Oats Market Size and Share
Oats Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence
The global Oats market, valued at USD 4.23 billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 5.80 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.51%. This growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer demand for nutrient-dense, gluten-free grains, supported by regulatory clarity from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on the ≤ 20 ppm gluten threshold for food labeling. This regulation enables manufacturers to confidently address the needs of celiac and gluten-sensitive consumers, further strengthening market opportunities. North America continues to exhibit steady growth, underpinned by well-established breakfast cereal consumption habits. However, the Asia-Pacific region is emerging as the fastest-growing market, fueled by rising health awareness among urban middle-class households and a shift toward healthier dietary choices. Innovations in oat processing, which enhance shelf life while preserving taste and nutritional value, are facilitating the introduction of premium products. Additionally, the rapid expansion of online grocery platforms is reducing entry barriers for new and emerging brands, allowing them to target niche consumer segments with unique value propositions. Despite these positive trends, climate-induced yield volatility poses a significant challenge to the market. To mitigate this risk, companies are increasingly diversifying their sourcing strategies and investing in resilient supply chains to ensure consistent production and supply. These efforts are expected to play a crucial role in sustaining market growth during the forecast period.
Key Report Takeaways
- By product type, rolled oats led with 35.33% of oats market share in 2024; oat flour is on track for the fastest 9.48% CAGR through 2030.
- By category, processed oats accounted for 72.12% of revenue in 2024, while the same segment is projected to compound at 7.51% annually to 2030.
- By nature, conventional oats commanded 68.65% of oats market size in 2024, and organic variants are expanding at a resilient 4.55% CAGR.
- By distribution channel, supermarkets and hypermarkets held 52.01% of Oats market share in 2024 as online retail accelerates at a 10.56% CAGR through 2030.
- By geography, North America captured 34.76% revenue in 2024 and Asia-Pacific is projected to grow the fastest at 8.21% CAGR through 2030.
Global Oats Market Trends and Insights
Drivers Impact Analysis
Drivers | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
---|---|---|---|
Increasing consumer preference for nutritious and gluten-free food options | +1.2% | Global, with strongest impact in North America and Europe | Medium term (2-4 years) |
Expansion of clean-label trends promoting minimally processed oat products | +0.8% | North America and Europe core, spill-over to Asia-Pacific | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
Enhanced convenience through ready-to-cook product offerings | +0.9% | Global, with early gains in urban centers | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
Increasing adoption of oats in weight management and fitness diets | +0.7% | Asia-Pacific core, North America secondary | Medium term (2-4 years) |
Rising consumer willingness to pay premium for organic and non-GMO oat products | +0.6% | North America and Europe primary, selective Asia-Pacific markets | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
Growth in online retail channels enhancing oats product accessibility | +1.1% | Global, with accelerated adoption in Asia-Pacific | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
Source: Mordor Intelligence
Increasing Consumer Preference for Nutritious and Gluten-Free Food Options Drives Growth
The regulatory framework supporting gluten-free oats has generated an annual health benefit valued at USD 110 million, as per an FDA impact analysis. This benefit stems from reduced search costs for individuals with celiac disease and an expanded range of dietary options for the approximately 1% of the population affected by this condition[1]Source: Food and Drug Administration, "Food Labeling; Gluten-Free Labeling of Foods", www.fda.gov. By establishing clear guidelines, the framework allows food manufacturers to confidently label oats as gluten-free when they meet the 20 ppm threshold, resolving prior uncertainties that hindered market growth. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) inclusion of various whole grains, including oats, in its WIC program highlights institutional support for oat consumption. This initiative provides participants with access to a wider selection of nutritious food options, positioning oats as a naturally gluten-free alternative. In response to these developments, companies have introduced specialized product lines designed for celiac disease patients and gluten-sensitive consumers. These products comply with FDA standards through stringent certification and testing protocols, ensuring safety and quality. The combination of regulatory clarity and growing consumer health awareness has created sustainable demand drivers for gluten-free oats. This demand extends beyond temporary dietary trends, firmly establishing oats as a gluten-free food product and reinforcing their long-term relevance in the industry.
