Tahini Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Hulled Tahini, Unhulled Tahini), By Applications Covered (Paste & Spreads, Halva & Other Sweets, Sauces & Dips, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Tahini Market Size, Share

The Tahini Market was valued at USD 6,010.1 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 6,220.4 million in 2025, ultimately growing to USD 8,191.1 million by 2033, reflecting a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period [2025-2033].

The U.S. Tahini Market is witnessing steady growth due to rising consumer demand for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Increasing health awareness and the popularity of plant-based diets are driving market expansion, with strong potential in retail and foodservice sectors.

The tahini market is expanding rapidly due to its versatile applications across various industries, especially in the food sector. As consumers increasingly prioritize plant-based diets and healthy, nutrient-dense foods, tahini is gaining popularity for its rich, nutty flavor and numerous health benefits. The market is segmented into hulled and unhulled tahini, each catering to different culinary needs, with hulled tahini being more popular in spreads and sauces, while unhulled tahini is valued for its richer flavor and higher fiber content. Paste & spreads, halva & other sweets, and sauces & dips are key application areas, contributing significantly to tahini consumption worldwide. Regionally, North America, Europe, and the Middle East & Africa lead in demand, driven by increasing awareness of tahini’s health benefits and its integration into diverse cuisines. As global demand for plant-based and ethnic food products rises, the tahini market is poised for continued growth, with increasing consumption in emerging markets such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

Tahini Market Trends

The tahini market is witnessing several key trends that are influencing its growth across regions. A significant trend is the rising demand for healthier, plant-based products, with 35% of tahini consumption in North America and Europe driven by plant-based diet preferences. This shift is leading to an increase in product innovations, such as organic and allergen-free tahini, catering to the growing number of health-conscious consumers.

Another key trend is the increasing interest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, with 40% of tahini consumption globally attributed to its use in traditional dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush. As consumers explore diverse global flavors, tahini-based products such as halva and spreads account for 30% of tahini's market share in Western countries, showing substantial growth in supermarkets and specialty food stores.

Furthermore, 25% of tahini manufacturers are adopting sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, reflecting the increasing consumer demand for clean-label products. This is particularly prominent in regions like Europe and North America, where 35% of consumers prioritize sustainability in their food purchasing decisions. The increasing popularity of tahini for its nutritional benefits and versatile applications in paste & spreads, sauces & dips, and sweets is propelling its market growth across various demographics.

Tahini Market Dynamics

The tahini market is evolving as consumer preferences shift toward healthier, plant-based options and global cuisines continue to rise in popularity. The market is influenced by multiple factors, including dietary trends, regional consumption patterns, and the growing focus on sustainability in food production. With increased awareness of the nutritional benefits of tahini, such as its high content of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, the market is expanding rapidly across various regions, particularly in North America, Europe, and the Middle East. However, challenges such as high production costs and competition with other nut-based spreads remain as obstacles to full market penetration.

Drivers of Market Growth

"Increased demand for plant-based and nutritious foods"

As consumer preferences shift toward plant-based diets, tahini has gained popularity due to its health benefits, including high protein and healthy fat content. In Europe and North America, 40% of consumers are seeking plant-based alternatives to traditional dairy spreads, and 35% are incorporating more plant-based proteins into their diets. This demand for nutritious, plant-based foods is driving tahini's market growth, especially in paste & spreads and sauces & dips, where it is used as a healthier alternative to butter, mayonnaise, and other spreads. The growing awareness of the benefits of tahini is contributing significantly to its adoption in the food industry.

Market Restraints

"High production and processing costs"

The production of tahini, particularly unhulled tahini, involves a more complex and costlier process compared to other nut-based spreads. Approximately 25% of tahini's production cost is attributed to the grinding and processing of sesame seeds, which require specialized equipment. Additionally, 30% of tahini’s total cost comes from the procurement of high-quality sesame seeds, which are often sourced from specific regions with limited availability. These factors contribute to the higher market prices, making tahini less affordable for some consumers, especially in emerging markets, which limits its broader adoption.

Market Opportunities

"Growth of international and ethnic cuisine demand"

With a growing interest in ethnic cuisines, tahini is becoming increasingly popular as a key ingredient in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African dishes. The market is expanding as more consumers incorporate halva and sauces & dips into their culinary repertoire. Approximately 45% of tahini consumption is driven by its use in traditional foods like hummus and baba ghanoush, especially in North America and Europe. As consumers become more adventurous with their food choices, the adoption of tahini is expected to rise, presenting a significant opportunity for manufacturers to expand their product offerings and introduce new applications in diverse global cuisines.

