Growing Demand for Gluten-Free Crackers Due to Rising Celiac Disease Cases and Plant-Based Diseases

Gluten intolerance or celiac disease is increasingly diagnosed, making the gluten-free cracker market thrive. Gluten intolerance is something of a disordered nature in the digestion of gluten found in wheat, barley, and rye. Celiac disease is characterized as an autoimmune disease in which gluten consumption causes injury to the small intestine. Apart from this, as far as the statistics go, at least 1.4% of the present population around the globe is said to be suffering from celiac disease, according to reports from the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute.

With a greater number of people now diagnosed with such ailments, the need for gluten-free products, particularly crackers, increases. This is further supported by raising awareness of these health issues. Rather than consuming regular wheat-based snacks, gluten-intolerant people now gravitate toward gluten-free products that they perceive as more secure because more manufacturers come up with gluten-free products.

The growing trend of demand for plant-based and clean-label snacks is gluten-free crackers. Most such crackers are made using plant ingredients such as rice, corn, quinoa, and millet. These ingredients attract those consumers who would either strictly observe plant-based diets or would prefer to include more natural foods in their diets. They are seen as healthier alternatives to processed wheat and provide essential nutrients.

Furthermore, plant-based gluten-free crackers typically have fewer artificial additives, preservatives, and chemicals which will mostly attract health-conscious buyers. In addition, transparent ingredient lists are important for consumers concerned about what they eat and want to avoid any hidden unhealthy ingredients. There are about 88 million vegans worldwide, according to statistics from the World Animal Foundation.
Gluten-free Crackers Market Research Report

Convenience and E-Commerce Driving Gluten-Free Crackers Growth

Gluten-free crackers are getting popular as these are very much easy to carry and convenient for modern busy schedule life. This, like many other snack types, caters to an audience that mostly includes students and working professionals in need of food that is fast and easily eaten while going around. Gluten-free crackers are just fine for breakfast, lunch, and between meals, since it is quick to eat right out of the pack. In that case, they usually have small, portable packs, which makes them suitable to be kept in bags or backpacks.

Data given by the International Journal of Business, Management & Economics states that the growth rate for the global RTE in the forthcoming five years is anticipated to rise by 4.3 percent compound annual growth rate up to 2025; additionally, a growing market demand for global convenience foods has also propelled the demand for crackers market, similar to ready-to-eat foods the global convenience food market, will grow with a compound annual growth rate of 4.4% by the end of 2025.

E-commerce is a key driver in the growth of the gluten-free crackers market because it offers easy access to a wide range of gluten-free products. Online sales also offer promotions and discounts, thus making gluten-free crackers cheaper and accessible to a larger customer base. This convenience and variety boost consumer demand and market expansion. As per International Trade Administration data, the global B2C e-commerce market will hit US$ 5.5 trillion by 2027. In that view, there is greater demand for automatic strapping machines since they improve the efficient packaging and sealing of products on delivery, hence the primary equipment in the rapidly expanding e-commerce market.

Recent Trends in the Gluten-free Crackers Industry

  • Low-carb options are rising in demand for gluten-free crackers.
  • Health-conscious consumers fueling growth in healthy snack demand.
  • Gluten-free crackers with superfoods like quinoa and chia seeds.
  • Keto-friendly crackers are gaining traction in the gluten-free market.
  • Non-GMO ingredients are increasingly featured in gluten-free crackers.
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Less Nutrition, Cross-Contamination and Texture and Taste Caps the Market Growth

Gluten-free crackers do not have a high nutrition profile compared to ordinary crackers because they contain alternative ingredients like refined starch or rice flour that contain no fiber and all other nutrients found in whole grains. In this way, with seeming similarities, the crackers would not provide the same health benefits. To improve the flavor and the expected texture of the gluten-free biscuits, the manufacturers also use more sugar, fat, or starch, thus elevating the calorie content which may culminate in making them unhealthy overall. Long-term consumption of such products can eventually cause weight gain or elevate the chances of having higher cholesterol levels which can eventually affect long-term health.

