North America Peas Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends And Forecast (2025 - 2030)

North America Peas Market Trends and Insights

Rising Demand for Pea Protein

Pea protein is gaining traction as food and nutrition brands seek alternatives to allergenic ingredients like soy and dairy. Manufacturers are expanding production capacity, indicating strong market confidence. Advancements in extraction methods have improved solubility and reduced undesirable flavors, enabling broader product applications. The development of thermostable variants allows for high-temperature processing, expanding usage in ready-to-drink beverages and shelf-stable items. Clear regulatory guidelines for labeling and organic certification enable brands to position pea protein as a mainstream ingredient. Processors are incorporating it into formulations that address both health and sustainability requirements.

Growing Preference for Plant-based Diets

Health awareness and environmental concerns are driving consumers toward plant-based diets. Consumers prefer foods with reduced environmental impact compared to animal-based products. Peas have emerged as a significant crop due to their role in regenerative agriculture and positive environmental impact assessments. The versatility of peas allows their incorporation across food categories, including snacks and ready meals. Retailers use sustainability certifications to enhance product visibility and consumer confidence. The increasing demand for peas continues to influence food choices and purchasing patterns in global markets.

Increasing Application in Processed Food and Snacks

Peas are increasingly used in processed foods, including extruded snacks, meat alternatives, and baked goods. Their properties, such as emulsification and water retention, improve texture in dairy-free ice creams and clean-label products. Food manufacturers use technologies like electrospun fibers to create meat-like textures in plant-based deli slices and nuggets, incorporating peas for their functional and nutritional benefits. Low-temperature processing preserves the natural pigments in peas, enhancing product appearance without artificial additives. These developments contribute to growth in the fortified foods market, where peas offer both functionality and environmental benefits. Manufacturers follow regulatory requirements to maintain product safety and compliance.

Demand for Gluten-free Ingredients

Peas hold a significant position in the gluten-free market due to their functional properties and consumer acceptance of premium pricing. Their ability to retain moisture and provide elasticity improves the texture of baked products, while their hypoallergenic properties enable manufacturers to address various dietary requirements. In frozen meals, pea flour maintains structural stability during freeze-thaw cycles, making it suitable for ready-to-eat products. Products containing peas often display certification logos, which enhance consumer trust and promote repeat purchases in the clean-label and allergen-friendly food segments.

Price Volatility Tied to Global Trade Policies

Global trade dynamics affect pea pricing and availability. Tariffs, export volumes, and currency fluctuations create market uncertainty.^{[2]Farm Credit Canada, “2025 Crop Outlook,” fcc-fac.ca} Temporary policy adjustments affect long-term planning capabilities. Currency depreciation increases equipment costs while potentially improving export competitiveness. Market participants use hedging and forward contracts to manage risk, though these strategies may limit upside potential. The industry requires adaptability to address pricing pressures and maintain supply chain stability.

Regulatory Scrutiny of Phytosanitary

Enhanced phytosanitary regulations influence pea trade and processing. Updated rules require exporters to enhance staff training and digital infrastructure. Inspection agency alerts lead to stricter allergen controls, particularly for high-risk products. Increased documentation requirements extend transit times and increase operational costs. Small-scale exporters face compliance challenges that may reduce market participation. Industry associations advocate for standardized regulations to streamline compliance while maintaining safety standards.^{[3]Canadian Food Inspection Agency, “Statement on the Plant-Based Beverage Recall,” canada.ca} Businesses must adapt to maintain market access and consumer confidence.

Geography Analysis

The United States captured 55.0% of the North America peas market share in 2024, supported by robust infrastructure and consistent output. Dry-pea production increased steadily, with states like North Dakota and Montana expanding acreage and improving yields. Long-term contracts protect processors from tariff fluctuations, maintaining supply chain stability. Processing facilities in the United States convert raw peas into isolates, flours, and snack ingredients for multiple applications. Crop rotation practices in the Northern Plains enhance soil health and increase wheat yields. Advancements in protein extraction methods and USDA climate-smart funding support the industry, positioning the United States as a significant pea protein producer and expanding the domestic peas market.

Mexico projects a 4.1% CAGR from 2025 to 2030, representing the fastest-growing sub-market in North America. The 2024 harvest decline revealed vulnerabilities to drought and pests, leading to government initiatives for seed improvement and irrigation upgrades. Urbanization and increased health awareness drive demand for plant-based proteins, including pea-based foods. While Mexico depends on imports from the United States and Canada, domestic processors are developing local supply chains to minimize currency risk. Crop diversification programs and consumer interest in sustainable diets support acreage recovery. Partnerships with foreign technology providers aim to improve efficiency and product quality.

Canada maintains its position as a global pulse leader, with Saskatchewan representing the majority of pulse acreage and functioning as a center for research, grain handling, and ingredient processing. In 2024, Canada's pea harvest increased significantly due to favorable growing conditions and efficient logistics. Canadian peas generate lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to international alternatives, appealing to sustainability-focused markets. Non-GMO and organic certifications enable suppliers to secure premiums in specialty channels. Reliable rail access to the United States processors and Pacific ports enhances export competitiveness. However, tariff uncertainty in key markets like China compels Canadian exporters to diversify trade routes toward Southeast Asia and South America.