Dried Spent Grain Market
By Nature;
Organic and ConventionalBy Source;
Wheat, Barley, Rice, Sorghum and MilletBy End Use;
Food & Beverages, Bakery, Confectionery, Dairy Products, Health Drinks, Snacks, Nutritional Powder, Shakes, RTD Products, Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals, Animal Feed and BreweriesBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Dried Spent Grain Market Overview
Dried Spent Grain Market (USD Million)
Dried Spent Grain Market was valued at USD 15,389.92 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 20,252.08 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.0%.
Dried Spent Grain Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 4.0 %
Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
---|---|
Base Year | 2024 |
CAGR (%) | 4.0 % |
Market Size (2024) | USD 15,389.92 Million |
Market Size (2031) | USD 20,252.08 Million |
Market Concentration | High |
Report Pages | 336 |
Major Players
- Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)
- Bunge Global
- Cargill
- Louis Dreyfus Company
- The Scoular Company
- Nestlé
- Nomad Foods
- Anheuser-Busch InBev
- Coors (Molson Coors Beverage Company)
- Diageo
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Dried Spent Grain Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Dried Spent Grain Market is evolving as a vital segment in sustainable resource utilization. Generated primarily from brewing, dried spent grain is recognized for its rich protein, fiber, and mineral composition, making it valuable across diverse industries. With more than 65% of breweries repurposing spent grain, the market is increasingly positioned as a driver of circular economy practices.
Strong Role in Animal Nutrition
A major portion of dried spent grain is used in livestock nutrition owing to its 20% protein concentration and over 30% dietary fiber content. Approximately 55% of dried spent grain finds its way into animal feed, reflecting its importance in improving feed efficiency while reducing costs. This growing adoption highlights its role in enhancing sustainable agriculture.
Expanding Use in Functional Foods
Food manufacturers are integrating dried spent grain into baked goods, snacks, and wellness-oriented foods. With 18% of producers utilizing it in formulations, it is widely appreciated for improving product quality, offering natural fiber enrichment, and supporting healthy dietary trends. Its integration into high-protein flours, cereals, and nutrition bars is accelerating its acceptance in the functional food industry.
Sustainability Driving Market Growth
With over 70% of breweries and processors exploring innovative applications, dried spent grain is becoming central to waste reduction and sustainability. From agricultural soil enrichment to eco-material development, its multifunctional benefits are fueling widespread adoption. Rising awareness of sustainable nutrition and green technologies is expected to strengthen the growth trajectory of the dried spent grain market.
Dried Spent Grain Market Recent Developments
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Dried spent grain, traditionally used as animal feed, is increasingly being applied in sustainable industries like biofuels, building materials, and even furniture design. This growth aligns with global shifts toward renewable resources and waste reduction in the brewing industry.
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In April 2021, researchers at Virginia Polytechnic and State University (Virginia Tech) developed an innovative method of extracting nutrients and fiber from spent grain to be used in new food sources and biofuels. To achieve this, the team partnered with local breweries.
Segment Analysis
This report extensively covers different segments of Global Dried Spent Grain Market and provides an in depth analysis (including revenue analysis for both historic and forecast periods) for all the market segments. In this report, the analysis for every market segment is substantiated with relevant data points and, insights that are generated from analysis of these data points (data trends and patterns).
Global Dried Spent Grain Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Dried Spent Grain Market has been segmented by Nature, Source, End-Use and Geography.
Global Dried Spent Grain Market, Segmentation by Nature
The Global Dried Spent Grain Market has been segmented by Nature into Organic and Conventional.
Organic dried spent grains are produced using agricultural practices that avoid synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This segment appeals to consumers seeking products grown in environmentally friendly ways that prioritize soil health and biodiversity conservation. Organic certification ensures compliance with stringent standards, enhancing transparency and trust among health-conscious consumers, particularly in markets where organic products are in high demand.
Conventional dried spent grains are produced using traditional farming methods that may involve synthetic inputs for pest control and crop nutrition. This segment typically serves a broader market base, including industries looking for cost-effective feed solutions without specific organic certification requirements. Conventional dried spent grains benefit from established supply chains and economies of scale, supporting consistent availability and competitive pricing across various end-user applications.
Global Dried Spent Grain Market, Segmentation by Source
The Global Dried Spent Grain Market has been segmented by Source into Wheat, Barley, Rice, Sorghum and Millet.
Wheat is a prominent source of dried spent grains, contributing to a significant portion of the market. Wheat-based spent grains are valued for their protein content and nutritional profile, making them a preferred choice in animal feed formulations, particularly for poultry and swine. The availability and versatility of wheat ensure consistent demand across regions where wheat farming is prevalent.
Barley holds a substantial share in the dried spent grain market, known for its high fiber content and digestibility in animal diets. Barley-based spent grains are widely utilized in ruminant feed, providing essential nutrients and promoting healthy digestion. The brewing and distilling industries generate substantial quantities of barley spent grains, contributing to the availability and economic viability of this segment.
