Sunflower Oil Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends And Forecast (2025 - 2030)

Global Sunflower Oil Market Trends and Insights

Rising consumer awareness of heart-healthy cooking oils

Consumers are increasingly aware of the benefits of heart-healthy cooking oils, which is driving the growth of the sunflower oil market. Sunflower oil, known for its high content of unsaturated fats and low levels of saturated fats, is considered a healthier alternative to traditional cooking oils. Additionally, it is rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants, which contribute to cardiovascular health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, accounting for approximately 17.9 million deaths annually ^{[1]Source: World Health Organization, "Cardiovascular diseases", www.who.int}. This has led to a growing demand for healthier dietary options, including sunflower oil. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, has further amplified the shift toward heart-healthy cooking oils. The rising trend of health-conscious consumers, coupled with the promotion of sunflower oil by health organizations and food manufacturers, is expected to sustain the market's growth during the forecast period.

Shift away from trans-fats in global food processing

The global shift away from trans-fats in food processing is a significant driver for the sunflower oil market. With increasing awareness of the adverse health effects associated with trans-fats, regulatory bodies worldwide have implemented stringent measures to reduce or eliminate their use in food products. Sunflower oil, known for its low trans-fat content and high levels of unsaturated fats, has emerged as a preferred alternative for food manufacturers. Its versatility in cooking, frying, and as an ingredient in processed foods further enhances its appeal. Additionally, the oil's neutral flavor and high smoke point make it suitable for a wide range of culinary applications, including baking, sautéing, and deep frying. The growing demand for clean-label and natural ingredients in food products also aligns with the characteristics of sunflower oil, as it is often perceived as a healthier and more natural option. This trend is expected to continue driving the demand for sunflower oil during the forecast period, as consumers and manufacturers alike prioritize healthier options in food production. 

Growing demand for high-oleic sunflower oil for frying stability

The growing demand for high-oleic sunflower oil is a significant driver in the sunflower oil market. This type of oil is increasingly preferred due to its superior frying stability, which makes it ideal for use in the food industry, particularly in frying applications. High-oleic sunflower oil contains a higher concentration of monounsaturated fats, which not only enhances its heat resistance but also extends the shelf life of fried products. Additionally, its health benefits, such as lower levels of saturated fats compared to traditional oils, are driving its adoption among health-conscious consumers. In 2024, Mexico's sunflower oil consumption surged to 75,000 metric tons, a notable increase from 40,000 tons in 2022, as reported by the United States Department of Agriculture ^{[2]Source: United States Department of Agriculture, "Oilseeds and Products Annual", apps.fas.usda.gov}. The increasing use of high-oleic sunflower oil in packaged and processed foods, such as snacks and ready-to-eat meals, is also contributing to its market growth. Food manufacturers are opting for this oil due to its ability to maintain product quality and flavor during extended storage periods. Additionally, the growing trend of clean-label and non-GMO products is further driving the adoption of high-oleic sunflower oil, as it aligns with consumer preferences for healthier and more natural ingredients.

Cold-pressed oil uptake in premium personal-care

Premium personal-care products increasingly embrace cold-pressed oils, driving the demand for sunflower oil in the market. The growing consumer preference for natural and chemical-free ingredients in personal-care formulations has positioned cold-pressed sunflower oil as a key component. Its rich nutrient profile, including vitamins A, D, and E, along with its antioxidant properties, makes it highly desirable for skincare and haircare applications. This trend is further supported by the rising awareness of sustainable and eco-friendly products, which aligns with the production process of cold-pressed oils. Additionally, the non-comedogenic nature of sunflower oil makes it suitable for all skin types, further enhancing its appeal in the personal-care industry. The increasing penetration of premium and organic personal-care brands in emerging markets is also contributing to the growing demand for cold-pressed sunflower oil. Furthermore, the shift in consumer behavior toward wellness and self-care, coupled with the influence of social media and beauty influencers, has amplified the adoption of products containing cold-pressed sunflower oil. 

Geopolitical supply shocks in Ukraine and Russia

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to disrupt global sunflower oil supply chains, with both countries among the largest producers and exporters of sunflower oil globally, accounting for a substantial share of the global supply. The ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts have disrupted the supply chain, leading to reduced production and export capabilities. This disruption has caused volatility in sunflower oil prices, making it challenging for market participants to predict and plan for future supply and demand. The instability has also forced importing countries to seek alternative sources, which often come at higher costs and with logistical challenges, further straining the global supply chain. Moreover, the reduced availability of sunflower oil has led to increased competition among buyers, driving up prices and creating additional pressure on downstream industries, such as food processing and retail. Such disruptions act as a major restraint for the growth of the sunflower oil market, as they hinder consistent supply, affect market dynamics, and create long-term uncertainties for stakeholders across the value chain.

Price competition from soybean and palm oils

Price competition intensifies between soybean and palm oils, posing a significant restraint on the sunflower oil market. The lower production costs and higher yield efficiency of soybean and palm oils make them more competitively priced compared to sunflower oil. This price disparity often leads to a preference for soybean and palm oils among cost-sensitive consumers and industries, thereby impacting the demand for sunflower oil. Additionally, the widespread availability and established supply chains of soybean and palm oils further strengthen their competitive position in the market. These oils are also widely used in various applications, including food processing, biodiesel production, and other industrial uses, which further enhances their market penetration. The sunflower oil market faces additional challenges as soybean and palm oils are often perceived as more versatile and adaptable to different climatic conditions, leading to higher production volumes globally. These factors collectively create challenges for the sunflower oil market to maintain its market share and profitability, as it struggles to compete with the cost-effectiveness, availability, and versatility of soybean and palm oils.

