Expert Market Research Explores the Top 6 Companies Dominating the Global Pasta Market

Barilla G. and R. Fratelli SpA, Nestle SA, F.lli De Cecco di Filippo Fara San Martino S.p.A., JSC Makfa, AGT Food and Ingredients Inc., and General Mills, Inc., among others, are the major players in the global pasta market. 

The global pasta market reached a value of about USD 25.67 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.34% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach around USD 31.14 billion by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by the increasing demand for ready-to-eat products amongst customers.

Pasta, a quintessential Italian dish, stands out as a readily available and nutritionally balanced source of healthy carbohydrates. Crafted from unleavened dough, a blend of wheat flour and water or eggs, pasta comes in diverse sizes and shapes. Its versatility allows inclusion in soups, pairing with various sauces, serving cold in salads, or even frying. The fundamental ingredients include flour and water or eggs, with semolina flour favoured for its high gluten content and firm texture. 

Pasta, a carbohydrate-rich energy source, also offers protein, especially in egg pasta, along with potential nutrients from additional ingredients. Whether freshly made and promptly cooked or stored as dry pasta for future use, it remains a staple in global cuisines.

The global pasta market growth is propelled by evolving consumer preferences favouring convenient and ready-to-cook food choices. This trend gains momentum alongside the rise in global population and urbanization.

A notable trend in the pasta market is the emphasis on health and wellness. The increasing consumer preference for healthier pasta choices has driven the production of whole grain, high-fibre, and fortified pasta. In response to the growing instances of gluten intolerance and celiac disease, gluten-free pasta made from alternative grains such as quinoa, rice, or corn has gained popularity. Additionally, there is a trend in the market towards pasta with reduced carbohydrates and enhanced proteins, aligning with low-carb diets like keto.

In October 2022, during National Pasta Month, Barilla marked the occasion with the introduction of its Pasta Season Pack for a festive celebration. Continuing the marketing momentum midway through the carb-centric event, Barilla unveiled a new premium pasta line, "Al Bronzo," featuring six innovative pasta varieties. The name, translating to "by the bronze," symbolised both product and process innovation in pasta production, as highlighted in the press release.

Top 6 Pasta Companies in the World:

Barilla G. and R. Fratelli SpA

Barilla G. and R. Fratelli SpA, a 146-year-old Italian family-owned food company, holds a prominent international presence in over 100 countries. Renowned as the global leader in pasta and a leader in ready-made sauces in Europe, bakery products in Italy, and crispbreads in Scandinavia, Barilla employs over 8,700 individuals. With 29 production sites across 10 countries, the company annually produces over 2,100,000 tons of products. Emphasising health, Barilla introduced 491 reformulated products and engaged over 9,000 farms in sustainable agriculture projects since 2010.

Nestlé

Nestlé, the world's largest food and beverage company, is dedicated to unlocking the power of food to improve the quality of life for everyone. With a history dating back to 1866, Nestlé serves with passion and excellence, providing products and services for all life stages. Rooted in values of respect, diversity, and a commitment to the future, Nestlé's global presence spans almost every country. Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, the company reported sales of CHF 84.3 billion in 2020, offering a comprehensive portfolio across various food and beverage categories.

F.lli De Cecco di Filippo Fara San Martino S.p.A.

Since establishment, the De Cecco family has transformed their small "Fara San Martino Factory" into a global enterprise, preserving family traditions and embracing innovation. With a commitment to quality and continuity, the family handed down knowledge through generations, fostering a familial atmosphere in the company. Originally rooted in Abruzzo, the heart of production, De Cecco expanded globally, responding to diverse needs. To meet future demands, they diversified into olive oil, rice, gnocchi, tomato products, sauces, balsamic vinegar, flours, organic items, and bread substitutes.

JSC Makfa

MAKFA, Russia's top pasta and flour manufacturer and a key cereal producer with an 85-year legacy, offers a diverse portfolio of hundreds of products. Known for its quality, MAKFA enjoys 98% brand recognition in Russia, with 6 out of 10 buyers favouring it. Every fifth pack of Russian-made pasta carries the MAKFA brand. With exports to over 25 countries, MAKFA earned a place in the Russian Export Centre’s reliable exporters register in 2017, accompanied by the "Made in Russia" stamp.

AGT Food and Ingredients Inc.

AGT Food and Ingredients, majority-owned by Fairfax Financial Holdings, stands as a global leader in plant-based proteins and value-added processing of pulses, grains, and staple foods. With 40+ facilities across key pulse growing regions, including Canada, the U.S., Turkey, Australia, China, and South Africa, AGT exports products to over 120 countries. Originally founded in 2007, the company transformed through strategic acquisitions, becoming AGT Food and Ingredients in 2014 to better reflect its expanding focus.

General Mills, Inc.

Established by Cadwallader Washburn, General Mills began as a flour mill pioneer. The company's leadership fosters a spirit of relentless innovation and commitment to social responsibility. General Mills is known for pioneering various innovations, such as the black box, Nerf balls, and setting the gold standard in food safety. With a global presence across six continents, the company produces food loved worldwide, boasting 100 brands in 100 countries.