Soup Market Report by Type, Category, Packaging, Distribution Channel, and Region 2024-2032

The global soup market size reached US$ 11.7 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, the market is expected to reach US$ 16.5 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% during 2023-2032. The rising demand for soups with clean ingredients in reusable and sustainable packaging solutions, shifting consumer preferences toward ready-to-eat (RTE) snacks, and increasing adoption of vegan and vegetarian dietary habits among individuals are some of the major factors propelling the market.

Soup Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: Changing consumer lifestyles and dietary choices and the need for convenient food options are primarily driving the growth of the market. Furthermore, the escalating number of restaurants and cafes offering soup in a wide variety of flavors is also contributing to the market growth.
• Key Market Trends: The introduction of ready-to-make soups and their availability across online retail channels is acting as another significant growth-inducing factor for the market. Moreover, the rising preference for soups made from fresh, organic, and natural ingredients is also offering lucrative growth opportunities to the overall market.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the soup market top companies include B&G Foods Inc., Baxters Food Group Limited, Blount Fine Foods, Campbell Soup Company, Conagra Brands Inc., General Mills Inc., Nestlé S.A., Ottogi Corporation, Premier Foods Group Limited, The Hain Celestial Group Inc., The Kraft Heinz Company, and Unilever plc., amongst others.
• Geographical Trends: According to the report, North America was the largest regional market for soup. This can be attributed to the strong culture of soup consumption, with soups being a staple in many households. Traditional favorites like chicken noodle soup, tomato soup, and clam chowder have become iconic dishes in North American cuisine.
• Challenges and Opportunities: The soup market faces challenges such as increasing consumer demand for healthier, low-sodium options and competition from convenient ready-to-eat meals. However, opportunities arise from the growing trend of health-conscious eating, innovative flavors, and sustainable packaging solutions, which can attract a broader customer base and drive market growth.

Soup Market Trends:

Rise in the Demand for Convenience

Convenience is a significant growth-inducing factor in the soup market due to the hectic lifestyles and busy work schedules of consumers. With the rise of dual-income households and an increase in time constraints, many individuals are looking for ready-to-eat (RTE) and convenience foods, like soup, that are quick and easy to prepare. For instance, according to PLFS data conducted by the Ministry of Statistics & Program Implementation, India, the working population ratio (WPR) in the country for persons increased to 56% in 2022-23 from 52.9% in 2021-22 and 52.6% in 2020-21. As a result, the rise in the working population and inflating disposable incomes are catalyzing the market for convenient food options like soups.

Moreover, with the increased demand for ready-to-eat food items, companies are rapidly coming up with convenient packaging formats to consume and dispose of. For example, Campbell offers soup in microwavable cups, making it a more suitable packaging format than powdered soup in regular packets. Such innovations are anticipated to propel the soup market share in the coming years.

Growing Focus on Health and Wellness

The rising focus on health and wellness is significantly influencing the market for soups. Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of their dietary choices and are seeking nutritious food options. Soups provide an opportunity to incorporate a variety of vegetables, lean proteins, legumes, and whole grains into a single dish, making them a popular choice for health- and fitness-conscious individuals. In response to this, various key market players are increasingly investing in research and development activities to launch soups made from natural, organic, and healthy ingredients.

For instance, in January 2022, Zoup! Eatery, a local restaurant chain, launched Zoup! Good, Really Good Soups, a line of premium soups and broths free of gluten, artificial ingredients, and preservatives, and features one of Zoup!'s homestyle bases. Similarly, in November 2021, Herbalife Nutrition launched into the soup category in the U.S. with Instant Soup, a tasty, protein-packed snack. The soup mix is formulated with 15 grams of plant-based protein to help satisfy hunger and provide long-lasting energy, as well as three grams of fiber.

Additionally, in October 2021, Campbell Soup Company announced the launch of Full Futures, a program to foster a school nutrition environment that ensures all students are well-nourished and ready to thrive at school and in life. Such initiatives, along with the introduction of soups in healthy variants, are expected to bolster the soup market demand over the forecasted period.

