Middle East and Africa Microgreens Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Arugula, Peas, Radish, Basil, Carrots, Lettuce and Chicory, Fennel, Sunflower, Others), By Farming Method (Indoor Vertical Farming, Commercial Greenhouse Farming), By Distribution Channel (Retail Store, Online Store, Farmers Market, Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Restaurants, Others), By End-User (Residential, Commercial), By Growth medium (Peat Moss, Soil, Coconut Coir, Tissue Paper, Other Growth Mediums) and By Country(South Africa, South Arabia, Rest of MEA) Forecasts, 2023-2031

Market Overview

The Middle East and Africa microgreens market size was valued at USD 75 million in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 245 million by 2031, registering a CAGR of 12.5% during the forecast period (2022-2031).

Microgreens are delicate, young vegetable greens ranging from one to three inches. They are harvested 7 to 14 days after germination when both cotyledons leaves fully develop—often termed vegetable confetti. Due to their intense aromatic flavor and variation of colors and textures, microgreens are typically used to enhance the color, texture, or flavor of various foods, such as pasta, pizza, omelets, and salads. They contain a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

The rising demand for healthy, functional, and nutritional foods and the rising popularity of indoor vertical and greenhouse farming are all expected to drive the microgreens market forward in the next years. Since microgreens need careful tending in a stable climate, they are typically grown in a greenhouse or indoor vertical farm. The demand for microgreens-based oils and components in manufacturing consumer goods like shampoo and skin care products is expected to propel the microgreens market during the projected period.

Highlights

• Broccoli dominates the market by type. 
• Indoor Vertical Farming dominates the market farming.
• Retail stores dominate the market by distribution channel.
• Commercial segment dominates the market by end-user.

Market Dynamics

Middle East and Africa Microgreens Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Indoor Cultivation

Indoor cultivation is the cultivation of food crops in a controlled environment, allowing for year-round production of high-yielding commodities. Increased food demand and decreased agricultural production have prompted farmers to adopt indoor farming. The decrease in agricultural output is primarily attributable to diminishing productive land, unfavorable climatic conditions, and restrictions on using natural resources. Due to these factors, conventional agriculture cannot produce enough food to meet the needs of a developing population. For example, the United Nations (UN) predicts that the present global population of 7.6 billion will increase to 9.8 billion by 2050 and 11.2 billion by 2100 (UN, 2017). In addition, the rise of technological innovations in indoor farming, such as the proliferation of information technology in vertical farming and greenhouses, encourages farmers to implement farming, which will indirectly support the growth of the global microgreens market over the forecast period.

Alterations in Lifestyle and Dietary Practices

Fast food, functional foods, organic fruits and vegetables, and other lifestyle food sources are gaining popularity, as are premium food items and highly nutritious food products.

Consumers are increasingly focusing on adopting agricultural foods with high nutritional value. They are willing to pay a higher price for fresh and organic produce to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, heart-related issues, and cancer. Additionally, many individuals are adopting a vegan lifestyle and seeking the best plant-based sources to meet their nutritional needs. This is anticipated to drive the market growth.

Middle East and Africa Microgreens Market Restraints

Lack of Skilled Workforce and Restricted Microgreens Crop Selection

One of the latest innovations in indoor farming is vertical farming. Most farmers don't know if this method exists or what kinds of crops can be grown. Sensors, AI, autonomous systems, hydroponic, aquaponic, and aeroponic systems are all used in vertical and greenhouse farming. A highly educated and competent team is required to run these complex systems. Technically literate individuals are also needed for the upkeep of machines and computers.

High Initial Expenditures

Expensive machines, lighting, automatic systems, and temperature-controlling devices are required for indoor vertical farming. Therefore, the initial cost of indoor farming is significantly higher than that of conventional farming. The cost of urban land, which is higher than that of agriculture, is one of the primary contributors to the high investment level. In addition, energy accounts for a greater proportion of vertical farms' operating expenses and greenhouses' operating expenses. Indoor farming requires a substantial initial investment from farmers for devices, equipment, and other necessities.

Middle East and Africa Microgreens Market Opportunities

Augmentation of Purchasing Power

Changes in consumer lifestyles have been one of the main contributors to the increasing popularity of microgreens in developing economies. In Latin America and the Middle East, per capita income has increased significantly over the past decade, which is anticipated to drastically increase the demand for luxury food in the coming years, creating lucrative market opportunities.

The Rapid Expansion of the Retail Industry and Online Retailers

Awareness of microgreens requires not only advertising but also a vast distribution network. In developing economies, the proliferation of large retail stores, such as supermarkets and hypermarkets, has increased the accessibility of microgreens, as these stores contribute to the rise in sales of functional foods. Supermarkets, hypermarkets, and grocery stores have served as ideal distribution point for various agricultural food products, including packaged fruits and vegetables.

Regional Analysis

Middle East and Africa is a significant revenue contributor and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.5% during the forecast period. The microgreens market across MEA includes South Africa, South Arabia, Rest of MEA.

The recognition that lifestyle-related disorders are the leading cause of health problems has increased consumer health consciousness. The demand for microgreens is fueled by increased consumer awareness of the health benefits of microgreen food products, such as protection against chronic diseases and the promotion of optimal health, longevity, and quality of life. The aging of the population, the rise in life expectancy, and the prevalence of chronic diseases have altered the dietary habits of consumers.

Numerous producers are attracted to microgreen farming due to its benefits, which include rapid growth, high-value crops, and highly nutrient-dense crops, which drive market expansion. In addition, an increase in consumer demand for natural and nutrient-dense food has prompted consumers in both urban and rural areas to engage in community farming and urban rooftop garden farming, contributing to the microgreens market expansion.

Segmental Analysis

The Middle East and Africa microgreens market is segmented based on type, farming, distribution channel, and end-user.

By type, the microgreens market is categorized into broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, arugula, peas, basil, radish, cress, and others.

Broccoli dominated the market and is expected to register a CAGR of 11.7% over the forecast period.

By farming, the microgreens market is categorized into indoor vertical farming, commercial greenhouses, and others.

Indoor vertical farming is expected to dominate the market, registering the highest CAGR of 13.1% over the forecast period.

By distribution channel, the microgreens market is categorized into retail stores, farmers market, and others.

Retail stores segment dominated the market and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.2% during the forecast period.

By end-user, the microgreens market is categorized into residential and commercial.

Commercial segment dominated the market and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.6% during the forecast period.

Recent Developments