives and public health campaigns aimed at reducing sugar consumption and promoting healthy eating habits further support this trend. For example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has implemented regulations requiring clear labeling of added sugars on food products, helping consumers make healthier choices. Furthermore, the presence of major market players, such as Nestlé Health Science, Unilever, and Abbott Laboratories, also bolsters the North American diabetic food market. These companies are continuously innovating and expanding their product lines to meet the specific needs of diabetic consumers. For instance, Abbott's Glucerna products, designed for people with diabetes, offer meal and snack replacements that help manage blood sugar levels.

Moreover, the region benefits from a well-established retail and distribution network, making diabetic foods readily accessible to consumers. Supermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms provide a wide range of diabetic-friendly products, ensuring convenience and availability. The strong presence of e-commerce also plays a crucial role, with platforms like Amazon and Walmart offering extensive selections of diabetic foods, often at competitive prices. Thus, North America's combination of a significant diabetic population, high consumer awareness, robust government initiatives, and the presence of leading market players positions it as a key region in the global diabetic food market. The region's advanced healthcare infrastructure and well-developed retail networks further enhance market growth and accessibility.

Europe is a significant market for diabetic foods, driven by a combination of high diabetes prevalence and strong health consciousness among consumers. According to the International Diabetes Federation, Europe had approximately 61 million adults living with diabetes in 2021, a number that continues to grow. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France lead the market due to their advanced healthcare infrastructure and high consumer awareness. The European Union's stringent regulations on food labeling and health claims further support the market by ensuring product transparency and consumer trust.

Furthermore, the region’s market is also bolstered by government initiatives aimed at reducing sugar consumption and promoting healthier lifestyles. For instance, the UK’s sugar tax, introduced in 2018, has led to a significant reduction in sugar levels in soft drinks and increased demand for sugar-free and low-calorie alternatives. Additionally, the growing trend of organic and natural products is influencing the diabetic food market, with consumers seeking products free from artificial additives and preservatives. Moreover, retail chains and e-commerce platforms in Europe enhance product accessibility, with major players like Tesco and Carrefour offering extensive ranges of diabetic-friendly foods. Thus, the rising popularity of online shopping further facilitates the availability of these products, making it easier for consumers to incorporate diabetic-friendly options into their diets.

Segmental Analysis

The global diabetic food market is bifurcated into products and distribution channels.

Based on the product, the global market is divided into bakery, confectionery, dairy products, dietary beverages, snacks, and others.

The dairy product segment dominates the global market and is expected to grow substantially over the forecast period. Fermented dairy products such as yogurt are known to be natural sources of probiotics, have a positive effect on intestinal health, and are linked with the improvement of glucose and insulin levels in the body. Many dairy products have a low glycemic index (G.I.) as foods with a low G.I. are digested and absorbed more slowly, gradually increasing blood sugar levels. This slow rise in blood sugar can be advantageous for people with diabetes to prevent spikes and crashes in blood glucose. Greek yogurt, string cheese, fat-free milk, and grass-fed dairy options are usually consumed by consumers with diabetes, which defines the growth prospects in the dairy sector of the diabetic food market.

Based on distribution channels, the global market is divided into supermarkets and hypermarkets, specialty stores, online sales channels, and others.

The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment owns the highest market share and is expected to expand significantly over the forecast period. The substantial proliferation of supermarkets and hypermarkets globally is the principal determinant contributing to its significant economic output. The key motivation for consumers to visit neighboring supermarkets and hypermarkets is the convenience of shopping through the availability of various food goods, including those suitable for individuals with diabetes.

Likewise, the introduction of new products in sectors such as bakery, dairy, and confectionery inside supermarket settings is expected to positively impact the future growth of these segments. For instance, in July 2021, Fitbakes introduced a sugar-free caramel cake to the market, making it available at around 1,000 Tesco stores across the United Kingdom. Thus, such factors are estimated to expedite the segment’s growth. 

Recent Developments

• February 2024- Danone, S.A. introduced "Protinex Diabetes Care" to cater to the nutritional needs of individuals in India living with diabetes. The product delivers sufficient protein and fiber, essential nutrients for effectively regulating blood sugar levels.
• May 2024- Nestlé is introducing a new line of frozen food products specifically designed for individuals who are prescribed GLP-1 drugs, a promising pharmaceutical treatment for type 2 diabetes.