The walnut market plays a vital role within the broader tree nuts and healthy foods segment, supported by rising consumer preference for nutrient-dense and plant-based food products. Walnuts are widely consumed in raw, roasted, and processed forms and are used extensively in bakery products, confectionery, snacks, dairy alternatives, and culinary applications. Their natural profile, rich taste, and versatility make them a staple ingredient across both household and industrial food consumption.
Growing awareness around balanced diets and functional foods is strengthening walnut consumption worldwide. Walnuts are increasingly associated with wellness-oriented eating habits, driving demand across retail and foodservice channels. Expansion of international trade and improved cold-chain logistics are further enabling wider market penetration, particularly in regions where walnuts were previously limited by supply constraints.
Global Walnut Market Size
The walnut market reached around 1127.95 KMT in 2025, reflecting strong global consumption across food, ingredient, and processing applications. Rising demand from bakery and confectionery manufacturers has played a significant role in supporting market volume, while direct consumer consumption continues to grow through retail channels.
Major producing regions are expanding orchard acreage and improving yields through modern agricultural practices. At the same time, import-dependent markets are witnessing increased walnut intake driven by urbanization and dietary diversification. The balance between supply expansion and steady consumption growth continues to support overall market volume.
Global Walnut Market Trends
Several trends are influencing the global walnut market. One of the most prominent is the growing preference for natural and minimally processed foods. Consumers are increasingly opting for whole and raw walnuts as snack options, aligning with clean-label and plant-based diet trends.
Another important trend is the expanding use of walnuts as functional ingredients. Food manufacturers are incorporating walnuts into cereals, energy bars, dairy alternatives, and ready-to-eat meals to enhance nutritional value and texture. Walnut oil is also gaining traction in gourmet cooking and specialty food segments.
Sustainability and traceability are becoming increasingly important in walnut sourcing. Buyers are showing interest in responsibly farmed walnuts, prompting producers to adopt better farming practices, certification programs, and transparent supply chains. Packaging innovations aimed at preserving freshness and extending shelf life are further supporting market development.
Global Walnut Market Growth
The walnut market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.80 percent between 2026 and 2035. Growth is being driven by increasing consumer awareness of balanced nutrition and rising inclusion of nuts in everyday diets. Walnuts are gaining popularity as convenient and versatile ingredients suitable for both sweet and savory food products.
Foodservice expansion and rising consumption of bakery and confectionery products are also supporting market growth. In addition, growing demand from emerging economies is contributing to volume increases, as changing lifestyles and higher disposable incomes encourage diversified food consumption.
Technological advancements in cultivation, harvesting, and storage are helping improve yield consistency and product quality, supporting long-term market growth across key producing regions.
Global Walnut Market Forecast
By 2035, the global walnut market is expected to reach nearly 1637.81 KMT, reflecting sustained growth in consumption and expanded applications across the food industry. The forecast period is likely to see stronger demand for premium walnut varieties and value-added walnut products.
Producers are expected to focus on quality enhancement, efficient supply chains, and diversified product offerings to meet evolving consumer preferences. Expansion of exports and improved market access in developing regions will continue to shape the market outlook. Overall, the walnut market is positioned for steady expansion supported by health-driven demand and product innovation.
Competitive Analysis of the Global Walnut Market
The global walnut market features a mix of established processors, branded suppliers, and regional growers competing on quality, sourcing reliability, and distribution reach.
- Diamond Foods, LLC: A major player in branded nut products, with a strong focus on value-added walnut offerings and wide retail distribution.
- Mariani Nut Company: Known for sourcing and processing high-quality walnuts, supplying both retail and industrial customers with consistent product standards.
- Borges Agricultural and Industrial Nuts, S.A.: Operates across global nut markets, leveraging integrated sourcing and processing capabilities to serve international demand.
- Poindexter Nut Company: Specializes in walnut processing and distribution, focusing on quality control and long-term relationships with growers.
- Others: Include regional growers, cooperatives, and emerging processors expanding production capacity and targeting niche and premium walnut segments.
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