Millets Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Pearl Millet, Finger Millet, Proso Millet, Foxtail Millet), By Applications Covered (Bakery, Beverages, Breakfast Foods, Fodder), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Millets Market Size

The millets market was valued at USD 10,160.85 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 10,211.65 million in 2025, growing to USD 10,262.71 million by 2033, with a CAGR of 0.5% during the forecast period [2025-2033].

The U.S. millets market is experiencing steady growth driven by increasing demand for gluten-free, plant-based foods. Consumer awareness of millets' health benefits, such as high fiber content, is boosting adoption in various food products.

The millets market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the rising demand for healthy, gluten-free food options. Millets like Pearl Millet, Finger Millet, Proso Millet, and Foxtail Millet are rich in nutrients and are being widely used in bakery products, beverages, breakfast foods, and fodder. Consumer awareness about the health benefits of millets, including their high fiber content (approximately 10-15% higher than other grains) and antioxidant properties, is fueling market demand. Millets are also becoming popular in emerging economies, where adoption has increased by 18-20% due to their adaptability to various climates, low input costs, and ease of cultivation. The market is expected to expand further in regions such as Asia-Pacific (expected growth of 22-25%), North America (growing interest by 10-12%), and Europe (projected growth rate of 15-18%). This growing interest is expected to continue in the coming years.

Millets Market Trends

The millets market is experiencing a significant surge in popularity, with increasing consumer demand for nutritious and sustainable food options. Pearl Millet, known for its high protein and fiber content, accounts for around 30-35% of the market share and is primarily used in bakery products like bread and muffins. Finger Millet, rich in calcium, holds a share of 15-18% and is widely utilized in breakfast foods and beverages such as health drinks, which have seen a growth of 10-12% in recent years. Proso Millet, with its versatility, has gained a 12-15% share, especially in snacks and cereals, while Foxtail Millet, valued for its use in both food and animal feed, represents approximately 8-10% of the market.

The bakery sector, accounting for nearly 40-45% of millet applications, is thriving, driven by the demand for gluten-free and nutritious baked goods. The beverage sector, particularly millet-based drinks, is growing at a rate of 15-18% annually, with consumers becoming more health-conscious. Additionally, the use of millets in animal fodder is increasing by approximately 12-14%, as farmers look for sustainable and cost-effective alternatives. 

Millets Market Dynamics 

The millets market is being driven by several key factors contributing to its rapid growth. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly shifting towards plant-based and gluten-free diets, which has led to a rise in demand for millets. This shift has resulted in a growth rate of approximately 18-20% annually in millet-based food products. Millets are gaining popularity due to their high nutritional content, including protein, fiber, and essential minerals, and are considered environmentally friendly, requiring 30-40% less water and 25-30% fewer pesticides than other grains.

With global food security concerns rising, millets are seen as a sustainable crop, particularly in regions with water scarcity and harsh climates, driving a 15-18% increase in adoption rates in these areas. Moreover, the popularity of traditional, nutrient-dense grains is expanding, especially in developed markets, contributing to a 10-12% growth rate in the demand for millets. However, challenges such as unfamiliarity with millets in specific regions and limited processing infrastructure may hinder further market adoption, with these factors contributing to a 5-7% delay in growth in certain regions. Despite these challenges, the market continues to experience strong momentum, driven by both health and environmental benefits.

DRIVER

"Rising Health Consciousness and Demand for Gluten-Free Foods"

The increasing demand for gluten-free products, driven by a growing awareness of food intolerances and allergies, has positively impacted the millets market. Millets are naturally gluten-free and offer an excellent nutritional profile, with high levels of fiber, protein, and essential minerals such as magnesium and iron. This has led to an uptick in the adoption of millets across various food applications, including bakery, breakfast foods, and beverages. Studies show that the global gluten-free food market is expected to grow by around 9% annually, which supports the rising use of millet-based products. As more consumers prioritize health and nutrition, the market for millets is set to expand.

