Despite the increasing interest in alternative leavening agents, the baker’s yeast market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the rising global consumption of processed foods, especially baked products. According to a recent Technavio report, the baker’s yeast market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9% until 2020. Western Europe currently holds the largest share of the baker’s yeast market, but its popularity is also on the rise in the United States. Concurrently, there is a growing demand for other leavening ingredients, particularly sourdough starter cultures. While Western Europe remains dominant in the sourdough market, the U.S. is closely following and could potentially overtake it in the coming years, according to Future Market Insights. The market research firm notes that the low glycemic index of sourdough bread is particularly appealing to Western consumers who are seeking slow-release carbohydrates to manage and prevent conditions like Type 2 diabetes.
In recent years, U.S. consumers have shown an increasing interest in authentic, rustic foods and ingredients. The resurgence of sourdough aligns with the broader fermented food trend, which is also evident in products like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. However, traditional sourdough bread production is more complex and time-consuming than making bread with yeast. To overcome this barrier to market entry, ingredient suppliers are focusing on developing manufacturer-friendly starter cultures that require less care and attention.
Meanwhile, suppliers of chemical leavening ingredients are also aiming to penetrate the expanding brewing yeast market by emphasizing the advantages of yeast-free products, such as shorter processing times and less pronounced flavors. Additionally, there is a growing discussion surrounding the benefits of using calcium carbonate versus calcium citrate in various applications, including both baking and fermentation processes. This highlights the ongoing innovation and competition within the leavening ingredient market, as suppliers strive to meet the evolving demands of consumers and manufacturers.