두부 세계 시장 규모는 2024년 29억 7,000만 달러에 달했습니다. IMARC Group은 이 시장이 2033년까지 44억 2,000만 달러에 달하고, 2025-2033년 5.08%의 연평균 복합 성장률(CAGR)을 보일 것으로 예측했습니다. 현재 아시아태평양이 시장을 독점하고 있습니다. 아시아태평양의 성장이 두부 시장 점유율의 대부분을 차지하는 이유는 높은 두부 소비량, 비건 트렌드 확대, 식물성 단백질 공급원에 대한 건강 인식이 높아지면서 두부 시장 점유율을 견인하고 있기 때문입니다.
건강, 지속가능성, 윤리적 식품 선택에 대한 인식이 높아지면서 육류를 대체할 수 있는 식물성 단백질로 두부를 주목하는 소비자들이 늘고 있습니다. 이러한 변화의 배경에는 축산업이 환경에 미치는 영향에 대한 우려와 지속 가능한 먹거리 선택에 대한 욕구가 있습니다. 또한 두부는 고단백, 저칼로리 식품으로 칼슘, 철분, 마그네슘 등 중요한 영양소를 함유하고 있습니다. 이러한 특성으로 인해 건강을 중시하는 사람들이나 영양이 풍부한 식품을 식단에 추가하고자 하는 사람들이 선호하는 선택이 되고 있습니다. 이 외에도 맛, 훈제, 유기농, 비유전자변형(GMO), 영양강화 등 다양한 두부 소개는 소비자의 취향 변화에 대응하고 있습니다. 이러한 혁신으로 두부는 더 많은 사람들에게 어필할 수 있게 되었습니다.
미국은 매우 중요한 시장이며, 대형 유통업체들의 전략적 제휴와 확장은 다양한 건강 지향적 식품을 도입하는 원동력이 되고 있습니다. 이러한 움직임으로 두부는 유연하고 건강한 식재료로 주목받고 있으며, 일상적인 쇼핑 공간에서 지속 가능한 식물성 식품 옵션을 찾는 소비자의 니즈에 부응하고 있습니다. 소매업체들은 식물성 식품에 특정 구역을 할당하여 상품의 가시성을 높이고 있습니다. 두부가 대형 식료품점, 건강식품점, 파머스 마켓, 온라인사이트 등에 입점해 있어 쇼핑객의 접근이 편리하다는 점도 장점입니다. 2024년, 월마트는 그해 업그레이드 이니셔티브의 일환으로 캘리포니아주와 유타주 13개 매장에 Uncle Sharkii Poke Bars를 추가할 것이라고 밝혔습니다. 이들 매장에서는 참다랑어, 양념 두부, 그릴드 치킨 등 영양가 높은 포켓볼을 제공합니다. 이번 협업은 월마트 고객에게 다양하고 혁신적인 식품 선택권을 제공하는 것을 목표로 하고 있습니다.
건강 및 영양상의 이점
콩으로 만든 두부는 건강에 좋은 식품에 대한 수요 증가에 부응하는 영양가 높은 식품입니다. 고단백질이기 때문에 특히 식물성 식단을 추구하는 사람들에게 육류 대체 식품으로 선호되고 있습니다. IGC 데이터에 따르면, 2022/23년 시즌 세계 대두 소비량은 3억 5,900만 톤에 달할 것으로 예측됩니다. 일부 식물성 단백질과 달리 두부에는 9가지 필수 아미노산이 모두 포함되어 있어 완벽한 단백질 공급원이므로 채식주의자나 채식주의자에게 특히 중요합니다. 또한, 두부는 저칼로리이면서 철분과 칼슘이 풍부해 건강에도 큰 도움이 됩니다. 저콜레스테롤과 포화지방으로 인한 심장 건강 증진, 콩에 함유된 이소플라본으로 인한 특정 암의 위험 감소 가능성 등입니다. 이는 건강을 중시하는 소비자뿐만 아니라 고혈압, 고콜레스테롤과 같은 특정 건강 상태를 앓고 있는 사람들에게도 주목받고 있습니다. 또한 두부는 다양한 요리에 응용할 수 있는 것도 매력 중 하나입니다. 짠 요리부터 디저트까지, 두부는 많은 레시피에 자연스럽게 녹아들 수 있습니다. 글루텐 프리, 유제품 무첨가 등 다양한 입맛과 식습관에 대응할 수 있는 다재다능함이 인기 상승의 중요한 요인으로 작용하고 있습니다.