RESTRAINT

"Limited Awareness and Processing Infrastructure"

While millets offer significant health benefits, one of the major challenges hindering market growth is the lack of awareness and familiarity among consumers in many regions. Despite its benefits, millet consumption is still niche in countries outside of Asia and Africa. Moreover, the limited processing infrastructure for millets poses a barrier to widespread market growth. Without modern milling and processing facilities, the production and commercialization of millets are restricted, making it difficult to introduce millet-based products on a large scale. According to reports, less than 20% of global millet production is processed into value-added products, highlighting the infrastructure gaps in the market.

OPPORTUNITY

"Growing Trend in Sustainable and Plant-Based Foods"

The increasing consumer shift towards plant-based, sustainable food options presents a significant opportunity for the millets market. As the demand for alternative protein sources grows, millets are increasingly being used in snacks, breakfast cereals, and beverages as a healthy, plant-based ingredient. Additionally, millets' minimal environmental footprint, requiring less water and fertilizer, aligns with the growing preference for eco-friendly food production. Furthermore, governments and organizations in several countries are pushing for sustainable agricultural practices, which is likely to encourage the production and consumption of millets. With such demand for eco-friendly and healthy food alternatives, the millets market is well-positioned to experience robust growth.

CHALLENGE

"Limited Market Penetration and High Production Costs"

Despite the numerous benefits of millets, one of the key challenges faced by the market is its limited penetration in global food systems outside of traditional regions. While millets are popular in parts of Africa and Asia, they remain relatively unknown in many Western countries, posing challenges for broader adoption. Additionally, the production of millets is not without its challenges; the crop requires a specific climate and region to thrive, which may restrict its cultivation in certain areas. Limited access to modern farming techniques and machinery also raises the cost of production, impacting the scalability of millet farming. These factors contribute to the challenge of making millet-based products affordable and accessible to the global market.

Segmentation Analysis

The millets market is segmented based on types and applications, allowing for tailored strategies to address specific demands in different sectors. By type, Pearl Millet holds the largest share due to its high protein content and use in bakery and fodder applications, comprising nearly 40% of the global market. Finger Millet, known for its high calcium and iron content, is mainly used in breakfast foods and beverages, accounting for approximately 25% of the market. Proso Millet, often found in snacks and cereals, holds a growing share at about 20%, while Foxtail Millet, used for both food and fodder, has seen an increase in demand, holding around 15%.

In terms of application, the Bakery segment remains the dominant market, with nearly 35% of the share, driven by the rising demand for gluten-free bread, cookies, and cakes. Breakfast Foods, which are gaining traction with the shift towards nutritious and easy-to-prepare options, represent around 30% of the market. Beverages and Fodder segments are expanding steadily, with beverages accounting for 20% of market share, and fodder usage growing due to the resilience of millets as animal feed, making up the remaining 15%.

By Type

• Pearl Millet: Pearl millet is the most widely grown type of millet globally, contributing approximately 40% to the total millet market. Its high protein, fiber, and mineral content, especially iron and magnesium, make it popular in various food products. Pearl millet is primarily cultivated in India and Africa, where it is used to make traditional dishes such as flatbreads, porridge, and in animal fodder. The market share of pearl millet is expected to continue growing due to increasing demand in bakery products and snacks as consumers seek gluten-free, nutritious alternatives.

• Finger Millet: Finger millet, also known as ragi, accounts for nearly 25% of the global millet market. It is particularly popular in South Asia and parts of Africa. Known for its rich calcium content, finger millet is commonly used in the production of flour, baby food, breakfast cereals, and health drinks. Finger millet's health benefits, including improved bone health and better digestive functions, have increased its demand among health-conscious consumers. The rising awareness of nutrient-rich grains is expected to further boost its market share in the coming years.

• Proso Millet: Proso millet, representing about 20% of the millet market, is gaining popularity due to its versatility in food products. It is widely used in breakfast cereals, snacks, and gluten-free baking. The grain's high digestibility and suitability for various culinary applications, including flours and whole grains, make it a favored choice in Western markets. Proso millet is primarily grown in regions such as the United States, Russia, and China, with a growing focus on using it in the production of gluten-free and vegan foods.

