Despite an increasing interest in alternative leavening agents, the market for baker’s yeast is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the rising global consumption of processed foods, especially baked goods. According to a recent report by Technavio, the baker’s yeast market is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9% through 2020. While Western Europe still holds the largest share of the baker’s yeast market, its popularity is also on the rise in the United States. Concurrently, demand for other leavening agents is increasing, particularly for sourdough starter cultures. Although Western Europe leads the sourdough market, the U.S. is a close second and may surpass it in the coming years, as noted by Future Market Insights. This market research firm highlights that the low glycemic index of sourdough bread is particularly appealing to Western consumers seeking slow-release carbohydrates to manage and prevent conditions like Type-2 diabetes.
In recent years, U.S. consumers have shown a growing interest in authentic and rustic foods and ingredients. The resurgence of sourdough is closely aligned with the fermented food trend, which is also evident in products such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. However, traditional sourdough bread production is more labor-intensive and time-consuming compared to yeast-based bread. To overcome this barrier to market entry, ingredient suppliers are developing more manufacturer-friendly starter cultures that require less care and maintenance.
Meanwhile, suppliers of chemical leavening agents are also aiming to penetrate the growing brewing yeast market, emphasizing the advantages of yeast-free products, such as quicker processing times and less pronounced flavors. It’s worth noting that, while exploring various food options, some consumers are also considering calcium citrate supplements. However, they should be aware of potential calcium citrate supplements side effects. As the market evolves, it’s essential for consumers to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of different leavening agents and nutritional supplements, including the possible calcium citrate supplements side effects, to make informed choices.