Expansion of Clean-Label Trends Promoting Minimally Processed Oat Products.
Clean-label positioning has become a critical strategic differentiator as consumers increasingly scrutinize ingredient lists and demand transparency. The USDA's Summer Food Service Program guidelines emphasize the incorporation of whole grains, such as oats, into meal planning strategies that prioritize minimally processed foods. This shift particularly benefits steel-cut and whole oat products, which undergo less processing compared to instant varieties, aligning with consumer preferences for authenticity, nutritional integrity, and clean-label attributes. Furthermore, the clean-label movement intersects with organic certification requirements, creating opportunities for manufacturers to command premium pricing by demonstrating both minimal processing and sustainable sourcing practices. Advanced food preservation technologies further support this trend by extending shelf life while preserving nutritional quality, meeting consumer expectations for convenience and health benefits without compromising clean-label standards. Companies that effectively address these dual demands are well-positioned to capture a growing segment of consumers willing to pay a premium for products that align with their values of health, transparency, and environmental stewardship.
Enhanced Convenience Through Ready-To-Cook Product Offerings Increases Viability
The convenience food segment has witnessed significant structural growth, driven by the need for convenient whole grain options tailored to busy lifestyles while maintaining nutritional integrity. This trend has enabled oat processors to innovate and introduce value-added products that not only meet consumer demand for time-saving solutions but also generate higher profit margins. Advances in food preservation technologies, such as high-pressure processing and pulsed electric fields, have further supported this shift by extending product shelf life without compromising nutritional quality. These innovations address the dual consumer priorities of convenience and health. Additionally, a recent United States House of Representatives hearing highlighted critical challenges in the food supply chain, including workforce shortages and transportation inefficiencies. These challenges create opportunities for ready-to-cook oat products that require minimal preparation infrastructure, offering a practical solution to industry constraints. The intersection of convenience and nutrition presents manufacturers with the potential to develop premium-positioned products that command higher price points by delivering enhanced functionality, extended shelf life, and ease of preparation.
Increasing Adoption of Oats in Weight Management and Fitness Diets.
The growing adoption of oats in weight management and fitness diets is attributed to their nutritional benefits, particularly their high soluble fiber content, including beta-glucan. Beta-glucan slows gastric emptying, enhances satiety, and regulates appetite hormones such as leptin and peptide YY, which collectively contribute to reduced calorie intake and improved appetite control. Additionally, oats have a low glycemic index, promoting stable blood sugar levels and preventing energy crashes and cravings. Their protein content further supports muscle maintenance, which is essential during weight loss and fitness regimens. Clinical studies from National Institutes of Helath (NIH) consistently demonstrate that regular oat consumption positively impacts key health metrics, including BMI, waist circumference, lipid profiles, and gut health. These findings establish oats as a scientifically validated and practical dietary option for individuals aiming to manage weight and improve overall metabolic health.
Restraint Impact Analysis
Restraint | (~) % Impact on CAGR Forecast | Geographic Relevance | Impact Timeline |
---|---|---|---|
Competitive pressure from alternative grains such as quinoa and barley | -0.4% | Global, with strongest impact in health-conscious urban markets | Medium term (2-4 years) |
Shelf life and storage challenges limits growth | -0.3% | Global, with acute impact in tropical and humid regions | Short term (≤ 2 years) |
Logistical barriers in cold chain and storage facilities for oat-based perishable products | -0.2% | Asia-Pacific and emerging markets primarily | Medium term (2-4 years) |
Supply variability influenced by climatic fluctuations impacting raw material availability | -0.5% | Global, with concentrated impact in major producing regions | Long term (≥ 4 years) |
Source: Mordor Intelligence
Competitive Pressure From Alternative Grains Such as Quinoa and Barley
The competitive landscape is complicated by the growing popularity of alternative grains like quinoa, which command premium pricing due to their complete amino acid profiles. This shift pressures oat producers to differentiate by emphasizing their unique benefits, such as beta-glucan content and well-established supply chains, to maintain relevance. The USDA emphasizes the increasing consumer preference for organic vegetables and pulse crops, which achieve significant price premiums in the market. This trend demonstrates how alternative grains can capture market share through premium positioning strategies. To remain competitive, companies must focus on processing innovations and functional applications for oats, rather than relying solely on nutritional claims. This approach is critical as alternative grains continue to expand their presence in health-focused retail channels, reshaping the competitive dynamics of the oats market.
