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Hazelnut is an edible nut harvested from trees of the Corylus genus, most commonly Corylus avellana. It is widely consumed as a whole nut and as an ingredient in spreads, chocolates, bakery products, cereals, dairy alternatives, and culinary oils. Hazelnuts are valued for both their flavor and nutritional profile. A typical hazelnut kernel contains around 60–65% healthy fats, primarily monounsaturated fats, 12–15% protein, and meaningful amounts of dietary fiber. They are also rich in vitamin E, magnesium, calcium, and antioxidants, which supports their positioning as a heart-friendly and nutrient-dense food.
From an agricultural perspective, hazelnut trees are temperate-climate crops that begin commercial production around 4–5 years after planting and can remain productive for 40–50 years. Average yields vary by region and farming practices but often range between 1.5–3.0 metric tons per hectare in well-managed orchards. Globally, annual hazelnut production typically exceeds 1 million metric tons, with a significant share coming from a few key producing countries in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.
Economically, hazelnuts play a major role in the global nut and confectionery trade. The Global Hazelnut Market continues to demonstrate steady expansion, supported by rising consumption across food processing, confectionery, bakery, and plant-based nutrition segments. The global hazelnuts market size was USD 16.72 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 18.24 billion in 2026, USD 19.89 billion in 2027, and USD 39.87 billion by 2035, reflecting a 9.08% CAGR from 2026 to 2035. More than 65% of total demand is linked to processed food applications, while about 42% of consumption comes from premium and value-added products. Additionally, roughly 55% of buyers show preference for natural and minimally processed ingredients, which supports hazelnuts’ strong demand outlook. These combined nutritional, agricultural, and commercial attributes make hazelnuts a strategically important nut in the global food industry.
How Big is the Hazelnut Industry in 2026?
The hazelnut industry in 2026 represents a sizable and steadily expanding segment of the global tree nuts and specialty crops market, supported by strong demand from confectionery, bakery, snacks, and plant-based food producers. In value terms, the global hazelnut market is projected to reach around USD 18–19 billion in 2026, reflecting consistent year-on-year growth driven by premiumization and rising nut consumption worldwide. This follows an estimated market size above USD 16 billion in 2025, indicating annual growth close to high single digits.
In volume terms, global hazelnut production in 2026 is expected to be in the range of 1.2–1.3 million metric tons, depending on harvest conditions and weather patterns in key producing countries. Hazelnut supply is geographically concentrated, with Turkey alone often accounting for 60–65% of global output, making it the single most influential country for global pricing and availability. Other notable producers include Italy, the United States (primarily Oregon), Azerbaijan, Chile, and China, which together contribute a significant share of the remaining production.
On the demand side, more than 65–70% of global hazelnut consumption is tied to the food processing sector, especially chocolate, spreads, pralines, biscuits, and bakery fillings. The confectionery industry remains the largest end user, as hazelnuts are a key ingredient in many premium chocolate products. Retail and direct snack consumption represent a smaller but growing portion, supported by health and wellness trends.
Trade is a critical component of the industry’s size. A large share of hazelnuts produced globally enters international trade as kernels, paste, or processed ingredients. Major import markets in 2026 include Germany, Italy, France, the UK, the USA, China, and Japan, where strong food manufacturing sectors drive demand.
Overall, the 2026 hazelnut industry is characterized by high value concentration, global trade dependence, and stable demand growth, positioning it as one of the more attractive segments within the global nuts market.
Global Distribution of Hazelnut Manufacturers by Country in 2026
| Country | Estimated Share of Global Hazelnut Manufacturers (2026) | Role in Value Chain | Key Notes (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turkey | 35–40% | Primary processing, exporting, shelling, roasting | Largest global hub; strong export-oriented manufacturing base |
| Italy | 10–12% | Processing, premium confectionery ingredients | High-quality kernels; integrated with chocolate industry |
| Germany | 8–10% | Ingredient processing, re-exporting | Major importer and processor for EU food industry |
| USA | 7–9% | Farming, processing, value-added products | Oregon dominates domestic production |
| France | 5–6% | Processing, bakery and confectionery supply | Focused on high-end culinary applications |
| China | 5–7% | Domestic processing and consumption | Expanding local manufacturing capacity |
| United Kingdom | 4–5% | Import-based processing and distribution | Driven by private-label and retail demand |
| Canada | 2–3% | Small-scale processing, niche products | Growing but still import-reliant |
| Japan | 2–3% | High-value food manufacturing | Premium confectionery focus |
| Others (Chile, Azerbaijan, Spain, etc.) | 10–12% | Mixed production and processing | Emerging exporters and regional suppliers |
Why Is the Global Hazelnut Market Growing Rapidly?