People suffering from celiac disease or extreme gluten intolerance face a major problem of cross-contamination. Most factories producing gluten-free products may also be producing wheat products. Thus, due to inadvertent cross-contact, a small proportion of gluten may be mixed with gluten-free food. Even a very small proportion of gluten above threshold levels can severely harm an individual by eliciting a symptomatology like stomach pain or fatigue. Though there are strict standards for minimizing exposure, full elimination will always remain a challenge. Just a wee bit of gluten is potent enough to trigger an immune response for celiac, which means even more caution on how and where is food being produced. Therefore, a gluten-intolerant individual will have to be meticulous enough to read the label and search for certified gluten-free products.

Unlike most crackers, gluten-free crackers may not be as appealing to those who have adapted to the original cracker flavors because of their common different texture and taste. While some people might feel disappointed in the change in texture, crunchier, drier most would find it hard to enjoy something if it has a different feel and flavor compared to the regular cracker. So though the market for gluten-free crackers is increasing, the selection is still much smaller compared with what you get for regular crackers.

Innovative Product Developments in Flavor and Nutrition Drive Growth in Gluten-free Crackers Market

To meet the growing trends in snacking, inspired by the feedback in September 2024 Once Again Nut Butter brought new cinnamon, honey, and chocolate graham crackers to market. The wholesome lineup was certified both organic and gluten-free, plus the cinnamon and dark chocolate graham crackers were also vegan. These sweet and crispy snacks were handcrafted in small batches with a blend of organic sorghum flour, oat flour, and cassava flour, plus a touch of organic cinnamon, real clover, non-GMO verified honey or rich dark chocolate liquor. Hand cut to size, the artisanal crackers featured a superior taste to their conventional counterparts and just 1g of added sugar. They were delicious on their own, topped with nut butter and fruit, drizzled with honey, or used to make classic s'mores or a delectable pie crust.

To meet the shifting needs of consumers for snacks in September 2024, Myna Snacks launched its new product-a gluten-free, pizza-flavored cracker specifically made for snack enthusiasts on the go. The newest variant of Myna Snacks was created with real cheese and a combination of Italian herbs and seasonings that captures the inescapable taste of pizza in a crispy, convenient, and healthy form. The idea for this innovative snack came from the Myna Snacks Lab, a creative platform that invited the brand's dedicated community of snack lovers to share their ideas, preferences, and cravings. The response was overwhelmingly clear consumers were eager for a snack that encapsulated the iconic flavors of pizza, but in a form that was easy to enjoy during screen time or other moments throughout the day. The result was the pizza cracker, a snack that perfectly blended flavor and nutrition and brought with it a high-protein option, along with Vitamin D and E, in each bite.

To meet the increasing demand from consumers for gluten-free snacks on July 2023 Breton Crackers famous for their light, and delicious offerings made with only real ingredients and no artificial additives, enhanced its gluten-free cracker line by achieving Non-GMO Project Verification. With a fresh new look designed to stand out on store shelves, Breton Gluten Free Crackers were available in two flavors Flax & Sea Salt and Herb & Garlic. These crackers were accessible to consumers nationwide in the U.S. last summer. Certified Plant-based, Kosher, and Non-GMO Project Verified, Breton Gluten Free Crackers were an excellent choice for pairing with cheeses, meats, or spreads, making them a perfect snack, lunch option, or appetizer for entertaining. As with all Breton crackers, these gluten-free varieties contained 0g of saturated fat per serving and were cholesterol-free.
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Surge in Celiac Disease in Europe and North America Boosts Gluten-Free Crackers Demand

The demand for gluten-free crackers is expected to grow exponentially in Europe with the increase in celiac disease in the population. As per Association of European Coeliac Societies data, it is estimated that about one in a hundred people in Europe suffers from coeliac disease. This means more than 7 million people are affected in Europe alone. However, it is important to note that diagnosis has been made for just about 25 percent of the cases, and a huge proportion of people are still ignorant of their condition.

The awareness of celiac disease increases, along with increased diagnoses, and with it, the demand for gluten-free products like crackers in Europe. This demand will further augment the anticipated surge in the market for gluten-free crackers because care is increasingly needed to maintain healthy conditions and well-being in a growing number of affected people who need to seek available alternative options of food.