Segment Analysis

By Fatty Acid Profile: Mid-Oleic Variants Drive Premium Positioning

In 2024, linoleic sunflower oil dominates the sunflower oil market, holding the largest share of 61.23%. This segment continues to benefit from strong consumer demand due to its recognized health benefits, including high levels of polyunsaturated fats that promote heart health. The widespread use of linoleic oil in culinary applications and food processing further solidifies its leading position. Additionally, established supply chains and consumer trust in this variant contribute to its sustained dominance. Despite increasing competition from emerging variants, linoleic oil remains the preferred choice among manufacturers and consumers alike. Its prevalence in both retail and industrial sectors indicates its critical role in the overall sunflower oil market landscape.

Mid-oleic sunflower oil is poised to be the fastest-growing segment in the market, registering a robust CAGR of 6.91% from 2025 to 2030. This strong growth trajectory is driven by rising consumer awareness of its health advantages, particularly the balanced fatty acid profile that blends stability and nutritional benefits. Mid-oleic sunflower oil’s improved oxidative stability makes it increasingly popular for cooking at high temperatures, differentiating it from traditional linoleic oils. Innovations in production techniques and expanding cultivation areas are also supporting the segment’s expansion. Moreover, burgeoning demand from health-conscious consumers and the foodservice industry continues to fuel this segment's rapid rise. As the market evolves, mid-oleic sunflower oil is expected to carve out a significant niche, despite the established dominance of linoleic oil.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Processing: Refined Segment Dominance with Emerging Cold-Pressed Growth

Refined sunflower oil maintains both the largest market share at 66.37% in 2024 and the highest growth rate at 7.02% CAGR through 2030, driven by industrial-scale food processing demand and biodiesel applications requiring consistent quality specifications. The refining process removes impurities and standardizes characteristics essential for commercial applications, including neutral taste, extended shelf-life, and predictable performance under high-temperature conditions. Cold-pressed sunflower oil represents a premium segment targeting health-conscious consumers and specialty food applications, with production methods preserving bioactive compounds and natural antioxidants that command higher retail pricing.

The unrefined segment benefits from growing consumer interest in minimally processed foods and clean-label ingredients, particularly in organic and natural product categories. Cold-pressed production methods yield oils with distinctive sensory properties and enhanced nutritional profiles, though lower yields and specialized processing requirements limit scalability compared to conventional refining operations. Quality considerations become paramount for cold-pressed variants, as seed quality and pressing conditions directly influence final product characteristics and market acceptance.

By End Use: Food Industry Dominates, Biodiesel Accelerates

In 2024, the food industry holds the largest share of the sunflower oil market at 38.65%. This significant market share reflects the extensive use of sunflower oil in various culinary applications, ranging from cooking oils to processed foods. The industry benefits from steady consumer demand driven by the recognized nutritional qualities of sunflower oil, such as its light taste and high vitamin E content. Established supply chains and widespread accessibility have further bolstered its position within the market. Moreover, ongoing consumer preference for healthier and plant-based cooking oils continues to fuel demand in this segment. The food sector’s dominance underscores its critical role in sustaining overall growth within the sunflower oil market.

The biodiesel segment stands out as the fastest-growing area within the sunflower oil market, with an impressive CAGR of 7.86% projected from 2025 to 2030. This rapid growth is fueled by increasing global interest in renewable energy sources and sustainable fuels. Sunflower oil-based biodiesel offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and energy security. Growth in government incentives and policies supporting biofuel adoption also accelerates this segment’s expansion. Additionally, advances in biodiesel production technology and rising investments in green energy infrastructure are key drivers behind the surge. As environmental concerns intensify, the biodiesel segment is expected to gain further momentum alongside the steady demand from traditional industries.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Geography Analysis

In 2024, European markets lead the global sunflower oil industry with the largest market share of 45.21%. This leadership is supported by the region's well-established sunflower seed cultivation and processing infrastructure across key countries such as Ukraine, Russia, Bulgaria, and Spain. European consumers have a strong preference for sunflower oil due to its health benefits, including a high smoke point and a high concentration of unsaturated fatty acids, which suit their dietary patterns. The region's rapid adoption is also influenced by busy lifestyles that drive demand for quality cooking oils both at home and in commercial food services. Additionally, European investments in advanced agricultural technologies and processing facilities help maintain production efficiency and meet consumer needs. 

India's strategic pivot from palm oil imports to healthier alternatives, notably sunflower oil, coupled with China's surging domestic consumption—bolstered by rising household incomes and a shift towards healthier cooking preferences—fuels the Asia-Pacific's robust growth momentum, projected at a 5.61% CAGR through 2030. Data from ITC Trade Map reveals that India's import value of sunflower oil surged from USD 3.04 billion in 2022 to USD 3.70 billion in 2024, further highlighting the region's shift towards healthier oil consumption^{[3]Source: ITC Trade Map, "Import value of Sunflower oil, hs code: 1512", www.trademap.org}. The region benefits from a large population base and increasing awareness of nutritional benefits associated with sunflower oil, such as its high vitamin E content and low saturated fat. The food industry in Asia-Pacific has also been adapting to government regulations aimed at reducing unhealthy fats, further propelling the uptake of sunflower oil. 

Other regions contribute uniquely to the market landscape as well. North America is witnessing moderate growth with increased consumer health consciousness boosting demand, although sunflower oil production is modest compared to other crops. The Middle East & Africa are experiencing gradual market expansion, driven by shifting dietary preferences toward heart-healthier oils amid growing health awareness. South America remains a reliable supplier with countries like Argentina and Brazil supporting global demand through efficient production and export strategies. Together, these regions reflect a diverse but collectively expanding global sunflower oil market landscape.