The global hazelnut market is experiencing solid growth driven by rising demand in confectionery, bakery, spreads, and plant-based foods. Hazelnuts are used in chocolates, pralines, biscuits, dairy alternatives, and nut-based beverages, making them a high-value agricultural commodity. In value terms, the global hazelnut market is estimated in the high-teens billion USD range in 2026, with expected high-single-digit CAGR through the next decade. More than 65% of hazelnut demand comes from processed food industries, while premium and specialty products account for over 40% of value share due to higher margins.
Nutritionally, hazelnuts contain 60%+ healthy fats, 12–15% protein, and significant vitamin E, aligning with clean-label and health-focused consumer trends. Over 50% of global consumers now prefer natural ingredients, directly supporting nut consumption. Climate suitability, improved orchard management, and disease-resistant varieties are also stabilizing yields in key regions.
Major global companies active in hazelnut sourcing and processing include Olam International (ofi), Balsu Gida, Poyraz Tarimsal, Kanegrade, Chelmer Foods, GEONUTS, Aydin Kuruyemis, Pazar Hazelnut, and Oregon Hazelnuts. These firms play a critical role in global supply chains linking growers with confectionery and food manufacturers.
Government norms influencing the sector include food safety standards (HACCP, ISO 22000), pesticide residue limits, sustainability certifications, and import regulations. In many countries, tariffs and phytosanitary rules shape trade flows.
What Drives Hazelnut Market Growth in North America?
Key countries: United States, Canada
North America represents roughly 15–20% of global hazelnut consumption. The United States leads regional production, with Oregon producing over 95% of U.S. hazelnuts and annual volumes often exceeding 40,000–50,000 metric tons. The U.S. market grows around 5% annually, supported by demand for premium chocolates, nut butters, and dairy alternatives. Companies like Oregon Hazelnuts and ofi (Olam) have a strong presence in sourcing and distribution.
Canada’s market is smaller but expanding, driven by health snacks and plant-based diets. Domestic production is limited, so imports from Turkey and the U.S. dominate supply. Canadian growth is estimated at 5–6% annually.
Government norms in North America emphasize FDA/CFIA food safety compliance, allergen labeling, and strict pesticide limits, ensuring high-quality imports and domestic production.
How Is Europe Maintaining Leadership in the Hazelnut Industry?
Key countries: Turkey, Italy, Germany, France, UK, Spain
Europe is the largest hazelnut hub, accounting for nearly 45–50% of global consumption and a major share of production. Turkey alone supplies 60–65% of global hazelnut output, making it the backbone of global supply. Leading Turkish processors include Balsu Gida, Poyraz Tarimsal, Pazar Hazelnut, and Aydin Kuruyemis, exporting worldwide.
Italy is a premium producer with strong integration into the chocolate industry. Italian hazelnuts are known for flavor quality, and the country produces 100,000+ metric tons in strong crop years. Germany, France, and the UK are large importers for confectionery and bakery manufacturing. Ingredient specialists like Kanegrade and Chelmer Foods support European food manufacturers.
EU regulations strongly shape the market, including Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs), sustainability requirements, and traceability laws. Many buyers now require Rainforest Alliance or similar certifications, influencing sourcing decisions.
Where Is Asia-Pacific Creating New Hazelnut Demand?
Key countries: China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia
Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing hazelnut region, holding about 25–30% of global demand. China is both a producer and importer, with rising middle-class consumption pushing 6–8% annual growth. Domestic orchards are expanding in northern China, though yields are variable. Global traders like ofi and GEONUTS are active in supplying Chinese processors.
Japan is a high-value, import-dependent market focused on premium confectionery and gifting. Stable 4–5% annual growth is seen due to premiumization. India, starting from a smaller base, is growing at 8–10% annually, driven by urban consumers and chocolate spread popularity.
Government norms in Asia-Pacific include import inspections, food safety licensing, and tariff structures. India and China maintain strict quarantine checks on nut imports to prevent pests and contamination.
Which Factors Support Hazelnut Growth in the Middle East & Africa?
Key countries: UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Egypt
The Middle East & Africa (MEA) region is a smaller but emerging market, supported by rising disposable incomes and westernized diets. Demand is concentrated in the Gulf countries, where premium chocolates and bakery products are popular. Growth in MEA is often estimated at 5–7% annually.
The UAE acts as a regional re-export hub, importing hazelnuts for redistribution. South Africa has a growing specialty food market, while Egypt shows rising confectionery demand. Global suppliers such as Balsu Gida and ofi serve these markets through distributors.
