Tahini Sauce Market Size, Growth Report, 2033

Tahini Sauce Market Overview

The Tahini Sauce Market size was valued at USD 6419.46 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 8721.8 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 3.4% from 2025 to 2033.

The tahini sauce market has grown steadily in recent years, supported by evolving dietary preferences and the increasing adoption of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines globally. In 2023, global sesame seed production surpassed 6.7 million metric tons, with Sudan, India, and Myanmar accounting for more than 55% of the output. Tahini, derived from ground sesame seeds, offers rich nutritional value, containing approximately 17 grams of protein, 12 grams of fiber, and over 60% healthy fats per 100 grams. These characteristics contribute to its rising popularity as a nutrient-dense spread. The U.S. alone consumed over 14,000 metric tons of tahini in 2023, marking a significant increase from under 10,000 metric tons in 2018. Supermarkets and specialty food stores expanded their tahini product lines by over 40% during the same period. Additionally, foodservice establishments have increased the inclusion of tahini-based menu items by 33% since 2021. With tahini entering new food segments such as sauces, snacks, and desserts, market growth is accelerating globally, particularly in health-conscious and vegan demographics.

Key Findings

Driver: Surge in demand for plant-based protein and nutrient-dense spreads.

Country/Region: Middle East & Africa, due to traditional consumption and production dominance.

Segment: Paste & spreads, accounting for over 50% of the tahini application base.

Tahini Sauce Market Trends

The tahini sauce market is undergoing several transformative trends that shape both supply and demand. One of the most prominent trends is the rapid shift toward organic and non-GMO tahini offerings. In 2023, over 35% of tahini products introduced in the European and North American markets were certified organic. Organic sesame cultivation also expanded by 18%, particularly in Ethiopia and India. Flavor innovation is another key driver. Manufacturers launched more than 120 new flavored tahini products globally in 2023, including variants like garlic-lime, chili, and herb-infused tahini. This has broadened the consumer base beyond traditional users, introducing tahini into fusion cuisines, vegan recipes, and health-focused snacks.

Online retailing has contributed to wider access and visibility. E-commerce platforms now account for nearly 25% of tahini sauce sales worldwide, a rise from just 12% in 2020. Leading brands reported a 45% increase in direct-to-consumer sales channels. Social media-driven awareness campaigns and recipe-based marketing content have fueled a surge in online purchases, especially among younger demographics. Sustainability also plays a growing role. Manufacturers are shifting toward eco-friendly packaging, with over 60% of new products adopting recyclable or biodegradable containers. Ethical sourcing certifications grew by 22% in 2023, particularly in brands exporting to Europe and the U.S. Consumers increasingly seek transparency in sourcing, pushing companies to disclose origin and production practices. Functional food trends further shape tahini’s market presence. Tahini is being fortified with superfoods such as chia seeds, turmeric, and flaxseed to target specific health outcomes like heart health and improved digestion. In 2023, more than 70 new functional tahini SKUs were introduced, particularly in health food stores. These trends reflect a dynamic shift in consumer expectations and industry strategies, with tahini emerging as a multi-functional, global pantry staple.

Tahini Sauce Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Rising demand for plant-based and nutritious food products.

The health and wellness trend has led to a spike in demand for plant-based and high-protein food products. Tahini, with 17 grams of protein and substantial healthy fat content per 100 grams, is increasingly seen as a viable alternative to dairy-based spreads. Veganism and vegetarianism are growing, with over 9% of U.S. adults identifying as vegan or vegetarian in 2023. Tahini’s versatility—used in dips, dressings, sauces, and even baked goods—supports its widespread appeal. The demand for tahini products in the plant-based food sector increased by 38% from 2020 to 2023. Its compatibility with gluten-free, keto, and paleo diets further strengthens its market position.

RESTRAINT

Limited awareness in emerging markets.

