Canada Plant-Based Food Ingredients Market by source

Growth Outlook

• The Based Food Ingredients Market by source portion of the Canada Plant market is on a steady long-term growth path. Segment value stands at roughly USD 627 Mn in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 773 Mn by 2028 — a gain of about 23% over the forecast period, translating to a CAGR in the double digits.
• The demand for plant-based food ingredients in Canada has been steadily increasing in recent years. This can be attributed to a growing consumer interest in healthy and sustainable food options, as well as a rise in vegan and vegetarian diets.
• What the regional split looks like (2026): Fruits & Vegetables leads, holding roughly 21% of segment value — the single largest regional share. Soy is the second-largest contributor. Seeds & Nuts, Pea, Others, Oats, Herbs & Spices and Coconut make up the remainder, in descending order.
• By 2028, Fruits & Vegetables alone is expected to reach USD 163 Mn, with Soy at USD 147 Mn.

Market Dynamics

The demand for plant-based food ingredients in Canada has been steadily increasing in recent years. This can be attributed to a growing consumer interest in healthy and sustainable food options, as well as a rise in vegan and vegetarian diets. Plant-based food ingredients offer a wide range of health benefits, including lower cholesterol, increased fiber intake, and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. This has led to a shift in consumer preferences towards higher consumption of plant-based products, and subsequently, a rise in demand for plant-based food ingredients. One of the major sources of plant-based food ingredients in Canada is grains. Grains such as rice, wheat, and oats are rich in nutrients and are versatile ingredients used in a wide array of dishes. They are also a staple food in many traditional Canadian diets, making them easily accessible for consumers. These grains are used to make plant-based alternatives to dairy products, such as oat milk and rice cheese, which are gaining popularity due to their health benefits and environmentally-friendly production. Another significant source of plant-based food ingredients is legumes. These include beans, lentils, and peas, which are high in protein and essential nutrients.

They are also a source of plant-based protein for vegetarians and vegans, making them a key ingredient in many meat alternatives. Legumes are versatile and can be incorporated into various products such as protein bars, pasta, and even ice cream, increasing their demand in the plant-based food market. Fruits and vegetables are also essential sources of plant-based food ingredients in Canada. With a wide variety of fresh produce available, consumers are increasingly turning to plant-based options for their nutritional needs. Fruits and vegetables are used to make dairy-free alternatives such as coconut milk and nut-based cheese, providing a healthier and environmentally-friendly option for consumers. Lastly, nuts and seeds are also growing in popularity as a source of plant-based ingredients. These ingredients are used to make plant-based milks, flours and butters, providing a healthier alternative to traditional dairy and wheat products. With the rise of nut allergies, consumers are also opting for plant-based alternatives as a safer option for those with dietary restrictions. In conclusion, the demand for plant-based food ingredients in Canada is driven by a variety of sources, including grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables, and nuts and seeds.

This is a reflection of the increased consumer interest in healthy and sustainable food options that meet their dietary needs. As the plant-based food trend continues to grow, it is expected that the demand for these ingredients will only continue to rise in the years to come.

Research Methodology

Figures reflect Wantstats’ original market research and forecasting models, compiled as part of the Wantstats research archive and published in 2024.