Legumes Market Size, Growth, and Trends 2025 to 2034

Legumes Market Size, Share and Growth Analysis 2034

The global legumes market size reached at USD 14.37 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to increase from USD 15.13 billion in 2025 to an estimated USD 24.08 billion by 2034, witnessing a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Rising health consciousness and the increasing demand for plant-based and sustainable food products significantly driving the market.

Key Highlights

• By region, Asia Pacific dominated the global market with the largest share of 40% in 2024.
• By region, North America is expected to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034.
• By type, soybeans segment held the major market share of 40% in 2024.
• By type, dry common beans segment is projected to grow at a CAGR in between 2025 and 2034.
• By product form, whole/dried beans & pulses segment contributed the biggest market share of 55% in 2024.
• By product form, processed ingredients segment is expanding at a significant CAGR in 2025 and 2034.
• By end user industry, food manufacturers & processors segment dominated the market by holding a share of 35% in 2024.
• By end user industry, animal feed producers’ segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the projected period.
• By distribution channel, bulk wholesale/commodity exchanges segment held the major market share of 40% in 2024.
• By distribution channel, specialty natural/organic retailers segment is expected to grow at a CAGR in between 2025 and 2034.

What is Legumes Market?

The global legumes market encompasses the production, processing, and distribution of edible seeds from leguminous plants such as lentils, beans, chickpeas, and peas. These crops are a vital source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential micronutrients, making them a cornerstone of both human and animal nutrition. Demand for legumes is driven by their nutritional benefits, sustainability profile, and their increasing use in plant-based food formulations and meat alternatives. The market growth is also supported by shifting dietary preferences toward protein-rich and environmentally sustainable food sources, advancements in agricultural productivity, and expansion of value-added legume-based products in food, feed, and nutraceuticals industries.

Legumes Market Outlook 

• Industry Growth Overview: The market for legumes is expanding in various sectors, mainly fueled by the food and beverage industry, where they are utilized in a range of products from snacks and plant-based meat alternatives to conventional dishes. Other important growth areas involve the animal feed industry and the incorporation of legumes in nutritional supplements. Legumes are experiencing an increase in industrial uses such as the production of flours and functional components for the food sector. Expansion is fueled by rising demand for plant-derived protein and the health advantages linked to legumes. 
• Sustainability Trends: Growing legumes is environmentally sustainable as it enhances soil nitrogen levels via a partnership with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, decreasing the reliance on nitrogen fertilizers. This improves soil quality while also delivering environmental advantages via carbon capture and disease management. Moreover, regenerative agriculture techniques and sustainable production approaches are becoming more popular, further driving market expansion. Partnerships between agricultural cooperatives and food manufacturers are enhancing efficiency and sustainability. 
• Startup Ecosystem: Startups are transforming the established legumes market by emphasizing innovation throughout the complete value chain, from seed technology to end products. Startups are developing innovative ingredients derived from legumes to propel the plant-based sector forward. Heyday Canning Co. (Seasoned beans) Established in 2023, this American startup transformed a pantry essential by launching a variety of "Perfectly Seasoned Beans" preserved in a vegetable broth.

Technological Shift in the Legumes Market 

The scientists have exerted significant effort to acquire novel genetic attributes in legumes, including yield, stress resilience, and nutritional value. In recent times, the notable surge in genomic resources for leguminous plants has established a foundation for utilizing advanced breeding technologies, including transgenic methods, genome editing, and genomic selection for enhancing crops. Innovations in legume processing emphasize unconventional techniques such as ultrasound, high hydrostatic pressure (HHP), and microwave/pulse electric field methods, enhancing protein digestibility, nutritional value, and shelf life while minimizing antinutrients. 

Case Study Innovating Legume Breeding: The BELIS Project

In October 2023, the European Union's Horizon Europe program initiated an ambitious project, ‘Breeding European Legumes for Increased Sustainability’, aimed at establishing a strong foundation for the legume breeding community in both research and industry throughout Europe. Featuring a consortium of 34 partners across 18 nations, comprising research institutions, plant breeders, seed firms, regulatory agencies, and advisory services, BELIS is set to address critical issues in legume breeding research and the production of varieties. BELIS leads the way in incorporating advanced technologies into legume breeding to enhance genetic improvements for developing new varieties. 

