Europe Gluten Free Foods & Beverages Market Report | Market Size, Industry Analysis, Growth Opportunities, & Forecast (2025-2030)

Europe Gluten-Free Foods & Beverages Market – Report Overview

The Europe gluten-free foods & beverages market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising health consciousness, increasing cases of gluten intolerance, and the growing popularity of gluten-free diets. Consumers are opting for gluten-free products due to health concerns, lifestyle choices, and dietary restrictions such as celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of market trends, key growth drivers, challenges, and opportunities within the industry. It examines various product segments, including bakery products, snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and beverages. Additionally, the report highlights major market players, emerging innovations, and evolving consumer preferences.

Europe’s gluten-free market is expanding due to strong demand in countries like Germany, the UK, France, and Italy. The report also explores regulatory frameworks and labeling standards impacting the market.

With an emphasis on market size, competitive landscape, and future forecasts, this report serves as a valuable resource for businesses, investors, and stakeholders looking to capitalize on the growing gluten-free trend in Europe.

Market Report Coverage:

The “Europe Gluten Free Foods & Beverages Market Report—Future (2025-2030)” by Digiroads Research & Consulting covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments in the market.

Study Assumptions and Definitions

This report on the Europe Gluten-Free Foods & Beverages Market is based on key assumptions related to market dynamics, consumer behavior, and industry trends. It considers the growing awareness of gluten intolerance, rising adoption of gluten-free diets, and regulatory developments across European countries. The study assumes stable economic conditions, continuous product innovation, and an increasing number of consumers opting for gluten-free options for both medical and lifestyle reasons. Additionally, the research assumes that key players will continue to invest in product diversification, distribution expansion, and strategic collaborations.

Definitions:

• Gluten-Free Foods & Beverages: Products that do not contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. These include bakery products, snacks, ready-to-eat meals, dairy alternatives, and beverages formulated for individuals with gluten intolerance or those choosing a gluten-free lifestyle.
• Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten triggers an immune response, damaging the small intestine.
• Gluten Sensitivity: A condition where individuals experience symptoms similar to celiac disease but without intestinal damage.
• Regulatory Standards: European food safety guidelines that define gluten-free labeling, ensuring products contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten.

Market Scope

The Europe Gluten-Free Foods & Beverages Market covers a wide range of products, including bakery goods, snacks, ready-to-eat meals, dairy alternatives, and beverages. The market is driven by increasing consumer awareness of gluten-related disorders, rising health consciousness, and growing demand for specialty diets.

The scope of this report includes an in-depth analysis of market trends, key drivers, challenges, and emerging opportunities. It examines various distribution channels such as supermarkets, specialty stores, online retail, and pharmacies across major European countries, including Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and Spain.

Additionally, the report explores regulatory frameworks, gluten-free labeling standards, and competitive dynamics, highlighting major industry players and product innovations. It provides a detailed market forecast, considering economic trends, consumer preferences, and technological advancements in food production.

This study is essential for businesses, investors, and stakeholders looking to understand market potential and strategic opportunities within Europe’s expanding gluten-free food and beverage industry.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The Europe Gluten-Free Foods & Beverages Market is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing health consciousness, rising prevalence of gluten-related disorders, and shifting dietary preferences. Consumers are opting for gluten-free products not only due to medical conditions such as celiac disease and gluten sensitivity but also as part of a perceived healthier lifestyle.

This report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, key drivers, challenges, and future opportunities. The gluten-free market is segmented by product type, including bakery products, snacks, ready-to-eat meals, dairy alternatives, and beverages. It also explores various distribution channels, such as supermarkets/hypermarkets, specialty stores, online retailers, and pharmacies, which are expanding their gluten-free offerings to meet growing demand.

Geographically, key European markets such as Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and Spain are leading the adoption of gluten-free foods and beverages. Regulatory frameworks play a crucial role in market development, with strict labeling laws ensuring product quality and consumer trust. The European food industry continues to innovate, introducing new gluten-free formulations that cater to diverse consumer preferences.

