Hazelnut Market Research Report – Growth, Trends, and Forecast

1. Introduction

The global hazelnut market has emerged as a dynamic segment within the broader nut and specialty crop industry. Known for its distinctive flavor, nutritional value, and versatility, hazelnuts are used extensively across the food and beverage industry, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other value-added products. The rising popularity of plant-based diets, demand for natural ingredients, and increasing consumer awareness about health benefits are all driving significant growth.

As of 2025, the global hazelnut market is estimated to be valued at USD 8–10 billion, with expectations of steady growth in the coming years. Forecasts suggest a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7–9% between 2025 and 2035, supported by innovations in processing technologies, evolving dietary trends, and expanding trade networks. Hazelnuts not only represent a staple for confectionery giants such as Ferrero and Nestlé but also stand as an increasingly relevant commodity in sustainable agriculture and healthy snacking markets.

Get strategic knowledge, trends, and forecasts with our Hazelnut Market. Full report available for download:

https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-hazelnut-market

2. Market Overview

The hazelnut market encompasses the cultivation, processing, distribution, and consumption of hazelnuts and related products, such as roasted kernels, paste, oil, and derivatives used across various industries.

Historically, Turkey has dominated global production, contributing more than 65% of the world’s supply. Italy, the United States, Spain, and Azerbaijan are also key producers. Global demand has consistently outpaced supply in certain years due to climatic challenges in major producing regions, making hazelnut pricing sensitive to harvest outcomes.

The increasing use of hazelnuts in chocolate spreads, bakery items, non-dairy beverages, and personal care products has widened the market’s consumer base. Supply chains, however, remain concentrated, with a few regions controlling production. This imbalance occasionally creates volatility but also ensures consistent investment in cultivation, processing, and sustainability initiatives.

3. Key Market Drivers

Several factors are shaping the expansion of the hazelnut market:

Rising Health Awareness
Hazelnuts are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making them an attractive choice for health-conscious consumers. Their association with cardiovascular health and plant-based nutrition has amplified demand globally.

Growth in Confectionery and Bakery Sectors
Major food companies use hazelnuts in chocolates, spreads, pastries, and premium desserts. The increasing consumption of confectionery in Asia-Pacific and Middle Eastern regions is fueling demand.

Technological Advancements in Processing
Modern shelling, roasting, and paste-processing technologies have improved efficiency and product consistency, enabling manufacturers to meet large-scale industrial demand.

Shift Toward Plant-Based Diets
Hazelnut milk and plant-based spreads are gaining traction as dairy alternatives, catering to vegan and lactose-intolerant populations.

Government and Industry Investments
Many governments and cooperatives are supporting sustainable hazelnut farming through subsidies, training, and international trade agreements. For example, Turkey and Italy are promoting improved harvesting practices to enhance yield and quality.

4. Market Challenges

Despite strong growth drivers, the hazelnut market faces notable challenges:

Climate Vulnerability: Hazelnut cultivation is highly susceptible to weather conditions, diseases, and pests, particularly in Turkey and Italy.

Price Volatility: A concentrated supply base makes the market sensitive to harvest fluctuations, leading to price instability.

Competition from Alternative Nuts: Almonds, cashews, and pistachios are strong competitors in both consumer markets and industrial applications.

Regulatory and Trade Barriers: Export restrictions, tariffs, and strict food safety regulations in international markets can hinder smooth global trade.

Operational Challenges: Labor-intensive harvesting, storage limitations, and supply chain disruptions pose risks for producers and exporters.

5. Market Segmentation

By Type/Category

Raw Hazelnuts – consumed directly or further processed.

Processed Hazelnuts – including roasted kernels, paste, diced forms, and oil.

Organic Hazelnuts – gaining traction among health-conscious and eco-aware consumers.

Processed hazelnuts represent the fastest-growing segment, driven by industrial demand from food manufacturers.

By Application/Use Case

Confectionery & Bakery – chocolate spreads, pralines, cakes, pastries.

Dairy Alternatives & Beverages – hazelnut milk, flavored coffee, and smoothies.

Snacking Products – roasted and flavored nuts.

Cosmetics & Personal Care – hazelnut oil in moisturizers, serums, and hair products.

Pharmaceuticals – use of hazelnut oil as a carrier in medicines.

Confectionery applications dominate the market, while dairy alternatives represent the fastest-growing application segment.

By Region

North America

Europe

Asia-Pacific (APAC)

Latin America

Middle East & Africa (MEA)

6. Regional Analysis

North America

The U.S. and Canada are witnessing growing demand for hazelnuts, particularly in premium chocolate, bakery, and plant-based beverages. Oregon is the leading production hub in the U.S., supporting both domestic and export needs.

Europe

Europe remains the largest consumer of hazelnuts, with countries like Italy, Germany, and France leading demand. Italy is also a significant producer, especially for premium confectionery. European confectionery brands drive large-scale imports from Turkey.

