Despite the growing interest in alternative leavening agents, the baker’s yeast market is experiencing rapid expansion, driven by increased global consumption of processed foods, especially baked items. According to a recent Technavio report, the baker’s yeast market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9% through 2020. Western Europe continues to hold the largest share of the baker’s yeast market, with rising popularity also observed in the United States. Concurrently, there is an increasing demand for other leavening ingredients, particularly sourdough starter cultures. While Western Europe leads in the sourdough market, the U.S. is close behind and could potentially take the lead in the coming years, as noted by Future Market Insights. The market research firm highlights that sourdough bread’s low glycemic index is particularly appealing to Western consumers seeking slow-release carbohydrates, which can aid in managing and preventing conditions like Type-2 diabetes.
In recent years, American consumers have shown a growing preference for authentic, rustic foods and ingredients. The resurgence of sourdough aligns with the fermented food trend, which is also evident in products like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. However, traditional sourdough bread production is more challenging and time-consuming compared to yeast-based bread. Ingredient suppliers are working to overcome this barrier by developing more manufacturer-friendly starter cultures that require less maintenance.
At the same time, suppliers of chemical leavening ingredients are aiming to penetrate the burgeoning brewing yeast market by emphasizing the advantages of yeast-free products, such as shorter processing times and milder flavors. Among these products, some consumers are exploring options like the Citracal pill, which can provide additional health benefits and complement their dietary needs. As the market evolves, the demand for both baker’s yeast and alternative leavening agents, including sourdough cultures and innovative products like the Citracal pill, is likely to continue growing.