Despite strong growth, the market faces challenges, including higher production costs, limited availability of raw materials, and taste and texture concerns associated with gluten-free products. However, increasing investment in food technology and ingredient innovation is addressing these issues, making gluten-free options more appealing.

Major players in the industry, including global food corporations and niche gluten-free brands, are focusing on expanding their product portfolios and strengthening their distribution networks. The rise of e-commerce and digital marketing strategies is further boosting product visibility and consumer engagement.

With growing demand and continuous innovation, the Europe Gluten-Free Foods & Beverages Market presents significant opportunities for businesses, investors, and stakeholders. This report offers valuable insights into market dynamics, competitive landscape, and future growth prospects.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Market Players

• Nestlé S.A.

• General Mills, Inc.

• Dr. Schär AG

• The Kraft Heinz Company

• Danone S.A.

• Hain Celestial Group

• Boulder Brands, Inc.

• Barilla Group

• Warburtons Gluten-Free

• Hero Group

Market Share Analysis

The Europe Gluten-Free Foods & Beverages Market is witnessing strong growth, with key players competing for market share through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and expanded distribution channels. Major multinational companies such as Nestlé, General Mills, and The Kraft Heinz Company hold a significant share due to their established brand reputation, extensive distribution networks, and diversified gluten-free product portfolios.

Dr. Schär AG leads the European market in dedicated gluten-free products, holding a substantial market share due to its specialization in gluten-free bakery items, pasta, and ready meals. Barilla Group is a dominant player in the gluten-free pasta segment, leveraging its strong position in the European food industry.

The supermarket and hypermarket segment accounts for the largest distribution share, with retailers expanding their gluten-free offerings to meet growing consumer demand. However, online retail is rapidly gaining traction, with brands increasing their presence on e-commerce platforms.

The market is highly competitive, with both global food giants and niche gluten-free brands investing in product quality, taste improvement, and regulatory compliance to attract health-conscious consumers. With continuous innovation and rising demand, the European gluten-free market is expected to grow further, with key players focusing on expanding their footprint across various product categories.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

Market Drivers:

The Europe Gluten-Free Foods & Beverages Market is expanding rapidly due to several key factors:

1. Rising Prevalence of Gluten Intolerance & Celiac Disease – An increasing number of consumers are diagnosed with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity, driving demand for gluten-free products.
2. Growing Health Consciousness – Many consumers are adopting gluten-free diets as part of a broader focus on wellness, weight management, and digestive health.
3. Product Availability & Retail Expansion – Supermarkets, hypermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms are increasing their gluten-free product offerings, making them more accessible.
4. Supportive Regulations & Labeling Standards – European food safety authorities ensure strict labeling guidelines, boosting consumer confidence in certified gluten-free products.
5. Rising Demand for Functional & Organic Foods – Consumers seek gluten-free products that also offer additional health benefits, such as organic, high-protein, and fortified options.

Key Innovations:

The gluten-free market is witnessing continuous product innovation to enhance taste, texture, and nutritional value:

• Advanced Flour Alternatives – Use of almond, quinoa, and chickpea flour to improve taste and nutritional content.
• Improved Texture & Shelf Life – Enhanced formulations using hydrocolloids and enzymes for better consistency and freshness.
• Plant-Based & Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Products – Expansion of gluten-free plant-based dairy alternatives and ready-to-eat meals.
• 3D Food Printing & Precision Fermentation – Emerging technologies creating custom gluten-free food structures with improved sensory appeal.
• Sustainable & Clean Label Products – Growth of minimally processed gluten-free options with fewer additives and artificial ingredients.

Market Challenges

1. High Production Costs – The cost of gluten-free ingredients and specialized processing methods is significantly higher than conventional food production, leading to premium pricing.

2. Taste and Texture Limitations – Gluten-free products often struggle with maintaining the same taste, texture, and mouthfeel as traditional wheat-based products, affecting consumer acceptance.

3. Limited Availability of Raw Materials – Alternative gluten-free ingredients like quinoa, amaranth, and chickpea flour are not as widely available, impacting production and pricing.

4. Cross-Contamination Risks – Ensuring gluten-free certification requires strict manufacturing controls to prevent cross-contamination, increasing operational complexity.

