Malted Barley Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Industry Analysis, By Type (Basic Malt, Special Malt), By Application (Brewing, Food Industry, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast From 2025 to 2033

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MALTED MARLEY MARKET OVERVIEW

The global malted barley market size was anticipated to be worth USD 13.43 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 18.18 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 3.4% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.

Malted barley refers to barley grains that have undergone a germination and drying process, resulting in the development of enzymes essential for brewing and distilling. The process involves soaking barley in water to initiate germination, allowing the grains to sprout, and then halting the process through drying. This malting process activates enzymes such as amylase, which converts starches in the barley into fermentable sugars during brewing or distillation.

The malted barley market is experiencing robust growth driven by various factors. Increasing demand in the brewing industry, particularly for craft and specialty beers, is a major contributor to market expansion. Malted barley serves as a key ingredient in beer production, influencing flavour, colour, and mouthfeel, thus fuelling its popularity among brewers. Additionally, the rising trend of health-conscious consumers opting for malt-based beverages and food products has further propelled market growth. Malted barley's nutritional benefits, including high fibre content and essential nutrients, are driving its incorporation into a variety of food and beverage products. Moreover, the growing awareness of the diverse applications of malted barley, such as in the production of malt extracts and malted barley flour, is expanding its market reach. The agriculture sector's advancements, including improved barley cultivation techniques and varieties, are enhancing overall production and quality.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Market Growth Hampered By Pandemic Due to Supply Chain Disruptions

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The closure of bars, restaurants, and breweries, coupled with disruptions in the supply chain, has led to a decrease in demand for malted barley products. With restrictions on social gatherings and a decline in consumer spending, the hospitality sector, a major consumer of malted barley, has suffered a severe blow. Additionally, the pandemic has affected the production and transportation of malted barley, causing logistical challenges for suppliers. Farmers growing barley have faced uncertainties in terms of market demand and prices, impacting their livelihoods. The overall economic downturn has further reduced disposable income, affecting the purchasing power of consumers. As the industry continues to navigate through these challenges, recovery efforts are essential to revitalize the market and support the various stakeholders involved.

LATEST TRENDS

Increasing Craft Beer Demand to Drive Market Growth

The malted barley market is witnessing a surge in demand driven by the rising popularity of craft beers. Craft breweries prefer high-quality malted barley for its unique flavour profiles and ability to contribute to the overall character of specialty brews. Consumers are increasingly opting for healthier beverage choices, leading to a growing preference for malted barley-based products. Malted barley is rich in nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The global whiskey market's expansion is fuelling the demand for malted barley as a key ingredient in whiskey production. As consumer preferences shift towards premium and specialty spirits, the need for high-quality malted barley becomes crucial for distillers. With a heightened focus on sustainability and organic products, there is a growing trend towards malted barley sourced from organic farming practices. Consumers are seeking products with a transparent and environmentally friendly supply chain. Technological advancements in malt processing are driving efficiency and quality improvements in the production of malted barley. Innovations such as precision malting and new malting techniques contribute to better flavour extraction and consistency.

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MALTED BARLEY MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on type the global market can be categorized into Basic Malt, Special Malt.

• Base Malt: Also known as basic malt or pale malt, base malt forms the majority of the grain bill in beer and serves as the primary source of fermentable sugars. It provides the foundation for the beer's colour, flavour, and body. Base malts are typically kilned at a moderate temperature, preserving enzymatic activity needed for starch conversion during mashing

• Special Malt: These malts are kilned at higher temperatures than base malts, leading to more pronounced flavours and darker colours. Specialty malts are used in smaller quantities to add specific characteristics to the beer, such as colour, sweetness, and unique flavours.

By Application

Based on application the global market can be categorized into Brewing, Food Industry, Others.

• Brewing: Malted barley is a fundamental ingredient in beer brewing. The malting process breaks down the complex carbohydrates in barley into sugars, and during the brewing process, yeast ferments these sugars to produce alcohol and carbon dioxide. The malt also contributes to the flavour, colour, and body of the beer.

• Food Industry: Malted barley, in the form of malted barley flour or malt extract, is used in baking to enhance flavour, colour, and texture. It provides a distinctive sweetness and a rich, malty taste to bread, cookies, and other baked goods.

• Others:  In the production of spirits such as whiskey and malt vinegar, malted barley is used. The malting process is crucial in developing the sugars needed for fermentation in the distillation process.

