Natural Hemp Seeds Market Size (2024 – 2030)

The Global Natural Hemp Seeds Market was valued at approximately USD 4.6 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2024 to 2030. The market is projected to reach USD 7.8 billion by 2030.

Natural hemp seeds, derived from the hemp plant, are increasingly being recognized for their nutritional benefits, including high protein content, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients. As consumer awareness of plant-based diets and sustainable agriculture grows, the demand for natural hemp seeds in various applications, including food, beverages, and personal care products, is expected to rise significantly.

Key Market Insights

With the increasing trend towards veganism and vegetarianism, natural hemp seeds are gaining popularity as a rich source of plant-based protein. This is driving their adoption in various food products, including snacks, smoothies, and protein powders.

The nutraceutical industry is expanding rapidly, and natural hemp seeds are being incorporated into dietary supplements and functional foods due to their nutritional properties. This is a key factor contributing to the growth of the market.

Hemp is known for its environmental benefits, such as requiring less water and pesticides compared to other crops. The growing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly farming practices is bolstering the demand for natural hemp seeds.

The food and beverage industry is witnessing innovation with the incorporation of hemp seeds into a variety of products such as bread, cereals, and beverages. This trend is expected to drive the market further.

Hemp seeds are also finding applications in the personal care industry, particularly in skincare products, owing to their moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Global Natural Hemp Seeds Market Drivers

Health and Wellness Trend is driving market growth: The global trend towards health and wellness is one of the primary drivers of the natural hemp seeds market. Consumers are increasingly seeking out natural and organic food products that offer health benefits. Hemp seeds, rich in essential fatty acids, protein, and dietary fiber, fit well into this trend. They are particularly popular among consumers looking to improve heart health, manage weight, and support overall wellness. As a result, food manufacturers are incorporating hemp seeds into a wide range of products, including energy bars, granola, and non-dairy milk alternatives. This growing consumer awareness and preference for healthy eating are expected to drive the market for natural hemp seeds.

Legalization and Regulatory Support is driving market growth: The gradual legalization of hemp cultivation in various countries has been a significant driver of the market. In the United States, for example, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp, leading to a surge in hemp farming and production. Similarly, other countries, including Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe, have also relaxed their regulations around hemp cultivation. This has resulted in increased availability of hemp seeds for both domestic consumption and export. As more countries continue to legalize hemp, the global market for natural hemp seeds is expected to grow substantially.

Sustainability and Environmental Benefits is driving market growth: Hemp is considered an environmentally friendly crop due to its ability to grow with minimal water and without the need for pesticides. Additionally, hemp plants have deep roots that help improve soil structure and prevent erosion. These sustainability benefits are increasingly important to consumers and businesses alike, as environmental concerns become a more significant factor in purchasing decisions. The growing demand for sustainable agricultural practices is driving the adoption of hemp seeds, not only for their nutritional value but also for their environmental impact. This trend is expected to continue to drive market growth as consumers and companies alike prioritize sustainability.

Global Natural Hemp Seeds Market Challenges and Restraints

Regulatory Uncertainty and Legal Barriers is restricting market growth: Despite the growing acceptance of hemp seeds in many countries, the market still faces significant regulatory challenges. In some regions, hemp and its derivatives are still classified as controlled substances, which limits their production, distribution, and sale. This regulatory uncertainty creates barriers for market entry and expansion, particularly in countries with strict drug enforcement laws. Additionally, the varying regulations across different regions can make it challenging for companies to navigate the market and ensure compliance. These regulatory hurdles are a significant restraint on the growth of the natural hemp seeds market.

Supply Chain and Production Challenges is restricting market growth: The production of hemp seeds is highly dependent on agricultural practices, which can be influenced by various factors such as climate conditions, soil quality, and farming techniques. Inconsistent supply and quality issues can pose challenges for manufacturers who rely on hemp seeds as a raw material. Furthermore, the processing and extraction of hemp seeds require specialized equipment and expertise, which can add to the production costs. The lack of established supply chains and processing infrastructure in some regions can also limit the availability of hemp seeds, thereby restraining market growth. Overcoming these challenges will be crucial for the continued expansion of the natural hemp seeds market.

