Sial Shenzhen has learned that the global biscuit market size in 2023 was $104.32 billion and is expected to grow from $108.75 billion in 2024 to $167.69 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.56% during the forecast period.

Biscuits are baked flour snacks that are typically crisp and dry. They contain flour, sugar, butter or vegetable oil, eggs, leavening agents (such as baking powder or baking soda), and flavorings. Additional ingredients such as flavorings, chocolate, coffee, spices, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, and cheese are also commonly added. To make these snacks, dough or batter is shaped and baked to form a crisp and firm texture. Biscuits can be made in various shapes, sizes, and flavors, and include types such as plain, cream-filled, sandwich, wafer, cracker, and digestive biscuits. They are usually consumed as snacks, desserts, or accompaniments to coffee.

Biscuits are the largest processed food category in India. According to the 2019-20 annual report from major biscuit manufacturer Britannia Industries, over 90% of households in the country purchase this snack product.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people started working from home, leading to a significant increase in demand for convenient foods due to their long shelf life. The biscuit industry saw sales surpass pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, the pandemic triggered various health and wellness trends, prompting consumers to adopt more conscious eating habits.

Sial Shenzhen has noted a growing trend in the biscuit market for gluten-free and organic products. Global demand for clean-label, gluten-free biscuits, and crispbreads is rising. The prevalence of celiac disease is a key factor driving consumer preference for gluten-free foods. According to the UK Celiac Society, about 1% of the UK population suffers from celiac disease.

Furthermore, in response to this trend, manufacturers are focusing on creating high-fiber, low-calorie, and gluten-free products. For example, in April 2022, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) launched 100% natural and patented gluten-free millet products. The new offerings include cream biscuits, savory biscuits, and milk biscuits targeted at Indian consumers.

Sial Shenzhen has observed that the growth trend in snack foods is one of the main factors driving market growth. As more people enter the workforce and spend more time outdoors, the demand for on-the-go snacks is increasing. Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in the demand for biscuits among various snack types.