Global Chickpea Consumption Trends: From Middle East Staple to Global Superfood

Introduction

Chickpeas—also known as garbanzo beans—have long been a dietary cornerstone in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Over the past decade, their global popularity has surged as consumers increasingly seek plant-based protein, sustainable diets, and high-fiber, nutrient-dense foods.

Chickpeas—also known as garbanzo beans—have long been a dietary cornerstone in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Over the past decade, their global popularity has surged as consumers increasingly seek plant-based protein, sustainable diets, and high-fiber, nutrient-dense foods..

Why Consumption Is High in the Middle East

In the Middle East, chickpeas are both a cultural and culinary essential. They are used in hummus, falafel, soups, and salads. The region’s high per-capita consumption—especially in Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey, and Egypt—is driven by:

  • Cultural heritage: Centuries-old use in Levantine and Mediterranean cuisines.
  • Affordability and nutrition: A cost-effective source of protein and iron.
  • Religious and dietary preferences: Widely used in vegetarian and halal diets.
  • Urban consumption trends: Packaged hummus, roasted chickpeas, and chickpea snacks are now major retail products.

    • Rising Global Demand

    Chickpeas are increasingly viewed as a superfood, especially in Europe, North America, and East Asia. According to Mordor Intelligence (2024), the global chickpea market value exceeded USD 14.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2024 to 2030.

    Growth is driven by:

    • Vegan and flexitarian diets fueling demand for plant-based protein.
    • Gluten-free products like chickpea pasta, flour, and protein bars.
    • Sustainability trends, as chickpeas enrich soil and require less water than other crops.

    Chart 1: Global Chickpea Market Growth Forecast, 2023–2030” (Data: Mordor Intelligence, FAO)

    Major Producers and Exporters

    Country Production (2024, Mt) Primary Export Markets
    India 10.5 Middle East, Europe
    Australia 1.7 South Asia, Middle East
    Turkey 0.7 Europe, MENA
    Myanmar 0.5 China, South Asia
    Ethiopia 0.4 Middle East, EU

    Notably, Turkey and Ethiopia have become key exporters to Gulf markets due to proximity and consistent quality standards.

    Emerging Markets: China and Japan

    Although traditionally low consumers, China and Japan are seeing a surge in chickpea imports—especially for snack foods, tofu alternatives, and protein supplements. Chickpea flour and roasted snacks have entered mainstream retail channels, driven by health-conscious consumers and fitness trends.

    Challenges and Market Outlook

    Despite strong demand, the chickpea market faces:

  • Climate risk: Yields are sensitive to droughts, especially in semi-arid areas.
  • Price volatility: Export bans (e.g., India, 2021–2022) affect supply chains.
  • Price volatility: Export bans (e.g., India, 2021–2022) affect supply chains.

    • However, technological improvements, improved seed varieties, and irrigation systems are expected to stabilize yields and strengthen trade reliability.

    Conclusion

    Chickpeas are evolving from a regional staple to a global health commodity. Middle Eastern consumption remains foundational, but expanding global markets are reshaping production and trade flows. With the world’s growing appetite for sustainable protein, chickpeas could become a strategic export crop—bridging nutrition, sustainability, and profitability for producers and traders alike.

    Sources:

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