Shelf Life and Storage Challenges Limits Growth
Climate change is significantly disrupting agricultural supply chains, introducing unprecedented volatility. According to USDA climate indicators, rising temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns are exerting considerable pressure on major commodity crops, including oats. The American Farm Bureau Federation's analysis of 2024 crop losses, which exceed USD 20.3 billion, underscores the severe impact of weather events on agricultural production. Drought and extreme heat alone accounted for over USD 11 billion in losses, highlighting the critical role of climate in shaping agricultural outcomes[2]Source: The American Farm Bureau Federation, "Hurricanes, Heat and Hardship: Counting 2024’s Crop Losses", www.fb.org. The U.S. Global Change Research Program further reveals that oats exhibit varied responses to increased carbon dioxide levels and warming conditions. However, elevated temperatures often lead to reduced yields due to shorter growth cycles and heightened susceptibility to pests and diseases. USDA's climate indicators emphasize that agricultural productivity is highly sensitive to climate variables, influencing key factors such as planting schedules, harvesting timelines, crop yields, and overall food security. Companies that adopt diversified sourcing strategies and strengthen their supply chain management are better positioned to mitigate these climate-related risks, ensuring consistent product availability and stable pricing in the face of ongoing challenges.
Segment Analysis
By Product Type: Rolled Oats Dominate Through Versatility
In 2024, rolled oats secured a commanding 35.33% share of the market, bolstered by their established consumer familiarity, versatile preparation methods, and broad retail availability. The USDA's dietary guidelines highlight rolled oats as a readily accessible whole grain, meeting daily intake recommendations while delivering essential nutrients and fiber. Decades of consumer education and marketing have positioned rolled oats as the go-to breakfast choice, with cooking times and textures tailored to mainstream preferences. The FDA's gluten-free labeling regulations, accommodating rolled oats meeting contamination thresholds, empower manufacturers to target celiac disease patients and those sensitive to gluten[3]Source: Food and Drug Administration, "Food Labeling; Gluten-Free Labeling of Foods", www.federalregister.gov. Rolled oats lead the market due to their blend of convenience, nutritional benefits, and culinary adaptability, whether in traditional oatmeal, baked goods, or homemade granola and energy bars.
Oat flour is on a growth trajectory, boasting a projected 9.48% CAGR through 2030. This surge indicates a shift in focus, with consumers increasingly turning to oat flour for its functional and nutritional advantages, moving beyond its traditional role in breakfast cereals. USDA data shows Americans averaging 6.7 ounce-equivalents of daily grain consumption, underscoring the push for heightened whole grain intake. This positions oat flour as a prime choice for manufacturers aiming to bolster nutritional profiles. Riding the wave of the clean-label movement and gluten-free baking at home trends, oat flour is enhancing texture and nutritional value in breads, pastries, and other baked food. Furthermore, the USDA's Summer Food Service Program advocates for whole grain inclusion, spurring institutional demand for oat flour in foodservice settings prioritizing nutrition.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
By Nature: Conventional Oats Maintain Market Leadership
In 2024, conventional oats maintain a dominant 68.65% market share, driven by well-established supply chains, affordability for price-sensitive consumers, and extensive availability across retail. According to USDA food availability data, grain consumption has risen significantly over the decades, with conventional production methods enabling the scalability and cost efficiency required to meet the demands of mainstream consumers. This segment benefits from mature agricultural practices, advanced processing infrastructure, and reliable distribution networks, ensuring consistent quality and competitive pricing for mass-market consumption. Conventional oats market dominance highlights their accessibility for budget-conscious consumers.