Trade Analysis of Legumes Market: Export and Import Statistics 

• In 2023, Canada ($3.69B), Australia ($2.03B), and the United States ($1.53B) were the top exporters of Dried Legumes. The leading importers included India ($3.14B), China ($1.66B), and Turkey ($1.19B).
• In 2023, the leading by-products in the Dried Legumes category globally, classified at the HS6 level, were Shelled and Dried Lentils ($4.8B), Shelled and Dried Peas ($3.1B), and Shelled and Dried Chickpeas ($2.39B). (Source: OEC)

Value Chain Analysis: Legumes Market

Raw Material Procurement

• Procurement for legumes involves sourcing high-quality seeds from reliable origins, evaluating supplier terms, and managing logistics. The process requires careful planning to ensure a stable supply of materials for processing and manufacturing, particularly for the food industry. 

Processing of Legumes

• Legume processing includes traditional methods like soaking, cooking, and germination to improve digestibility and nutritional value, as well as modern techniques such as milling, extrusion, and canning for large-scale production. 

Packaging of Legumes 

• Legume packaging typically uses sealed, airtight materials like flexible plastic bags (polyethylene, polypropylene), stand-up pouches, or Mylar bags to prevent moisture, oxygen, and pests from entering. 

Legumes Market Regional Insights 

What Factors are Driving the Demand of Legumes in Asia Pacific?

Asia Pacific dominated the legumes market in 2024. This dominance emerges from increasing demand for healthy food, governmental backing, and advancements in agriculture, driven by market growth in China and India. Increasing recognition of the health advantages of legumes is driving up demand. The market is experiencing an increase in processed and ready-to-eat items, as consumers look for convenient choices that need minimal preparation. The increasing population of employed individuals and households with two incomes enhances the need for easy food choices such as canned beans. 

India Legumes Market Trends 

The increasing population boosts demand because legumes act as an economical and nutritious main food source. The United Nations Organization (UNO) predicts that India's population will hit 1.45 billion in 2024, peaking at 1.69 billion by 2054. In addition, the expanding food processing sector generates demand, as beans are utilized in ready-to-eat (RTE) meals, snacks, and packaged food items. Rising disposable incomes and evolving eating patterns result in a greater consumption of various dry bean types, boosting their market worth. Demand for exports is increasing as Indian dry beans become more popular in global markets.

• In 2023, India exported $752 million worth of Dried Legumes, ranking as the 7th largest exporter of Dried Legumes globally (out of 181 countries). In 2023, India's Dried Legumes exports were primarily directed to the following countries: Bangladesh ($200M), United States ($61.5M), China ($87.3M), United Kingdom ($45.3M), and United Arab Emirates ($57.1M). (Source: OEC)

Growing Health Awareness Expanding the Legumes Market in North America 

North America expects the significant growth during the forecast period. Legumes have gained popularity among Americans in recent years because of their convenience. Due to the affordability, simplicity of preparation, and nutritional value of these items, individuals in the United States and Canada are incorporating them into their diets. Individuals' dietary patterns are changing. The number of American consumers adopting vegetarianism and veganism is increasing. Increasing recognition of the ecological advantages of legumes, especially their importance in sustainable farming and soil wellness, is further driving demand. A notable trend is emerging in organic and specialty legume seeds, emphasizing high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties for sustainable agricultural practices.

U.S. Legumes Market Trends 

The U.S. legumes market captured the largest revenue share of the regional industry due to an increasing number of health-conscious consumers opting for nutritious, plant-based options. The demand is being fueled by the rising popularity of vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets, as consumers look for affordable and shelf-stable substitutes for animal protein. Moreover, the growth of online grocery shopping and rapid delivery services has rendered canned legumes more available than ever, thereby fostering market expansion.

Health and Sustainability Drive Growth in the European Legumes Market

The European market is set for expansion, driven by increased awareness of the health advantages of consuming legumes, an expanding vegetarian demographic, and heightened demand for plant-based protein. A significant trend driving this growth is the rising transition of consumers from meat to plant-based protein options, especially beans and peas, suggesting a favorable outlook for product development. Additionally, the market will gain from shifting consumer preferences for organic and healthy food options, along with a rising demand for clean-label products.

UK Legumes Market Trends

The UK legumes market is expanding, fueled by the need for convenient, affordable, and plant-based foods, particularly canned options. Important factors encompass a strong need for protein and fiber, the rise in popularity of vegan and vegetarian diets, and the cost-effectiveness of canned beans, particularly amid inflation. Although there is a robust market for processed and frozen peas and faba beans used in animal feed and for export, the UK mainly relies on imports of common beans; however, there is an opportunity to boost local production to satisfy demand.

