The Global Breakfast Cereal Market size is expected to reach $50.3 billion by 2030, rising at a market growth of 4.0% CAGR during the forecast period. In the year 2022, the market attained a volume of 4,100.2 kilo tonnes experiencing a growth of 4.1% (2019-2022).
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, In September 2023, the total number of employments in the United States was 161,222,000. Families with working members may prioritize quick and easy breakfast options, and breakfast cereals fit this category. Consequently, the North America region would generate a revenue of 13,970.3 million by 2022. Moreover, cereal makers are also implementing innovative strategies to increase consumption in North America to maintain customer interest in the category. Some of the factors affecting the market are rise in the number of health-conscious consumers, growing consumer demand for convenience food, and availability of counterfeit products.
Health-conscious consumers often seek nutrient-dense foods. This has led to an increased demand for breakfast cereals strengthened with essential vitamins and minerals, providing a suitable way for individuals to meet their nutritional needs. Concerns about excessive sugar intake have led health-conscious consumers to seek cereals with reduced sugar content. These may include cereals with higher protein content or those marketed as part of a balanced diet for weight control. Thus, the above factors will expand market growth. Moreover, Convenience is a crucial driver for the popularity of breakfast cereals. They offer a quick and easy-to-prepare breakfast option, requiring minimal time and effort. Consumers can pour cereal into a bowl, add milk, and have a ready-to-eat meal. Modern lifestyles are often fast-paced, and many consumers, especially those with busy schedules, seek convenient meal options. Therefore, the aspects mentioned above are expected to drive market growth.
However, Counterfeit products may not adhere to the same quality and safety standards as genuine products. Consumers unknowingly purchasing counterfeit cereals may be exposed to health risks, as the ingredients, production processes, and storage conditions may not meet regulatory standards. These products can damage the reputation of well-established and trusted breakfast cereal brands. Consumers with a negative experience with counterfeit cereals may associate the inferior quality with the genuine brand, leading to a failure of trust and loyalty. Hence, the above aspects will hamper the market growth in the coming years.
Product Type Outlook
On the basis of product type, the market is segmented into ready-to-eat and hot cereals. The hot cereals segment acquired a substantial revenue share in the market in 2022. Hot cereals are known for their nutritional value, providing vital nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Some hot cereals are enriched or fortified to enhance their nutritional content, appealing to consumers seeking a balanced and wholesome breakfast. The focus on whole grains and ancient grains has benefited hot cereals, as many varieties, particularly those made with oats, quinoa, and other grains, are perceived as nutritious and wholesome.
Distribution Channel Outlook
Based on distribution channel, the market is fragmented into supermarkets, convenience stores, online, and others. In 2022, the supermarket segment held the highest revenue share in the market. Supermarkets and hypermarkets offer various breakfast cereals, including different brands, flavors, types, and formulations. Consumers can find traditional options and those catering to specific dietary requirements or choices, such as gluten-free, organic, or low-sugar cereals. Supermarkets frequently run promotions and discounts on breakfast cereals, especially during seasonal sales, back-to-school periods, or promotional events. These discounts may include buy-one-get-one-free offers, price reductions, or bundled deals.
Regional Outlook
Region-wise, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. The Asia Pacific region recorded a remarkable revenue share in the market in 2022. Increasing demand for processed foods in nations including Japan, China, and India, among others, propels the expansion of the industry substantially. Dietary patterns have evolved in response to the diverse array of health concerns that consumers encounter worldwide. The trend among individuals is to consume more nutritious foods. Consequently, breakfast cereal consumption is increasing worldwide.