5. Regulatory Compliance – Adhering to European food safety and gluten-free labeling standards can be challenging, requiring extensive testing and certification processes.

6. Premium Pricing Affecting Affordability – Higher costs make gluten-free products less affordable for price-sensitive consumers, limiting market penetration.

7. Limited Consumer Awareness in Some Regions – While awareness is growing, certain European markets still lack widespread knowledge about gluten intolerance and its dietary requirements.

8. Competition from Regular and Alternative Diets – Other dietary trends like keto, paleo, and low-carb diets compete with gluten-free options, diverting consumer focus.

9. Shorter Shelf Life – Many gluten-free products lack the natural preservatives found in wheat-based goods, leading to a shorter shelf life and storage challenges.

10. E-commerce Challenges – While online sales are growing, logistics, product freshness, and maintaining quality during shipping pose challenges for gluten-free food brands.

Market Opportunities

1. Expanding Consumer Base – Growing awareness of gluten intolerance and increased adoption of gluten-free diets for health reasons present significant growth opportunities.

2. Innovation in Ingredients & Formulations – Advances in alternative flours (e.g., almond, quinoa, chickpea) and food technologies can improve the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of gluten-free products.

3. Rising Demand for Organic & Clean-Label Products – Consumers prefer gluten-free options that are also organic, non-GMO, and free from artificial additives, opening doors for premium product lines.

4. Growth in E-Commerce & Online Retail – Online platforms provide a convenient shopping experience, enabling brands to reach a broader audience and expand direct-to-consumer sales.

5. Expansion of Private Label & Store Brands – Supermarkets and grocery chains are launching their own gluten-free product lines, making them more affordable and widely available.

6. Increased Investment in Research & Development – Companies investing in R&D can introduce high-quality, innovative gluten-free options, gaining a competitive edge in the market.

7. Growing Popularity of Plant-Based & Functional Foods – Combining gluten-free with plant-based, high-protein, or fortified ingredients can attract health-conscious consumers.

8. Strategic Partnerships & Acquisitions – Mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations between global brands and niche gluten-free manufacturers can accelerate market expansion.

9. Government & Regulatory Support – Clear labeling laws and stricter gluten-free certification standards help build consumer trust and boost demand.

10. Expansion into Foodservice & HORECA Sector – Restaurants, cafés, and hotels are increasingly offering gluten-free menu options, creating new opportunities for suppliers.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

1. Product Innovation & Reformulation
   • Nestlé launched new gluten-free breakfast cereals in 2023 to cater to rising consumer demand.
   • Dr. Schär AG introduced high-fiber gluten-free bread in 2024, improving nutritional value.
2. Acquisitions & Mergers
   • Barilla Group acquired Back to Nature, a gluten-free snack company, expanding its portfolio in 2023.
   • Hero Group strengthened its gluten-free division by acquiring a specialty European bakery in late 2023.
3. Expansion of Private Label & Store Brands
   • Tesco, Carrefour, and Aldi increased their gluten-free product lines in 2024, making them more affordable and accessible.
   • Lidl expanded its gluten-free bakery section across European stores.
4. Growth in E-Commerce & Digital Marketing
   • Hain Celestial reported a 30% increase in online gluten-free product sales in 2023.
   • Brands like General Mills and Warburtons leveraged social media campaigns to boost awareness and drive e-commerce growth.
5. Investment in Sustainable & Clean-Label Products
   • Danone launched a 100% organic, gluten-free dairy alternative line in 2023.
   • Schär committed to using 100% sustainable and non-GMO ingredients by 2025.
6. Regulatory Compliance & Certifications
   • The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) updated its gluten-free labeling guidelines in early 2024, ensuring stricter compliance.
   • More brands are obtaining gluten-free certifications to enhance credibility and consumer trust.
7. Expansion into Foodservice & HORECA Sector
   • McDonald’s and Pizza Hut expanded their gluten-free menu options across multiple European countries in 2023.
   • Hotels & airlines increased gluten-free meal offerings, responding to growing demand from travelers.
8. Strategic Partnerships
   • Dr. Schär partnered with major European retailers in 2024 to enhance distribution and visibility.
   • Barilla collaborated with health organizations to promote gluten-free diets among consumers with gluten intolerance.
9. R&D and Technology Adoption
   • 3D food printing and enzyme-based texture enhancement were introduced by food tech startups in 2023 to improve gluten-free product quality.
   • AI-driven consumer analytics are helping companies predict gluten-free food trends and optimize product development.
10. Expansion into Emerging Markets

