Ethnic Food Market Analysis, Demand, and Growth Rate Forecast 2034

Ethnic Food Market Size, Consumption Trends & Market Forecast

The ethnic food market size was projected at USD 86.95 billion in 2024 is expected to reach USD 179.21 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.50% over the estimated period from 2025 to 2034. The inclination towards the ethnic or traditional food type and the innovation in the fusion food drives the growth of the market.

Key Highlights

• Asia pacific dominated the ethnic food market in 2024.
• North America expects a significant growth in the market during the forecast period.
• By cuisine type, Asian segment held the largest share in the ethnic food market in 2024.
• By cuisine type, Mexican segment is projected to show remarkable growth in the projection period.
• By food type, non-veg segment dominated the market in 2024.
• By food type, veg segment is anticipated to grow at fastest rate in the projection period.
• By distribution channel, supermarkets and hypermarkets segment led the market in 2024.
• By distribution channel, online segment is expects a significant growth in the market during the forecast period. 

Bringing the World’s Flavors to Consumers

Ethnic foods are characterized by individuals outside the respective ethnic groups as culinary traditions that arise from the heritage and culture of ethnic communities. For Instance, Chinese cuisine, Mexican cuisine, Italian cuisine, and so on, are viewed as ethnic foods only beyond their own nations.  Market participants aim to broaden their product ranges in all areas by introducing local food items into global markets. Creative marketing approaches are anticipated to enhance the global presence of manufacturers and provide them with profitable chances in marketing and selling local ethnic cuisine throughout the predicted timeframe. Moreover, the heightened frequency of travel will aid in market expansion by attracting more visitors to local ethnic dining establishments. 

Health awareness is an aspect that the industry increasing the market. This is due to consumers incorporating these practices into their everyday lives while also requesting such food products. Thus, ethnic cuisines satisfy this by incorporating fresh ingredients, plant-based choices, and traditional cooking techniques. As an increasing number of individuals from diverse cultures move to city areas, the demand for genuine cuisines from their native lands is rising. This has resulted in a surge of ethnic eateries and food trucks providing a wide range of options from classic Ethiopian injera to Korean BBQ. These venues serve the local immigrant populations while also drawing a broader crowd interested in discovering new tastes and experiences.

Ethnic Food Market Trends 

• Nowadays plant-based ethnics attracting consumers due emergence of concept like veganism and lactose free foods. Numerous traditional meals such as chana masala (chickpeas), dal (lentils), and vegetable curries are renowned for that reason, particularly in Indian cooking. Additionally, hummus, falafel, and tabbouleh are types of meatless meals present in Middle Eastern cooking. 
• In January 2025, Big Bird Foods Limited launched the latest production line in its ethnic food category, projected to yield yearly revenues surpassing Rs 500 million. 
• A significant market trend has been the increase in the consumption of frozen food items over the past few years. For instance, in October 2024 Nestle launched the latest frozen brands focused on Asian and Mexican cuisines as the largest food manufacturer of the world capitalizes on the growing demand for ethnic meals.
• The Population Division of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs reported that in 2024, the worldwide total of international migrants reached 304 million, a number that has almost increased twofold since 1990, when approximately 154 million international migrants existed globally. Increasing migration and relocation driving the demand for ethnic food.

Market Opportunity

Global Expansion of Regional Foods and Escalation of Online Sale

As the need for traditional ethnic cuisine keeps rising, these countries are also being introduced to a variety of new ethnic foods and are becoming acknowledged in international markets. Consumers are increasingly adventurous in their food selections, looking for bold tastes and distinctive dishes. This craving for diversity has sparked interest in ethnic cuisines from areas like Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. The growth of e-commerce and online food delivery platform is another key factor driving market expansion. People are increasingly using online platforms to find and order ethnic foods, facilitating their access to niche items that might not be present in local grocery stores.

Market Challenge

Cultural Awareness and Falsification

There exists the possibility of cultural insensitivity or falsification in the promotion and preparation of ethnic cuisines. If dishes are not shown genuinely, it may result in negative reactions from consumers and hamper the growth for ethnic food market.

Regional Insights

Asia pacific dominated the ethnic food market in 2024.

