Middle East and Africa Dried Processed Food Market Size (2024-2030) 

As per our research report, the Middle East and Africa Dried Processed Food Market size is estimated to be growing at a CAGR of 4.51% from 2024 to 2030.

The rapid expansion of the dry processed food sector in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) is driven by a unique blend of traditional cooking techniques and contemporary lifestyle demands. This market encompasses a broad spectrum of products, from traditional staples such as dried dates and figs to modern convenience items like instant noodles and ready-to-eat meals. As a result of this change, there is an increasing need for quick-to-consume, shelf-stable food alternatives that suit regional palates and the hectic lifestyles of contemporary consumers.

Dried versions of popular regional staples, such as couscous, fufu flour, and injera bread, are being reimagined for greater convenience. For example, pre-cooked couscous with a hint of saffron offers a quick and flavorful side dish, while instant injera mixes require only water to produce authentic Ethiopian flatbreads. Transparency in ingredients is crucial, with consumers increasingly seeking products made from recognizable, whole-food ingredients and minimal artificial additives, preservatives, or hidden sugars. For instance, sun-dried vegetable mixes with exotic herbs or air-chilled chicken breast strips provide protein-packed options for stir-fries.

Dried processed foods are evolving beyond mere convenience items, with many now fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and protein to meet specific dietary needs. Additionally, dried fruits and vegetables are moving beyond traditional uses like trail mix, thanks to innovative freeze-drying technology that preserves their taste and nutritional value. This offers healthy and convenient snacking alternatives. Subscription boxes featuring curated selections of dried processed foods, along with recipe cards and ethnic spice blends, are becoming increasingly popular, catering to adventurous palates eager to explore new cuisines from home.

One of the primary challenges facing the MEA dried processed food market is the deep-rooted cultural preference for fresh, traditionally prepared foods in many parts of the region.In many communities, especially in rural areas and among older demographics, there is a strong emphasis on preparing home-cooked meals using fresh ingredients. Addressing these deeply rooted preferences necessitates not only effective marketing strategies but also a profound understanding and respect for local culinary traditions.

Imported dried food ingredients and finished products are essential to many countries in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). These established routes were interrupted by lockdowns and travel restrictions, which resulted in brief shortages and price swings. Goods flow was delayed as a result of transportation constraints and border closures. This led to supply chain bottlenecks, which affected the availability of several dry processed foods on store shelves. Contactless "click and collect" e-commerce solutions have become indispensable. To minimize in-person interactions, consumers may opt to place online orders for dried processed foods and then collect them from designated pickup locations.

KEY MARKET INSIGHTS:

• Based on the Type, dried fruits and nuts continue to be the most popular category. Instant meals and soups are emerging as the fastest-growing segments in the dried processed food market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA). This category encompasses ready-to-eat meals that require minimal preparation, including instant noodles, dried soup mixes, and dehydrated meal kits.
• Based on the Distribution Channel, Supermarkets and Hypermarkets currently dominate the distribution of dried processed foods in many MEA countries, especially in urban and semi-urban areas. These modern retail formats are becoming increasingly important in urban areas across the MEA region. They offer a wide range of dried processed foods, often including both local and international brands. The Online Retail segment is anticipated to be the fastest-growing distribution channel, especially in more developed MEA markets.
• Based on the region, The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out as the most dominant player in the Middle East and Africa dried processed food market. This prominence is due to several factors that have established the UAE as a central hub for the food industry in the region. Meanwhile, Nigeria, Africa's largest economy and most populous nation, is undergoing substantial economic growth and experiencing rapid population expansion. Traditional Nigerian cuisine is evolving, particularly in urban areas, as busy lifestyles and Western influences shape new food preferences. Dried processed foods, which offer convenience and longer shelf life, are gaining popularity among urban dwellers and young professionals. This shift is particularly noticeable in products like nuts, dried fruits, and instant noodles, which are becoming staple snacks and quick meal solutions.
• Companies playing a leading role in the Middle East and Africa Dried Processed Food Market profiled in this report are Nestle, National Foods Limited, Unilever, Kraft Heinz, PepsiCo, Dangote Group, Americana Group, Almarai Company, Mars Incorporated, and Sun Dried Foods.