The Middle East and Africa Legume Industry Dynamics

The Middle East and Africa depend on a combination of domestic farming and imports, with demand rooted in traditional eating habits and institutional avenues. Opportunities emerge from initiatives for food security, enhancements in cold-chain logistics, and packaged staples designed for budget-conscious consumers. Traders and brands focus on shelf-life stability, fortification, and distribution collaborations to expand their presence in urban and rural markets.

Saudi Arabia Legumes Market Trends 

The legumes market in Saudi Arabia is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing health awareness, rising plant based dietary preferences and strong import dependence. Government efforts under the national food security strategy, urbanisation, higher disposable incomes and expansion of modern retail channels are further accelerating demand for legumes in Saudi Arabia.

Latin America Legumes Market Dynamics

The legumes market in Latin America is experiencing steady but moderate growth, driven by traditional consumption habits, rising interest in plant-based proteins, and expanding modern retail channels. High-growth segments include canned legumes and chickpea protein isolates, benefiting from urbanization, higher disposable incomes, and increasing imports in several countries. Overall, the market is stable in traditional staples but shows stronger potential in processed and value-added products.

Mexico Legumes Market Trends 

The legumes market in Mexico is undergoing dynamic change. The country is one of the major consumers in Latin America, with import volumes increasing significantly in 2024. Key drivers include strong cultural consumption of beans and other legumes, rising interest in plant based proteins, growing processing/retail channels, and increased imports to fill domestic supply gaps. Constraints include weather and crop production volatility, dependency on imports for certain pulses, and competition for farmland.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights 

Why did the Soybean Segment Dominated the Legumes Market?

Soybeans segment led the legumes market in 2024. Soybeans are known for their health benefits, including being a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The increasing consumer awareness of these advantages stimulates demand, especially for items such as soy milk, tofu, and protein supplements. The sector has undergone considerable expansion, fueled by nutritional, ecological, financial, and market influences. Dry common beans segment is seen to grow at a notable rate during the predicted timeframe. Dry beans offer a budget-friendly source of protein and vital nutrients in comparison to products derived from animals. They may be utilized in numerous conventional and creative meals, rendering them a valuable food source. India's export worth of Dried Common Bean has surged by 753.4% in the last 5 years, climbing from 2,445,195 USD in 2019 to 20,867,183 USD in 2023. 

The Chickpeas Segment is Growing at a Significant Pace Throughout the Forecast Period.

Due to their high fiber content, they serve as an excellent snack for those aiming to manage diabetes or sustain a healthy weight, as it aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. Moreover, the increasing demand for low-fat and high-amino acid products is providing a positive market perspective for chickpeas. 

Product Form Insights

Which Product Form Dominated the Legumes Market?

Whole/dried beans & pulses segment held the dominating share of the legumes market in 2024. The demand for whole legumes continues to be robust because of their nutritional benefits and low processing needs. The convenience of storage and extended shelf life additionally promotes widespread use among food manufacturers and families. Minimal processing helps retain more fiber, protein, and micronutrients, aligning with clean-label food trends.

Processed Ingredients Segment is Seen to Grow at a Notable Rate During the Predicted Timeframe. 

Main factors involve the demand for high-protein, high-fiber components in products such as snacks, pasta, and meat substitutes, along with their application in gluten-free recipes. In this context, there exists an increased opportunity within the food sector for incorporating legume components into different food systems. 

The canned/ready-to-eat segment is expanding rapidly as consumer demand for convenient food options increases due to the growing popularity of plant-based diets. Additionally, an increasing preference for canned legumes among food service providers like restaurants and catering services is expected to boost the adoption of legumes in the market.

End-User Industry Insights

Which End-User Industry Segment Dominated the Legumes Market?

Food Manufacturers & Processors segment dominated the market with the largest share in 2024. Manufacturers are continually developing new ways to include legumes in a variety of food items. This involves incorporating legume flours into baked goods, using textured proteins in meat substitutes, and adding legume extracts for enhanced nutrition in snacks and drinks. Large-scale food manufacturers gain from economies of scale and employ cutting-edge technologies to produce a significant number of legume-based products effectively.

Animal Feed Producers Segment is Expected to Grow at the Fastest Rate in the Market During the Forecast Period. 

Driven by a strong and steady demand for legumes as an affordable, protein-dense component for livestock feed. Soybean are a nutrient-rich legume utilized for oil production and protein in animal feed. Legumes provide an economical option compared to other protein sources such as fishmeal. 

Retail Consumers segment growing at a notable pace. Retailers have broadened their legume selections in various formats, such as canned, frozen, and ingredient-based snacks, to meet these shifting consumer preferences. Retailers have tapped into the need for fast and simple meal options by providing legumes in a broader assortment of convenient, value-added forms. 