The market research report covers the analysis of key stakeholders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include Kellogg Company, General Mills Inc., Nestle S.A., PepsiCo, Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, B&G Foods, Inc., Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc., Post Holdings, Inc. (Attune Foods LLC), Alara Wholefoods Ltd., Bagrrys India Ltd.
Strategies Deployed in Breakfast Cereal Market
Oct-2023: Quaker Oats Co., a PepsiCo subsidiary, introduced Quaker Chewy Granola, its first cereal under the Quaker Chewy brand. With 5 grams of protein per serving and no artificial colors, preservatives, or Flavors, it provided a delicious and nutritious breakfast option for families.
Oct-2023: Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc. launched protein oats, crafted from whole grain rolled oats with up to 60% more protein than regular oats. These oats, grown from a high-protein variety without added powder, are gluten-free and non-GMO, suitable for various meals and snacks.
Jul-2023: General Mills Inc. enhanced its breakfast portfolio by doubling the Vitamin D content in family-favourite cereals like Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Cheerios to 20% of the Daily Value. The initiative aimed to remind parents of the cherished nutritional quality of Big G cereals and their ongoing commitment to providing nutritious options for families.
Jun-2023: Kellogg India and Hershey India partnered to introduce Kellogg’s Hershey’s Chocos amid Kellogg’s goal to double its Indian business in the coming years. The collaboration combined Hershey’s chocolate expertise with Kellogg’s cereal craftsmanship, reflecting a joint commitment to innovation and providing an opportunity to expand the brand into new usage occasions.
Jun-2023: Nestl? Breakfast Cereals launched KOKO KRUNCH Millet-Jowar and MUNCH Breakfast Cereals in India, offering variety. KOKO KRUNCH Millet-Jowar includes local grains like Jowar, while MUNCH comprises whole grain wheat flour, rice, and corn, providing a crunchy morning start.
Jan-2023: General Mills Inc. introduced the Minis Breakfast Bundle alongside the nationwide launch of its Minis cereal. This bundle featured miniature versions of Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Trix, and REESE’S PUFFS, complete with tiny kitchen items for creative breakfast cooking. The launch included a Cinnamon Toast Crunch Mini Fridge, Trix Mini Utensil Set, and a REESE’S PUFFS Mini Muffin Mold for making mini cereal muffins.
Jan-2023: Post Consumer Brands, a subsidiary of Post Holdings, Inc., joined Disney’s 100 Years of Wonder celebration, launching limited-edition offerings?a unique themed fruity cereal, a new confetti cake-flavoured cereal, and a special edition collector’s item. The confetti cake cereal had evolving packaging throughout the year, showcasing various Disney and Pixar characters.
Mar-2021: Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc. launched gluten-free, single-serve instant oatmeal in three Flavors: Brown Sugar & Maple, Apple Pieces & Cinnamon, and Classic. These packets offered a cleaner nutritional profile, lower sugar content, and quick preparation with whole grain oats and flaxseed meal. Each package included eight servings, ready in minutes.
Scope of the Study
Market Segments covered in the Report:
By Product Type (Volume, Kilo Tonnes, USD Billion, 2019-2030)

  • Ready-to-Eat
  • Hot Cereals


By Distribution Channel (Volume, Kilo Tonnes, USD Billion, 2019-2030)

  • Supermarket
  • Convenience Stores
  • Online
  • Others


By Geography (Volume, Kilo Tonnes, USD Billion, 2019-2030)

  • North America


o US
o Canada
o Mexico
o Rest of North America

  • Europe


o Germany
o UK
o France
o Russia
o Spain
o Italy
o Rest of Europe

  • Asia Pacific


o China
o Japan
o India
o South Korea
o Singapore
o Malaysia
o Rest of Asia Pacific

  • LAMEA


o Brazil
o Argentina
o UAE
o Saudi Arabia
o South Africa
o Nigeria
o Rest of LAMEA
Companies Profiled

  • Kellogg Company
  • General Mills Inc.
  • Nestle S.A.
  • PepsiCo, Inc.
  • Archer Daniels Midland Company
  • B&G Foods, Inc.
  • Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc.
  • Post Holdings, Inc. (Attune Foods LLC)
  • Alara Wholefoods Ltd.
  • Bagrrys India Ltd.


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