Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market By Type (Soy Products, Quorn, Tempeh, Tofu, Seitan, Others), By Source (Soy, Wheat, Mycoprotein, Others), By Category (Frozen, Refrigerated, Shelf-Stable), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes market was valued at USD 124.56 Million in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 168.56 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.17%. The Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes market is witnessing steady growth, primarily driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers and rising awareness of environmental sustainability. As lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues become more prevalent, a growing segment of the population is shifting toward plant-based diets to maintain better health. Ethical concerns regarding animal welfare and the ecological impact of meat production are also influencing consumer choices. Younger demographics, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are at the forefront of this dietary shift, showing a preference for vegan and vegetarian options. Also, the expansion of modern retail and e-commerce platforms has enhanced accessibility to a wide variety of meat substitute products, encouraging trial and adoption. Government initiatives promoting food innovation and sustainability further support the market’s growth. As consumer preferences evolve and plant-based food technology advances, the demand for meat substitutes is expected to accelerate across the Kingdom.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Expat Population Across the Region

The rising expatriate population in Saudi Arabia is a significant driver of the meat substitutes market. As a part of this, according to a recent study, as of 2022, there were 13.38 million foreign residents in Saudi Arabia, accounting for 41.6% of the country's 32.2 million inhabitants. With foreigners comprising approximately 13.4 million of the country's 32.2 million population, there is a growing demand for diverse food products that cater to varied cultural preferences. Many expatriates come from cultures where plant-based diets are prevalent, leading to increased demand for meat alternatives. This demand is further bolstered by the availability of a wide range of meat substitute products through modern retail channels and e-commerce platforms. As the expatriate community continues to grow, their influence on the food market is expected to drive further expansion of the meat substitutes sector in Saudi Arabia.

Rising Health Awareness

Rising health awareness is a significant driver of the Saudi Arabia meat substitutes market. As non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension become increasingly prevalent, affecting over 60% of adults, consumers are seeking healthier dietary alternatives. Plant-based meat substitutes offer lower fat and cholesterol content compared to traditional meat, making them an attractive option for health-conscious individuals. The growing awareness of the health benefits associated with plant-based diets is contributing to the market's expansion. Also, the availability of these products through modern retail channels and e-commerce platforms has improved accessibility, further driving consumer adoption. As health consciousness continues to rise, the demand for meat substitutes in Saudi Arabia is expected to grow steadily.

Growth of E-Commerce

The growth of e-commerce is significantly propelling the expansion of the meat substitutes market in Saudi Arabia. As a part of this, according to a recent study, as of 2025, the eCommerce market is expected to generate US$16.53 billion in revenue. With the Kingdom's e-commerce sector experiencing a 10% increase in Q4 2024 compared to the previous year, and over 40,000 registered e-commerce companies, consumers now have enhanced access to a diverse range of plant-based meat products. This digital transformation allows for convenient browsing, comparison, and purchasing of meat alternatives from the comfort of one's home. Online platforms often offer detailed product information, customer reviews, and competitive pricing, aiding consumers in making informed choices. Also, the rise of mobile commerce and digital payment solutions has streamlined the purchasing process, further encouraging online shopping. The integration of social media marketing and influencer endorsements also plays a pivotal role in raising awareness and driving demand for meat substitutes. As e-commerce continues to flourish, it is expected to remain a key driver in the growth of Saudi Arabia's meat substitutes market.

Download Free Sample Report

Key Market Challenges

High Price Point

The high price point of meat substitutes presents a significant challenge to their widespread adoption in Saudi Arabia. Plant-based alternatives often cost more than traditional meat products, primarily due to higher production expenses, limited local manufacturing, and reliance on imported raw materials like pea protein. These factors contribute to elevated retail prices, making meat substitutes less accessible to price-sensitive consumers. Also, the nascent stage of the plant-based industry in the region means that economies of scale have yet to be achieved, further keeping prices high. This price disparity can deter consumers from trying or regularly purchasing meat substitutes, despite growing health and environmental awareness. To overcome this barrier, strategies such as investing in local production, sourcing cost-effective ingredients, and scaling up operations are essential. Addressing the affordability issue is crucial for the meat substitutes market to expand and cater to a broader consumer base in Saudi Arabia.

Supply Chain Constraints

Supply chain constraints pose a significant challenge to the growth of the meat substitutes market in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom's heavy reliance on imported raw materials, such as pea protein, makes the supply chain vulnerable to global disruptions, including geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, and logistical bottlenecks. Also, the limited local production of plant-based ingredients necessitates dependence on international suppliers, leading to potential delays and increased costs. The country's arid climate and scarce water resources further hinder the development of domestic agriculture, making it difficult to cultivate essential crops for meat substitute production. Also, the nascent stage of the plant-based industry in the region means that economies of scale have yet to be achieved, resulting in higher production costs. These factors collectively contribute to supply chain inefficiencies, affecting the availability and affordability of meat substitutes in the Saudi market. Addressing these challenges requires strategic investments in local agriculture, infrastructure development, and diversification of import sources to enhance supply chain resilience.