Asia-Pacific

APAC is emerging as the fastest-growing market, driven by increasing disposable incomes, Western dietary influences, and strong growth in chocolate and bakery consumption. China, Japan, and India are key markets for expansion.

Latin America

Brazil and Chile show potential in hazelnut cultivation, supported by favorable climates and rising local demand for nut-based snacks.

Middle East & Africa

MEA has a growing affinity for hazelnut-based sweets, chocolates, and spreads. The Gulf countries, with their high purchasing power, are major importers of premium hazelnut products.

7. Competitive Landscape

The hazelnut market features a blend of established multinationals and regional producers. Key players include:

Ferrero Group – leading consumer of hazelnuts globally, heavily reliant on consistent supply.

Olam International – engaged in global nut sourcing, processing, and distribution.

Balsu Gida – Turkish leader in hazelnut processing and exports.

Ofi (Olam Food Ingredients) – major player in the supply of processed hazelnut products.

Barry Callebaut – integrated into chocolate and confectionery applications.

Oregon Hazelnuts – a cooperative supporting U.S. production and exports.

Competitive Strategies:

Innovation – new product lines in plant-based beverages and snacks.

Mergers & Acquisitions – strategic acquisitions to secure supply chains.

Partnerships – collaborations between growers and global FMCG companies.

Sustainability Programs – investment in ethical sourcing and eco-friendly farming.

8. Future Trends & Opportunities

Looking ahead, the hazelnut market is expected to undergo transformative growth:

Expansion of Plant-Based Products – Hazelnut milk and vegan spreads will gain prominence as consumers seek dairy alternatives.

Premiumization – Demand for organic, single-origin, and sustainably sourced hazelnuts is increasing.

Digital Integration in Supply Chains – Blockchain and AI for traceability and efficiency in trade are likely to grow.

Diversification of Cultivation – New regions (e.g., Chile, Georgia, Australia) are expanding hazelnut cultivation to reduce supply concentration.

Sustainability & Ethical Sourcing – Brands will emphasize eco-friendly farming and fair trade certifications.

Opportunities exist for:

Businesses to innovate with hazelnut-based functional foods and beverages.

Investors to explore sustainable farming ventures.

Policymakers to strengthen trade agreements and climate-resilient agriculture programs.

9. Conclusion

The global hazelnut market is on a promising growth trajectory, supported by rising demand across food, beverage, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical sectors. While climate risks and supply chain concentration pose challenges, innovation and diversification efforts are opening new opportunities.

With an expected CAGR of 7–9% through 2035, the market’s long-term potential is strong. For businesses and investors, the next decade presents a favorable window to capitalize on emerging trends, particularly in plant-based alternatives and premium product offerings.

Stakeholders who prioritize sustainability, innovation, and adaptability will be best positioned to thrive in the evolving hazelnut industry.

FAQs

Q1. What is the current size of the global hazelnut market?
The market is estimated to be worth USD 8–10 billion in 2025.

Q2. What is the forecast growth rate of the hazelnut market?
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7–9% from 2025 to 2035.

Q3. Which region consumes the most hazelnuts?
Europe remains the largest consumer, led by Italy, Germany, and France.

Q4. What are the key applications of hazelnuts?
Major applications include confectionery, bakery, dairy alternatives, snacks, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Q5. Who are the leading players in the hazelnut market?
Key players include Ferrero, Olam International, Balsu Gida, Barry Callebaut, and Oregon Hazelnuts.

Browse More Reports:

Middle East and Africa Sperm Separation Devices Market
North America Sperm Separation Devices Market
U.S. Tahini Market
U.K. Thin Film Transistor (TFT) Display Market
North America Transfection Reagent and Equipment Market
Europe Transfection Reagent and Equipment Market
Asia-Pacific Transfection Reagent and Equipment Market
Middle East and Africa Transfection Reagent and Equipment Market
Middle East and Africa Travel Beauty Retail Market
Europe Travel Beauty Retail Market
Asia-Pacific Travel Beauty Retail Market
Asia-Pacific Ultra-Low-Power Microcontroller Market
Middle East and Africa Ultra-Low-Power Microcontroller Market
Europe Ultra-Low-Power Microcontroller Market
North America Ultra-Low-Power Microcontroller Market

Global Biomimetic Nanocarrier Drug Market

About Data Bridge Market Research:

An absolute way to forecast what the future holds is to comprehend the trend today!

Data Bridge Market Research set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric market research and consulting firm with an unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process. Data Bridge is an aftermath of sheer wisdom and experience which was formulated and framed in the year 2015 in Pune.

Contact Us:
Data Bridge Market Research
US: +1 614 591 3140
UK: +44 845 154 9652
APAC : +653 1251 975
Email:- corporatesales@databridgemarketresearch.com

 "