China Spices and Seasoning Herbs Market Overview, 2028
Spices and herbs have been an integral part of Chinese culture for thousands of years. Chinese civilization has a long history of using spices for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Some spices, such as ginger and garlic, have been cultivated in China for over 2,000 years. One of the most iconic spice blends in Chinese cuisine is the ""Five Spice"" blend, which typically includes star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon (cassia), Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds. This blend represents the five elements of traditional Chinese philosophy: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. It is used to season a wide range of dishes, including meats, stews, and sauces. Chinese medicine (TCM) incorporates various spices and herbs for their medicinal properties. Spices like ginger, garlic, and turmeric are believed to have health benefits and are used to promote well-being and balance in the body. Drying and preserving spices and herbs have been traditional practices in Chinese cooking. Dried spices like dried red chili peppers, dried mushrooms, and dried orange peels are commonly used to add depth of flavor to dishes. Spices and herbs are used in various Chinese festivals and rituals. For instance, during the Lunar New Year, families use ingredients like star anise and dried tangerine peels in dishes to symbolize good fortune and prosperity. Tea is not only a popular beverage in China but also used as a flavoring agent in certain dishes. For example, tea-smoked duck is a classic Chinese dish that infuses the meat with the aroma of tea leaves.
According to the research report ""China Spices & Seasoning Herbs Market Overview, 2028,"" published by Bonafide Research, the China Spices & Seasoning Herbs market was valued at USD 2.33 Million in 2022. Busy urban lifestyles and changing consumer habits have led to a rising demand for convenient and ready-to-use spice blends and seasoning herbs. Consumers seek products that save preparation time while still providing authentic flavors in their cooking. As health and wellness awareness continues to spread in China, there is an increasing demand for natural, organic, and all-natural spices and herbs. Consumers are looking for products without artificial additives, preservatives, and pesticides, which align with their health-conscious preferences. The revival of interest in traditional Chinese medicine has led to an increased demand for herbs and spices used in herbal remedies. Consumers are incorporating TCM ingredients like astragalus, dried goji berries, and Chinese red dates into their diets for their perceived health benefits. As plant-based and vegan diets gain popularity in China, there is a growing demand for herbs and spices that enhance the flavors of plant-based dishes. Spices like smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, and various herb blends are sought after by vegan and vegetarian consumers. With the rise of food delivery and meal kit services, pre-packaged spice blends and seasoning herb kits are becoming more prevalent. These kits offer convenience to consumers and are often used in home cooking.
The Spices segment was expected to hold the highest market share in the China Spices & Seasoning Herbs market based on product type. Spices are fundamental ingredients in Chinese cooking, and they are used in various regional cuisines across the country. Spices like Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, and dried red chili peppers are essential in creating the bold and distinctive flavors found in Chinese dishes. Spices are used in a broad spectrum of dishes, from stir-fries and soups to braised dishes and sauces. They add complexity and depth of flavor to both meat and vegetable-based recipes, making them indispensable in Chinese culinary traditions. In addition, Chinese consumers are becoming more health-conscious and are seeking natural and herbal products with potential health benefits. Herbs are often perceived as having medicinal properties and are used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for their therapeutic effects. Herbs like Chinese parsley (coriander), Chinese mint, and Chinese chives are frequently used in Chinese cooking to add fresh and aromatic flavors to dishes. These herbs are versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. Certain herbs are valued in Chinese culture for their beauty and skincare benefits. Herbal ingredients like green tea, ginseng, and goji berries are often incorporated into beauty products and cosmetics.
Black pepper is commonly used in Chinese cooking to add pungency and depth of flavor to a wide range of dishes, including stir-fries, soups, and marinades. Pepper, particularly Sichuan peppercorns, is a fundamental ingredient in Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavors. It is a key component in dishes like Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, and Sichuan Hot Pot, which are popular both domestically and internationally. Pepper, whether Sichuan peppercorns or black pepper, is a versatile spice that complements both meat and vegetable-based dishes, making it widely used in various Chinese recipes. In addition, the trend of fusion cuisine is on the rise in China, with chefs and home cooks combining elements from different culinary traditions. Cumin's distinctive flavor makes it a sought-after ingredient for creating innovative and fusion dishes. Cumin's aromatic and savory profile makes it an ideal seasoning for popular street food and snacks in China. For example, cumin is often used to season skewered meats and roasted nuts, which are widely enjoyed as street snacks.
