The global pea market is witnessing extraordinary growth, transforming this once-humble legume into a powerhouse in the food industry. Driven by the rising demand for plant-based proteins and innovative applications in cosmetics and animal feed, green peas have become a key player in the global food landscape. India, a significant contributor to pea production, is fueling this growth with increasing consumer demand for plant-based proteins, expanding industrial applications, and shifting dietary preferences. In 2024, global pea production was estimated at 11.78 million metric tons, marking a 1.8% increase from the previous year. Leading this transformation in India, Pal Frozen Foods is rapidly emerging as one of the country's top frozen peas manufacturing companies, setting new benchmarks in the frozen food industry with its frozen peas and diverse range of pea-based frozen snacks.
Key Global Trends
● China’s Dominance In The Pea Market: China remains the largest producer, consumer, and importer of dried peas, yet it faces a production-consumption gap. In 2023, China imported 2.6 million metric tons, a 64% rise from 2022. However, imports saw a 22% decline in early 2024 due to stockpiling, fluctuating exchange rates, and increased transportation costs.
● Canada’s Pea Production: Canada, a key supplier to China and India, produced 2.997 million metric tons in 2024, a 15% increase from 2023 but still lower than 2022’s 3.4 million metric tons. Canada’s yellow pea production rose by 275,000 tons, while green pea production increased by 130,000 tons.
● Europe & Russia: While Russia and Australia reported production declines, Canada and the European Union saw moderate increases.
India’s Pea Market: Production, Consumption & Growing Pea Protein Industry
India is both a major consumer and importer of peas, with steady domestic production growth and a booming pea protein market driven by changing dietary preferences.
Production & Consumption Trends
● Production: In 2024, India is estimated to have produced 550,000 metric tons of green peas and 100,000 metric tons of other pea varieties. However, total domestic pea production is expected to reach 922,000 metric tons by 2026, growing at an annual rate of 0.7% since 2021.
● Consumption: Demand for peas in India is projected to increase gradually, rising from 2.58 million metric tons in 2023 to 2.64 million metric tons by 2028, at an annual growth rate of 0.5%.
The Indian pea protein market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.14% (2025-2030), fueled by:
● The Rising Demand For Plant-Based Proteins – As fitness consciousness grows and vegan diets gain popularity, plant-based proteins such as tofu, soybean milk & curd, and pea protein powder are seeing increased demand.
● Innovation In Food Products — Pea protein isolates and concentrates are being widely used in meat alternatives like burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches, offering meat-like texture and superior nutritional value.
● Expanding Applications—Pea protein is now being used in infant formulas, cosmetics, and animal feed, highlighting its versatility. It enhances animal health and functionality in feed, while its cleansing properties make it a valuable ingredient in skincare products.
●Consumer Preference For Clean Labels—The demand for non-GMO, organic, and gluten-free products continues to boost the pea protein industry in India.
Trade & Import Trends
India's pea imports have surged significantly. Canada exported 602,000 metric tons of peas to India between August and October 2024, a sharp rise from just 138 tons during the same period in 2023.
Pal Frozen Foods: Pioneering The Future Of Frozen Peas In India
At the heart of India’s frozen pea revolution is Pal Frozen Foods, a company dedicated to delivering high-quality frozen peas and innovative pea-based frozen snacks. In 2025, the company achieved a milestone by manufacturing 12,000 metric tons of frozen peas, solidifying its position as a leader in India’s frozen food sector.
What Sets Pal Frozen Foods Apart?
● Advanced Processing Technology – Uses high-end sautéing and grading machines, a rarity in India’s frozen food industry, to preserve texture, color, and nutrition.
●State-Of-The-Art Preservation – Ensures peas retain their fresh taste and health benefits from farm to freezer.
●Team Of Quality Experts – Dedicated professionals ensuring top-tier food safety and quality.
●Empowered Agronomists & Contract Farming – Supporting farmers and enhancing crop quality through expert guidance.
●Innovative Pea-Based Products – Moving beyond just frozen peas, Pal Frozen Foods has successfully introduced a range of pea-based snacks, including veg patties, veggie sticks, and hara bhara kebabs.
The Global Pea Market: Trends And Opportunities
The global pea market is expected to reach USD 75.09 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 2%. The increasing preference for healthy diets and the shift toward plant-based foods are major drivers of this expansion.
The growing adoption of plant-based diets, especially in Europe and North America, has fueled demand for nutrient-rich pea protein, known for its high potassium, magnesium, folate, iron, and zinc content. With increasing health and environmental awareness, consumers prefer pea-based proteins over animal proteins due to their lower cholesterol levels and reduced environmental impact, driving a surge in plant-based food sales.
The Role Of Asia-Pacific In The Pea Market
The Asia-Pacific region is a major producer and consumer of peas, with China and India leading the market. In 2022, the region produced 21.1 million metric tons of dried and green peas.
●China’s Dependence On Imports—Despite being a top producer, China imports a substantial amount of peas to meet its domestic demand, with major suppliers including Canada, Russia, and Australia.
●India’s Growing Market—As consumer awareness of plant-based nutrition rises, the demand for peas and their derivatives continues to increase in India.
The Role Of Middle East In Pea Market
The Middle East is witnessing a growing interest in pea-based products, driven by increasing consumer demand for plant-based and high-fiber foods.
● Pea Fiber Market: In 2023, the Middle East pea fiber market consumed approximately 12,000 metric tons, with bakery applications accounting for 35% of market value. The market experienced an 18% increase in demand for organic pea fiber, particularly for use in clean-label products.
● Pea Flour Market: The Middle East and Africa pea flour market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9%, reaching USD 19,092.04 million by 2030. The rising prevalence of gluten-related health issues has led to increased demand for gluten-free products like pea flour.
● Pea Protein Isolate Market: The Middle East and Africa pea protein isolate market has witnessed significant growth and is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 7.3% during the forecast period (2023-2031).
Conclusion: The Future Of Peas In The Food Industry
Peas are at the center of a global green revolution, offering sustainable, nutritious, and versatile solutions for food and agriculture. From their increasing role in plant-based diets to their environmental benefits, peas are proving to be much more than just a kitchen staple.
With companies like Pal Frozen Foods leading the way in frozen peas and pea-based snack innovations, the future of the pea market looks promising, ensuring consumer satisfaction and environmental sustainability.
As the demand for plant-based alternatives continues to rise, peas are set to remain a vital component of the food industry, shaping the future of nutrition and sustainable farming worldwide.
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