비건-채식주의자 인구 증가
윤리적, 건강, 환경적 이유로 채식주의와 채식주의자들의 인기가 높아지면서 두부 시장이 성장하고 있습니다. 동물보호와 육류 생산이 환경에 미치는 영향에 대한 인식이 높아지면서 두부와 같은 식물성 대체 식품에 눈을 돌리는 사람들이 늘고 있습니다. 이러한 추세는 풀타임 채식주의자나 채식주의자뿐만 아니라 가끔 고기를 먹지만 식물성 식품을 자주 선택하는 플렉시테리언(Flexitarian)에게도 확산되고 있습니다. 업계 보고에 따르면, 전 세계 채식주의자는 7,900만 명으로 추산됩니다. 두부 생산은 육류에 비해 환경적으로 지속가능하기 때문에 지속 가능한 식품으로 각광받고 있습니다. 두부는 생산에 필요한 토지, 물, 에너지를 크게 줄이고 이산화탄소 배출량을 줄입니다. 이러한 측면은 지속 가능하고 친환경적인 식품에 대한 소비자 수요 증가와 일치합니다. 또한, 식물성 식품에 대한 관심이 높아지면서 두부에 대한 수요도 증가하고 있습니다. 기존 육류 제품을 대체하는 두부 기반 두부, 맛을 낸 두부, 조리가 간편한 RTE 두부 개발 등 두부 제품의 혁신으로 시장이 확대되고 있습니다. 이러한 혁신은 편리함을 추구하는 소비자부터 미식가적인 식물성 식품을 원하는 소비자까지 다양한 소비자들을 만족시키고 있습니다.
비건 생활습관 보급 확대
심장병, 비만, 일부 암의 위험 감소 등 식물성 식단과 관련된 건강상의 이점에 대한 인식이 높아짐에 따라 더 많은 사람들이 채식주의로 향하고 있습니다. PubMed Central에 따르면, 인도 노인의 약 21%가 적어도 한 가지 이상의 만성질환을 앓고 있는 것으로 보고되고 있습니다. 고단백 저지방 두부는 이러한 라이프스타일에 적합합니다. 비건 제품에 대한 두부 시장 수요 증가는 두부를 포함한 비건 친화적 식품의 유형과 유형을 확대하는 데 기여하고 있습니다. 슈퍼마켓과 레스토랑에서는 비건 메뉴가 제공되고, 개인이 비건 라이프 스타일을 채택하고 유지하기가 더 쉬워지고 있습니다. 소셜 미디어 플랫폼과 유명인의 추천은 비건 라이프스타일의 확산에 중요한 역할을 하고 있습니다. 인플루언서들은 종종 두부를 식단에 포함시키는 창의적인 방법 등 식물성 식단에 대한 경험을 공유하여 팔로워들이 채식을 시도해 볼 수 있도록 유도합니다. 비건 채식주의는 소비자들이 자신이 먹는 음식과 전반적인 건강에 미치는 영향을 더 많이 인식하는 광범위한 건강 및 웰빙 트렌드와 일치하며 비건 채식 습관의 채택을 더욱 증가시킬 것입니다. 두부는 균형 잡힌 비건 식단의 유익한 구성 요소로 식단 가이드와 건강 관련 컨텐츠에서 자주 강조됩니다.