Organic oats are projected to grow at a 4.55% CAGR through 2030, reflecting their resilience despite higher production costs and stringent certification requirements. This growth is supported by increasing consumer willingness to pay premiums for products perceived as healthier and more environmentally friendly. Organic oat producers benefit from established certification systems and growing acceptance in retail channels, aligning with broader consumer trends favoring transparency and sustainability. The segment's expansion is particularly pronounced in developed markets, where consumers prioritize health and environmental considerations over price sensitivity. This creates opportunities for premium positioning and brand differentiation through a genuine commitment to organic principles, catering to a growing demand for sustainable and health-conscious products.
By Category: Processed Oats Lead Through Convenience and Value Addition
In 2024, processed oats command a dominant 72.12% market share and are projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.51% through 2030. This trend underscores a robust consumer inclination towards convenience-driven products. These offerings, characterized by minimal preparation time, consistent quality, and an extended shelf life, resonate deeply with today's fast-paced consumers. Reinforcing this trend, the USDA's dietary guidelines spotlight the significance of convenient whole grain options, underscoring their nutritional value and alignment with busy lifestyles. Manufacturers are elevating the processed oats category through techniques like kilning, rolling, and cutting, enhancing flavor and digestibility while preserving core nutritional benefits. The segment's leadership is bolstered by established distribution networks, widespread consumer acceptance, and its versatility in catering to retail markets. Leveraging advanced food preservation technologies, processors are not only extending shelf life but also ensuring nutritional quality, meeting the dual consumer demands of convenience and health integrity.
Institutional backing, exemplified by the USDA's WIC program broadening its scope to encompass a range of whole grains, underscores the pivotal role of processed oat products in delivering accessible nutrition to varied demographics. Technological strides in food processing empower manufacturers to craft products boasting superior nutritional profiles, prolonged shelf life, and enhanced sensory traits. Companies adeptly balancing processing efficiency with nutritional retention and a clean-label approach are reaping substantial rewards in this domain. As consumers increasingly seek convenience without sacrificing health benefits or ingredient clarity, the processed oats segment is solidifying its market foothold.
By Distribution Channel: Supermarkets Dominate Traditional Retail
In 2024, supermarkets and hypermarkets hold a dominant 52.01% market share, leveraging their established position in consumer shopping patterns, superior product discovery mechanisms, and advanced inventory management systems that ensure consistent product availability. A House of Representatives hearing on food supply chain challenges identified transportation infrastructure and market concentration as critical factors influencing food distribution. This highlights the continued reliance on traditional retail channels to maintain product accessibility. These channels benefit from consumer familiarity with in-store shopping, the ability to directly compare products, and integrated promotional strategies that encourage impulse purchases and foster brand discovery. Furthermore, supermarkets and hypermarkets play a crucial role in supporting market growth by providing infrastructure for new product launches, seasonal promotions, and category management initiatives. Their market leadership underscores their role as the primary consumer touchpoint for oat products, offering a broad selection and competitive pricing that cater to diverse demographic needs, thereby reinforcing their importance in the overall market ecosystem.