Expanding Flavor Diversity

Flavor diversity is another major driving force in the market for soups. Consumers are becoming more open to exploring new and unique flavors, seeking a taste experience beyond traditional soup options. Additionally, the escalating demand for ethnic and exotic flavors is prompting manufacturers to introduce soups in Thai, Mexican, Indian, Mediterranean, and other culinary traditional flavors. For instance, in September 2022, Tideford Organics, the UK's plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free soup brand, launched a range of new soup flavors and improved recipes and doubled its retail distribution from last year. Its inspired line launched Indian Cauliflower Masala, Lebanese Lentil + Kale, and Malaysian Coconut + Noodle soups.

Similarly, in June 2021, the Campbell Soup Company introduced Chunky Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup with bold chili pepper flavors and lasting vinegar notes, which attracted a significant number of consumers. By offering a wide variety of soup flavors, the market players are catering to the evolving tastes and preferences of consumers, encouraging culinary exploration and enjoyment, and positively impacting the soup market outlook.

Global Soup Industry Segmentation:

This report provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global soup market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2024-2032. The report has categorized the market based on type, category, packaging, and distribution channel.

Breakup by Type:

• Canned/Preserved Soup
• Chilled Soup
• Dehydrated Soup
• Frozen Soup
• UHT Soup

Canned/preserved soup represents the most popular type

The soup industry report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type. This includes canned/preserved, chilled, dehydrated, frozen, and UHT soups. According to the report, canned/preserved soup represented the largest segment.

Canned or preserved soups are commercially processed, cooked at high temperatures, and sealed in cans or jars to extend their shelf life without refrigeration. These soups play a significant role in fueling the market growth due to their convenience, accessibility, and variety. Canned/preserved soups offer consumers a quick and easy meal solution that requires minimal preparation or cooking.

They have a longer shelf life, making them suitable for emergency situations or individuals without access to cooking facilities. As a result, various soup brands are introducing canned soups. For instance, in March 2024, the New Jersey-based canned soup company Campbell introduced a new grilled cheese and tomato soup product. It comes in a can and is infused with the flavors of a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate spoonful of flavor and comfort.

Breakup by Category:

• Vegetarian Soup
• Non-Vegetarian Soup

Non-vegetarian soup dominates the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the category has also been provided in the report. This includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian soup. According to the report, non-vegetarian soup accounted for the largest market share.

Non-vegetarian soups play a significant role in propelling the market growth owing to their unique flavors, high nutritional value, and appeal to meat-loving consumers. These soups offer a rich and savory taste profile that is distinct from vegetarian soup options. They also provide an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, making them a satisfying and nourishing choice for individuals seeking a delicious and appetizing meal. According to soup market statistics by the publisher, numerous key market players are adding non-vegetarian soups to their portfolio.

For instance, in November 2023, the Peninsular Export Company launched SAARRU, India’s first native soup with local variants. The brand offers three varieties of soup, including mutton soup masala, chicken soup masala, and chicken coriander rasam masala. Available in both the B2C and B2B markets across Tamil Nadu, the soups are also available on SAARRU’s e-commerce website and other e-commerce platforms, such as Flipkart and Jiomart.

Breakup by Packaging:

• Canned
• Pouched
• Others

Canned holds the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the packaging has also been provided in the report. This includes canned, pouched, and others. According to the report, canned accounted for the largest market share.

Canned packaging involves the use of sealed metal cans to store and preserve soups. Canned packaging plays a pivotal role in driving the market growth by ensuring convenience, preservation, and widespread availability. Cans provide a durable and airtight container that helps protect the packed contents from contaminants, spoilage, and bacterial growth, resulting in a longer shelf life of soup without the need for refrigeration.

This extended shelf life makes canned soups a convenient food option for consumers, as they can be stored for prolonged periods and easily accessed when needed. Canned packaging also enables easy and safe transportation and distribution, allowing soup manufacturers to reach a broader market. Moreover, cans are durable, portable, and widely accepted in retail settings, making them a popular choice for both manufacturers and consumers.