• Gluten-free brands are expanding into Eastern European countries, where demand is rising due to increasing awareness and diagnosis of gluten intolerance.
• Spain and Poland reported double-digit growth in gluten-free food consumption in 2023.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

1. Market Growth Opportunities – Businesses can capitalize on the increasing demand for gluten-free products, expanding their market share and revenue potential.
2. Product Diversification & Innovation – Food manufacturers can develop new gluten-free formulations, catering to evolving consumer preferences for healthier and tastier options.
3. Regulatory Compliance & Brand Credibility – Meeting strict European gluten-free labeling standards enhances consumer trust, providing a competitive advantage.
4. Expansion of Distribution Channels – Supermarkets, specialty stores, and e-commerce platforms offer multiple avenues for businesses to reach a broader customer base.
5. Increased Consumer Awareness – Growing knowledge about gluten-related disorders drives demand, benefiting brands that position themselves as trusted gluten-free providers.
6. Higher Profit Margins on Premium Products – Gluten-free foods often command premium pricing, enabling companies to boost profitability.
7. Investment & Partnership Opportunities – Investors and food companies can explore mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations to strengthen their presence in the gluten-free sector.
8. Opportunities in Foodservice & HORECA – Restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses can expand gluten-free menu options to attract health-conscious diners.
9. Enhanced Online Sales & Digital Marketing Growth – Brands can leverage e-commerce and targeted digital marketing to increase product visibility and sales.
10. Sustainability & Clean-Label Appeal – Companies adopting sustainable, organic, and clean-label gluten-free products can attract environmentally and health-conscious consumers.

At DigiRoads Research, we emphasize reliability by employing robust market estimation and data validation methodologies. Our insights are further enhanced by our proprietary data forecasting model, which projects market growth trends up to 2030. This forward-thinking approach ensures our analysis not only captures the current market landscape but also anticipates future developments, equipping stakeholders with actionable foresight.

We go a step further by offering an exhaustive set of regional and country-level data points, supplemented by over 60 detailed charts at no additional cost. This commitment to transparency and accessibility allows stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of the industry’s structural and operational dynamics. By providing exclusive and hard-to-access data, DigiRoads Research empowers businesses to make informed strategic decisions with confidence.

In essence, our methodology and data delivery foster a collaborative and data-driven decision-making environment, enabling businesses to navigate industry challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

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Table of Contents

• • INTRODUCTION

    • Market Overview
    • Years Considered for Study
    • Market Segmentation
    • Study Assumptions and Definitions
    • Market Scope

  • RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

  • MARKET OUTLOOK

    • Executive Summary
    • Market Snapshot
  • Market Segments 

• Product Type

• • • • – Bakery Products
      • – Snacks
      • – Ready-to-Eat Meals
      • – Beverages
      • – Dairy Alternatives

• Consumer Demographics

• • • • – Celiac Disease Patients
      • – Gluten-Sensitive Individuals
      • – Health-Conscious Consumers
      • – Fitness Enthusiasts

  • COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

    • Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
    • Market Share Analysis
    • Company Profiles

• Nestlé S.A.

• General Mills, Inc.

• Dr. Schär AG

• The Kraft Heinz Company

• Danone S.A.

• Hain Celestial Group

• MARKET DYNAMICS

  • Market Drivers
  • Market Challenges
  • Market Opportunities
  • Porter’s Five Forces’ Analysis
    • Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • Threat of New Entrant
    • Threat of Substitutes
    • Competitive Rivalry

• GLOSSARY OF PROMINENT SECONDARY SOURCES

• DISCLAIMER

• ABOUT US