Market Challenges

"Competition from other nut-based spreads"

The tahini market faces significant competition from other nut-based spreads such as almond, peanut, and cashew butter. These alternatives have established themselves in the market, especially in North America and Europe, where consumers are highly familiar with peanut butter and almond spreads. Approximately 30% of consumers prefer peanut butter over tahini due to its lower price and broader availability. In comparison, tahini is often perceived as a niche product with limited use, which poses a challenge for growth in more competitive markets. Manufacturers must find ways to differentiate tahini through innovative product offerings, health benefits, and versatility in various applications to overcome these challenges.

Segmentation Analysis

The tahini market is segmented by type and application, with distinct growth patterns in each category. By type, the market is divided into hulled tahini and unhulled tahini, each catering to different consumer preferences in terms of taste, texture, and nutritional benefits. By application, tahini is used in paste & spreads, halva & other sweets, sauces & dips, and other uses like baking and beverages. Each application area reflects the versatility of tahini, ranging from its use as a base for traditional Mediterranean dishes to its inclusion in healthier snack options and sauces. The increasing popularity of plant-based and ethnic foods is driving growth across these segments.

By Type

• Hulled Tahini: Hulled tahini, made from sesame seeds with the outer hulls removed, is the most common type of tahini found in markets globally. It accounts for approximately 60% of total tahini consumption, particularly in paste & spreads and sauces & dips. Hulled tahini has a smoother texture and lighter color compared to unhulled tahini, making it ideal for applications where a milder flavor and creamy consistency are preferred. This type is highly sought after in Western markets, where it is used to create popular spreads like hummus and various dressings. Its production is also more cost-effective than unhulled tahini, driving its market dominance.

• Unhulled Tahini: Unhulled tahini, made from sesame seeds with the hulls intact, is richer in fiber and minerals. While it accounts for approximately 40% of the market, unhulled tahini is gaining popularity in the health-conscious segment due to its higher nutritional content. Unhulled tahini has a more robust flavor and thicker texture, making it ideal for applications in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is used in products like halva and other sweets, where its rich flavor complements the sweetness of other ingredients. Unhulled tahini is also favored by consumers looking for a more earthy, traditional taste in their culinary creations.

By Application

• Paste & Spreads: Tahini is widely used in paste & spreads, which account for nearly 50% of the global market share. It is a key ingredient in classic spreads like hummus, a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern diets. As demand for plant-based foods increases, the use of tahini as a spread has surged, especially in health-conscious communities. Tahini’s smooth texture and nutty flavor make it an ideal base for spreads, which are now commonly found in supermarkets and health food stores. Its versatile nature has led to its use in a variety of spreads, including those mixed with flavors such as garlic, lemon, and spices.

• Halva & Other Sweets: The halva & other sweets segment makes up around 25% of the tahini market. Tahini is a primary ingredient in halva, a traditional sweet treat in the Middle East and Mediterranean. This market segment is growing as demand for ethnic and regional sweets increases globally. Halva is particularly popular in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, where it is often consumed as a dessert or snack. Tahini’s richness and natural oils contribute to the dense, smooth texture of halva, and its growing popularity among consumers seeking ethnic, plant-based desserts is boosting the segment's growth.

• Sauces & Dips: Tahini is also extensively used in sauces & dips, contributing to about 20% of the market. It is a key component in dishes such as baba ghanoush, salad dressings, and tahini-based dips that are popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The growing trend of plant-based and vegan diets, along with the increasing popularity of Mediterranean diets, is contributing to the rise of tahini in this application area. Tahini-based sauces and dips are gaining traction in restaurants, catering services, and home kitchens, where they are favored for their creamy texture and nutritional benefits.

Regional Outlook

The tahini market is witnessing diverse growth across global regions, with strong demand in North America, Europe, and the Middle East. North America and Europe are leading markets due to the growing trend of plant-based diets and the increasing popularity of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The Middle East and Africa region remains a historical leader in tahini production and consumption, while Asia-Pacific is emerging as a fast-growing market driven by urbanization and the growing middle class. Each region is contributing to the growth of tahini’s market share, with increasing focus on health-conscious products and international flavor integration.

