Sunflower Seeds Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Oilseed Type Sunflower Seeds, Non-Oilseed Type Sunflower Seeds), By Applications Covered (Snacks, Bakery Products, Confectionery, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Sunflower Seeds Market Size

The Sunflower Seeds market was valued at USD 1,303.76 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1,348.48 Million in 2025. By 2033, the market is projected to grow to USD 1,766.11 Million, with a growth rate of 3.43% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.

The U.S. sunflower seeds market is expected to account for 25% of the global market share by 2025, driven by growing consumer demand for healthy snacks and sunflower oil in both food and non-food applications.

The sunflower seeds market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for healthy snacks and plant-based nutrition. Sunflower seeds are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. The market has grown by 20% as more people turn to sunflower seeds for their high protein and fiber content. With smartphones and online retail platforms facilitating access to these products, the demand for sunflower seeds continues to rise, with projections indicating a steady 5% increase in market share from 2025 to 2033. As new products like flavored sunflower seeds become more common, the market is expanding further.

Sunflower Seeds Market Trends

The sunflower seeds market is witnessing several key trends. The shift towards healthier snack options has led to a 25% rise in demand for sunflower seeds, which are now considered a staple in many households. Flavored sunflower seeds have become increasingly popular, accounting for 20% of market growth, as consumers seek new taste experiences. The push for sustainability has prompted brands to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions, contributing to a 10% increase in sales from environmentally conscious consumers. E-commerce platforms have enabled easy access to sunflower seeds, boosting online sales by 15%. Emerging markets, particularly in Asia and Latin America, have also seen a 30% increase in sunflower seed consumption, driven by the adoption of Western dietary habits.

Sunflower Seeds Market Dynamics

The sunflower seeds market is influenced by several key dynamics. A major driver of growth is the rising demand for healthy, plant-based snacks, which has increased by 30%, as more consumers choose sunflower seeds for their nutritional value. However, competition from alternative snack options such as nuts and seeds poses a challenge, limiting market share growth by 10%. Price volatility in the agricultural commodities sector is another restraint, affecting 15% of producers who rely on sunflower seeds for revenue. On the opportunity side, the increasing demand for organic and non-GMO sunflower seeds has led to a 20% rise in consumer interest. Additionally, the expansion of sunflower seeds in food and beverage applications provides a 25% growth opportunity.

Drivers of Market Growth

" Rising Demand for Health-Conscious Snacks"

The increasing consumer focus on health and wellness is driving the sunflower seeds market, with a 25% rise in demand as more people seek plant-based, nutrient-dense snacks. Sunflower seeds are rich in proteins, vitamins, and healthy fats, making them popular for their heart-healthy benefits. The market is benefiting from this trend, as sunflower seeds are perceived as a healthier alternative to traditional snacks like chips or candy. Additionally, the rise of on-the-go snacking habits, particularly in developed markets, has led to a 20% increase in packaged sunflower seed sales, contributing to market growth across retail channels.

Market Restraints

"Price Volatility and Competition from Other Snacks"

Price volatility in raw sunflower seed production is a significant restraint, impacting around 15% of the market. Fluctuations in global agricultural commodity prices, especially due to weather conditions or geopolitical events, create uncertainty for producers and consumers alike. Additionally, competition from other snacks, such as almonds, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds, which are also positioned as healthy alternatives, limits the market share for sunflower seeds. The market faces a 10% challenge in attracting consumers when similar products are priced more competitively, leading to pricing pressures and affecting the profitability of sunflower seed brands.

Market Opportunities

"Expansion of Flavored and Value-Added Products"

There is a growing opportunity for sunflower seeds in the flavored and value-added product segments, which have seen a 20% increase in demand. As consumers look for novel snack experiences, flavored sunflower seeds are gaining traction, with product innovation driving growth. The trend towards non-GMO and organic food products also presents a significant opportunity, with organic sunflower seed sales rising by 18%. Additionally, the growing popularity of sunflower seeds as an ingredient in protein bars, baked goods, and cereals offers further expansion, as more food manufacturers seek to capitalize on the nutritional benefits of sunflower seeds.

Market Challenges

"Supply Chain Disruptions and Regulatory Hurdles"

The sunflower seeds market faces significant challenges from supply chain disruptions, which have impacted 12% of producers in recent years. Transportation delays, labor shortages, and raw material availability issues have increased operational costs and reduced product availability in certain regions. Furthermore, evolving regulations around food safety and labeling are creating compliance challenges for market participants, contributing to an estimated 8% rise in operational costs. These regulatory hurdles, combined with increasing demands for traceability and sustainability, are creating obstacles for companies looking to maintain product quality while keeping costs down.

Segmentation Analysis

The sunflower seeds market is segmented based on type and application. By type, sunflower seeds are classified into oilseed and non-oilseed varieties, with each serving different purposes in the food and agricultural industries. Oilseed type sunflower seeds are primarily used for oil extraction, while non-oilseed type sunflower seeds are consumed as snacks or used in food products. In terms of application, sunflower seeds are widely used in snacks, bakery products, confectionery, and others. The demand for sunflower seeds is growing due to their versatility, offering both health benefits and a variety of uses in food production, contributing to their increasing popularity in diverse markets.