편의성과 제품 혁신으로 시장 성장 강화
두부 시장의 편의성과 제품 혁신의 주요 트렌드는 바로 먹을 수 있는 조미 두부 제품의 부상입니다. 소비자들이 빠르고 건강한 식사 대안을 찾는 가운데, 각 브랜드는 데리야끼, 바비큐, 매콤한 칠리 등의 맛을 미리 큐브화, 절인 또는 양념한 두부를 제공합니다. 이로 인해 조리 시간이 단축되고 맛도 향상되어 두부는 바쁜 현대인이나 건강을 중시하는 사람들, 그리고 플렉시테리언 다이어트에도 쉽게 이용할 수 있습니다. 또한, 진공포장 및 밀봉 가능한 파우치와 같은 혁신적인 패키지는 유통기한을 연장하고 신선도를 보장합니다. 이러한 개발은 식물성 식품에 대한 수요 증가에 부응하는 것으로, 채식주의자나 채식주의자뿐만 아니라 맛과 조리 용이성을 희생하지 않으면서도 편리하고 단백질이 풍부한 대체 식품을 찾는 주류 소비자들을 끌어들이고 있습니다. 이러한 트렌드는 속도, 건강, 지속가능성을 선호하는 라이프스타일의 변화를 반영하고 있습니다.
The global tofu market size was valued at USD 2.97 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 4.42 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.08% from 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market. The growth of the Asia Pacific region holds the majority of tofu market share is driven by high tofu consumption, expanding vegan trends, and increasing health awareness promoting plant-based protein sources.
With the rising awareness about health, sustainability, and ethical food choices, more consumers are turning to tofu as a plant-based protein alternative to meat. This shift is driven by concerns about the environmental impact of animal agriculture and the desire for sustainable food options. Additionally, tofu is high in protein, low in calories, and loaded with vital nutrients such as calcium, iron, and magnesium. These qualities render it a preferred option for health-focused individuals and those looking to add nutrient-rich foods to their meals. Besides this, the introduction of diverse tofu variants, such as flavored, smoked, organic, non-genetically modified organism (GMO), and fortified options, caters to the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers. These innovations make tofu appealing to a broader demographic.
The United States is a crucial market, driven by strategic collaborations and expansions by major retailers to incorporate diverse, health-focused dining options. This movement increases the prominence of tofu as a flexible and healthy ingredient, responding to the rising consumer demand for sustainable and plant-based food options in regular shopping settings. Retailers are improving product visibility by allocating specific areas for plant-based foods. The presence of tofu in large grocery stores, health shops, farmers markets, and online websites also guarantees convenient access for shoppers. In 2024, Walmart revealed the inclusion of Uncle Sharkii Poke Bars in 13 additional locations across California and Utah as part of its upgrade initiative for that year. These establishments provide nutritious poke bowls, featuring choices such as Ahi Tuna, Seasoned Tofu, and Grilled Chicken. The collaboration seeks to provide Walmart customers with varied, innovative food choices.
Health and Nutritional Benefits
Tofu, made from soybeans, is a highly nutritious food item that caters to the growing demand for healthy food choices. Its high protein content makes it a favored alternative to meat, especially for those seeking plant-based diets. IGC data indicates that global soybean consumption reached 359 Million Tons in the 2022/23 season. Unlike some plant proteins, tofu contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source, which is particularly important for vegans and vegetarians. Additionally, tofu is low in calories but high in iron and calcium, offering substantial health benefits. These include improved heart health due to its low cholesterol and saturated fat content and potential reductions in the risk of certain cancers, attributed to the isoflavones found in soy. This has garnered attention from not only health-conscious consumers but also from those dealing with specific health conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol. The adaptability of tofu in various culinary preparations also adds to its appeal. From savory dishes to desserts, tofu can be seamlessly incorporated into numerous recipes. This versatility is a key factor in its rising popularity, as it caters to a wide range of taste preferences and dietary requirements, including gluten-free and dairy-free diets.
