Market Trends of Middle East and Africa Baby Food Industry
This section covers the major market trends shaping the MEA Baby Food Market according to our research experts:
Increasing Infant Population Driving the Baby Food Market in the Region
South Africa and the United Arab Emirates are among the major economies in Middle East and Africa. Growing disposable income in African countries has led to the rising affordability of baby food products, which has resulted in improved quality food for infants. Growth in the Middle East and Africa baby food market is also driven by the increasing number of migrants settling in countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Tanzania, for employment purposes. Therefore, the number of women working outside the home in high- and low-income areas has also risen.
According to the Central Intelligence Agency, in 2021, the fertility rate in Niger was estimated to be 6.91 children per woman. Since working mothers return to their jobs shortly after giving birth, prepared baby foods and formulas, which can be instantly provided to children, are an appealing alternative for working mothers to feed their children with nutritious options. The increasing infant population in the region mainly drives the Middle East and Africa infant/baby food market.
Saudi Arabia Holds a Major Share in the Market
The rising consciousness of quality products is one of the major factors driving the baby food products market growth in Saudi Arabia. Parents are increasingly opting for healthy and ready-to-eat food offerings, such as instant milk formula and snacks, which need less or no preparation time and can be instantly provided to babies. More specifically, baby blends that are organic, non-GMO, 100% plant-derived, dairy-free, gluten-free, and with no added sugars are preferred by parents. The strict laws and government policies of the Saudi Arabian government in ensuring quality products and services, specifically in baby care and food, are boosting the market of baby care products in Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia is one of the efficient government organizations that ensure food and product quality at specific intervals.
Baby food is gaining acceptance in Saudi Arabia as a growing number of parents embrace the health and wellness trend. Consumers are becoming more focused on nutrition for their kids and are willing to pay premium prices for baby foods. The health and wellness trend continued to develop, resulting in the growing demand for organic baby food. In the past few years, the launch of free-from-gluten-prepared baby food, such as baby fruits gluten-free pouch, gained traction in the market, with parents becoming increasingly aware of the specific dietary needs of their children. Babies need healthy food that tastes great and does not contain unwanted ingredients. Therefore, key players in Saudi Arabia, like HiPP, offer organic products in accordance with the European Union's regulations for organic production.