Despite its global expansion, tahini remains underutilized in many emerging markets, particularly across Latin America and parts of Asia. In 2023, over 60% of consumers in Southeast Asia and South America had never tried tahini. Limited distribution channels and low marketing investment restrict brand presence in these regions. Additionally, tahini’s relatively short shelf life compared to processed sauces presents logistical challenges. As local diets tend to favor traditional condiments, penetration requires cultural adaptation and recipe localization. Investments in regional branding and consumer education remain necessary to unlock these untapped markets.

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion into new culinary applications.

Tahini's culinary versatility offers significant opportunity for growth in new food categories. Food manufacturers are incorporating tahini into salad dressings, frozen meals, dessert spreads, energy bars, and savory snacks. In 2023, tahini appeared in over 5,400 new food product launches globally. Partnerships with celebrity chefs and food influencers have boosted experimentation in home kitchens. Additionally, restaurant chains are adopting tahini-based sauces in burgers, grain bowls, and Mediterranean-inspired wraps. These integrations help normalize tahini use among mainstream consumers, increasing household penetration.

CHALLENGE

Fluctuating sesame seed prices.

Global sesame seed prices experienced volatility between 2020 and 2023, with price swings reaching as high as 25% year-on-year. Droughts in East Africa, political unrest in Myanmar, and supply chain disruptions from COVID-19 all contributed. As sesame seeds account for over 80% of tahini production costs, these fluctuations significantly impact profit margins. Smaller producers with limited storage and procurement capacity are especially vulnerable. Some brands have turned to diversified sourcing or long-term supply contracts to mitigate risks. Nonetheless, consistent supply remains a critical concern for stable tahini production.

Tahini Sauce Market Segmentation

The tahini sauce market is segmented by type and application.

By Type

Hulled Tahini: In 2023, hulled tahini held the largest share at 65%, as it is more refined and widely used in consumer products. Its smoother texture and milder flavor make it a preferred choice for various culinary applications.
Unhulled Tahini: Unhulled tahini is gaining popularity due to growing interest in natural and less processed foods. It retains more nutrients and has a stronger flavor, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

By Application

Paste & Spreads: This segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023, reflecting tahini’s versatility in sandwiches and as a base for various spreads.
Halva & Other Sweets: Tahini is used in traditional sweets like halva, contributing to its demand in the confectionery segment.
Sauces & Dips: This is the fastest-growing application, driven by rising consumer interest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.

Tahini Sauce Market Regional Outlook

The global tahini sauce market exhibits diverse regional performances driven by consumption patterns, production capabilities, and cultural food preferences. The market has shown consistent growth across all key regions, with notable traction in the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and parts of North America and Europe. Tahini’s rising acceptance as a nutrient-rich condiment, combined with the demand for plant-based foods, has led to varied market dynamics and development in each region.

North America

In North America, the tahini sauce market has expanded significantly, supported by growing consumer awareness around plant-based diets and Middle Eastern cuisine. In 2023, the U.S. accounted for more than 68% of tahini consumption within North America. Retail data showed a 12% year-over-year increase in shelf space allocated to tahini-based products in major supermarket chains across the U.S. and Canada. Imports of sesame seeds into the U.S. reached 146,000 metric tons in 2023, with a significant portion used in tahini manufacturing. Health-conscious millennials and Gen Z populations have driven the growth of tahini as a staple ingredient in sauces, dips, and vegan recipes. The popularity of tahini in food service sectors also rose by 14% in 2023, according to regional distributors.