The rise in the middle class demographic and swift urban development with the ongoing economic growth in the region, a rising number of individuals are relocating to urban centers that offer greater exposure to varied cultures and cuisines. Chinese cuisine held the ethnic foods market due to its extensive popularity worldwide. This cuisine is notable for its diverse selection of ingredients, cooking techniques, and styles originating from various regions of China. The region consists of the number of traditions and food cuisines in the different countries accelerate the growth of the market.  

North America expects a significant growth in the ethnic food market during the forecast period.

As the population grows more diverse, consumers are more frequently in search of genuine culinary experiences that showcase various cultural traditions. Trends show that both classic and fusion ethnic cuisines are becoming increasingly popular. The increasing impact of celebrity chefs and culinary media is one of the main elements propelling market expansion throughout the United States. Culinary programs, food documentaries, and the endorsement of various cuisines by celebrity chefs have sparked interest and curiosity in audiences, motivating them to discover and sample ethnic foods. The number of food companies are investing on the research on the innovations in the ethnic food and the inclination of people towards the ethnic or traditional food type drives the growth of the market.

Segmental Insights

Cuisine Type Insights

Asian segment held the largest share in the ethnic food market in 2024.

A significant reason for the rising popularity of Asian cuisine is the growing recognition and admiration for genuine ethnic tastes. Asian fusion cuisine provides chefs with a platform for creativity to craft unforgettable dishes featuring a variety of flavors and textures, while food lovers appreciate the cultural diversity and exchange of influences. 

The Mexican segment is projected to show remarkable growth in the projection period. From sunlit vacation spots to ancient origins, Mexican food presents a variety of tasty meals. Savor the lively hues and tastes of this classic cuisine, turning it into an unforgettable draw for culinary enthusiasts around the globe. 

• In February 2025, Baja Foods, a family-run food producer with twenty years of experience in contract manufacturing, is strategically entering the retail sector. The first product, Chicken & Cheese Enchiladas with Salsa Verde, signifies a thoughtfully designed introduction to the competitive ready-to-cook meal market.

Food Type Insights

The non-veg segment dominated the ethnic food market in 2024.

Worldwide, the intake of non-vegetarian foods greatly exceeds that of vegetarian foods. Therefore, the market share of non-vegetarian ethnic cuisine is also significant. The veg segment is anticipated to grow at fastest rate in the projection period. Growth is attributed to the factors like rising health awareness, concept of veganism and concern regarding animal cruelty.

Distribution Channel Insights

The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment accounted for largest share in the ethnic food market in 2024.

Hypermarkets and supermarkets are taking advantage of this trend by broadening their global food selections and obtaining products from diverse areas, providing consumers with convenient access to a variety of genuine ethnic ingredients. This enhancement in food variety not only serves traditional ethnic groups but also attracts adventurous diners in search of novel tastes. 

The online segment expects significant growth in the ethnic food market during the forecast period. E-commerce sectors have simplified the process for consumers to discover a wide variety of ethnic products that might not be easily found in traditional physical stores. This change is mainly fueled by the increasing ease and availability of online shopping, along with a more varied and tech-savvy group of consumers keen to discover unique culinary experiences from their own homes.

Recent Developments in the Ethnic Food Market

• Since its launch in May 2024, Truly Indian has grown to over 1,300 stores across the country, providing a comprehensive selection of frozen and shelf-stable meals and condiments aimed at delivering a complete Indian culinary experience, allowing consumers to mix and match various products for limitless meal combinations. 
• In September 2024, Authentic Asia has introduced a new, creative range of single-serve frozen dishes showcasing genuine, regional tastes of Asia. The main dishes feature Orange Chicken (Chen Pi Ji) prepared with battered white meat chicken pieces, fried rice, assorted vegetables, and a zesty orange sauce.

Ethnic Food Market Leading Companies

• Associated British Foods PLC
• General Mills, Inc.
• Ajinomoto Co. Inc.
• McCormick & Company Inc.
• Orkla ASA 
• ARYZTA AG
• Paulig Group
• The Spice Tailor
• Asli Fine Food
• TRS Group

Segments Covered in the Report

By Cuisine

• Asian
• Italian
• Mexican
• Others

By Food

• Veg
• Non-Veg

By Distribution Channel

• Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Grocery Stores
• Online Sales Channels

By Region

• North America
  
• Europe
  
• Asia Pacific
  
• Middle East & Africa
  
• Latin America