North America is gradually getting more and more cases of the presence of celiac disease similar to the Europe scenario. According to Beyond Celiac, approximately 1 in 133 Americans, or roughly 1% of the population, are affected by this autoimmune disorder. However studies by recent screenings show that the incidence rate is greater than the 1% already recorded, thus it is very probable that celiac disease incidence in the United States might be more rampant than has been thought before. This also means that a considerable number remains as it is estimated that up to 83% of people suffering from celiac disease in the United States remain either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with other conditions, resulting in delayed treatments and possibly worsening symptoms. The rising prevalence of celiac disease and the requirement for improved diagnosis and management will drive increased demand for gluten-free products, including gluten-free crackers, in the near future as patients seek safe dietary alternatives.
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The report provides a detailed overview of the gluten-free crackers market insights in regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East and Africa. The country-specific assessment for gluten-free crackers market has been offered for all regional market share, along with forecasts, market scope estimates, price point assessment, and impact analysis of prominent countries and regions. Throughout this market research report, Y-o-Y growth and CAGR estimates are also incorporated for every country and region, to provide a detailed view of the gluten-free crackers market. These Y-o-Y projections on regional and country-level markets brighten the political, economic and business environment outlook, which are anticipated to have a substantial impact on the growth of the gluten-free crackers market. Some key country and region included in the gluten-free crackers market report as follows:
Regions Countries
North America United States, Canada
Latin America Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Central America Countries, Caribbean Countries, Rest of Latin America
Europe Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Sweden, Austria, Norway, Denmark, Czech Republic, Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia & New Zealand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Bangladesh, Rest of Asia Pacific
Middle East and Africa GCC Countries, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Turkey, Morocco, Ethiopia, Algeria, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Kenya, Rest of MEA

Gluten-free Crackers Market Research Report Covers In-depth Analysis on:

  • Gluten-free crackers market detailed segments and segment-wise market breakdown
  • Gluten-free crackers market dynamics (Recent industry trends, drivers, restraints, growth potential, opportunities in gluten-free crackers industry)
  • Current, historical and forthcoming 10 years market valuation in terms of gluten-free crackers market size (US$ Mn), volume (Units), share (%), Y-o-Y growth rate, CAGR (%) analysis
  • Gluten-free crackers market demand analysis
  • Gluten-free crackers market pricing analysis over forecast period (by key segment and by region)
  • Gluten-free crackers market regional insights with region-wise market breakdown
  • Competitive analysis – key companies profiling including their market share, product offerings, and competitive strategies.
  • Latest developments and innovations in gluten-free crackers market
  • Regulatory landscape by key regions and key countries
  • Supply chain and value chain analysis in gluten-free crackers market
  • Gluten-free crackers market sales and distribution strategies
  • A comprehensive overview of parent market
  • A detailed viewpoint on gluten-free crackers market forecast by countries
  • Mergers and acquisitions in gluten-free crackers market
  • Essential information to enhance market position
  • Robust research methodology

- Frequently Asked Questions -

What are the key market drivers for the gluten-free crackers market?

The gluten-free crackers market is driven by increasing consumer awareness of gluten intolerance, growing preference for healthier snacking options, and rising demand for specialty diets, including gluten-free products.

How is consumer preference impacting the gluten-free crackers market?

Consumers increasingly value clean-label and allergen-free products, influencing manufacturers to innovate gluten-free crackers with natural ingredients, diverse flavors, and enhanced nutritional profiles to meet these evolving preferences.

Which distribution channels are most effective for gluten-free crackers?

Retail outlets like supermarkets and specialty stores remain significant, while online platforms are gaining prominence due to their convenience and wide range of gluten-free product offerings.

What challenges do manufacturers face in the gluten-free crackers market?

Manufacturers encounter challenges such as high production costs, ensuring a desirable texture in gluten-free crackers, and addressing stringent regulatory compliance for gluten-free labeling.

How do regional trends influence the gluten-free crackers market?

The market is shaped by regional dietary trends, with North America and Europe witnessing strong demand due to higher awareness of gluten intolerance, while emerging markets show growing interest in gluten-free diets.