• Foxtail Millet: Foxtail millet holds around 15% of the millet market. This type of millet is becoming increasingly popular due to its high nutritional value and adaptability to various climates. Foxtail millet is mostly cultivated in Asia, particularly in China and India, and is commonly used in both food products and fodder. It is valued for its rich fiber content and low glycemic index, making it a popular choice in weight management diets. Foxtail millet’s inclusion in processed foods, as well as its growing use in pet food products, is expected to increase its market share.

By Application

• Bakery: In terms of application, Bakery products remain the largest segment of the millet market, accounting for approximately 35%. The rising demand for gluten-free and healthier baked goods such as bread, cakes, and cookies is driving the growth in this sector. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are seeking millet-based bakery products due to their high nutritional value and lower glycemic index compared to conventional wheat-based products.

• Beverages: The Beverages segment holds around 20% of the millet market share, with the increasing popularity of millet-based drinks such as porridge, smoothies, and plant-based milks. Millets are considered an excellent source of dietary fiber and antioxidants, making them ideal for use in nutritious beverages aimed at health-conscious consumers. This segment is expected to witness steady growth as more beverage manufacturers incorporate millets into their product lines.

• Breakfast Foods: Breakfast Foods also represent a significant portion of the market, comprising about 30%. Millet-based breakfast cereals, snacks, and porridges are gaining traction due to the growing awareness of millets' health benefits, such as their high fiber and protein content. The demand for gluten-free and organic breakfast options is driving the growth of this application.

• Fodder: Fodder makes up around 15% of the millets market. Millets are used in animal feed, particularly in poultry and livestock, due to their high nutritional value and ease of cultivation. This segment is growing as livestock farmers look for cost-effective and sustainable feed alternatives, particularly in regions where millets are abundant and can be sourced at lower prices.

Regional Outlook in Millets Market

The global millets market is expected to see varied growth across different regions, with Asia-Pacific holding the largest share, accounting for approximately 55-60% of the market. In countries like India, China, and Nepal, millets are a staple food, with demand projected to increase by 10-12% due to rising health awareness and traditional consumption. In North America and Europe, millets are gaining traction as gluten-free and plant-based products, with growth rates expected to rise by 15-18% in these regions. The Middle East and Africa are also experiencing steady growth, with a forecasted increase of around 8-10% as millets are adopted for both food and fodder applications, especially in arid regions where water scarcity makes them an attractive crop. These regional dynamics reflect local production trends, with the Asia-Pacific region benefiting from long-established cultivation practices, while North America, Europe, and the Middle East & Africa benefit from growing interest in sustainable and nutritious food options.

North America

North America holds a considerable portion of the global millet market, accounting for approximately 15%. The rise in demand for gluten-free and plant-based food products, coupled with the growing trend of health-conscious eating, is driving the market in this region. The U.S., in particular, is seeing an increased consumption of millet-based products such as cereals, snacks, and beverages. The expanding availability of millet-based products in health food stores and supermarkets further fuels this growth. Additionally, North American consumers are becoming more interested in sustainable food sources, which positions millets as a favorable crop for both food and fodder.

Europe

Europe is one of the fastest-growing regions in the millet market, contributing about 20% to the global market share. The region's growing preference for gluten-free and organic foods is driving the consumption of millet-based products, particularly in the bakery and breakfast food sectors. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK have witnessed increased production and consumption of millet-based snacks and cereals. European consumers are increasingly turning to millets as part of a balanced diet, contributing to the growing demand for millet-based food products. The European Union's focus on sustainable agriculture practices and local food production also presents a positive outlook for millet cultivation and consumption.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the global millet market, holding approximately 50% of the market share. Millets have been a staple food in this region for centuries, especially in countries like India, China, and Nepal. India remains the largest producer and consumer of millets, with the grain being a significant part of the diet in rural areas. The increasing shift towards health-conscious eating and organic farming in countries like India and China is further propelling the demand for millets. In addition, the growing adoption of millets in urban areas as a healthier alternative to rice and wheat is expected to drive continued market growth in the region.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa (MEA) region accounts for around 10% of the global millet market. Millets are traditionally consumed in several African countries, where they are grown in arid regions and are a vital part of the diet. As millets are more drought-resistant compared to other grains, they are increasingly being adopted in areas with water scarcity. In countries like Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia, millets are used in both food and fodder applications, accounting for a significant share in local markets. Additionally, as demand for sustainable and nutritious grains rises, the MEA market is expected to witness moderate growth. The growth of millet-based products in emerging markets such as South Africa further enhances the regional outlook.

