Sunflower Seed Market Size (2024 – 2030)

The global sunflower seed market was valued at USD 28.16 billion and is projected to reach a market size of USD 34.92 billion by the end of 2030. Over the forecast period of 2024–2030, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.12%

The seeds of the sunflower plant are called sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus). They taste nutty, are white, and are squishy. The hulls, or inedible black and white striped shells, encapsulate the seeds and account for 21–30% of the seed weight. The market has had a good presence in the past in many North American and European countries. They were mainly used for cooking and medicinal purposes. Presently, the market has undergone a significant expansion due to awareness and an upsurge in production. In the future, with a focus on agricultural innovations and product diversification, an immense boost is anticipated.

Key Market Insights:

India was anticipated to produce 279,000 metric tons of sunflower seeds in 2023, according to Statista.

The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service reports that in 2023, sunflower seed oil output grew by 4%.

Around 21.59 million metric tons of sunflower seed oil were produced worldwide in 2022–2023, according to Statista.

For the 2023–2024 crop year, Russia was expected to produce the most sunflower seeds globally. Russia produced over 17 million metric tons of sunflower seeds at that time. With an estimated 14 million metric tons of sunflower seed output in 2023–2024, Ukraine is also a significant global producer of sunflower seeds.

Cadmium from the soil may find its way into sunflower seeds, and consuming more than 30 grams of it daily might harm the kidneys. Companies need to take suitable measures to recommend the required intake on their packets. Clean labeling and specific nutrition charts are two strategies that can be used to avoid overconsumption and to educate the public about the same.

Sunflower Seed Market Drivers:

The health benefits of sunflower seeds have been accelerating the growth rate.

Firstly, consuming sunflower seeds is associated with several health advantages, including a decreased chance of heart disease and high blood pressure. They also include minerals that help strengthen our defenses against illness and increase our vitality. Secondly, sunflower seeds can provide anti-inflammatory advantages for those who have either acute or chronic inflammation. Flavonoids, vitamin E, and other plant chemicals found in sunflower seeds have anti-inflammatory properties. Thirdly, they are an excellent source of healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Consuming these seeds has been linked in studies to a decreased risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease. Apart from this, numerous vitamins and minerals included in sunflower seeds help boost our immune system and improve our capacity to fend off diseases. These consist of selenium and zinc. Zinc is essential for the immune system since it aids in the growth and maintenance of immunological cells in the body. Selenium aids in lowering inflammation, thwarting infections, and enhancing immunity. In addition, they contain high levels of copper, manganese, and several B vitamins. All these advantages make them an ideal choice to be incorporated into food products and beverages.

The rising demand for veganism has been enabling its development.

Veganism is the practice of including plant-based foods. This excludes any product from the animal industry. Many people are now aware of the abuses that the animal sector endures to produce goods like milk, eggs, meat, and other items. Animals are exploited with injections, chemicals, and other hormones to increase their yield. A few of them are killed brutally for their meat. This has led to an elevated adoption of vegan diets. Vegans must indulge in a sufficient and well-balanced diet to remain healthy. Sunflower seeds fit in well with this trend. They are rich in calories, fat, sodium, carbohydrates, fiber, protein, minerals, and other vitamins. Businesses usually incorporate these seeds into various spreads like hummus or pesto, salads, sandwiches, burgers, smoothies, and other baked goods like muffins, cakes, and bread. Their nutritional profile makes them a suitable addition, imparting a unique taste and flavor that augments their demand.

Sunflower Seed Market Restraints and Challenges:

Overconsumption, pest & disease management, allergens, and intense competition are the main issues that the market is currently facing.

Even though sunflower seeds have a lot of health benefits, they must be consumed in moderation. Consuming large amounts of sunflower seeds may result in constipation, vomiting, gas, bloating, and stomach aches. Eating too many seeds might result in weight gain since they are heavy in calories and fat. Thirdly, an excessive amount of flavored or salted sunflower seeds might raise sodium consumption, which can raise blood pressure. Moreover, dental issues may arise from consuming sunflower seeds. Apart from this, the seeds' phytotic acid might hinder the body's ability to absorb nutrients and may conflict with blood thinners. Furthermore, sunflower seeds are often susceptible to pests and diseases. Consuming contaminated sprouting sunflower seeds can lead to bacterial illnesses like salmonella. It is necessary to keep these insects away from agricultural lands to avoid such problems. Besides, they can cause allergic responses in certain people, particularly those who are sensitive to nuts or seeds. These reactions might include vomiting, rashes, itching, breathing difficulties, and swelling around the mouth. The market is also subjected to intense competition from other oilseed crops like soybeans, canola, and palm oil. These seeds might be more affordable, encouraging consumers to go for the alternatives. Businesses need to stand out in the market to gain profits.

Sunflower Seed Market Opportunities:

Highlighting environmentally favorable agricultural techniques, including crop rotation, conservation tillage, and agroforestry, offers chances to improve sunflower products' reputation for being environmentally friendly. Additionally, encouraging sunflower seeds that are non-GMO and certified organic can also help meet the rising demand for food products that are produced sustainably and ethically. These steps towards sustainability help attract a broader consumer base. Secondly, incorporating these seeds into functional foods and nutraceuticals is beneficial. These seeds contain bioactive compounds rich in antioxidants, phytosterols, and polyphenols. Suitable wellness and supplement products can be marketed to enhance the immunity and overall health of individuals. Thirdly, the diversity of applications facilitates greater income generation. These seeds can be incorporated with roasted snacks, bakery products, ice cream, condiments, and other spreads. These mentioned products are usually consumed by the public in large quantities. Furthermore, the market can be expanded into emerging economies of Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. These countries have seen tremendous economic progress, raising investments and standards of living. Companies can prioritize these regions for launches and collaborations.

