Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market Overview
Market Size in 2024 : USD 65.61 Million
Market Size in 2033: USD 107.89 Million
Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 5.10%
According to IMARC Group's latest research publication,"Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Type, Distribution Channel, and Region, 2025-2033", The Saudi Arabia meat substitutes market size reached USD 65.61 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 107.89 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.10% during 2025-2033.
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The growing awareness of health and wellness among Saudi consumers is a significant driver for the meat substitutes market. With increasing concerns about lifestyle diseases like diabetes and heart disease, many are seeking healthier dietary options. Meat substitutes, often plant-based and lower in saturated fats, appeal to health-conscious individuals looking to reduce cholesterol and improve overall nutrition. For example, brands like Beyond Meat have gained traction by offering plant-based burgers that mimic the taste of beef while being marketed as heart-healthy. This shift aligns with government initiatives under Vision 2030, which emphasize public health, encouraging consumers to adopt balanced diets with plant-based alternatives.
Environmental awareness is fueling demand for meat substitutes in Saudi Arabia. Traditional meat production is resource-intensive, requiring significant water and land, which is a concern in a desert nation with limited agricultural resources. Consumers are increasingly drawn to plant-based options that have a lower environmental footprint. For instance, local startups like GreenVeg are promoting soy- and pea-based products as eco-friendly alternatives, resonating with younger, environmentally conscious consumers. This trend is supported by global movements toward sustainability, with Saudi Arabia’s focus on reducing import reliance further boosting interest in locally produced, sustainable meat substitutes.
The meat substitutes market is growing due to its alignment with Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious values, particularly the demand for halal-certified products. Plant-based meat alternatives, such as those made from soy or lentils, naturally comply with halal dietary guidelines, making them an attractive option for the Muslim population. Companies like Al Kabeer Group have introduced halal-certified plant-based nuggets and sausages, catering to traditional preferences while offering modern, convenient options. This compatibility ensures broad acceptance, as consumers can enjoy innovative foods without compromising religious principles, driving market growth as these products become staples in households.
The rise of vegan and vegetarian lifestyles is a prominent trend in Saudi Arabia, influenced by global dietary shifts and local health campaigns. While the vegetarian population remains a minority, surveys indicate a growing segment—around 15% of Saudis—identify as vegetarian or flexitarian, driven by ethical concerns about animal welfare and health benefits. Brands like Impossible Foods are capitalizing on this by offering plant-based products in restaurants across Riyadh and Jeddah. Social media influencers promoting plant-based diets further amplify this trend, encouraging younger consumers to experiment with meat substitutes in everyday meals like shawarma or burgers.
Innovation in food technology is transforming the meat substitutes market, with companies focusing on improving taste, texture, and nutritional profiles to match traditional meat. For example, local manufacturers are using advanced techniques like high-moisture extrusion to create plant-based products that closely mimic the mouthfeel of chicken or beef. Tanmiah Food Company has invested in R&D to develop plant-based kebabs that appeal to Saudi palates. These innovations address consumer concerns about taste and texture, making meat substitutes more appealing to a broader audience and driving adoption in both retail and foodservice sectors.
The rapid growth of online shopping platforms is a key trend reshaping the meat substitutes market. With increasing smartphone penetration and a tech-savvy population, e-commerce platforms like Noon and Amazon.sa have become vital for distributing plant-based products. These platforms offer convenience and variety, allowing consumers to explore brands like GreenVeg or international players like Quorn. For instance, Almarai has partnered with online retailers to promote its plant-based offerings, making them accessible to busy urban consumers. This trend aligns with Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation goals, enhancing market reach and consumer access to meat substitutes.