Organic Flax Seeds Market Size (2024 – 2030)

The global organic flax seed market was valued at USD 352 million and is projected to reach a market size of USD 708.07 million by the end of 2030. Over the forecast period of 2024–2030, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.5%. 

The flax plant yields tiny flax seeds. They have a flattened, elongated oval shape. Flax seeds have a nutty flavor, a crisp, chewy texture, and a brown or yellow color. This market has had significant demand in the past. Flax seeds have been consumed for many centuries owing to their health benefits. Presently, with a heightened health consciousness, the market has seen a good expansion. In the future, with a growing focus on more cultivation of organic crops and innovations in food technology, considerable growth is anticipated.

Key Market Insights:

Originating in the eastern Mediterranean and extending to India, flaxseed is grown on around 12 million acres globally. India generated close to 140,000 metric tonnes of linseed (flax seed) in 2023. Kazakhstan was the world's top exporter of linseed in 2022, with a total export value of around $357.5 million. Canada planted over 246,600 hectares of flaxseed in 2023, compared to about 315,200 the year before.

In comparison to traditional farming methods, organic farming often provides lesser productivity, as per research published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Organic farms yield between 20 and 25 percent less than conventional farms. There may be difficulties in satisfying the increasing demand from consumers for organic items, such as organic flax seeds, due to this decreased yield, which can occasionally lead to a restricted supply and increased pricing. To tackle this, it is necessary to implement soil improvement procedures like crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting.

Organic Flax Seed Market Drivers:

Increasing health consciousness is fueling the growth.

Over the years, there have been many cases of chronic conditions, starting at a very young age. This has led to a heightened awareness of physical and mental well-being. As such, many health and wellness trends have been prevalent. People are leaning towards the incorporation of healthy foods for a better lifestyle. Flax seeds fit in well with this trend due to their nutritional value. Flax seeds can help lower cholesterol levels. According to research studies, those with high cholesterol who take flaxseed powder daily for three months may see a 17% drop in their cholesterol. Secondly, blood pressure can be lowered with flaxseeds. Flaxseed may reduce blood pressure by changing the levels of oxylipins in the blood. According to studies, if flaxseed products were consumed for 12 weeks or longer, diastolic and systolic blood pressure would drop by 2.62 mm Hg and 3.10 mm Hg, respectively. By reducing blood triglycerides, blood pressure, platelet aggregation, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, flax seeds can minimize the risk of a heart attack. Moreover, this food is greatly beneficial for intestinal health. They include both soluble and insoluble forms of dietary fiber. Furthermore, flax seeds promote the synthesis of mucus in the stomach, preserving the integrity of the gut barrier. Apart from this, antioxidants, lignans, polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients are abundant in flax seeds, reducing the chance of developing cancer. Their overall contribution to strengthening our immune system makes them an ideal food product, elevating their demand.

Rising demand for plant-based food has been contributing to its success.

Social media has played a crucial role in highlighting the harsh reality faced by the animal industry. Animals are tortured and exploited for their products, like eggs and dairy. This has resulted in the practice of veganism. This includes the incorporation of plant-based foods into our diet. Flax seeds are obtained from a plant called Linum usitatissimum. They are used in many food products like cereals, granola, bread, oatmeal, cookies, and other vegan meat products. Additionally, they are also used as a vegan egg substitute in baked goods. They are also used in beverages like smoothies and juice, ice creams, and other desserts. This versatility helps in the development of the market.

Organic Flax Seed Market Restraints and Challenges:

Limited supply & higher prices, certifications, competition, and disease management are the main issues that the market is currently facing.

Conventional organic flax seeds are usually produced in mass quantities, so their availability is simpler. In the case of organic flax seeds, the same accessibility can be a hindrance. This is because organic crops are grown without the aid of pesticides, growth hormones, or other chemical compounds. This slows their growth and development. As such, a lot of farmers usually opt for conventional crops as they yield more profit in a shorter duration. Even if some of them choose to go for organic produce, the commercialized crop is quite expensive since the growing is associated with a lot of costs. This limits the number of consumers, becoming a major barrier that can cause a lot of losses. Secondly, organic crops require a lot of quality checks and other standard criteria that need to be looked at. Farmers can face difficulties in adopting and adhering to all these practices because of their costs, rules, and other requirements. Thirdly, because of the bulk supply of conventional produce, the market is subjected to intense competition from conventional crops. This can limit growth. Furthermore, since no pesticides are used, the crops are exposed to a lot of threats and vulnerabilities from weather, pests, and other environmental factors. This can contribute to a bad yield.