Growing Vegan and Vegetarian Population
The rising popularity of veganism and vegetarianism due to ethical, health, and environmental reasons is propelling the tofu market. As awareness grows about animal welfare and the environmental impact of meat production, more people are turning to plant-based alternatives like tofu. This trend is not only prevalent among full-time vegans and vegetarians but also among flexitarians, who occasionally consume meat but often opt for plant-based options. Industry reports estimate that there are 79 Million vegans worldwide. The environmental sustainability of tofu production compared to meat is also making it a sustainable food option. Tofu requires significantly less land, water, and energy to produce, resulting in a lower carbon footprint. This aspect aligns well with the growing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly food products. Furthermore, the rising plant-based diet trend is catalyzing the demand for tofu. Innovations in tofu products, such as the development of tofu-based alternatives to traditional meat products, flavored tofu, and easy-to-cook or RTE tofu options, are expanding its market. These innovations cater to a diverse range of consumers, from those seeking convenience to those desiring gourmet plant-based options.
Increasing Adoption of Vegan Lifestyle Habits
The growing awareness about the health benefits associated with a plant-based diet, such as reduced risk of heart disease, obesity, and certain types of cancer, is encouraging more individuals towards veganism. According to PubMed Central, approximately 21% of the elderly in India are reported to have at least one chronic disease. Tofu, as a high-protein, low-fat option, fits well within this lifestyle. The rising tofu market demand for vegan products is leading to a wider availability and variety of vegan-friendly foods, including tofu. Supermarkets and restaurants are offering vegan options, making it easier for individuals to adopt and maintain a vegan lifestyle. Social media platforms and celebrity endorsements are playing a significant role in popularizing the vegan lifestyle. Influencers often share their experiences with plant-based diets, including creative ways to incorporate tofu into meals, which can inspire their followers to try veganism. The alignment of veganism with broader health and wellness trends, where consumers are more conscious of what they eat and its impact on their overall well-being, further increases the adoption of vegan habits. Tofu is often highlighted in dietary guides and health-focused content as a beneficial component of a balanced vegan diet.
Convenience and Product Innovation Strengthens the Market Growth
A key trend in convenience and product innovation within the tofu market is the rise of ready-to-eat and pre-seasoned tofu products. As consumers seek quick, healthy meal options, brands are offering tofu that is pre-cubed, marinated, or infused with flavors like teriyaki, barbecue, or spicy chili. This reduces preparation time and enhances taste, making tofu more accessible to busy, health-conscious individuals and flexitarian diets. Additionally, innovative packaging such as vacuum-sealed or resealable pouches extends shelf life and ensures freshness. These developments cater to growing plant-based demand, attracting not only vegans and vegetarians but also mainstream shoppers who want convenient, protein-rich food alternatives without sacrificing flavor or cooking ease. This trend reflects shifting lifestyles favoring speed, health, and sustainability.
Based on the tofu market forecast, processed tofu exhibits a clear dominance in the market, driven by its longer shelf life, convenience, and versatility in culinary applications. This section features RTE or quick-preparation tofu items like marinated, smoked, fried, and frozen tofu, addressing the increasing need for fast meal options. Processed tofu provides improved taste and texture, attracting both traditional and contemporary consumers. Its capacity to soak up flavors and blend effortlessly into different meals enhances its appeal even more. The growth of retail outlets, such as supermarkets and online platforms, guarantees convenient access to a variety of processed tofu products. Moreover, improvements in packaging and storage methods aid in preserving product quality and prolonging shelf life, attracting consumers looking for dependable and convenient choices. Processed tofu additionally appeals to health-conscious consumers by providing enhanced varieties with added nutrients. Its adaptability to diverse dietary preferences and its role in the growing plant-based food trend solidifies its position as the leading product segment.
Conventional tofu leads the market due to its widespread availability, affordability, and established consumer trust. This type of tofu has long been a staple in households and food service sectors, catering to traditional and modern culinary applications alike. It advantages from a reliable supply chain and simple production methods, guaranteeing economical production and competitive rates. Consumers frequently opt for regular tofu due to its adaptability, as it blends effortlessly into numerous meals, including soups, stir-fries, and grilled or baked dishes. Moreover, the strong availability of traditional tofu in regional markets and extensive retail networks enhances its leading position. Traditional tofu attracts a wider audience, encompassing budget-conscious buyers and individuals looking for dependable, familiar items. The lack of premium certifications like organic or non-GMO labels enables manufacturers to keep costs down, which further boosts its popularity. Its established presence in both domestic and export markets reinforce its leadership, making it the preferred choice for many consumers and food businesses globally.