Rice, sorghum, and millet are emerging sources in the dried spent grain market, each offering unique nutritional benefits and applications. Rice-based spent grains are rich in carbohydrates and are utilized in poultry and swine diets, particularly in regions where rice cultivation is prevalent. Sorghum and millet spent grains, characterized by their resilience in diverse growing conditions, are gaining attention for their nutritional value and potential in animal feed formulations.
Global Dried Spent Grain Market, Segmentation by End-Use
The Global Dried Spent Grain Market has been segmented by End-Use into Food & Beverages, Bakery, Confectionery, Dairy Products, Health Drinks, Snacks, Nutritional Powder, Shakes, RTD Products, Pharmaceuticals, Nutraceuticals, Animal Feed and Breweries.
Food & Beverages Dried spent grains are increasingly incorporated into food products for their nutritional benefits. They are used as ingredients in bakery items like bread and muffins, adding fiber and protein while enhancing flavor and texture. In the confectionery industry, they provide a nutritious alternative to traditional fillers. Dairy products, including yogurt and cheese, benefit from the added nutrients, while health drinks and shakes use dried spent grains for their rich fiber content, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Ready-to-drink (RTD) products also leverage dried spent grains to boost nutritional profiles.
Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals The pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors utilize dried spent grains for their bioactive compounds. These grains contain antioxidants and other health-promoting elements, making them valuable in the production of supplements and functional foods. Nutritional powders, aimed at enhancing dietary intake, often include dried spent grains for their comprehensive nutrient composition.
Animal Feed One of the most significant end-use segments is animal feed. Dried spent grains serve as a high-protein, high-fiber feed ingredient, widely used in livestock diets, particularly for poultry, cattle, and swine. Their nutritional properties support animal health and growth, contributing to the efficiency and sustainability of the animal husbandry sector.
Breweries: Breweries, the primary source of spent grains, also represent a critical end-use segment. They increasingly reuse dried spent grains within their operations, creating a closed-loop system that enhances sustainability and reduces waste. This practice aligns with environmental regulations and corporate social responsibility goals.
Global Dried Spent Grain Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Dried Spent Grain Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Dried Spent Grain Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America and Europe: In North America, the market is driven by the robust brewing industry and the increasing focus on sustainability and waste reduction. The region's advanced agricultural and livestock sectors utilize dried spent grains extensively as a cost-effective and nutritious animal feed. Additionally, the growing trend of incorporating spent grains into health foods, snacks, and bakery products aligns with the rising consumer demand for healthy and sustainable food options. Europe, known for its strong brewing traditions and stringent environmental regulations, also sees significant use of dried spent grains in both the food and feed industries. The emphasis on circular economy practices in Europe fosters innovation in repurposing spent grains, further driving market growth.
Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America: In the Asia Pacific region, the expanding brewing industry, particularly in countries like China and India, coupled with the rising awareness of sustainable practices, propels the demand for dried spent grains. The region's burgeoning livestock industry also benefits from the nutritional advantages of spent grains in animal feed. In the Middle East and Africa, the market is gaining traction as local breweries and distilleries grow, and there is an increasing need for sustainable and affordable feed ingredients. Latin America, with its significant agricultural activities and growing brewing sector, is another promising market. The region's focus on improving livestock productivity and sustainability enhances the adoption of dried spent grains as a valuable feed component.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Dried Spent Grain Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis, Market Opportunity Mapping, PEST (Political, Economic, Social and Technological) Analysis and Porter's Five Forces Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
Drivers:
- Environmental Sustainability
- Increasing Demand for Animal Feed
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Growing Craft Beer Industry: The expansion of the craft beer sector on a global scale has significantly bolstered the production of spent grains, creating a ripple effect throughout various industries. Craft breweries typically produce smaller batches of beer compared to large-scale breweries, resulting in a higher concentration of spent grains per batch. This increase in production directly contributes to a greater availability of raw materials for drying and reuse in other sectors.
As craft breweries continue to gain popularity worldwide, their production of spent grains has grown proportionally. These grains, primarily barley, retain substantial nutritional value even after the brewing process. Their high protein and fiber content make them an ideal ingredient for animal feed, particularly for livestock such as cattle, pigs, and poultry. This dual benefit—producing high-quality beer while generating a valuable byproduct for animal nutrition—underscores the sustainability of craft brewing practices.
Restraints:
- Quality and Storage Challenges
- Regulatory Constraints
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Competition from Alternative Feed Sources: Dried spent grains encounter significant competition from alternative feed sources like soybean meal and corn gluten meal, which are well-established in the animal feed market. Soybean meal, derived from soybeans, is prized for its high protein content and balanced amino acid profile, making it a preferred choice for livestock nutrition. Corn gluten meal, a byproduct of corn processing, is valued for its protein concentration and digestibility, particularly in poultry diets.
These alternative feed sources often enjoy widespread availability and established supply chains, which can pose challenges to the market penetration of dried spent grains. Livestock farmers and feed manufacturers may opt for these alternatives due to consistent quality, reliable supply, and established nutritional profiles, thereby impacting the demand for dried spent grains.