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online Stores
• Others

Soups are majorly distributed through supermarkets and hypermarkets

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel. This includes supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online stores, and others. According to the report, supermarkets and hypermarkets represented the largest segment.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets are large retail stores that offer a wide variety of products, such as groceries, household items, and consumer goods. Supermarkets typically range in size from medium to large, while hypermarkets are larger and often combine a supermarket with a department store. These retail formats play a significant role in fueling the market growth by providing consumers with convenient access to a diverse range of soup products.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets offer extensive shelf space dedicated to soups, showcasing various brands, flavors, and packaging options. Additionally, supermarkets and hypermarkets help enhance product visibility, enabling soup manufacturers to introduce new flavors, innovative packaging, and brand extensions to capture consumer attention and catalyze the market growth.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• South Korea
• Australia
• Indonesia
• Others
• Europe
• Germany
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Spain
• Russia
• Others
• Latin America
• Brazil
• Mexico
• Others
• Middle East and Africa

North America exhibits a clear dominance in the market

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America was the largest regional market for soups.

North America held the biggest share of the market since the region has a strong culture of soup consumption, with soups being a staple in many households. Traditional favorites like chicken noodle soup, tomato soup, and clam chowder have become iconic dishes in the North American cuisine. Moreover, the increasingly busy lifestyle of people in countries like the United States and Canada, where people opt for ready-to-go meals. Additionally, innovation in soup products by manufacturers is also driving sales in these countries.

For instance, in July 2022, Upton's Naturals introduced three new flavorful, vegan, Ready-to-Eat soups that can be cooked on a stovetop or microwaved. Besides this, there is also a demand for soups with different ethnic flavors in the Canadian market, owing to the higher ex-pat population in the country. Key players are, thus, focusing on the development and launch of healthier and memorable soup options in the country, which is anticipated to further propel the soup market revenue in the region.

Competitive Landscape:

The market is experiencing a lower-than-anticipated demand compared to pre-pandemic levels however, this is likely to witness a paradigm shift over the next decade with the introduction of plant-based and vegan soup options, addressing the rise of plant-based diets and are offering alternative protein sources. Key players are also prioritizing clean label and natural ingredients due to the rising focus on using recognizable and additive-free ingredients.

Additionally, the leading manufacturers are now offering customizable soup kits that provide consumers with the opportunity to personalize their soups according to their unique preferences. We also expect the market to witness new entrants, consolidation of portfolios, new product launches and innovations, and a rise in strategic collaborations among key players to drive healthy competition within the domain during the forecast period.

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• B&G Foods Inc.
• Baxters Food Group Limited
• Blount Fine Foods
• Campbell Soup Company
• Conagra Brands Inc.
• General Mills Inc.
• Nestlé S.A.
• Ottogi Corporation
• Premier Foods Group Limited
• The Hain Celestial Group Inc.
• The Kraft Heinz Company
• Unilever plc

Global Soup Market News:

• April 2024: Food technology leader NotCo created a plant-based solution to turtle soup aimed at preserving the global green sea turtle population while respecting the culinary traditions of the many countries that still consume turtle meat. The newly developed NotTurtle Soup leveraged NotCo’s advanced AI technology coupled with the culinary expertise of Peruvian Chef Diego Oka to create a dish that replicates the taste and texture of real turtle meat without the turtle.
• November 2023: The Peninsular Export Company launched SAARRU, India’s first native soup with local variants. The brand offers three varieties of soup, including mutton soup masala, chicken soup masala, and chicken coriander rasam masala, and will soon be expanding its portfolio by adding more flavors.

Key Questions Answered in This Report

1. What was the size of the global soup market in 2023?
2. What is the expected growth rate of the global soup market during 2024-2032?
3. What are the key factors driving the global soup market?
4. What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the global soup market?
5. What is the breakup of the global soup market based on the type?
6. What is the breakup of the global soup market based on the category?
7. What is the breakup of the global soup market based on the packaging?
8. What is the breakup of the global soup market based on the distribution channel?
9. What are the key regions in the global soup market?
10. Who are the key players/companies in the global soup market?