Duck Meats Market Assessment, By Category [Fresh, Processed], By Product Type [Whole, Cuts, Ground], By Nature [Organic, Conventional], By Price Range [Less than USD 120, USD 120 – USD 240, Above USD 240], By End-user [Residential, Commercial], By Distribution Channel [Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Departmental Stores, Convenience Stores, Online Channel, Others], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031F
Global duck meats market was valued at USD 2.53 billion in 2023, expected to reach USD 3.33 billion in 2031, with a CAGR of 3.5% for the forecast period between 2024 and 2031. The market is majorly driven by the changing dietary preferences of consumers, increasing demand for exotic and unique tastes, and the use of duck meat in various food applications.
The consumption of duck meat is quite steady in Asia-Pacific and Europe as it is a staple in many countries of the regions holding cultural significance. Furthermore, as there is a growing emphasis on healthy eating, people have evolving dietary preferences, turning to products such as duck meat, which is a lean protein source.
Duck meats are available in fresh and processed forms across the world in different forms such as whole and cuts, catering to the various distinct segments of consumers. The availability of various options provide convenience to consumers in buying products as per their requirement.
Moreover, health-conscious consumers are fueling the demand for organic and low-fat duck meats. Environment conscious individuals give preference to sustainable duck meat production using ethical methods of farming.
Regulatory constraints of various nations pose challenges for the market players, leading to disruptions in supply chains and fluctuations in prices of raw materials. However, with innovative marketing strategies, advancements in technology, and new product launches, market players may deal with these challenges and foster the growth of the market. For instance, in October 2022, Singapore-based company, Meatiply, introduced three new cultivated meat products including smoked duck breast meat for the first time in Asia.
Sustainable Packaging is Driving the Duck Meats Market Growth
One of the significant factors driving the demand for duck meats is sustainable packaging solutions. As people have rising concerns for the environment, there is a greater emphasis on eco-friendly packaging. Manufacturers are making efforts to cater to the growing demand of individuals by transitioning towards sustainable packaging options that lead to reduced carbon footprint and minimized resource depletion. Alongside, the sustainability approach aligns with the CSR initiatives of the companies, improving the reputation of the brand and encouraging brand loyalty. Sustainable initiatives help businesses to reduce the cost of production.
In March 2023, UK-based Gressingham Foods, which is one of the top duck suppliers in the country, in collaboration with the two leading sustainable packaging solutions companies, Coveris and Ravenwood, introduced linerless packaging, which helps reducing the carbon footprint, saving waste material for more than 24 tonnes a year. With this initiative, the company aimed to prove that eco-friendly packaging can be attained in the sector with even lesser labour and time employed.
Growing Health Awareness is Fueling the Demand for Duck Meats
The growing health consciousness is a key driver for the duck meats market globally. Recognized as a healthy source of protein, duck meat is an attractive option to consumers looking for healthier foods. Compared to other meats, such as beef and pork, duck meat is generally lower in saturated fat and higher in protein, making it attractive to individuals who want to maintain a balanced diet and manage their weight.
The increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with duck meat consumption has increased the demand, especially among health-conscious consumers. Furthermore, as dietary trends move towards higher protein and lower fat intake, duck meat nutrition fits well with this preference. Consequently, the changing needs of health-conscious eaters worldwide seeking various duck meat dishes for nutrition fulfillment are taking advantage of this trend.
In July 2023, Maple Leaf Farms launched a new sous vide boneless duck breast for foodservice operators. The convenient, fully cooked skin-on duck breast, prepared using the classic sous vide method, has a juicy texture and rich flavor that make it ideal for a variety of healthy dishes, including salads, pasta, and appetizers.
Asia-Pacific Holds the Dominant Share
Asia-Pacific holds the larger market share in the global duck meats market. Emerging economies such as India and China are driving the demand for duck meats due to rising urbanization and evolving preferences and tastes of consumers. The governments of the region are also taking initiatives to drive the growth of the duck meats market. For example, in March 2024, CBIC, under the government of India, released a notification reducing basic customs duty on imports of frozen duck meats, from 30% to 5%. As a result, according to the USDA, the country’s frozen duck meat import from the United States is expected to rise by 80% in 2024 in comparison with the year 2021.
Moreover, duck meat is used as a primary ingredient in many Asian cuisines such as Bebek Goreng and Peking Duck. Due to numerous benefits offered by duck meat, health-conscious consumers seek it as a great source of iron. Manufacturers in the region are expanding their product offerings and bringing in innovations to capture the larger market shares.
Future Market Scenario (2024 – 2031F)
Due to growing environmental awareness among consumers, lean protein sources, such as duck meat, are expected to experience a surge in demand.
Cellular agriculture is witnessing technological advancements which will make way for lab-grown duck meat catering to the demands of eco-conscious consumers who continually seek sustainable and dairy-free protein alternative.
The improvement in availability and affordability of duck meats will expand the market reach, giving a rise to the growth of the market.
Key Players Landscape and Outlook
Global duck meats market displays a competitive environment with numerous key players dominating the industry. The key players are introducing differentiated products to maintain their market share. They keep developing their product portfolios and strengthening their supply chain networks, displaying commitment to innovation and quality. With growing awareness among people for the nutritional benefits of duck meat, the outlook for the market for duck meat looks positive. Manufacturers are adopting sustainable farming practices, with governments being strict with the rules and regulations for food and safety. It is further enhancing the trust and confidence of consumers, supporting the growth of the market.
In June 2023, Thailand-based Charoen Pokphand Foods PLC entered into a collaborative trade agreement with Australia by sending cooked duck meat to the nation. The export from Thailand to Australia took place after negotiations for seven years. With the collaboration, Thailand became the first-ever country to export cooked duck meat to Australia where laws related to food and agricultural goods are quite stringent.