|
|
|
You can get e-magazine links on WhatsApp. Click here
|
|
|
|
|
|
Seasoning faces regulatory hurdles related to food safety
|
|
Saturday, 01 February, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
|
|
Venkatesh Ganapathy
|
Seasonings are spices and herbs used to enhance flavour or garnish cooked food, excluding salt and its variants. Examples include oregano, chili flakes, pepper, and chaat masala. The India seasoning market, valued at US$2.82 billion in 2024, is projected to grow to US$4.06 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 6.32%. The growth is driven by India’s deep culinary heritage, increasing demand for convenience, and a rise in urbanisation. Spices such as turmeric and cumin, along with global seasoning blends, dominate the market. As consumers explore international flavours, manufacturers are blending traditional Indian spices with global ingredients.
Urbanisation, busy lifestyles, and a focus on convenience have boosted the demand for ready-to-cook and home-cooked meals, enhancing the appeal of seasonings like marinades and dry rubs. Additionally, consumers are increasingly drawn to health-conscious seasonings, with organic and natural options gaining popularity. As consumer behaviour shifts towards health and wellness, seasonings that offer functional benefits are in high demand.
With busier lifestyles and higher disposable incomes, there is an increasing demand for pre-mixed seasonings and spice blends that streamline cooking while preserving authentic flavours. This trend is especially noticeable among millennials and dual-income households looking for quick, tasty meal options without sacrificing quality.
The market offers a wide range of products, from traditional spices like turmeric and cumin to contemporary blends catering to changing preferences. The influence of globalisation and international cuisines is diversifying seasoning offerings, with consumers increasingly experimenting with Italian, Mexican, and Asian flavours. This shift is prompting manufacturers to blend traditional Indian spices with global flavours. There is an increasing demand for seasonings that offer health benefits, such as natural or organic ingredients, low-sodium options, and those with functional properties like immunity-boosting herbs.
India’s varied culinary traditions, marked by a wide range of regional dishes and flavours, significantly contribute to the growing demand for seasonings. People across the country have unique tastes for spices, blends, and seasonings that elevate the flavours of traditional meals. In recent years, the production of spices in India has seen substantial growth, reaching 10.87 million tonnes in the 2021-22 period.
The market is also experiencing a surge in online sales channels and the expansion of retail formats like supermarkets and hypermarkets. E-commerce platforms offer a wide variety of products, catering to consumer preferences for convenience and access to different seasoning options.
Challenges in the India Seasoning Market
Managing the procurement, transportation, and distribution of spices can be difficult due to the diverse sources and regional variations in production, leading to potential delays and inconsistencies.
Ensuring that seasonings meet high quality and safety standards can be a challenge, particularly with a wide variety of ingredients and blends used in the market. Educating consumers on the benefits of different types of seasonings, their health advantages, and proper usage remains a challenge for brands trying to differentiate themselves in a crowded market.
With an increasing number of players in the market, pricing pressures are high, especially when consumers are looking for affordable yet high-quality options. The seasoning market faces regulatory hurdles related to food safety, labelling requirements, and compliance with local standards, which can complicate product development and market entry.
Brands are continually innovating, introducing new seasoning blends, health-conscious options, and unique regional flavours to cater to evolving consumer preferences.
As urban consumers are exposed to global cuisines through travel, dining, and digital media, there is growing interest in international seasoning profiles, such as Mediterranean, East Asian, and Mexican flavours, alongside traditional Indian spices. Manufacturers are responding with fusion blends that cater to cosmopolitan tastes while retaining local culinary traditions. According to the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (February 2024), average monthly spending per person in urban areas rose to US$77.95, reflecting the increased demand for such products.
Regional Insights
The South Indian region is the fastest growing segment in the Indian seasoning market, driven by the popularity of regional flavours like curry leaves and tamarind. The region is characterised by its rich culinary diversity and the increasing popularity of regional flavours. Traditional spices like curry leaves, tamarind, turmeric, pepper are witnessing a surge in demand as consumers seek authentic tastes. A wide range of seasoning products are accessible and available through e-commerce and quick commerce platforms.
Pepper, with its versatility and health benefits, is emerging as the fastest-growing segment, popular in both traditional and contemporary culinary applications. Gourmet seasonings, focusing on rare and exotic ingredients, are gaining traction among discerning consumers. Salt-free and vegan seasoning products are also being launched. Regional taste preferences are being incorporated as part of product development and often such seasonings have pan-India appeal. A case in point is the Awadhi Garam Masala. In northern regions like Delhi-NCR and Chandigarh, ready-to-use seasoning mixes and gourmet blends are witnessing an increase in demand.
Market Shifts
A significant portion of consumers currently purchasing unpackaged spices and masala mixes (56% and 44%, respectively) plans to switch to packaged formats, especially among younger millennials (26-32 years), presenting opportunities for brands to expand. These consumers are also willing to pay a premium for organic options. Single-sachet masala mixes are expected to see growth, catering to convenience-driven consumers.
As consumers are becoming more health-conscious, this change in their behaviour is driving the market toward natural and organic seasonings. Consumers are seeking seasonings free from artificial additives, preservatives, and synthetic flavours. Organic seasonings now focus on sourcing high quality, natural ingredients. In the digital era, the Internet has empowered consumers with the information that they need so that they can demand clean-label and health-oriented seasoning products.
Urbanisation and increasing retail access, including supermarkets and e-commerce, are driving market expansion. The unorganised spice sector is transitioning to packaged formats, providing opportunities for brands to target these consumers with premium, convenient products. The India seasoning market is poised for continued growth, driven by consumer shifts towards convenience, health, and global flavours. Companies must address challenges such as supply chain complexities and consumer education while capitalising on emerging trends like premium and organic products.
(The author is faculty member, IBS-Bangalore)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|