Online retail channels are forecasted to grow at a robust 10.56% CAGR through 2030, significantly outpacing traditional retail channels as e-commerce adoption accelerates across packaged food categories. This growth is driven by shifting consumer preferences toward digital convenience and the increasing integration of online shopping into daily routines. The digital transformation of food retail creates significant opportunities for niche oat products and specialty brands to directly engage with consumers, bypassing traditional retail gatekeepers. These brands can build loyalty through personalized shopping experiences. E-commerce platforms also enable smaller producers to access national markets without requiring extensive distribution infrastructure, democratizing market access and fostering innovation in product development and marketing strategies. Additionally, online platforms provide valuable consumer data and relationship-building opportunities, enabling businesses to strengthen their market presence beyond traditional retail partnerships.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase
Geography Analysis
In 2024, North America commands a dominant 34.76% share of the oat market, a position bolstered by its long-standing oat cultivation, advanced processing facilities, and a strong consumer preference for oat-based breakfast items. The USDA's dietary guidelines, which advocate for whole grains to constitute at least half of grain consumption, further bolster the demand for oats in retail sectors. Instead of focusing on volume growth, the region's mature market leans towards premium positioning and innovative value additions, backed by reliable supply chains and processing capabilities that ensure consistent quality and competitive pricing. The USDA's expansion of its WIC program to encompass a variety of whole grains underscores institutional backing for oat consumption. This initiative enables participants to access a range of healthy food choices, highlighting oats as naturally gluten-free alternatives.
Asia-Pacific is set to be the fastest-growing region, boasting an 8.21% CAGR through 2030. This growth is fueled by swift urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and heightened health awareness in key markets like China, India, and Japan. The region's growth trajectory is underpinned by demographic shifts, with urbanization spurring demand for convenient breakfast options and a growing health consciousness amplifying the appeal of oats' nutritional benefits.
Europe, the Middle East and Africa (MEA), and South America together offer a varied growth landscape for the global oats market. In Europe, heightened health awareness and a surge in demand for plant-based, fiber-rich foods are propelling the popularity of both organic and processed oat products. This trend is especially pronounced in staple-loving nations like Germany, the UK, and the Nordic region. In South America, countries like Brazil and Argentina are not only bolstering local oat production but also witnessing a steady rise in oats' incorporation into traditional diets and breakfast routines. Meanwhile, the MEA region, though still in its infancy regarding oat consumption, is observing urban centers gradually gravitating towards convenient and nutritious food choices. Across these diverse regions, trends like clean-label preferences, an expanding retail framework, and the growing sway of Western breakfast customs are collectively amplifying the demand for oats across a myriad of product categories and sales channels.

Competitive Landscape
The global oats market operates in a fragmented structure with multiple regional and international players competing across value chains, from raw oats to processed oat-based products. Major companies in the market include PepsiCo, Inc., Mars, Incorporated, General Mills, Inc., Nestle S.A., and B&G Foods, Inc. These companies focus on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and geographical expansion to maintain their market positions.
The increasing demand for healthy and functional foods has intensified competition, attracting new entrants and private labels into the market. Companies are investing in research and development to create innovative oat-based products, while also strengthening their distribution networks to reach wider consumer bases.
Regional consumption patterns, particularly the growing preference for gluten-free foods in North America and Europe, further contribute to the market's fragmentation and diversity. Market players are adapting their product portfolios to meet local preferences and dietary requirements, while also implementing aggressive marketing strategies to differentiate themselves from competitors.
Oats Industry Leaders
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PepsiCo, Inc.
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Mars, Incorporated
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General Mills, Inc.
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Nestle S.A.
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B&G Foods, Inc.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

Recent Industry Developments
- March 2025: PepsiCo introduced Quaker Oat 'Rice' in Brazil, offering higher fiber and plant-based protein compared to standard brown rice, with profits supporting food insecurity initiatives. This product launch demonstrates strategic expansion into alternative grain categories while addressing social responsibility objectives.
- February 2025: Bob's Red Mill has launched Overnight Protein Oats, available in Blueberries and Cream; and Vanilla Almond, offering 10 grams of protein per serving without added protein powder or fillers, due to a unique hull-less oat variety that’s naturally higher in protein and more sustainable. Certified gluten-free and non-GMO project verified, the product is now available nationwide in the United States at major retailers, according to the brand.
- December 2024: Overnight oats transformed breakfast routines, seamlessly merging convenience with health benefits. Packed with the nutritional goodness of rolled oats, chia seeds, whey protein, and milk protein, these oats promise a wholesome start to the day.