Europe

Europe represents one of the fastest-growing regions in the tahini market, with strong demand in countries such as Germany, the UK, France, and the Netherlands. In 2023, Germany held a 21% share of the European tahini market, followed by France at 17% and the UK at 15%. Increasing interest in Mediterranean diets and gluten-free lifestyles has fueled tahini’s integration into everyday meals. Organic tahini variants now comprise 24% of total tahini product offerings in European retail, up from 18% in 2022. European sesame seed imports grew by 8% in 2023, primarily to support tahini production. Several private-label and artisan food brands in Europe have expanded their tahini-based product lines, reflecting higher consumer engagement.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth in tahini demand, particularly in China, Japan, South Korea, and Australia. China led the region with over 33% market share in 2023, driven by its long-standing use of sesame-based condiments and a recent surge in demand for Middle Eastern food products. Japanese and Korean consumers increasingly incorporate tahini into health drinks and salad dressings, contributing to a 9% annual increase in consumption. Australia saw a 15% rise in tahini imports in 2023, aligned with its expanding vegan and vegetarian demographic. Local manufacturers in Asia-Pacific are launching fusion tahini products, blending local flavors such as matcha and miso, contributing to product diversification and wider regional appeal.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa remains the dominant region in the global tahini market, contributing over 36% of the total global consumption in 2023. Lebanon, Israel, Turkey, and Egypt are leading tahini producers and consumers, with deep cultural and culinary roots tied to the product. Turkey alone processed over 110,000 metric tons of sesame seeds in 2023 for domestic tahini production. In the Levant region, tahini is consumed daily in various dishes such as hummus and baba ghanoush. Exports from Lebanon and Israel reached over 50 countries, showing a 9% year-on-year increase in 2023. Additionally, local government initiatives in African countries such as Sudan and Ethiopia, where sesame is cultivated, are promoting domestic tahini processing to add value to raw sesame exports.

List of Tahini Sauce Companies

Haitoglou Bros
Balsam
Prince Tahini
Halwani Bros
Al Wadi Al Akhdar
Dipasa
Carwari
Firat
O. Ghandour & Sons
Sesajal
Mounir Bissat
Jiva Organics
Arrowhead Mills
Ruifu
Fudafang
Shagou
Xiangyuan
Luoyang Xuetang
Yinger
San Feng

Haitoglou Bros: Based in Greece, Haitoglou Bros processed over 25,000 metric tons of tahini products in 2023, exporting to more than 45 countries. The company maintains strong retail penetration in Europe and North America.

Balsam: A leading Middle Eastern tahini manufacturer, Balsam accounted for approximately 15% of tahini exports in the MENA region in 2023. The brand is known for its traditional production methods and high sesame seed quality.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The tahini sauce market has attracted significant investment over the last few years, particularly in processing facilities, export capabilities, and brand development. In 2023, over 45 new tahini processing units were established globally, with capacity expansion projects concentrated in countries such as Sudan, Ethiopia, and India. These countries, which produce over 3.5 million metric tons of sesame annually, are becoming central to global tahini supply chains. Private equity firms have also entered the market, acquiring niche tahini brands and investing in plant-based food companies. In North America, at least 12 investment rounds were recorded in 2023 targeting tahini-centric startups. These included strategic fund injections exceeding $100 million aimed at improving production efficiency and expanding product portfolios. Retail chains are now entering into direct contracts with tahini producers, eliminating intermediaries and ensuring traceability and quality control. This direct trade model is growing, particularly in the U.S. and U.K., where consumer demand for artisanal and small-batch tahini is rising. Supermarkets have increased shelf space for tahini products by 38% since 2020. Government support programs are also promoting sesame processing for export. In Ethiopia, new incentives led to a 20% increase in tahini exports in 2023. Additionally, digital transformation is being adopted through blockchain traceability for seed sourcing and supply chain tracking. Over 30 brands implemented blockchain systems in their logistics chains last year. Investment momentum is expected to continue as tahini solidifies its place as a staple in global health and ethnic cuisine markets.