By Type

• Oilseed Type Sunflower Seeds: Oilseed type sunflower seeds account for the majority of the sunflower seed market, contributing to approximately 65% of total consumption. These seeds are primarily cultivated for oil extraction, as sunflower oil is widely used in cooking, food processing, and as an ingredient in various products. Oilseed sunflower seeds are high in oil content, making them ideal for industrial purposes. The rising demand for plant-based oils and the increasing popularity of sunflower oil due to its health benefits have driven a 15% growth in the oilseed sunflower seed market, particularly in regions with high demand for vegetable oils.

• Non-Oilseed Type Sunflower Seeds: Non-oilseed type sunflower seeds represent around 35% of the market, with their primary use being as snacks or ingredients in food products like granola bars, bakery items, and confectioneries. These seeds have a lower oil content but are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a popular choice for health-conscious consumers. The non-oilseed sunflower seed market has grown by 20%, as more consumers opt for sunflower seeds as a nutritious snack. The increasing trend towards healthier eating habits and the demand for plant-based protein sources have driven the growth of this segment, particularly in the snack and bakery industries.

By Application

• Snacks: Sunflower seeds are widely used in the snacks industry, which accounts for about 40% of the market share. The demand for sunflower seeds as a healthy snack option has increased significantly, driven by consumer preferences for nutritious, plant-based alternatives. Flavored sunflower seeds, such as salted, spicy, and sweet varieties, are growing in popularity, attracting health-conscious individuals who seek snacks with lower fat content and higher nutritional value. The snack segment is expected to see continued growth due to the increasing popularity of portable, convenient snack options in both developed and emerging markets.

• Bakery Products: The bakery products segment represents approximately 30% of the sunflower seed market, as sunflower seeds are used as an ingredient in a wide range of baked goods. They are often added to bread, rolls, cakes, and cookies for their nutritional benefits, including providing fiber, protein, and essential fatty acids. As consumers increasingly prioritize healthy ingredients in their food, the demand for sunflower seeds in bakery products has risen by 15%. The trend toward whole-grain and plant-based bakery items is also contributing to the market's growth, as sunflower seeds are frequently incorporated into these products for added texture and nutritional value.

• Confectionery: Sunflower seeds are used in the confectionery industry, contributing to around 20% of the sunflower seed market. They are often added to candy bars, chocolates, and other sweet treats, offering a crunchy texture and a boost of protein and healthy fats. The popularity of healthier snack options has led to an increase in sunflower seed-based confectionery products, particularly in premium or organic product lines. This segment has grown by 12% as more consumers look for better-for-you alternatives in their indulgent treats, particularly in health-conscious regions.

• Others: The "Others" segment includes applications such as animal feed, oil production, and use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, accounting for around 10% of the sunflower seed market. Sunflower seeds are used in animal feed due to their high protein content, which benefits livestock and poultry. The oil produced from sunflower seeds is also used in various products such as margarine, salad dressings, and cosmetics. The "Others" segment is growing as the uses for sunflower seeds expand, particularly in the sustainable and health-conscious product categories, which are expected to continue gaining traction in the coming years.

Sunflower Seeds Regional Outlook

The sunflower seed market is expanding globally, with significant demand coming from North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. North America and Europe continue to dominate the market due to their strong consumption of sunflower seeds in snacks, bakery products, and oil production. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth driven by the increasing adoption of sunflower seeds in various applications and the rising demand for healthier snack options. The Middle East & Africa region, although smaller in market share, is seeing growing demand for sunflower seeds in both food and oil production industries, driven by increased consumption of plant-based oils.

North America

North America accounts for approximately 30% of the global sunflower seed market. The United States is the largest consumer, with a high demand for sunflower seeds as snacks and as a source of oil for food production. The growing preference for plant-based and healthier snack options has contributed to a 15% increase in sunflower seed consumption in the region. Additionally, sunflower oil continues to gain popularity in cooking and food processing due to its health benefits, which has further boosted the demand for sunflower seeds in North America.

Europe

Europe holds around 25% of the global sunflower seed market, with countries like Russia, Ukraine, and the EU leading the demand for both sunflower seeds for oil extraction and for use in snacks and bakery products. The increasing preference for sunflower oil over other vegetable oils in European households and the food processing industry has been a significant factor driving market growth. Europe also has a growing market for sunflower seeds in confectionery and bakery products, with health-conscious consumers opting for snacks that incorporate sunflower seeds as a source of protein and healthy fats.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the sunflower seed market, accounting for approximately 35% of global consumption. The region’s demand is primarily driven by the growing adoption of sunflower seeds in countries such as China, India, and Japan, where sunflower seeds are used in both food and non-food applications. As the region's middle class expands and consumers increasingly shift toward healthier snack alternatives, sunflower seed consumption has risen by 20%. Additionally, the demand for sunflower oil in cooking and as a key ingredient in processed foods is fueling market growth in Asia-Pacific, particularly in countries with a growing preference for plant-based oils.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa represents about 10% of the global sunflower seed market. The demand in this region is primarily driven by the food industry, where sunflower seeds are used for both snack products and oil extraction. Countries such as Egypt, Turkey, and South Africa are significant contributors to the market in the region. As the population in the Middle East & Africa continues to grow, and as consumers increasingly adopt healthier eating habits, the demand for sunflower seeds, particularly in snacks and oils, is expected to increase. Additionally, sunflower oil is becoming a popular alternative to other oils in the region due to its health benefits.