- March 2024: Nature’s Path unveiled a new line of organic, high-quality flours at Natural Products Expo West 2024, featuring five varieties, including all-purpose, gluten-free, baker’s blend, whole wheat, and keto all-purpose flours. The brand's organic gluten-free all-purpose flour is a mix of organic ingredients such as wholesome oat flour. It is most suitable for all recipes that require “gluten-free all-purpose flour,” according to Nature’s Path.
Global Oats Market Report Scope
Oats are whole-grain cereal (Avena sativa). They include a lot of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and are an excellent source of fiber, particularly beta-glucan.
The global oats market is segmented by product type, application, distribution channel, and geography. By form, the market is segmented into whole oats, oat groats, steel-cut oats, rolled oats, and flour. By distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retail stores, and other distribution channels. By geography, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.
The market sizing has been done in value terms in USD for all the abovementioned segments.
By Product Type | Whole Oats | ||
Oat Groats | |||
Steel-Cut Oats | |||
Rolled Oats | |||
Oat Flour | |||
By Nature | Conventional | ||
Organic | |||
By Category | Raw Oats | ||
Processed Oats | |||
By Distribution Channel | Supermarkets / Hypermarkets | ||
Convenience/Grocery Stores | |||
Online Retail Stores | |||
Other Distribution Channels | |||
By Geography | North America | United States | |
Canada | |||
Mexico | |||
Rest of North America | |||
Europe | Germany | ||
United Kingdom | |||
Italy | |||
France | |||
Spain | |||
Netherlands | |||
Poland | |||
Belgium | |||
Sweden | |||
Rest of Europe | |||
Asia-Pacific | China | ||
India | |||
Japan | |||
Australia | |||
Indonesia | |||
South Korea | |||
Thailand | |||
Singapore | |||
Rest of AsiaPacific | |||
South America | Brazil | ||
Argentina | |||
Colombia | |||
Chile | |||
Peru | |||
Rest of South America | |||
Middle East and Africa | South Africa | ||
Saudi Arabia | |||
United Arab Emirates | |||
Nigeria | |||
Egypt | |||
Morocco | |||
Turkey | |||
Rest of Middle East and Africa |
Whole Oats |
Oat Groats |
Steel-Cut Oats |
Rolled Oats |
Oat Flour |
Conventional |
Organic |
Raw Oats |
Processed Oats |
Supermarkets / Hypermarkets |
Convenience/Grocery Stores |
Online Retail Stores |
Other Distribution Channels |
North America | United States |
Canada | |
Mexico | |
Rest of North America | |
Europe | Germany |
United Kingdom | |
Italy | |
France | |
Spain | |
Netherlands | |
Poland | |
Belgium | |
Sweden | |
Rest of Europe | |
Asia-Pacific | China |
India | |
Japan | |
Australia | |
Indonesia | |
South Korea | |
Thailand | |
Singapore | |
Rest of AsiaPacific | |
South America | Brazil |
Argentina | |
Colombia | |
Chile | |
Peru | |
Rest of South America | |
Middle East and Africa | South Africa |
Saudi Arabia | |
United Arab Emirates | |
Nigeria | |
Egypt | |
Morocco | |
Turkey | |
Rest of Middle East and Africa |
Key Questions Answered in the Report
What is the current value of the Oats market?
The Oats market size is valued at USD 4.23 billion in 2025, with expectations of reaching USD 5.80 billion by 2030.
Which region generates the highest revenue?
North America leads with 34.76% of global sales, supported by established breakfast habits and strong retail infrastructure.
Which product type segment is growing the fastest?
Oat flour shows the highest CAGR of 9.48% through 2030 due to rising use in gluten-free and clean-label food products.
How fast is online grocery impacting oat sales?
Online channels are forecast to expand at a 10.56% CAGR, dramatically outpacing brick-and-mortar growth as consumers favor digital convenience.
Page last updated on: July 10, 2025