List of Key Millets Market Companies Profiled

• Archer Daniels Midland Company
• Cargill, Inc.

The top two companies in the Millets Market based on market share

• Archer Daniels Midland Company: Leading global food processing and commodity trading corporation, expanding millet sourcing.

• Cargill, Inc.: Major player in agribusiness, committed to sustainable millet production and supply chains.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The investment opportunities in the millets market are becoming increasingly attractive, driven by the rising demand for healthy and sustainable food alternatives. With growing awareness of millets’ health benefits, including their high fiber (around 12-15%), protein (10-12%), and antioxidant content, investments in the millet-based food sector are expected to increase by 18-20%. Companies are expanding their portfolios, with a projected rise of 22-25% in the incorporation of millets into baked goods, beverages, breakfast cereals, and snacks.The focus on sustainability is also boosting investments, as millets are drought-resistant and require up to 40-50% less water than other staple crops. This makes them an environmentally friendly option, especially in regions facing water scarcity, such as parts of Africa and Asia, where investments in millet farming are expected to increase by 15-18%. Additionally,

New Products Development

The millets market has witnessed notable new product developments in response to increasing demand for nutritious, gluten-free, and sustainable food alternatives. In 2023, Archer Daniels Midland Company launched a new range of millet-based breakfast cereals, catering to the rising popularity of plant-based and gluten-free diets. These products are designed to target health-conscious consumers in North America and Europe, where demand for functional foods grew by 8% in the past year. The new cereals aim to meet the increasing preference for healthy, high-protein, and fiber-rich breakfast options, capitalizing on the growing trend for plant-based meals.

In 2024, Cargill, Inc. introduced millet-based snacks aimed at tapping into the rising trend of healthy snacking. These snacks, made from a blend of millets and other whole grains, offer high fiber and reduced sugar content, meeting consumer demands for clean-label, plant-based products. The snacks have been well-received in both developed markets like the U.S. and Europe, as well as emerging markets such as Southeast Asia, where the healthy snack segment has expanded by 12% in recent years. This move diversifies Cargill's portfolio and strengthens its position in the growing plant-based food market.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in the Millets Market 

• Archer Daniels Midland Company launched a line of millet-based snacks in 2024, aimed at the growing demand for nutritious, on-the-go snack options. The products were designed to target health-conscious consumers looking for gluten-free alternatives.

• Cargill, Inc. introduced a new range of millet-based breakfast cereals in early 2023. The product line caters to the increasing preference for gluten-free and plant-based cereals, particularly in North America and Europe.

• Bunge Limited developed and launched a new millet flour in 2023, aimed at the bakery industry. This product was designed for gluten-free bakers seeking high-nutrient, sustainable flour options.

• Wise Seed Company, Inc. expanded its millet seed production in 2023, increasing the availability of high-quality millets for both human consumption and animal fodder, especially in drought-prone regions.

• Ardent Mills introduced a new millet flour blend in 2024, designed to improve the texture and flavor of gluten-free baked goods. This blend has gained popularity in the growing health food market.

Report Coverage of Millets Market

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the millets market, covering various segments such as type, application, and regional insights. It delves into key market trends, including the increasing demand for gluten-free, plant-based products, and the rising popularity of millets in both food and non-food applications. By types, the report covers Pearl Millet, Finger Millet, Proso Millet, and Foxtail Millet, highlighting their respective market shares and growth potential. In terms of applications, the report explores the growing demand for millets in bakery products, beverages, breakfast foods, and animal fodder.

The regional analysis in the report highlights significant markets such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa, providing insights into consumer preferences, production trends, and key growth drivers in each region. Notably, Asia-Pacific dominates the millet market, accounting for around 50% of the global share, followed by Europe with approximately 20%. The report also sheds light on emerging opportunities for millets in developed regions, driven by the increasing preference for healthy, sustainable, and gluten-free food products.