Household holds the biggest tofu market share of the market, signifying the widespread use of tofu in everyday home cooking. The widespread use of tofu in home cooking stems from its adaptability, nutritional benefits, and simple preparation, making it a key ingredient in numerous kitchens. Consumers are progressively adding tofu to their meals because of its rich protein content and adaptability to various dietary choices, such as vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets. Tofu comes in different textures, ranging from silken to extra-firm, which boosts its attractiveness for home cooking, allowing it to be incorporated into a wide variety of meals, including stir-fries, soups, salads, and desserts. The expansion of this segment is supported by the growing accessibility of tofu in supermarkets and grocery stores, along with the increasing trend of health-conscious, homemade meals among the general population. Moreover, the rise of online recipes and cooking tutorials is making tofu easier to access for consumers inexperienced in using it, which boosts its popularity in home kitchens.
Supermarkets and hypermarkets form the largest segment due to their broad accessibility and the diverse selection of tofu products they provide, which includes different brands and types such as silken, firm, or flavored tofu. These large retailers serve a wide range of consumers by offering tofu options that meet different dietary requirements, such as organic and non-GMO types, thereby increasing their attractiveness. Their capability to offer a comprehensive shopping experience for groceries, along with competitive prices and regular promotional deals, positions them as the favored option for numerous shoppers. The neatly arranged presentation of tofu items in specialized areas also improves product visibility, promoting impulse buys and encouraging trials by consumers who are new to tofu. Additionally, in-store food demonstrations and sampling activities assist in teaching consumers about the versatility of tofu, promoting its adoption. With their widespread presence in urban, suburban, and even rural areas, these stores ensure tofu's easy accessibility, contributing significantly to tofu market growth.
Asia Pacific dominates the market, attributed to its deep-rooted cultural significance and widespread use in traditional diets across countries in the region. The region enjoys a substantial population that has a strong inclination towards soy-based products, due to their nutritional advantages and versatility. In the area, consumers consider tofu a fundamental component, using it in multiple dishes such as soups, stir-fries, and desserts. Furthermore, the growing advancements in plant-based food items emphasize addressing changing consumer demands for quality, multifunctional, and eco-friendly food choices. The area's focus on improving product diversity and advocating tofu as a vital component of plant-based diets aids market expansion and reinforces its global leadership. For example, at Aahar 2024, Vezlay Foods presented cutting-edge plant-based offerings, such as Crispy Veg Chicken and Tofu. Their booth garnered considerable interest, showcasing their dedication to addressing changing consumer preferences. Vezlay was also recognized at the India Plant-Based Foods Show 2024 for its industry contributions.
United States Tofu Market Analysis
The tofu market in the United States is primarily driven by increasing consumer awareness of plant-based diets and their associated health benefits. An estimated 129 million Americans are affected by at least one significant chronic illness, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, or hypertension, as outlined by the US Department of Health and Human Services, leading many to pursue healthier food options to enhance their overall health. Tofu, as a nutrient-rich, plant-derived protein, is becoming increasingly popular with health-focused consumers as a suitable substitute for animal-derived products. The move towards plant-based and vegan diets is also fueled by worries regarding the environmental effects of meat eating, given that plant-based options produce a smaller carbon footprint. The expansion of the foodservice sector, with more restaurants offering plant-based options, also contributes to the rising demand for tofu. Additionally, the availability of different tofu varieties, including organic, flavored, and non-GMO options, appeals to a broader consumer base. The growing number of plant-based food brands and innovations in tofu-based products, such as ready-to-eat meals and meat substitutes, support the market's expansion. The rise in flexitarian diets, alongside increasing access through online grocery platforms, enhances tofu market outlook.