Opportunities:
- Rising Adoption of Dried Spent Grains in Biofuel Production
- Innovations in Processing Technologies
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Expanding Applications in Food and Beverage Industry: Exploring dried spent grains in novel applications within the food and beverage industry presents promising avenues for market expansion. These grains, rich in fiber, protein, and other nutrients, offer potential as functional food ingredients or dietary supplements. Their nutritional profile makes them suitable for enhancing the nutritional content of various food products, including baked goods, cereals, snacks, and health bars.
As consumer awareness of sustainability and nutrition grows, there is increasing interest in products that utilize byproducts like dried spent grains. Incorporating these grains into food formulations not only adds nutritional value but also aligns with trends favoring sustainable practices in food production. This can appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking products with natural, minimally processed ingredients.
The versatility of dried spent grains allows for innovation in product development. They can be processed into flours, extracts, or concentrated forms that enhance the texture, flavor, and health benefits of food products. These innovations cater to diverse consumer preferences and dietary needs, potentially opening up new market segments and enhancing the overall market competitiveness of dried spent grains.
Dried Spent Grain Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Dried Spent Grain Market is witnessing significant transformation with key players leveraging strategies, collaboration, and partnerships to strengthen their presence. Companies are focusing on innovation and operational efficiency to capture market share, while the overall industry shows an approximate 28% concentration in leading enterprises, highlighting a competitive yet growth-oriented landscape.
Market Structure and Concentration
The Dried Spent Grain Market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with top players commanding near 35% of production. Merger and acquisition activities are shaping the market hierarchy, fostering expansion across regions. Strategic alliances and joint ventures contribute to technological advancements and increased operational efficiency, defining the competitive equilibrium.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Leading companies employ robust brand strategies and multi-channel distribution models to enhance reach and visibility. Emphasis on partnerships with distributors and retailers strengthens market penetration, supporting growth. Approximately 42% of sales are routed through integrated channels, reflecting strategic alignment between brand positioning and innovation in marketing efforts.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Innovation remains pivotal with players investing in technological advancements to improve drying processes and nutritional retention. Research collaborations and partnerships facilitate product diversification and operational optimization. Enhanced automation and process innovation contribute to roughly 30% efficiency improvement, reinforcing the market’s competitive growth trajectory.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
The market demonstrates significant expansion across North America and Europe, with Asia-Pacific showing rising adoption. Strategic collaboration and regional alliances support network development and technological advancements. Around 33% of new production capacities are established in emerging regions, reflecting aggressive growth and market penetration strategies by key players.
Future Outlook
Looking forward, the Dried Spent Grain Market anticipates continued growth driven by innovation and strategic partnerships. Companies focusing on technological advancements and market expansion are expected to secure stronger positions. Proactive strategies and collaborative efforts indicate an optimistic future outlook with sustained competitive momentum and sectoral evolution.
Key players in Dried Spent Grain Market include:
- AB InBev / EverGrain Ingredients
- Cargill, Inc.
- GrainCorp Limited
- Malteurop Group
- The Andersons, Inc.
- Bühler Group
- Boortmalt
- Muntons plc
- PureMalt Products Ltd.
- AgriProtein Technologies
- Rahr Corporation
- Tate & Lyle PLC
- Lesaffre Group
- EverGrain / AB InBev’s upcycled grain operations
- Kerry Group plc
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Nature
- Market Snapshot, By Source
- Market Snapshot, By End-Use
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Dried Spent Grain Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Environmental Sustainability
- Increasing Demand for Animal Feed
- Growing Craft Beer Industry
- Restraints
- Quality and Storage Challenges
- Regulatory Constraints
- Competition from Alternative Feed Sources
- Opportunities
- Rising Adoption of Dried Spent Grains in Biofuel Production
- Innovations in Processing Technologies
- Expanding Applications in Food and Beverage Industry
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Dried Spent Grain Market, By Nature, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Organic
- Conventional
- Dried Spent Grain Market, By Source, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Wheat
- Barley
- Rice
- Sorghum
- Millet
- Dried Spent Grain Market, By End Use, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Food & Beverages
- Bakery
- Confectionery
- Dairy Products
- Health Drinks
- Snacks
- Nutritional Powder
- Shakes
- RTD Products
- Pharmaceuticals
- Nutraceuticals
- Animal Feed
- Breweries
- Dried Spent Grain Market, By Geography, 2023 - 2033 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Dried Spent Grain Market, By Nature, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- AB InBev / EverGrain Ingredients
- Cargill, Inc.
- GrainCorp Limited
- Malteurop Group
- The Andersons, Inc.
- Bühler Group
- Boortmalt
- Muntons plc
- PureMalt Products Ltd.
- AgriProtein Technologies
- Rahr Corporation
- Tate & Lyle PLC
- Lesaffre Group
- EverGrain / AB InBev’s upcycled grain operations
- Kerry Group plc
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market