Distribution Channel Insights

Which Distribution Channel Dominated the Legumes Market?

Bulk wholesale/commodity exchanges segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. Purchasing and selling in large quantities significantly lowers the cost per unit for handling, storage, and transportation. Buying in bulk reduces risk for both purchasers and vendors. By consolidating the trade of substantial volumes, these markets provide stability and efficiency that smaller exchanges are unable to achieve.

Specialty Natural/Organic Retailers Segment is Observed to Grow at the Fastest Rate During the Forecast Period.

Flourishing by creating a tailored shopping experience that profoundly connects with their specific consumer demographic. These consumers emphasize health, environmental sustainability, and ethical manufacturing and are prepared to spend extra on goods that reflect their beliefs.

Supermarkets & grocery chain segment expanding rapidly, driven by consumer needs for convenience, reliability, and diversity, bolstered by sophisticated logistics and procurement strategies. They serve contemporary lifestyles with packaged, processed, and ready-to-eat legume items that smaller, conventional outlets cannot rival.

Recent Developments in the Legumes Market

Heura

• Launch: In September 2025, Heura, a Spanish plant-based meat company, revealed its new product called Daditos, which is based on ham cubes but crafted entirely from legumes and healthy fats. The Daditos are reported to contain no additives and are rich in protein, offering 18g with each serving. They are said to be low in saturated fat and rich in vitamin B12. (Source: Vegconomist)

HARI&CO

• Launch: In May 2025, HARI&CO, a French firm specializing in plant-based products derived from legumes, announced the introduction of its new meat-free keftas. Drawing from the well-known Moroccan recipe consisting of ground meat and spices, the keftas are ideal for kebabs, sandwiches, and appetizers. They consist of legumes cultivated in France and contain no additives. (Source: Vegconomist)

Top Companies in the Legumes Market 

Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)

Corporate Information

• Name: Archer Daniels Midland Company 
• Industry: Agricultural commodities, food processing, human & animal nutrition, bio based industrial products. 
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, U.S. (originally Minneapolis) 
• Founded: 1902 (linseed crushing business) by George A. Archer and John W. Daniels.

History and Background

• 1902: Founded as a linseed crushing business in Minneapolis (Archer & Daniels). 
  Over decades it expanded into flour milling, soybean processing, grains, oilseeds, and global origination. 

Key Developments and Strategic Initiatives

• Portfolio transformation: ADM has pivoted from being largely a commodity‐trader/processor to emphasizing higher value nutrition, sustainable solutions, bio based products. 
• Cost optimization & simplification: Faced with margin pressures, ADM is implementing network consolidation, facility optimization and cost‐cutting initiatives.

Mergers & Acquisitions

• Over the years ADM has acquired numerous firms to bolster its global origination, nutrition and specialty ingredients capabilities. For instance: acquisition of Toepfer International (Germany) and Swiss German natural ingredients firm Wild Flavors. 
• More recently, while not all acquisitions are publicly detailed in every announcement, the strategy of expansion into higher margin segments (nutrition, specialty ingredients) suggests significant M&A activity.

Partnerships & Collaborations

• Collaboration with Wärtsilä Corporation (Wärtsilä) for modernizing river operations vessels in Paraguay: installing fuel flexible engines to boost sustainability and reduce GHG emissions. 
• Partnership with LG Chem to produce lactic and polylactic acids (for bioplastics) illustrating ADM’s shift into bio industrial sustainable materials. 

Product Launches/Innovations

• Alternative Protein Expansion: ADM announced investment (~USD 300 million) to expand soy protein concentrate capacity and build a Protein Innovation Center in Decatur. 
• Bio based materials: Through collaborations, the company is producing plant based lactic and polylactic acids (for bioplastics) indicating product innovation beyond food.

Key Technology Focus Areas

• Alternative proteins (plant based, fermentation derived): targeting growing consumer demand for clean label, sustainable proteins. 
• Bio based industrial solutions (bioplastics, renewable materials): via lactic acid, polylactic acid production, etc. 
• Logistics & operations efficiency: optimizing origination, transport, storage network, using newer engine technologies and global facility network optimization.