Key Market Trends

Environmental Sustainability Concerns

Environmental sustainability concerns are increasingly influencing the meat substitutes market in Saudi Arabia. With growing awareness of the environmental impact of traditional meat production, including greenhouse gas emissions and resource-intensive practices, consumers are seeking more sustainable food options. Plant-based meat alternatives offer a lower environmental footprint, appealing to eco-conscious individuals. This shift is supported by initiatives such as the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture's agreements to develop plant-based food items using locally sourced agricultural products, aligning with the country's Vision 2030 goals to promote sustainable practices. Also, the rise of veganism and plant-based diets, driven by ethical and environmental considerations, is gaining momentum in the region. As a result, the demand for meat substitutes is expected to continue growing, reflecting a broader commitment to environmental sustainability in Saudi Arabia's food industry.

Government Initiatives Supporting Food Innovation

The Saudi Arabia government is actively fostering food innovation, particularly in the plant-based sector, to align with the nation's Vision 2030 objectives of health, sustainability, and economic diversification. As a part of this, as of 2024, representatives from the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, along with the Cooperative Societies Council, Saudi Greenhouses Management and Agricultural Marketing Co., and health foods company Ayla Food Options Co., have collectively pledged to promote healthy plant-based diets and advance the development of meat and dairy alternatives. Their focus is on supporting local production, as demonstrated by a signing ceremony held in Jeddah.  These collaborations aim to enhance food security, reduce environmental impact, and support local production. Also, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is working on establishing a regulatory framework for plant-based products, ensuring safety and quality standards. Private sector investments, such as IFFCO's introduction of its plant-based meat brand "THRYVE" in the Saudi market, further demonstrate the growing interest and support for plant-based alternatives. These government initiatives are instrumental in transforming Saudi Arabia's food landscape, making plant-based options more accessible and appealing to consumers, thereby contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Educational Campaigns and Awareness Programs

Educational campaigns and awareness programs are pivotal in driving the adoption of meat substitutes in Saudi Arabia. These initiatives aim to inform the public about the health, environmental, and ethical benefits of plant-based diets. Collaborations between governmental bodies and local enterprises have led to the development of plant-based food alternatives, promoting healthy eating and utilizing advanced technologies for producing meat and dairy substitutes. Such efforts are essential in a region where traditional meat consumption is deeply ingrained in the culture. By disseminating knowledge and providing accessible information, these programs help shift consumer perceptions, making plant-based options more appealing and acceptable. As awareness grows, it is anticipated that the demand for meat substitutes will continue to rise, contributing to a more sustainable and health-conscious food landscape in Saudi Arabia.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Soy Products dominated the Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes market, accounting for the largest share attributed to soy's high protein content, meaty texture, and versatility in various culinary applications, making it a preferred choice for consumers seeking plant-based alternatives to traditional meat products. Also, soy's ability to lower blood cholesterol levels further enhances its appeal among health-conscious individuals. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority's guidelines on animal protein limitations in feed have also amplified opportunities for plant proteins, including soy, in the country's food industry. As consumer awareness of health and environmental benefits continues to rise, soy-based meat substitutes are expected to maintain their leading position in the Saudi market, with ongoing innovations enhancing their taste and nutritional profiles.

Download Free Sample Report

Regional Insights

Western region dominated the Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes market, due to a combination of urbanization, health consciousness, and strategic infrastructure. Jeddah, with a population of approximately 4.7 million, has witnessed a 28% increase in health and wellness food purchases since 2020, with 65% of residents actively seeking healthier food options. This growing demand is supported by the city's advanced retail infrastructure, which includes around 450 modern retail outlets and hypermarkets, accounting for 40% of the Kingdom's entire modern retail infrastructure. Also, the Northern & Central region's encompassing Riyadh and surrounding areas, are pivotal in the country's meat substitutes market. These regions benefit from a combination of factors that drive the demand for plant-based alternatives. Riyadh, as the capital city, boasts a high concentration of affluent consumers with increasing health consciousness. This demographic is more inclined to explore plant-based diets due to concerns over lifestyle diseases and a desire for healthier eating options.

Recent Developments

• In June 2023, IFFCO Group launched its first 100% plant-based meat brand, THRYVE, in the Saudi market in summer 2023.THRYVE is the first fully plant-based meat factory in the Middle East, representing a pioneering initiative in the region. It aims to offer healthy, sustainable, and locally produced plant-based meat products, inspired by the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Key Market Players  

• Vbites
• Sonic Biochem
• MGP Processing, Inc
• Beyond Meat Inc.
• Amy's Kitchen, Inc.
• Quorn Foods
• Archer Daniels Midland Company
• Gooddot
• Imagine Meats
• Livekindly Company, Inc

Report Scope:

In this report, the Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

•   Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market, By Type:

o   Soy Products

o   Quorn

o   Tempeh

o   Tofu

o   Seitan

o   Others

• Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market, By Source:

o   Soy

o   Wheat

o   Mycoprotein

o    Others

• Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market, By Category:

o   Frozen

o   Refrigerated

o   Shelf-Stable

• Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market, By Region:

o   Eastern

o   Western

o   Northern & Central

o   Southern

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market.

Available Customizations:

Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

Saudi Arabia Meat Substitutes Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]