Market Opportunities

The growing demand for plant-based nutrition and sustainable food sources presents significant opportunities for the natural hemp seeds market. As more consumers embrace vegetarian and vegan diets, the need for high-quality plant-based proteins is increasing. Hemp seeds, known for their rich nutritional profile, are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. Additionally, the rise of the nutraceutical industry offers opportunities for hemp seeds to be used in dietary supplements and functional foods. The ongoing legalization of hemp cultivation in various countries is expected to further boost the availability of hemp seeds, opening up new markets and applications. Innovations in product development, such as the incorporation of hemp seeds into snacks, beverages, and personal care products, are also likely to drive market growth. As companies invest in research and development to improve the quality and functionality of hemp seeds, the market is expected to see significant expansion in the coming years.

NATURAL HEMP SEEDS MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

Natural Hemp SeedsMarket Segmentation - By Product

• Hulled Hemp Seeds

• Whole Hemp Seeds

• Hemp Seed Oil

• Hemp Protein Powder

• Others

The Hulled Hemp Seeds segment is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. Hulled hemp seeds, also known as hemp hearts, are highly preferred by consumers due to their versatility and ease of consumption. They are rich in nutrients and can be easily incorporated into various food products such as smoothies, salads, and baked goods.

Natural Hemp SeedsMarket Segmentation - By Application

• Food & Beverages

• Nutraceuticals

• Personal Care

• Animal Feed

• Others

The Food & Beverages segment is anticipated to be the most dominant application segment. The increasing demand for plant-based and functional foods is driving the use of hemp seeds in various food and beverage products, making this segment a key contributor to market growth.

Natural Hemp SeedsMarket Segmentation - By Region

• North America

• Asia-Pacific

• Europe

• South America

• Middle East and Africa

North America is expected to dominate the natural hemp seeds market during the forecast period. The region's dominance is attributed to the growing awareness of the health benefits of hemp seeds, coupled with the increasing legalization of hemp cultivation. The United States, in particular, has seen significant growth in hemp farming and production following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized industrial hemp. The strong demand for natural and organic food products in North America is also driving the growth of the hemp seeds market in this region.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis on the Natural Hemp Seeds Market

The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the natural hemp seeds market. On one hand, the initial disruptions in supply chains and the closure of retail stores negatively affected the availability of hemp seeds. The pandemic also led to delays in the legalization and regulation of hemp in some regions, further hindering market growth. On the other hand, the increased focus on health and wellness during the pandemic led to a surge in demand for natural and plant-based foods, including hemp seeds. Consumers became more conscious of their dietary choices and sought out products that could boost their immune systems and overall health. This shift in consumer behavior provided a boost to the natural hemp seeds market, particularly in the online retail segment. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, the demand for natural and healthy food products is expected to remain strong, driving the continued growth of the hemp seeds market.

Latest Trends/Developments

The natural hemp seeds market is witnessing several key trends and developments that are expected to shape its growth in the coming years. One of the most notable trends is the increasing use of hemp seeds in the production of plant-based protein products. As the demand for vegan and vegetarian diets continues to rise, food manufacturers are exploring new ways to incorporate hemp seeds into protein powders, energy bars, and other plant-based foods. Another significant trend is the growing interest in organic and non-GMO hemp seeds, as consumers become more conscious of the quality and sourcing of their food. Additionally, there is a rising demand for hemp seeds in the personal care industry, where they are used in skincare products due to their moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. The development of new processing techniques and technologies is also enabling manufacturers to produce high-quality hemp seed products with improved shelf life and functionality. These trends are expected to drive innovation and growth in the natural hemp seeds market.

Key Players

1. Manitoba Harvest

2. Nutiva

3. Navitas Organics

4. Hemp Oil Canada

5. North American Hemp & Grain Co.

6. The Cool Hemp Company

7. Z-Company