Saudi Arabia Plant-based Food Market Overview, 2028
Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam, and Islamic dietary laws play a significant role in shaping food choices. Many Muslims in the country observe halal dietary restrictions, and some choose to follow plant-based or vegetarian diets, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan and other religious occasions. Islamic teachings emphasize compassion for animals and encourage moderation in consumption. While traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine is often centered on meat, there are also plant-based dishes deeply rooted in the country's culinary heritage. Traditional dishes like falafel (deep-fried chickpea balls), hummus (chickpea-based dip), mutabbaq (stuffed pastry), and fattoush (salad) are examples of plant-based options commonly enjoyed. Plant-based restaurants and cafes are becoming more prevalent, especially in larger cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. These establishments offer a diverse menu of plant-based dishes and cater to those following vegan or vegetarian lifestyles. During the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, many Muslims adhere to plant-based diets due to the availability of vegetarian and vegan options in the religious sites. As a result, there is an increased demand for plant-based meals during these religious events. In Saudi Arabian culture, food plays a central role in social and family gatherings. Plant-based dishes are increasingly finding their way into these gatherings, as more people are adopting plant-based diets and seeking to offer inclusive meal options to guests.
According to the research report ""Saudi Arabia Plant Based Food Market Overview, 2028,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Saudi Arabia Plant Based Food market is projected to reach market size USD 720.67 Million by 2028. The plant-based food market in Saudi Arabia is likely to have diversified further with an increasing variety of products available. Beyond traditional plant-based alternatives like tofu, tempeh, and soy milk, consumers may have access to more advanced and realistic meat and dairy substitutes, including lab-grown or cultured alternatives. The development of novel plant-based protein sources could have gained traction, allowing for a wider array of alternatives beyond soy, pea, and wheat protein. Ingredients such as algae, fungi, and other crops rich in protein might have been explored for their potential in creating plant-based meat substitutes. The plant-based food trend might have found its way into schools, universities, hospitals, and corporate cafeterias, where institutions are increasingly offering plant-based options to cater to diverse dietary preferences. Airlines operating in Saudi Arabia could have incorporated more plant-based meal options in their in-flight menus, providing travelers with a wider range of choices. The rise of smartphone apps and online platforms could have led to the growth of plant-based food apps and meal delivery services, making it easier for consumers to access plant-based meals from various restaurants and vendors.
In term of product type is divided into Plant-based Milk, Plant-based Meat and Seafood, Plant-based Cheese, Plant-based Desserts, Plant-based Ice Cream, Plant-based Yogurt, Plant-based Butter, Plant-based Bars, Plant-based Bakery Snacks and Confectionery, Plant-based Creamer, Plant Based Mayyonaise and Salad Dressing and Others. Among them, Plant Based Milk segment is expected to the highest Market Share. A significant portion of the population in Saudi Arabia may be lactose intolerant or have dairy allergies. Plant-based milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk, provides a suitable alternative for individuals who cannot consume dairy products due to these dietary restrictions. The popularity of plant-based diets, including vegan and vegetarian lifestyles, has been increasing in Saudi Arabia. Plant-based milk is an essential component of these diets, providing a rich source of nutrients without using animal-derived ingredients. In addition, the popularity of plant-based diets, including vegan and vegetarian lifestyles, has been increasing in Saudi Arabia. Plant-based milk is an essential component of these diets, providing a rich source of nutrients without using animal-derived ingredients. There is a growing awareness of the environmental impact of animal agriculture, including greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation. Plant-based meat and seafood have a lower environmental footprint, making them appealing to consumers seeking more sustainable and eco-friendly food choices. In Saudi Arabia, religious and cultural dietary practices play a significant role in food consumption. Plant-based meat and seafood alternatives can align with religious dietary restrictions, such as halal, and cultural preferences for plant-based diets.
The Saudi Vegan Society is a non-profit organization that aims to raise awareness about plant-based diets, animal rights, and environmental sustainability. They organize events, workshops, and campaigns to promote the benefits of plant-based living. Veggie KSA is an online platform and community for plant-based enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia. They share information about plant-based restaurants, recipes, and lifestyle tips to support those interested in adopting plant-based diets. Vegans in Saudi Arabia are a social media group that connects vegans and plant-based individuals across the country. The group fosters a supportive community where members can share experiences, recipes, and recommendations. Some Saudi food banks and charitable organizations are incorporating plant-based meals into their distributions, promoting food sustainability and inclusivity. There are several Saudi bloggers and influencers who focus on plant-based living and share their plant-based recipes, restaurant reviews, and lifestyle tips on social media platforms.
E-commerce platforms were becoming increasingly popular in Saudi Arabia, and they had a significant impact on the distribution of plant-based food products. Online marketplaces and dedicated e-commerce websites allowed consumers to explore a wide variety of plant-based options, including products that might not be as readily available in physical stores. Popular e-commerce platforms in Saudi Arabia, such as Noon, Amazon.sa, and others, likely offered plant-based food alternatives. Hypermarkets and supermarkets were essential players in the distribution of plant-based food products in Saudi Arabia. These retail outlets offered a range of plant-based alternatives, including meat substitutes, dairy-free products, plant-based snacks, and other plant-based food items. Popular hypermarkets and supermarkets in Saudi Arabia, such as Carrefour, Tamimi Markets, Panda, and Danube, were likely to carry plant-based food options.
Start-Ups:
• Obeikan Plant-Based Foods is a Saudi-based start-up that focuses on producing a variety of plant-based meat alternatives. Their products include plant-based burgers, sausages, and nuggets, aiming to provide consumers with familiar and tasty meat substitutes.
• The Honest Counter is a Saudi start-up that specializes in vegan and gluten-free food products. They offer a range of plant-based alternatives to conventional dairy and meat products, including plant-based cheeses and meat substitutes.
• Lumar Natural Foods is a Saudi-based company that produces natural, plant-based snacks and treats. They focus on using wholesome ingredients to create healthy and delicious plant-based snacks.
• Yummy Vegan Kitchen is a plant-based catering start-up in Saudi Arabia. They offer vegan catering services for events, parties, and gatherings, providing a diverse menu of plant-based dishes.
• PlantSmile KSA is a plant-based food company that specializes in producing vegan and gluten-free bakery items. They offer a selection of plant-based bread, pastries, and desserts.
• Frooty Pops is a plant-based frozen treat start-up in Saudi Arabia. They offer vegan popsicles made from natural fruits, catering to health-conscious consumers looking for refreshing plant-based desserts.
Considered in this report
• Geography: Saudi Arabia
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028
Aspects covered in this report
• Saudi Arabia Plant-based Food with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation
By Product Type
• Plant-based Milk
• Plant-based Meat and Seafood (Tofu, Quorn, Seitan, Fish, TVP, Burger Patties, Tempeh, Hot Dogs and Sausages, Meatballs, Ground Meat, Nuggets, Crumbles, Shreds, Crab, shrimp, Others)
• Plant-based Cheese
• Plant-based Desserts (Cakes, Pastries, Custard, Pudding, etc.)
• Plant-based Ice Cream
• Plant-based Yogurt
• Plant-based Butter
• Plant-based Bars (Protein Bars, Energy Bars, Cereal Bars, Fruit & Nut Bars, etc.)
• Plant-based Bakery Snacks and Confectionery (Biscuit and Cookies, Bread and Rolls, Chocolate, etc.)
• Plant-based Creamer
• Plant Based Mayonnaise and Salad Dressing
• Others
By Distribution Channel
• Hypermarkets and Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• E-Commerce
• Others
The approach of the report:This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.
Intended audienceThis report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organisations related to the Plant-based Food industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.