Government norms in MEA typically involve halal certification, food safety approvals, and import documentation requirements, which suppliers must meet to access the market.
What is Hazelnut companies?
Hazelnut companies are businesses involved in the cultivation, processing, trading, and distribution of hazelnuts and hazelnut-based products. They operate across the hazelnut value chain, which includes farming, collection, shelling, roasting, processing into ingredients (such as paste, oil, flour, or pieces), packaging, and global export or retail distribution.
At the upstream level, some hazelnut companies are growers or grower cooperatives that manage orchards and supply raw hazelnuts. Hazelnut trees typically start commercial yields after 4–5 years and can produce for several decades, making orchard management a long-term agricultural investment. Countries like Turkey, Italy, and the United States host many such producer-oriented companies.
At the midstream level, many hazelnut companies are processors and exporters. They clean, crack, blanch, roast, and grade hazelnuts to meet food industry standards. These firms supply ingredients to chocolate makers, bakeries, cereal brands, and dairy-alternative producers. Processing companies often invest in food safety systems (such as HACCP and ISO standards), optical sorting, and traceability to meet international buyer requirements.
Downstream, some hazelnut companies are ingredient suppliers or branded food companies that sell hazelnut spreads, snacks, confectionery inclusions, and nut-based beverages. Value-added products can generate higher margins than bulk kernels, sometimes by 20–40%.
Economically, hazelnut companies are key players in a global market worth tens of billions of dollars, with demand strongly tied to confectionery and premium foods. Many also focus on sustainability, certified sourcing, and long-term farmer partnerships, as large food brands increasingly require ethical and traceable supply chains.
In simple terms, hazelnut companies are the commercial link that moves hazelnuts from orchards to global food products and consumer markets.
Global Growth Insights unveils the top List global Hazelnut Companies:
| Company | Headquarters | Est. CAGR (Recent Years) | Est. Revenue (Past Year) | Geographic Presence | Key Highlight | Latest Updates (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon Hazelnuts | USA (Oregon) | 5% | USD 40–60M (industry est.) | North America, exports to Europe & Asia | Strong grower network; high-quality kernels | Expanded disease-resistant orchards and upgraded sorting lines |
| Kanegrade | United Kingdom | 4–5% | USD 25–35M (company-wide est.) | Europe, Middle East, Asia | Custom ingredient solutions for food manufacturers | Increased focus on traceable and certified nut sourcing |
| GEONUTS | Europe (Trading-focused) | 4% | USD 20–30M (trade est.) | Europe, Middle East, Asia | Global sourcing and trading network | Expanded supplier partnerships in Turkey and Eastern Europe |
| Poyraz Tarimsal | Turkey | 5–6% | USD 80–120M (industry est.) | EU, North America, Asia | Integrated processing and export strength | Invested in automation and higher-capacity cracking facilities |
| Chelmer Foods | United Kingdom | 4% | USD 30–40M (company-wide est.) | Europe, Asia, North America | Broad ingredient portfolio for B2B customers | Strengthened sustainability and supplier audit programs |
| Olam International (ofi) | Singapore | 5–7% (nuts segment) | Multi-billion USD group revenue | Global (Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia) | Large-scale sourcing and sustainability leadership | Expanded traceable sourcing and digital supply chain tools |
| Balsu Gida | Turkey | 6% | USD 500M+ (industry est.) | Europe, Americas, Asia | One of the world’s largest hazelnut exporters | Capacity expansion and advanced quality control systems |
| Pazar Hazelnut Mfg. & Exporting Co. | Turkey | 5% | USD 150–200M (industry est.) | EU, Middle East, Asia | Export-focused processor | Expanded roasting and paste production lines |
| Aydin Kuruyemis | Turkey | 4–5% | USD 70–100M (industry est.) | Turkey, EU, Middle East | Strong retail and B2B presence in nuts | Launched new consumer-pack hazelnut snack lines |
Opportunities for Startups & Emerging Players (2026)
The hazelnut industry in 2026 offers attractive opportunities for startups and emerging players as global demand for nuts and plant-based ingredients continues to rise. With the global hazelnut market valued in the high-teens billion USD range in 2026 and growing at high single-digit rates, new entrants can tap into expanding consumption across confectionery, healthy snacks, and dairy alternatives. More than 65% of hazelnut demand comes from processed foods, but some of the fastest growth is seen in value-added and branded segments where startups can differentiate.
