The global spices and seasoning herbs industry is a vibrant and essential sector that weaves its aromatic magic into cuisines from around the world. With a rich history dating back to ancient times, spices have captivated human palates and shaped culinary traditions across cultures. In recent years, a growing focus on health and wellness has driven consumers towards natural and organic food choices. Spices and seasoning herbs have risen to the forefront, as these naturally derived ingredients offer more than just flavour. Scientific research highlights their potential health benefits, such as the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and the antioxidants in oregano. This shift in consumer preference towards clean-label and wholesome products has given the industry an added boost. In our interconnected world, globalisation has significantly impacted culinary trends. People now enjoy a vast array of international cuisines, leading to an increased demand for spices and herbs from different parts of the globe. Fusion cuisine, which blends elements from various cultures, relies heavily on diverse spice blends to create harmonious taste experiences. This cross-cultural exchange has paved the way for spices and herbs to transcend traditional boundaries and become a global culinary language. The world of spices and seasoning herbs is closely intertwined with cultural heritage and tradition. These culinary treasures are a celebration of historical and regional flavours, kept alive through generations. As globalisation expands, the industry faces the delicate balance of preserving these culinary legacies while embracing innovation and evolution.
According to the research report "Global Spices and Seasoning Market Research Report 2023–2028," published by Actual Market Research, the Global spice and Seasoning market is anticipated to cross USD 30.45 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 22.07 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow at a 5.61% CAGR by 2028. Social media platforms and food bloggers play a crucial role in popularising food trends and unique spice combinations. Eye-catching food photography and creative use of spices can inspire consumers to try new dishes and flavours. However, the rise of ethnic populations in various countries leads to a higher demand for spices and herbs used in their traditional cuisines. As more people seek familiar flavours from their home countries, the demand for specific spices grows. Based on the product types, which include spices and seasoning herbs, spices have the highest market share. Spices have been used for centuries in traditional cooking practises. Many spices have cultural and historical significance, and their use is deeply rooted in culinary traditions, passing down from one generation to the next. As the world becomes more interconnected, global cuisines have gained popularity in various regions. The desire for authentic tastes has led to increased demand for the spices that characterise these international dishes. With the popularity of home gardening and cooking, consumers are growing their own herbs to use in homemade meals. This trend contributes to the demand for fresh and dried herbs. The rise of plant-based diets and vegetarian and vegan lifestyles has resulted in a higher demand for herbs as flavorful alternatives to meat-based seasonings. Based on the nature types, which include Conventional and organic, among them the Conventional types are leading the market; furthermore, organic will grow at the highest CAGR rate at the global level. Organic spices and seasoning herbs are produced following strict organic farming practises. This means that they are grown without the use of synthetic fertilisers, chemical pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or irradiation. Organic farming relies on natural methods like crop rotation, composting, and integrated pest management to promote soil health and biodiversity.
Based on the spices segment, which includes pepper, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, coriander, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, mace, Mustard powder, and others, at the global level, the pepper has the highest market share, and the turmeric will grow at the highest growth rate in the future. Turmeric is a staple in various global cuisines, including Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian dishes. As consumers explore and adopt diverse culinary traditions, the demand for turmeric has expanded. Turmeric is known for its bioactive compound, curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek natural remedies, turmeric has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. Moreover, the food and beverage industry has embraced turmeric in innovative product formulations, such as turmeric lattes, smoothies, and even turmeric-infused snacks, creating new market opportunities. Based on the herbs market, these include garlic, Oregano, Mint, Parsley, Rosemary, Fennel, Basil, thyme, and others. Garlic has the highest market share at the global level, and mint also has a growing market at the global level. Mint is a highly versatile herb used in a wide range of culinary applications. It adds a refreshing and cool flavour to dishes and beverages, making it popular in salads, sauces, teas, cocktails, and desserts. Further, mint is widely used in cuisines from various parts of the world, including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Indian, and Southeast Asian dishes. Its widespread use across different culinary traditions contributes to its global market growth.
Applications of the spices and seasonings market segment include meat and poultry products, Snacks and convenience foods, Soups, sauces, and dressings, bakery and confectionery, frozen products, beverages, and others. Meat and poultry products are the leading market, and frozen food has a significant market share. Frozen food products, especially pre-packaged and ready-to-eat meals, often undergo freezing and reheating processes that can dull their original flavours. To enhance taste and aroma, manufacturers use a variety of spices and seasoning herbs to restore and amplify the product's flavour profile. Spices and seasoning herbs not only improve taste but also contribute to the preservation of frozen food. Certain spices have natural antimicrobial properties that help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, extending the shelf life of frozen products. As for the types of frozen food products that use more spices and seasoning herbs, they include frozen ready-to-eat meals, frozen pizza, frozen snacks, frozen soups and stews, and more. Based on the distribution channels, which include retail and food service, the retail channel has the highest market share. Retail stores, supermarkets, and grocery chains are easily accessible to consumers worldwide. They offer a one-stop destination for purchasing spices and herbs, making it convenient for consumers to find and buy these products.