SUNFLOWER SEED MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

Sunflower Seed Market Segmentation: By Type

• Oil Seed

• Non-oil Seed

Oil seed is the largest growing segment in this marketNutrient-dense edible oil may be produced from these seeds. This kind of sunflower seed has more than 50% oil by weight. Protein and carbohydrates make up the remaining parts of the meal. It is a necessary ingredient in margarine, cooking oils, and a wide range of other goods, such as soaps and biodiesel fuels. When it comes to treats like chocolate, this seed is becoming more and more well-liked. Non-oil seed is the fastest-growing category. These non-oilseeds, commonly referred to as black sunflower seeds, have a nutty taste. They can be eaten fresh or roasted with flavoring salt added. These may be used as a garnish for several dishes, including salads. These seeds are utilized in the confectionery industry and can be employed as a flavoring ingredient in chocolates because of their nutty flavor.

Sunflower Seed Market Segmentation: By Color

• Black

• Green

• White

• Claret Red

• Bright Yellow

Black-colored sunflower seeds are the largest growing. For birds, black sunflower seeds are highly nutritious and help supply energy, which is necessary throughout the year, particularly during the winter months when birds need to remain warm to survive. Black sunflower seeds have around 40% oil in them. Due to their high protein content, these seeds are a popular addition to health-conscious people's shelves. They include iron, which helps boost iron levels, which is good for those with anemia, and vitamin B1 (thiamin), which aids in the conversion of food into energy. Green-colored seeds are the fastest-growing. When roasted, green sunflower seeds take on a taste akin to that of hazelnuts, with savory, vegetal, and grassy overtones. Antioxidants, which can lessen cell damage and diminish the risk of chronic illnesses, are also abundant in these seeds. They have been associated with a decreased risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease.

Sunflower Seed Market Segmentation: By Application

• Snacks

• Bakery Products

• Confectionery

• Others

Snacks are the largest growing application. They are a nutty and crispy snack rich in iron, copper, zinc, manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin E, and dietary fiber. They are also a good source of thiamin. Moreover, they make a great snack since they provide a steady energy supply that keeps a person feeling full. They are a great source of fiber, healthy fats, and protein, all of which are necessary for eating a balanced diet. Bakery products are the fastest-growing application. The moderate flavor, crunch, and fiber content of sunflower seeds make them a popular ingredient in baked products. They are frequently less expensive and can also be used in place of nuts. Both the dough and the toppings contain kernels. Sunflower seeds offer an amazing nutritional profile, a healthy taste, and a desired texture.

Sunflower Seed Market Segmentation: Regional Analysis

• North America

• Asia-Pacific

• Europe

• South America

• Middle East and Africa

Europe is the largest growing market. Countries like Ukraine and Russia account for more than half of the world’s sunflower seed production. European consumers have a strong inclination towards these seeds owing to their health benefits. They are added to a variety of snacks, salads, and bakery products. Many well-established companies like ADM (Archer Daniels Midland Company), Cargill, Inc., Bunge Limited, and Conagra Brands, Inc. are present in this region. Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing market. India and China are seeing a surge in the population that is using these seeds for cooking purposes. Urbanization in these countries has led to an increase in disposable income, allowing people to purchase these premium products. The growing popularity of snacks and the expanding line of restaurants that incorporate these seeds are contributing to their success.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis on the Global Sunflower Seed Market:

The viral outbreak impacted the market negatively. The new normal included social isolation, movement restrictions, and lockdowns. Transportation, logistics, and supply chain management were all impacted by this. The main goal was to work remotely. The cessation of manufacturing and industrial operations was mandated by rules and regulations. Safety rules hindered the operations. March and April are critical months for the sowing of these seeds. There was a lot of haste and jargon during this period, which affected the market. A decline in the economy was seen. A lot of people lost their jobs. The goal was to allocate the maximum amount of funding to healthcare-related projects. This caused delays in collaborations and launches. Many merely purchased necessities. However, the market has picked up post-pandemic. This is because there is greater awareness and emphasis on health. Social media has helped in creating demand by using these crops in different food products and beverages.

Latest Trends/ Developments:

The retail channel has changed as a result of the growth of e-commerce platforms and direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels, giving customers fast access to a large selection of goods. To connect with customers directly, sunflower seed companies are using DTC models and online retail platforms to reach a wider audience. They do this by providing individualized shopping experiences, subscription services, and special offers.

Key Players:

1. Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)

2. Bunge Limited

3. Cargill, Inc.

4. Conagra Brands, Inc.

5. Corteva Agriscience

6. CHS Inc.

7. Limagrain

8. Nuseed

9. Syngenta AG

10. Sakata Seed Corporation

• In December 2023, a scientific and production cooperation was created by Ruseed, Bio-Ton, Efko Seed Production, the VNIIMK federal research center, and the South Ural State Agrarian University. The goal of the partnership is to create 15 new high-yield sunflower hybrids with improved biological efficiency.

• In November 2022, the sunflower seeds were launched and flown onboard the research rocket SubOrbital Express-3 from the Swedish Esrange Space Center. During their six-minute flight, they traveled 260 kilometers and experienced a genuine space environment in weightlessness. After that, the seeds were spread out over Sweden in different places so they might develop into space sunflowers.

• In May 2022, to grow its sunflower seed business in Europe, US-based Corteva Agriscience invested €14 million in its Afumati manufacturing facility in Romania. Situated 12 kilometers east of Bucharest, the plant is among Corteva's most advanced production sites worldwide. The expansion is expected to address the increasing demand for premium sunflower seeds, reduce supply chain length, improve delivery and responsiveness, boost processing capacity, and provide 20 new employment opportunities.