Garlic is a staple herb in Chinese cooking, appearing in a vast array of dishes, from stir-fries and braises to soups and marinades. Its strong flavor and aroma add depth and richness to the overall taste of the cuisine. Garlic complements both meat and vegetable-based dishes, making it a versatile ingredient used in a wide range of recipes. It enhances the umami taste of various ingredients, creating well-balanced flavors. Garlic is an integral part of many regional Chinese cuisines, such as Sichuan, Hunan, and Shandong. Each region may use garlic differently, but its use is widespread and deeply ingrained in culinary traditions. Garlic is a popular seasoning for various street food and snacks in China, such as garlic-roasted peanuts and garlic-flavored buns, further driving its consumption. In addition, the trend of fusion cuisine is on the rise in China, with chefs and home cooks combining elements from different culinary traditions. Oregano's aromatic and herbaceous flavor makes it a sought-after ingredient for creating innovative and fusion dishes. As China becomes more connected to the global food scene, Chinese consumers are exposed to Western flavors and spices. This increased awareness may lead to a demand for spices like Oregano, which are commonly used in Western dishes.
China is one of the world's largest consumers of meat and poultry products. Chinese cuisine includes a wide variety of meat-based dishes, from stir-fries and braised dishes to grilled and roasted meats. The high consumption of meat and poultry products drives the demand for spices and seasoning herbs to enhance their flavors. With the rise of home cooking and culinary interest among Chinese consumers, there is a growing trend of using spices and herbs to recreate restaurant-style meat and poultry dishes at home. In addition, As Chinese consumers become more health-conscious and seek convenient and flavorful meal options, the demand for ready-to-use soups, sauces, and dressings with natural and authentic flavors may increase. The increasing urbanization in China has led to busier lifestyles, driving the demand for convenient and easy-to-prepare meal solutions. Pre-packaged soups, sauces, and dressings with added spices and herbs can provide quick and flavorful options for urban dwellers.
The foodservice industry in China is experiencing significant growth, driven by factors such as urbanization, changing consumer lifestyles, and increasing disposable incomes. As more people dine out and order food from restaurants, cafes, fast-food chains, and catering services, the demand for spices and seasoning herbs used in the foodservice sector is likely to increase. E-commerce platforms have become increasingly popular in China, offering consumers a wide selection of spices and herbs with the convenience of home delivery. Online retailers and marketplaces like Tmall, JD.com, and Taobao are major players in this distribution channel. In addition, Retail stores, such as supermarkets, grocery stores, and specialty spice shops, are important distribution channels where consumers can directly purchase spices and seasoning herbs for home use. In addition, based on nature, as consumers seek natural and authentic flavors, the demand for organic spices and herbs is growing. Organic products are often associated with a more authentic and traditional approach to farming and production.
Considered in this report
• Geography: China
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028
Aspects covered in this report
• China Spices & Seasoning Herbs market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation
By Product Type
• Spices
• Herbs
By Spices Type
• Pepper
• Ginger
• Cinnamon
• Cumin
• Turmeric
• Coriander
• Cardamom
• Cloves
• Nutmeg & mace
• Mustard Powder
• Others (Onion Powder, Allspice, angelica, anise, Asafoetida, caraway, sesame, lovage, marjoram, saffron, sorrel, star anise, spearmint, tarragon, etc.)
By Herbs Type
• Garlic
• Oregano
• Mint
• Parsley
• Rosemary
• Fennel
• Basil
• Thyme
• Other herbs (bay leaves, Sage, Savory)
By Application
• Meat & poultry products
• Snacks & convenience food
• Soups, sauces, and dressings
• Bakery & confectionery
• Frozen products
• Beverages
• Others (Pickles and Chutneys, Dips and Spreads, Health Supplements, Pet Food, Baby Food, etc.)
By Nature
• Conventional
• Organic
By Distribution Channel
• Foodservice
• Retail
The approach of the report:This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.
Intended audienceThis report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Spices & Seasoning Herbs industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.