Organic Flax Seed Market Opportunities:

Increased demand for organic produce has been beneficial to the market. A lot of people are aware of the risks that are associated with conventional crops. Many research studies have shown that chemicals that are used in conventional ones increase the incidence of chronic health conditions like cancer, diabetes, and other heart diseases. As such, people are ready to spend on organic produce. These options are perceived as healthier and safer alternatives. Secondly, the expansion of distribution channels has been providing the market with numerous possibilities. Online retail has helped in gathering a broader consumer base due to its convenience. Farmers' markets and specialty stores have unique options. The store owners in these places have a very good knowledge of these seeds. This expertise encourages a lot of people to choose these products. Thirdly, product incorporation in diverse food items has been helping the market. A lot of healthy and low-calorie options choose to include flax seeds due to their health benefits. The culinary industry is constantly working on innovations as per consumer trends and dietary preferences. Besides this, governmental initiatives in the form of funds and schemes help double organic produce. Organic farmers are being provided with the technology, water facilities, and other necessary resources to encourage organic farming practices. The market has a bright future ahead with all these opportunities being implemented.

ORGANIC FLAX SEEDS MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

Organic Flax Seeds Market Segmentation: By Product

• Ground Seed

• Whole Seed

Based on product, ground seed is both the largest and fastest-growing segment during the forecast period, 2024-2030. The texture of the ground flaxseed is crisp. It has a moderately nutty flavor. It gives meals a buttery flavor and a robust nutritional profile. To increase the nutritional value of smoothies, yogurt, or muesli, ground flax seeds are frequently added. They are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids derived from plants, which are good for the heart and the brain and reduce inflammation. Soups, sauces, and gravies may all benefit from the natural thickening properties of ground flax seeds.

Organic Flax Seeds Market Segmentation: By Application

• Food

• Animal & Pet Food

• Others

The food industry is both the largest and fastest-growing application. Because of its high lignan, fiber, and α-linolenic acid (ALA, omega-3 fatty acid) content, flaxseed is becoming a popular functional food component. Lignans, which are found in flaxseed, have phytoestrogen and antioxidant properties. Flaxseed has a high medicinal and functional value and is a convenient functional component for energy food processing. They may help with digestion and heart health, as well as blood sugar regulation and weight loss.

Organic Flax Seeds Market Segmentation: Regional Analysis

• North America

• Asia-Pacific

• Europe

• South America

• Middle East and Africa

Asia-Pacific has the largest market share in 2023. Countries like Kazakhstan, China, and India are at the top. This is because of the demand from the aging and young populations. Many fitness goals are prevalent in these areas. Flax seeds are used for a lot of the health benefits they offer. The companies in this region are involved in the manufacturing and cultivation of this crop, which is increasing revenue. These players have a global presence. Prominent ones include Linwoods Health Foods, Hongchang International Bio-Tech Inc., CanMar Grain Products Ltd., and Bioriginal Food & Science Corp. Urbanization has played a major role in changing the standard of living. Asian countries have one of the fastest-developing economies. An increased awareness has led to better growth. People can afford organic crops. However, North America is the fastest-growing market. Canada and the United States are the two major players. This is because of an upsurge in production. North American businesses are renowned for their inventiveness in developing new products, such as novel flax seed-based goods and functional food options that satisfy changing customer demands. The market is growing as a result of North American consumers having easier access to organic flax seeds due to the development of retail channels and the quick rise of e-commerce platforms.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis on the Global Organic Flax Seeds Market:

The outbreak of the virus had a mixed impact on the market. During the start of the pandemic, with lockdowns, social isolation, and movement restrictions becoming the new normal, a lot of disruptions were faced in the supply chain, transportation, and other logistics. This severely affected the import-export trade. There was no labor to carry out the end-to-end operations. An economic uncertainty was caused. All companies, manufacturing units, restaurants, hotels, etc. were closed. Most of the funding was shifted towards healthcare applications that included vaccine development, hospital beds, oxygen tanks, masks, PPE kits, etc. This delayed the collaborations and launches. However, during the second half of the pandemic, people became more aware of what they consumed. Many people placed a high priority on strengthening immunity, which led them to adopt clean and healthy meals. Flax seeds are known for their health benefits, and they are in high demand due to the health consciousness of many individuals. As per Medical News Today, flax seeds were recommended for patients who were diagnosed with the coronavirus. Organic crops were given prominence. Besides, veganism has become very popular. E-commerce became a boon, helping with the distribution of these seeds. This digitalization helped increase revenue.

Latest Trends/ Developments:

Companies in this industry are motivated to increase their market share by using a range of strategies, including acquisitions, joint ventures, and investments. Businesses are spending a lot of money to develop techniques to retain competitive pricing. Further growth has resulted from this.

Product development in the market for organic flax seeds is being influenced by the trend toward customized nutrition and nutritional solutions. Businesses are looking at using flax seeds in functional food formulations and personalized nutrition regimens to meet the dietary needs and health objectives of each customer.

Key Players:

1. Archer Daniels Midland Company

2. SunOpta Inc.

3. AgMotion Specialty Grains

4. Richardson International Limited

5. Cargill, Incorporated

6. Linwoods Health Foods

7. Healthy Oilseeds, LLC

8. CanMar Grain Products Ltd.

9. Bioriginal Food & Science Corp.

10. Hongchang International Bio-Tech Inc.