The global “free-from” food market is expected to surpass revenues of $60 billion in 2019, according to a new study from Dublin-based Fact.MR. Free-from food sales continue to remain influenced by a range of factors, including rising consumer awareness about food allergies and intolerances and an upward trend of health and wellness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said food allergies are a growing public health concern, affecting nearly 6% children in the United States alone. Absence of effective treatment for food allergies and intolerance has been complementing the adoption of free-from food among consumers worldwide. However, sustainable sourcing of free-from ingredients and effective processing technologies continue to remain key concerns to be addressed by players in the free from food market, Fact.MR said.

The study opines that the growing prevalence of lactose intolerance among the global population continues to remain a key growth determinant of the free-from food market; lactose-free dairy products posted strong growth between 2013 and 2018. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s Genetic Home Reference, nearly 65% of the world’s population is affected by lactose intolerance.

As concerns over the consumption of food products made using GMO crops continue to grow, it is highly likely that demand for GMO-free food products will witness a notable rise in the near future, FactMR added.

North America will continue to spearhead the free-from food market, with sales expected to bring in revenues over $19 billion in 2019. Free-from food sales in the region can be attributed to consumer awareness regarding the growing prevalence of celiac disease, coupled with lactose intolerance and gluten intolerance among consumers, FactMR said.

For more information or to purchase the report, https://www.factmr.com/report/3272/free-from-food-market.