Europe Tofu Market Analysis
The tofu market in Europe is experiencing significant growth due to several key drivers. One of the most influential factors is the increasing consumer demand for plant-based and vegan products, fueled by growing concerns over health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. The shift towards plant-based diets, particularly among younger generations, has led to tofu being viewed as a healthy protein alternative to traditional animal-based products. According to Eurostat, as of January 2023, the EU population was estimated at 448.8 Million people, with more than one-fifth (21.3%) aged 65 and over, which is contributing to a rising demand for healthier, low-fat options like tofu. Rising awareness regarding the environmental impact of meat production and the need for sustainable food systems has accelerated tofu's adoption. The European Union's support for plant-based products, through favorable regulations and subsidies, further bolsters market growth. Retailers are increasingly offering diverse tofu products, catering to consumer preferences for organic, non-GMO, and allergen-free options. Furthermore, the demand for ethnic and fusion cuisines, where tofu plays a central role, is rising across Europe, particularly in metropolitan areas. Overall, tofu is gaining a foothold in both mainstream supermarkets and specialized health food stores, supported by an evolving consumer base that prioritizes sustainability and health-conscious food choices.
Asia Pacific Tofu Market Analysis
In the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, the tofu market is supported by its enduring cultural relevance as a key protein source in nations such as China, Japan, and South Korea. The World Bank states that East Asia and the Pacific is the fastest urbanizing area in the world, experiencing an average yearly urbanization rate of 3%. This rapid urbanization has led to a shift toward plant-based diets, contributing to the growing demand for tofu among urban populations. Rising health consciousness and concerns over chronic diseases are driving the adoption of tofu as a nutritious alternative to animal-based proteins. Furthermore, the ecological advantages of plant-based diets are being acknowledged, leading to an increase in tofu consumption. With the rise of veganism and vegetarianism, the versatility and cost-effectiveness of tofu make it a popular choice. Government programs encouraging sustainable eating practices and the growing accessibility of tofu products in retail and foodservice are further fueling market growth in APAC. With increasing disposable incomes, demand for premium tofu varieties is increasing as well.
Latin America Tofu Market Analysis
The tofu market in Latin America is driven by the region's increasing adoption of plant-based diets, largely influenced by health-conscious consumers and environmental concerns. The rising popularity of veganism and vegetarianism, particularly in urban centers, is propelling the demand for plant-based protein sources like tofu. According to researches, urbanization in Latin American countries is now around 80%, higher than in most other regions, which is accelerating the shift towards plant-based products. Additionally, growing awareness of tofu's health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health and lower cholesterol levels, is expanding its appeal across the region.
Middle East and Africa Tofu Market Analysis
The tofu market in the Middle East and Africa is growing, propelled by a rising demand for plant-based proteins because of health-aware consumers and shifts in dietary habits. The increasing popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets, particularly among younger individuals, is encouraging tofu to be favored as a protein source. The World Bank states that the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is currently 64% urbanized, resulting in increased consumption of plant-based products in cities. The increasing recognition of the nutritional advantages of tofu, such as its elevated protein levels and low-fat nature, is enhancing its market reach, aided by a broadening retail and food service presence in the area.
Leading companies in the market are extending their product lines to meet multiple requirements of consumers and dietary habits. They are investing in research operations to create new tofu-based products with rich taste, texture, and nutritional value. Companies also use strategic collaborations, acquisitions, and partnerships to strengthen their business position and distribution network in the market. Efforts to increase production efficiency and incorporate sustainable practices are gaining momentum to meet the growing demand while addressing environmental concerns. In addition, players are enhancing their marketing strategies to promote the health benefits of tofu and appeal to a wider audience, including vegan and health-conscious consumers. Expansion into emerging markets and the introduction of premium, organic, and flavored tofu variants further drive their growth initiatives. Tofu Vegan is opening its newest plant-based Chinese restaurant in Fitzrovia on 4 September 2024. Known for its success in Islington since 2021, the restaurant offers a diverse menu influenced by Sichuan and Dongbei cuisines, featuring tofu-centric dishes, imitation meats, and vegan dim sum. This Fitzrovia branch takes over the former Dim T location, near Lisboeta.