Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea Trends and Forecast 2024
The Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea is set to experience significant growth due to the increasing demand for plant-based proteins, gluten-free products, and clean-label ingredients. By 2024, the market is projected to be valued at USD 575.74 million, with forecasts indicating it will rise to USD 1,203.02 million by 2034, growing at a steady CAGR of 8.7% over the forecast period.
This growth is driven by shifting consumer preferences toward health and wellness, the growing adoption of vegan diets, and the rising need for natural food ingredients in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors.
Key Market Trends and Insights in Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea
1. Rising Demand for Plant-Based and Vegan Foods
The growing shift toward vegan and plant-based diets in Korea is driving demand for pulse-based ingredients like lentils, peas, chickpeas, and beans. These ingredients are essential for developing plant-based protein foods that cater to the preferences of health-conscious and flexitarian consumers.
Example:
CJ CheilJedang launched a new line of plant-based meat products made with pulse ingredients, such as pea protein, to cater to the vegan and flexitarian consumer segments in Korea.
2. Shift Toward Gluten-Free and Clean-Label Foods
Clean-label products free from artificial ingredients and allergens have become a major consumer trend in Korea. Pulse flours, protein, and starch are replacing traditional wheat-based flours in gluten-free bakery and confectionery products.
Example:
SPC Group, one of Korea’s leading bakery companies, launched gluten-free bread and pastries made from pulse flours, which offer improved texture, taste, and moisture retention compared to traditional gluten-free alternatives.
3. Technological Advancements in Food Processing
Technological innovations in milling, extrusion, and microencapsulation are improving the taste, texture, and shelf life of pulse ingredients. Advanced processing methods are being used to reduce the bitter taste of pulses while enhancing their solubility and bioavailability.
Example:
Ajinomoto Co., Inc. uses advanced fermentation techniques to produce functional ingredients from pulses, enabling them to improve their application in soups, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals.
4. Growing Use of Pulse-Based Ingredients in Nutraceuticals
The growing awareness of natural health supplements and functional foods is driving the use of pulse-based ingredients in dietary supplements and nutraceuticals. Pulses like peas and chickpeas are used to produce high-protein supplements and digestive health boosters.
Example:
Companies like Ingredion and ADM have expanded their portfolios to include pea protein supplements aimed at improving gut health and supporting athletic performance.
5. Increase in Pulse-Based Functional Foods
Pulses are being incorporated into a range of functional foods, snacks, and beverages in Korea, such as pulse-enriched smoothies, protein bars, and meat alternatives. Their high protein, fiber, and nutrient content make them ideal for promoting health and wellness.
Example:
Binggrae, Korea’s leading dairy brand, introduced a line of pulse-based dairy-free ice creams, appealing to consumers seeking lactose-free and plant-based dessert options.
Segment Analysis in Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea
By Product Type
| Product Type | Market Share (2024) | Growth Drivers |
| Pulse Flour | 52.3% | Used in gluten-free bakery, snacks, and pasta |
| Pulse Protein | 28.7% | High demand for vegan and plant-based protein sources |
| Pulse Starch | 11.5% | Used as a binding and stabilizing agent in ready-to-eat meals |
| Pulse Fiber & Grits | 7.5% | Used in cereals, protein bars, and functional snacks |
By Source
| Source | Market Share (2024) | Growth Drivers |
| Peas | 51.1% | High demand for pea protein in plant-based foods |
| Chickpeas | 24.2% | Use in gluten-free baked goods and vegan protein alternatives |
| Lentils | 15.8% | Demand for plant-based proteins and high-fiber foods |
| Beans | 8.9% | Use in soups, stews, and plant-based ready-to-eat meals |
By Application for Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea
| Application | Market Share (2024) | Growth Drivers |
| Bakery & Confectionery | 40.8% | Rising demand for gluten-free bread and confectionery |
| Ready-to-Eat Meals | 21.6% | Use of pulse-based ingredients in pre-cooked meals |
| Dairy & Ice Cream | 18.5% | Increased use of pulses in lactose-free dairy alternatives |
| Snacks & Convenience Foods | 12.4% | Growing demand for high-protein, on-the-go snacks |
Regional Insights for Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea
| Region | CAGR (2024–2034) | Market Trends |
| Seoul | 7.9% | Rise in plant-based diets and vegan food launches |
| Busan | 6.8% | High concentration of food manufacturing facilities |
| Incheon | 6.4% | Demand for healthy snacks and functional beverages |
| Daegu | 6.1% | Rising consumption of gluten-free bakery products |
Competitive Landscape
Key Players in Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea:
| Company | Major Initiatives |
| Ajinomoto Co., Inc. | Development of pulse-based proteins for clean-label soups and ready-to-eat meals |
| CJ CheilJedang | Launch of plant-based meat made from pulse protein |
| Ingredion | Expansion of pea protein production facilities |
| SPC Group | Development of gluten-free bakery products using pulse flour |
| Binggrae | Release of dairy-free ice creams made with pulse ingredients |
Recent Developments in Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea
- SPC Group launched a line of gluten-free breads using pulse-based ingredients to cater to health-conscious consumers.
- CJ CheilJedang announced the development of plant-based meat alternatives made from pea and lentil proteins.
- Ingredion expanded its capacity for pea protein production to cater to the growing demand for plant-based proteins in Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea Industry
- What is the size of the Pulse Ingredient Market in Korea in 2024?
The market is projected to be valued at USD 575.74 million in 2024. - What is the projected market size by 2034?
The market is expected to reach USD 1,203.02 million by 2034. - Which type of pulse ingredient holds the largest share?
Pulse Flour is projected to hold the largest share at 52.3%. - Which region has the highest growth rate?
Seoul is expected to experience the fastest growth, with a CAGR of 7.9%. - Which companies are leading the market?
Ajinomoto Co., Inc., CJ CheilJedang, SPC Group, and Ingredion are key players driving market growth.
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