One major opportunity lies in value-added processing. Products such as hazelnut spreads, flavored roasted nuts, hazelnut butter, and hazelnut milk can achieve margins 20–40% higher than bulk kernel sales. The plant-based beverage segment alone has been growing at double-digit rates in many markets, creating room for niche hazelnut-based drinks positioned on taste and nutrition. Startups that focus on clean labels and minimal processing can appeal to the roughly 50%+ of consumers who prioritize natural ingredients.
Another opportunity is premium and specialty positioning. Single-origin, organic, and sustainably sourced hazelnuts can command price premiums of 15–30%. Younger consumers are increasingly willing to pay more for traceable and ethically sourced foods, pushing large buyers to diversify suppliers. This opens doors for smaller, transparent brands and digital-first companies.
On the supply side, startups can invest in modern orchard management and agri-tech. High-density planting, drip irrigation, and disease-resistant varieties can significantly improve yields per hectare over time. Technology solutions such as farm monitoring, yield analytics, and direct trade platforms can also create value.
Export-oriented startups in emerging producing countries can benefit from rising global trade, as a large share of hazelnuts moves across borders for processing. By combining smart sourcing, branding, and efficient processing, emerging players in 2026 can capture a share of a steadily expanding global hazelnut economy.
FAQ: Global Hazelnut Companies
Q1. Who are global hazelnut companies?
Global hazelnut companies are firms involved in growing, processing, trading, and supplying hazelnuts and hazelnut ingredients. They range from orchard operators to multinational ingredient suppliers. Many serve B2B food manufacturers, as over 65% of hazelnuts are used in processed foods such as chocolate, spreads, and bakery products.
Q2. Which countries host the most hazelnut companies?
Hazelnut companies are concentrated in producing and processing hubs. Turkey accounts for about 60–65% of global hazelnut production, so it hosts a large number of processors and exporters. Italy and the USA (mainly Oregon) are also key bases. Major importing and processing markets such as Germany, the UK, and France host many ingredient-focused companies.
Q3. How large is the business handled by global hazelnut companies?
The global hazelnut market is valued in the tens of billions of USD, with 2026 estimates around the high-teens billion USD range. Annual global production often exceeds 1.2 million metric tons, creating a significant international trade flow in kernels, paste, and processed ingredients.
Q4. Who are some notable hazelnut companies?
Well-known participants include Olam International (ofi), Balsu Gida, Poyraz Tarimsal, Oregon Hazelnuts, Kanegrade, Chelmer Foods, GEONUTS, Pazar Hazelnut, and Aydin Kuruyemis. Some specialize in bulk trading, while others focus on value-added ingredients or branded products.
Q5. What products do hazelnut companies typically sell?
Common products include in-shell hazelnuts, kernels, roasted nuts, chopped pieces, paste, flour, and oil. Value-added formats like paste and spreads can generate 20–40% higher margins than raw kernels.
Q6. What regulations affect hazelnut companies?
Hazelnut companies must meet food safety and trade standards such as HACCP, ISO 22000, and national pesticide residue limits. In the EU and North America, strict Maximum Residue Levels and traceability rules apply. Many large buyers also require sustainability certifications.
Q7. What drives growth for hazelnut companies?
Growth is driven by confectionery demand, premium snacks, and plant-based foods. Around 40%+ of market value is linked to premium and value-added products. Health trends and preference for natural ingredients among over half of consumers further support demand.
Q8. Are hazelnut prices stable?
Prices can be volatile because supply is weather-dependent and geographically concentrated. A poor harvest in a major producing country can influence global prices due to the high supply concentration.
Conclusion
The global hazelnut industry stands as a high-value, steadily expanding segment of the broader nuts and specialty foods market. With the global market valued in the high-teens billion USD range in 2026 and projected to grow at high single-digit CAGR toward 2035, hazelnuts remain commercially attractive for growers, processors, and food manufacturers. Annual global production typically exceeds 1.2 million metric tons, yet supply is highly concentrated, with around 60–65% originating from a single leading producer country, making the market sensitive to weather and crop cycles.
Demand fundamentals are strong and diversified. More than 65% of hazelnut usage is tied to processed foods such as chocolate, spreads, and bakery items, while 40%+ of value comes from premium and value-added formats like paste, roasted kernels, and specialty ingredients. Health positioning also supports the category, as hazelnuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, aligning with the preferences of the 50%+ of consumers who prioritize natural and nutritious foods.
From a trade perspective, a significant share of hazelnuts crosses borders for processing or consumption, highlighting the importance of global supply chains and compliance with food safety standards. Innovation in orchard management, sustainability certification, and value-added processing continues to improve margins and resilience.
Overall, the hazelnut sector combines stable long-term demand, premium product potential, and global trade integration, positioning it as a strategically important and financially attractive niche within the global food industry.