North America

North America holds a significant share of the tahini market, with the United States being the largest consumer. The demand for tahini in North America is driven by the growing popularity of plant-based diets, with 35% of tahini sales coming from spreads like hummus and tahini-based sauces. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking natural, nutrient-dense alternatives, boosting the demand for tahini as a source of protein and healthy fats. The rise of ethnic foods, especially Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, is also contributing to tahini’s popularity in this region. The United States accounts for 45% of the North American market share, reflecting the strong adoption of tahini-based products.

Europe

Europe is a key market for tahini, driven by increasing consumer interest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The UK, Germany, and France are major markets for tahini-based products such as hummus, halva, and tahini spreads. The rise in plant-based eating habits and the growing demand for organic and clean-label foods are contributing to tahini’s popularity across Europe. Approximately 30% of tahini consumption in Europe is in the form of spreads and dips, particularly in health-focused retail segments. The demand for tahini-based products in supermarkets and specialty food stores in Europe is expected to continue rising, driven by both ethnic cuisine enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the tahini market, with countries like Turkey, Iran, and China leading the way. Tahini has a deep cultural connection in the Middle East and parts of Asia, particularly in the production of traditional sweets like halva. The region accounts for 21% of global tahini consumption, with a growing middle class and urbanization contributing to the increasing adoption of tahini-based products. In countries like China and India, the expanding demand for international cuisines and healthy ingredients is boosting tahini’s presence in both traditional dishes and modern food products. The region's strong agricultural industry also makes sesame seeds readily available, supporting local production and consumption.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region remains the largest consumer of tahini, accounting for 40% of global demand. Tahini is a staple ingredient in the region’s diet, used extensively in foods like hummus, baba ghanoush, and halva. Countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Israel have long-standing culinary traditions that incorporate tahini. The growing popularity of tahini in international markets, especially in Europe and North America, is increasing exports from the region. Additionally, the region’s increasing focus on exporting tahini-based products and expanding production capabilities has solidified its dominance in the global market.

List of Key Companies Profiled in the Tahini Market

• Haitoglou Bros

• Prince Tahini

• Al Wadi Al Akhdar

• Dipasa

• A.O. Ghandour & Sons

• Sesajal

• Mounir Bissat

• Sunshine International Foods

• Arrowhead Mills

• Joyva

Top 2 Companies with the Highest Market Share

• Haitoglou Bros – 22% market share (A leader in the global tahini market, Haitoglou Bros is known for its high-quality tahini and large-scale production capabilities.)

• Prince Tahini – 18% market share (A prominent player in the tahini industry, Prince Tahini specializes in producing both hulled and unhulled tahini, catering to a wide range of global markets.)

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The tahini market is witnessing increasing investments, particularly from key manufacturers looking to expand production capabilities and enter new markets. Investment in the region of the Middle East & Africa continues to be significant, as this region remains the largest producer and consumer of tahini. Approximately 40% of global tahini production originates from countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey, where the market is highly competitive and ripe for expansion. Manufacturers are investing in improving processing technologies to increase efficiency and output, especially in the production of unhulled tahini, which holds a growing share due to its health benefits.

North America and Europe are emerging as increasingly important markets for tahini, driven by the rising consumer demand for plant-based and health-conscious products. In North America, investments are being directed towards innovative packaging solutions and clean-label products, as consumer preferences shift toward sustainable and transparent food options. The trend of organic tahini in the U.S. market is also fueling investments, with organic tahini now making up approximately 15% of the market share in North America.

Opportunities lie in expanding tahini-based products in supermarkets, health food stores, and online platforms, especially as demand for ethnic foods and plant-based ingredients rises. The market for tahini-based snacks and sweets is also growing, as the global interest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern foods increases. Manufacturers are now diversifying their product lines, introducing tahini in various formats, such as ready-to-eat snacks, energy bars, and salad dressings, to meet the evolving needs of health-conscious consumers.

New Products Development

Recent developments in the tahini market are largely focused on product innovation and expanding the variety of tahini-based offerings. In 2023, Prince Tahini introduced a new range of organic tahini aimed at the growing demand for clean-label products. This new product line features a non-GMO, allergen-free variant that appeals to health-conscious consumers looking for high-quality, natural food products. Organic tahini now represents about 20% of the global tahini market, driven by consumer preferences for sustainable, eco-friendly products.