New Product Development

Product innovation in the tahini sauce market has intensified as consumer demand for variety and added health benefits continues to rise. In 2023 alone, more than 120 new tahini-based product variants were launched globally, many featuring value-added ingredients. Manufacturers introduced infused tahini sauces containing herbs like basil, turmeric, ginger, and chili, appealing to gourmet and fusion cuisine markets. One notable launch in 2023 was a probiotic-enriched tahini spread introduced in the U.S., providing gut health benefits and gaining distribution in over 2,000 retail stores. In the Middle East, premium tahini variants with added vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D and iron were rolled out to cater to regional deficiencies in diet. Several companies also began offering low-sodium and sugar-free versions, addressing growing consumer concerns about salt and sugar intake. In Japan, dessert tahini pastes blended with matcha or yuzu gained traction, especially among younger consumers seeking functional indulgence. Packaging innovations have also played a critical role. Squeeze bottles, single-serve sachets, and eco-friendly jars made from recycled materials were introduced by over 40% of tahini producers in 2023. These formats cater to convenience-focused consumers and align with global sustainability trends. Augmented reality (AR) labels that provide origin stories and recipe suggestions have also emerged in select European markets. Collaborations between tahini brands and celebrity chefs or wellness influencers have led to signature product lines that combine culinary creativity with mass appeal. In 2023, a U.K.-based celebrity chef partnered with a tahini producer to launch a limited-edition black tahini infused with activated charcoal. These partnerships contribute to brand differentiation and tap into lifestyle-driven marketing. Overall, the development of nutrient-dense, flavor-rich, and convenient tahini products demonstrates the industry’s responsiveness to health trends and diverse consumer tastes. This momentum is likely to continue, fostering further innovation across retail and foodservice segments.

Five Recent Developments

In Q3 2023, Halwani Bros increased its tahini production capacity by 20% in its Saudi Arabian facility to meet growing domestic and export demand. The expansion included automation improvements to reduce operational time by 15%.
In early 2023, Haitoglou Bros introduced a new line of certified organic tahini products targeting health-conscious consumers in the European and North American markets. The new line resulted in a 10% sales increase in its first quarter.
In February 2024, Dipasa inaugurated a new sesame seed processing facility in Mexico with a capacity of 4,500 metric tons annually. This aims to stabilize supply and meet growing tahini demand in North and Latin America.
Australian manufacturer Carwari introduced flavored tahini products, including turmeric, chocolate, and matcha variants, in mid-2023. These accounted for 18% of its total tahini sales within six months of launch.
In January 2024, Prince Tahini signed collaboration deals with three vegan snack producers in the U.S. to include tahini as a key ingredient in energy bars and dressings, increasing its market visibility by 22% in vegan-friendly retail chains.

Report Coverage of Tahini Sauce Market

This report on the tahini sauce market comprehensively covers the current state, growth potential, and future direction of the industry, focusing on types, applications, regional insights, competitive landscape, and investment opportunities. The analysis spans across major global regions including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. The market has grown rapidly due to increasing global demand for plant-based, protein-rich, and nutritious food alternatives. In 2023, hulled tahini dominated with 65% market share, driven by its smoother consistency and adaptability in spreads and sauces. Unhulled tahini accounted for the remaining 35%, primarily favored for its natural fiber and higher nutritional content. By application, paste & spreads remained the largest segment with over 40% of total consumption, reflecting tahini’s utility in sandwiches, toasts, and dips. Halva and other sweets represented 30% of market use, while sauces & dips made up the remaining 30%, with notable growth driven by global restaurant chains incorporating tahini-based dressings. Geographically, the Middle East & Africa led the market with 36% share, followed by Asia-Pacific at 30%, Europe at 27%, and North America at 24%. The high consumption rates in the Middle East are tied to cultural and traditional culinary preferences. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific’s rising middle-class population and growing health awareness are accelerating its adoption of tahini products. Major manufacturers profiled in the report include Haitoglou Bros, Halwani Bros, Dipasa, Prince Tahini, Carwari, Al Wadi Al Akhdar, and Balsam, among others. These companies are focused on R&D, product innovation, geographic expansion, and digital marketing to strengthen their market positions. Haitoglou Bros, for instance, is the largest sesame processor in Greece, exporting 50% of its tahini products to more than 25 countries. Investment trends are shaped by the growing demand for organic, clean-label, and vegan tahini options. E-commerce and international retail channels have significantly enhanced distribution efficiency. Manufacturers are also investing in production automation, sustainability certifications, and flavor diversification to meet evolving consumer preferences. The report covers a wide range of analytical dimensions including market segmentation by type and application, recent product launches, strategic alliances, supply chain enhancements, and pricing trends. With detailed qualitative and quantitative insights, it serves as a vital tool for stakeholders looking to make data-backed decisions in the tahini sauce market