R&D Organisation & Investment

• ADM’s Decatur, Illinois facility is being expanded to host a “Protein Innovation Center” to strengthen research and production of alternative proteins. 
• They have R&D centers focusing on biotics (microbiome) and fermentation derived ingredients (for pets, livestock, aquaculture) e.g., a center in Lausanne, Switzerland.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

• Global scale and supply chain reach in agricultural origination, processing and logistics a major competitive advantage. 
• Diversified segment strategy: processing commodities, higher value nutrition and specialty ingredients enabling some protection against commodity cycles.
• Strong R&D and technology shift into alternative proteins and bio based industrial solutions which align with long term megatrends (sustainability, health) 
• Commitment to sustainability and efficient operations with visible initiatives (e.g., engine replacements). 

Weaknesses

• Highly cyclical business: commodity trading/processing is exposed to volatility in crop supply, prices, margins. For example, in recent years margins have been under pressure. 
• Large and complex operations which may make integration of new segments (nutrition, specialty ingredients) challenging.
• Recent accounting and governance issues (see below under Risks) which impact reputation and possibly cost of capital.

Opportunities

• Growing demand for plant based/alternative proteins globally, especially with shifting consumer preferences ADM is investing here. 
• Growth in bio based materials (e.g., bioplastics) and the circular economy leveraging carbohydrate solutions and industrial bio materials. 
• Sustainability and regenerative agriculture as themes: supporting farmers, reducing emissions, linking to end customers who need sustainable sourcing. 
• Portfolio optimization: streamlining operations, exiting low return assets, improving efficiency can boost returns. 

Threats

• Regulatory and trade policy risk: agricultural and commodities businesses often face tariffs, trade disruptions, changing biofuel mandates. 
• Profitability pressure from low commodity prices or oversupply (which reduce margins). 
• Accounting/governance risk: the company is under investigation for its nutrition business accounting, which can hurt credibility and cost of capital.

Recent News & Strategic Updates

• ADM is implementing a major cost reduction/portfolio simplification programme: targeting savings in the order of US$500 750 million over 3 5 years. 
  It announced job cuts in the grain trading / oilseeds processing division: up to ~700 jobs globally as part of the cost cutting initiative.
• Cargill: Cargill primarily provides legumes as a wholesale distributor of pulses and plant-based protein components, instead of marketing packaged legumes directly to consumers. The firm processes and supplies legumes and their byproducts to enterprises in the food and drink, animal feed, and industrial industries. 
• Bunge Limited: Bunge Limited participates in the legumes sector by providing plant protein products that feature ingredients sourced from legumes such as soy, faba, pea, lentil, and mung. Bunge, a leading supplier of agribusiness and food ingredients, processes and sells these legume-derived products for multiple food uses. 
• The Scoular Company 
• Louis Dreyfus Company 
• Viterra (formerly Glencore Agriculture) 
• Olam International 
• Goya Foods, Inc. 
• Ebro Foods, S.A. 
• Nidera B.V. 
• BroadGrain Commodities Inc. 
• Ardent Mills 
• Bean Growers Australia 
• Prairie Pulses Ltd. 
• Simosis International 
• Agrocorp International 
• Sun Impex International Foods LLC 
• Pulses India Pvt. Ltd. 
• Brisbanes Bean Company Pty Ltd. 

Segment Covered in the Report

By Type 

• Soybeans
  
  • Food-grade soybeans 
  • Oilseed / crushing-grade soybeans 
• Dry Common Beans
  
  • Kidney, Black, Pinto, Navy 
• Chickpeas (Garbanzo)
  
  • Kabuli chickpeas 
  • Desi chickpeas 
• Lentils
  
  • Red/orange lentils 
  • Green/Brown lentils 
• Peas (Dry & Split)
  
  • Yellow split peas 
  • Green peas (dried) 
• Cowpeas/Mung / Other Pulses
  
  • Mung beans 
  • Cowpeas / Vigna species 
• Specialty & Minor Legumes
  
  • Broad beans (fava) 
  • Lupins, Bambara groundnut

By Product Form

• Whole/Dried Beans & Pulses
• Processed Ingredients (Flours, Protein Concentrates/Isolates)
• Canned / Ready-to-eat
• Frozen Legumes
• Snacks & Ready-to-eat Pulse-based Foods
• Seed & Planting Material

By End-User Industry

• Food Manufacturers & Processors
• Animal Feed Producers
• Retail Consumers (grocery / household)
• Foodservice & HORECA
• Ingredient Suppliers / B2B
• Industrial / Non-food Users

By Distribution Channel 

• Bulk Wholesale / Commodity Exchanges
• Supermarkets & Grocery Chains
• Foodservice / Institutional Procurement
• Specialty Natural / Organic Retailers
• Online Grocery & DTC Ingredient Sales
• Seed & Agri-input Channels

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• MEA
• Latin America