DRIVING FACTORS

Rising Popularity of Healthier Food Choices to Boost the Market Growth

Malted barley is a nutritious ingredient rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek natural, wholesome ingredients in their diets, the demand for products containing malted barley, such as malted barley flour and malted barley extract, is on the rise. The craft beer industry has been expanding globally, driving the malted barley market growth. Craft brewers often prioritize high-quality ingredients, and malted barley is a key component in beer production, contributing to flavour, colour, and body. Malted barley is not limited to the brewing industry; it is also finding applications in the food industry. Its unique flavour and texture make it a popular ingredient in various food products, including bread, cereals, and snacks. The versatility of malted barley in culinary applications is contributing to its growing market.

Expanding Whiskey and Distilled Spirits Industry to Expand the Market

Malted barley is a key ingredient in the production of whiskey and other distilled spirits. With the global consumption of spirits on the rise, driven by changing consumer preferences and an increasing number of distilleries, the demand for malted barley as a raw material in spirit production is growing. Consumers are increasingly inclined towards specialty and craft beverages, including malt-based drinks and non-alcoholic malt beverages. Malted barley plays a crucial role in the production of these beverages, contributing to their unique flavours and characteristics. Malted barley is used in the bakery and confectionery industry to enhance the flavour and texture of products. With the continuous growth of the global bakery and confectionery market, the demand for malted barley as an ingredient in cookies, cakes, and other baked goods is witnessing an upward trend. Ongoing advancements in malting technology have improved the efficiency of the malting process, resulting in higher-quality malted barley. This has positively influenced the market, as producers can meet the stringent quality requirements of various end-users.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Climate Sensitivity to Impede Market Growth

Malted barley cultivation is highly sensitive to climatic conditions, and any adverse weather events such as excessive rain, drought, or temperature fluctuations can significantly impact yield and quality, leading to market instability. Stringent quality standards and regulations in the malted barley market can pose challenges for growers and processors, requiring additional investments in technology and processes to meet compliance requirements.

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MALTED BARLEY MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

Europe to Dominate in the Market due to Presence of a Large Consumer Base

The market is segmented into Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, North America, and Middle East & Africa.

Europe has emerged as the most dominant region in the global malted barley market share. The region, particularly countries like Germany, the United Kingdom, and Belgium, has traditionally been a stronghold in the market. The region boasts a long history of beer brewing and a well-established malt industry. European maltsters are renowned for their expertise in producing high-quality malted barley, which is a fundamental ingredient in brewing. The favourable climate conditions in this region contribute to the cultivation of high-quality barley varieties, enhancing the overall quality of malt produced. Additionally, stringent quality standards and regulations in Europe ensure that the malted barley meets the specifications required by brewers and distillers.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Industry Players Shaping the Market through Innovation and Market Expansion

The malted barley market is significantly influenced by key industry players that play a pivotal role in driving market dynamics and shaping consumer preferences. These key players possess extensive retail networks and online platforms, providing consumers with easy access to a wide variety of wardrobe options. Their strong global presence and brand recognition have contributed to increased consumer trust and loyalty, driving product adoption. Moreover, these industry giants continually invest in research and development, introducing innovative designs, materials, and smart features in Malted barley, catering to evolving consumer needs and preferences. The collective efforts of these major players significantly impact the competitive landscape and future trajectory of the market.

List of Top Malted Barley Companies

• Boortmalt (Belgium)
• Malteurop (France)
• Groupe Soufflet (France)
• Viking Malt (Finland)
• United Malt (Australia)
• Rahr Malting Company (U.S.)
• Avangard-Agro (U.S.)

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

May 2021: Budweiser Brewing Co APAC Ltd, for example, said in May 2021 that it expects to sell beer to local customers brewed from locally sourced malting barley through a partnership with a state-owned firm. The barley is of good quality, and it will help the corporation establish worldwide and local commercial partnership.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The research report delves into market segmentation, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a thorough analysis. It also evaluates the impact of financial and strategic perspectives on the market. Furthermore, the report presents national and regional assessments, considering the dominant forces of supply and demand that influence market growth. The competitive landscape is meticulously detailed, including market shares of significant competitors. The report incorporates novel research methodologies and player strategies tailored for the anticipated timeframe. Overall, it offers valuable and comprehensive insights into the market dynamics in a formal and easily understandable manner.