Additionally, Dipasa has launched a sugar-free tahini spread designed for consumers with specific dietary requirements, such as those managing diabetes or following low-sugar diets. This product development caters to a growing segment of health-conscious individuals seeking healthier alternatives to traditional spreads. The sugar-free tahini is expected to tap into the market demand for nutritious snack options that do not compromise on flavor, further expanding tahini’s presence in the spread and snack food categories.

Joyva has also recently introduced a flavored tahini product, adding variations such as garlic, chili, and lemon to its tahini range. These new products appeal to a broader consumer base, particularly those looking for unique and exotic flavor experiences in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Additionally, Arrowhead Mills introduced tahini-based energy bars, combining tahini with nuts and seeds to create a high-protein, nutrient-dense snack. These innovations are helping to position tahini as a versatile, functional ingredient in various food applications, meeting growing demand for healthy and convenient on-the-go products.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in the Tahini Market

• Prince Tahini Launches Organic Tahini Line: In 2023, Prince Tahini introduced a new line of organic tahini, catering to the increasing demand for clean-label, sustainable products. The new product range includes both hulled and unhulled tahini options, targeting health-conscious consumers who prioritize organic, non-GMO ingredients. This development is expected to strengthen Prince Tahini’s position in North America and Europe, where demand for organic products has seen significant growth, with organic tahini now making up approximately 15% of the market share in these regions.

• Dipasa Introduces Sugar-Free Tahini Spread: In 2024, Dipasa launched a sugar-free tahini spread aimed at consumers with dietary restrictions, such as those following low-sugar or diabetic-friendly diets. This product development targets the growing health-conscious segment, providing a nutritious and versatile alternative to traditional spreads. The sugar-free tahini spread is expected to contribute to the expanding market for healthy, plant-based spreads, which has grown by 20% in the past year.

• Joyva Expands Flavored Tahini Offerings:Joyva introduced new flavored tahini products in 2023, including variations like garlic, chili, and lemon tahini. This expansion caters to the growing consumer preference for bold, exotic flavors in spreads and sauces. The flavored tahini products are especially targeted at the North American market, where there has been a 25% increase in demand for ethnic and Mediterranean ingredients in recent years.

• Sunshine International Foods Develops Tahini-Based Energy Bars: In 2024, Sunshine International Foods introduced tahini-based energy bars, combining tahini with high-protein nuts and seeds to create a nutrient-dense snack. This product caters to the rising demand for on-the-go snacks that are healthy, plant-based, and rich in essential fats and proteins. The energy bar market has grown by 15% globally, and the introduction of tahini-based energy bars positions Sunshine International Foods to capitalize on this trend.

• Sesajal Introduces Halva-Making Kits with Tahini: Sesajal launched a halva-making kit in 2023 that includes high-quality tahini as a key ingredient, allowing consumers to create traditional Middle Eastern sweets at home. This product taps into the growing DIY food trend, especially in markets like the Middle East, North America, and Europe, where there is increasing interest in ethnic cooking. This development aligns with the rising popularity of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern desserts, with halva sales increasing by 10% in Western markets.

Report Coverage

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global tahini market, segmented by type, application, and region. The market is primarily divided into hulled tahini and unhulled tahini, each catering to different consumer preferences in terms of flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits. Hulled tahini holds a larger market share, accounting for around 60% of total consumption, due to its smoother texture and lighter color, making it ideal for use in spreads, sauces, and dips. Unhulled tahini, while accounting for about 40% of the market, is gaining popularity due to its richer flavor and higher fiber content, particularly in traditional Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes.

In terms of applications, tahini is predominantly used in paste & spreads (around 50% of the market), where it is a key ingredient in hummus and other spreads. The halva & other sweets segment also contributes significantly, with tahini being a traditional component in Middle Eastern sweets, making up 25% of the market. Sauces & dips account for 20%, where tahini is widely used in Mediterranean cuisines for dishes like baba ghanoush and various salad dressings.

Regionally, the market is strongest in Middle East & Africa, where tahini consumption is highest, followed by Europe, driven by the popularity of Mediterranean cuisine. North America shows growing demand due to the increasing trend towards plant-based and health-conscious diets, with tahini-based products gaining traction in supermarkets. The Asia-Pacific region is also emerging as a significant market, with countries like Turkey, Iran, and India contributing to production and growing consumption.

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