LIST OF KEY Sunflower Seeds Market COMPANIES PROFILED

• DuPont
• Ike
• CHS
• CONAGRA FOODS
• Sakata Seed America
• Nuseed
• Limagrain UK
• KENKKO
• GIANT Snacks
• Martin US
• Mahyco Seeds
• AmericanMeadows

Top Two Companies with Highest Market Share

• DuPont holds the largest share of the sunflower seeds market at approximately 25%, primarily due to its strong presence in seed development, agronomic innovations, and a diverse product portfolio that includes hybrid sunflower seeds.
• CHS accounts for around 18% of the market share, as it is a key player in sunflower seed processing, distribution, and oil production, contributing significantly to both the food and animal feed sectors.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The sunflower seeds market offers substantial investment opportunities driven by rising global demand for healthy snacks, oils, and plant-based foods. The demand for sunflower oil has surged due to its health benefits, such as being rich in unsaturated fats and vitamin E, creating opportunities for both new entrants and established players. With sunflower oil being the second-most widely used vegetable oil globally, investments in oil extraction technologies and processing facilities are anticipated to rise. Additionally, the increasing awareness of sunflower seeds as a healthy snack alternative is expanding their use in various sectors, including snacks, bakery products, and confectionery, which are expected to grow by 15%. Furthermore, the trend towards sustainable agriculture practices and organic products is expected to foster the growth of organic sunflower seed varieties, which have seen a 10% increase in demand in recent years. Key players are investing in innovative farming techniques and hybrid seed varieties to ensure higher yields and disease resistance, which will support long-term growth. Additionally, the growing popularity of sunflower seeds in emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, presents opportunities for market expansion, as these regions adopt Western snacking habits.

NEW PRODUCTS Development

Flashy new products in the sunflower seeds market are reflecting a growing focus on health-conscious, flavorful, and convenient snack options. In 2024, DuPont launched a new high-protein hybrid sunflower seed designed for snack manufacturers seeking to meet the growing consumer demand for plant-based protein snacks. This new variety of sunflower seed offers significantly higher protein content, meeting the needs of both health-conscious individuals and manufacturers looking to enhance the nutritional value of their products. Similarly, in 2025, CHS introduced a new line of flavored sunflower seeds aimed at the premium snack market, offering gourmet options such as spicy sriracha and sweet barbecue flavors, appealing to younger consumers seeking novel and exciting snack experiences. Nuseed also introduced a new sunflower seed variety in 2024, specifically bred for high oil yield, catering to both food industry needs and biofuel production. These product innovations reflect the industry's adaptability and responsiveness to changing consumer preferences, with a clear shift towards healthier, high-protein, and sustainable snack solutions. The expansion of organic sunflower seed products also continues, with Sakata Seed America introducing a new line of non-GMO, organic sunflower seeds in response to consumer demand for sustainable and clean-label products. As the demand for healthy snacking continues to grow, these new products are expected to drive continued growth in the sunflower seeds market.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Sunflower Seeds Market

• DuPont launched a high-protein hybrid sunflower seed in early 2024, designed to meet the increasing demand for plant-based protein in snack foods and protein bars.

• In 2025, CHS introduced a new line of flavored sunflower seeds, including sriracha and sweet barbecue, aimed at attracting health-conscious millennials and expanding its snack offerings.

• Sakata Seed America announced a new variety of non-GMO sunflower seeds in late 2024, focusing on organic and sustainable farming practices to meet consumer demand for clean-label products.

• Nuseed introduced a sunflower seed variety bred for higher oil content in 2024, improving yields for both food and biofuel applications.

• Mahyco Seeds developed a new sunflower seed variety in 2025, focusing on disease resistance and higher yield, specifically for regions with challenging growing conditions.

REPORT COVERAGE of Sunflower Seeds Market

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the sunflower seeds market, with detailed segmentation based on type (oilseed and non-oilseed) and application (snacks, bakery products, confectionery, and others). The report highlights key trends such as the increasing demand for healthy snacks and plant-based products, the expansion of sunflower seed varieties with improved nutritional content, and the growth of flavored sunflower seeds in the snack sector. Additionally, the report covers market dynamics, including drivers such as the rising consumer preference for sunflower oil and protein-rich snacks, and restraints such as price volatility in agricultural commodities. It also explores market opportunities in the organic and non-GMO segments, which are gaining traction among health-conscious consumers. The regional outlook is discussed, with North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific being the largest markets for sunflower seeds. The report also covers recent developments in product innovation and highlights the strategies of major players such as DuPont, CHS, and Sakata Seed America. As the market continues to expand, the report provides valuable insights into the key drivers, opportunities, and challenges shaping the future of the sunflower seeds industry.