Okara Market Expands by 2030

Industry Overview

The global okara market, once considered a niche and underexplored category, is undergoing a transformative phase. According to industry estimates, the market stood at USD 2,682.66 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 3,189.61 million by 2030, reflecting a steady CAGR of 3.02% during the forecast period.

Okara, the fibrous byproduct derived from the production of soy milk and tofu, was historically discarded or used primarily as animal feed. However, a wave of innovation, changing dietary preferences, and heightened environmental consciousness have repositioned okara as a high-value, nutrient-dense ingredient in the food and beverage industry. Rich in plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential micronutrients, okara is increasingly embraced as a key component in clean-label, sustainable, and functional food products.

The combination of sustainability imperatives, health awareness, and technological advancements in food processing has unlocked vast potential for okara across product categories such as bakery goods, beverages, meat substitutes, dairy alternatives, and even pet food. In essence, the market is not just selling an ingredient—it is selling a narrative of nutrition, sustainability, and innovation.

Industry Key Highlights

• Market Size Growth: USD 2.68 billion (2024) → USD 3.19 billion (2030)

• CAGR: 3.02% (2024–2030)

• Core Ingredient Value: High in dietary fiber, plant protein, and micronutrients

• Key Drivers: Rise in plant-based diets, zero-waste trends, and functional food demand

• Primary Applications: Bakery, meat substitutes, snacks, beverages, dairy alternatives, pet food

• Fastest-Growing Product Segment: Meat substitutes

• Fastest-Growing Region: Europe (Germany, UK, France leading adoption)

• Major Players: Fuji Oil Holdings, Kikkoman Corporation, Renewal Mill, Sunopta Inc., Aloha Tofu Factory

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Emerging Trends in the Okara Market

1. Upcycled Ingredients Gaining Mainstream Appeal

Upcycling—transforming food byproducts into value-added ingredients—is becoming a cornerstone of sustainable product development. Okara is at the forefront of this movement. Brands are highlighting their zero-waste ethos on packaging, and consumers are increasingly making purchase decisions based on environmental credentials.

2. Expansion into Functional Foods

Okara is no longer just a filler ingredient—it is becoming a functional component in protein-rich snacks, fortified baked goods, and digestive-health beverages. With growing demand for gut-friendly products, okara’s high fiber content makes it a perfect candidate for probiotic and prebiotic product lines.

3. Growth of Plant-Based Meat Innovation

The texture and binding properties of okara are driving its adoption in plant-based meats. As consumers seek authentic meat-like texture without compromising on nutrition, okara offers a cost-effective, natural, and sustainable solution.

4. Integration into Pet Nutrition

Pet owners are demanding the same quality of nutrition for their pets as for themselves. Okara’s protein and fiber content is making it a popular inclusion in premium pet food and treats, especially in markets where sustainability is a selling point.

5. Digital & E-commerce Expansion

E-commerce platforms are becoming critical distribution channels for specialty and sustainable ingredients. Brands selling okara-based snacks, baking mixes, and ready-to-eat foods are leveraging online marketplaces for global reach.

Market Drivers

1. Rising Health Consciousness

Global consumers are more aware of the nutritional composition of their food than ever before. The demand for plant-based proteins is surging due to perceived health benefits, dietary restrictions, and lifestyle choices like veganism and flexitarianism. Okara perfectly aligns with these needs.

2. Environmental Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer optional; it is a competitive advantage. As governments and corporations commit to net-zero targets, the valorization of food byproducts such as okara represents a tangible and marketable sustainability initiative.

3. Government Support for Circular Economy Initiatives

Public policies in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia are incentivizing businesses to reduce food waste and adopt circular economic models. Okara processing innovations are directly benefiting from such programs.

4. Cost Efficiency for Manufacturers

Okara offers a low-cost protein and fiber source for manufacturers developing plant-based products. Its natural binding properties reduce the need for expensive additives, enabling both nutritional and economic advantages.

5. Rapid Advancement in Food Processing Technology

Innovations in drying, fermentation, and flavor-masking have expanded the usability of okara, overcoming previous challenges related to perishability and taste.

Segmentation Insights

By Product Type

• Bakery Products – Bread, cookies, muffins enriched with fiber and protein.

• Noodles & Pasta – Fortified with okara for added nutritional value.

• Snacks – Chips, bars, and energy bites with sustainability branding.

• Meat Substitutes – Burgers, sausages, nuggets with improved texture and protein. (Fastest growing segment)

• Others – Dairy alternatives, smoothies, soups, and pet food.

By End User

• Household – Direct use in home baking and cooking.

• Food & Beverage Industry – Bulk incorporation into processed foods and packaged goods.

By Region

• Europe – Fastest growth; high plant-based diet adoption.

• Asia-Pacific – Established supply chain and rising urban health awareness.

• North America – Growing vegan population and sustainability-focused brands.

• Rest of the World – Emerging adoption in premium and export-focused markets.

Competitive Analysis

The global okara market is moderately consolidated, with a mix of multinational corporations and regional specialists driving innovation.

Key Players and Strategies

1. Fuji Oil Holdings Inc. – Diversified product portfolio, heavy investment in plant-based research.

2. Kikkoman Corporation – Leveraging its strong soy-based heritage to develop okara innovations.

3. Renewal Mill – Pioneering upcycled food branding, targeting eco-conscious consumers.

4. Sunopta Inc. – Large-scale production capabilities, focusing on North American markets.

5. Otoufu Factory Ishikawa Co., Ltd. – Traditional expertise in tofu-based products, expanding into export markets.

6. Dao Foods International, Inc. – Investing in plant-based startups across China.

7. Satonoyuki Foods Co., Ltd. – Japanese market leader with high-quality okara production.

8. Aloha Tofu Factory – Regional branding with sustainability storytelling.

Competitive Advantages Across the Market:

• Sourcing Control – Integrated tofu and soy milk production ensuring steady okara supply.

• Innovation Pipelines – R&D into flavor enhancement, texture optimization, and shelf-life extension.

• Sustainability Marketing – Strong consumer-facing narratives highlighting waste reduction.

Future Outlook

The okara market’s trajectory reflects the convergence of health, sustainability, and food innovation. By 2030, it is expected that okara will transition from a niche upcycled ingredient to a mainstream staple in multiple product categories. The rising influence of climate-conscious consumers, combined with government mandates for waste reduction, will further fuel growth.

Key expectations for the future:

• Wider product diversification, especially in beverages and dairy alternatives.

• Enhanced processing techniques to improve flavor and versatility.

• Greater collaboration between startups and large-scale food manufacturers.

• Expansion into nutraceuticals, leveraging okara’s fiber and protein for supplements.

10 Benefits of the Research Report

1. Comprehensive Market Sizing – Accurate historical and forecast data for strategic planning.

2. Segmentation Analysis – Detailed breakdown by product type, end user, and region.

3. Trend Identification – Insights into upcycling, plant-based demand, and functional foods.

4. Growth Drivers & Challenges – Clear understanding of market dynamics.

5. Competitive Landscape – Profiles and strategies of leading market players.

6. Emerging Opportunities – Identification of new product development areas.

7. Regulatory Insights – Overview of government policies supporting market expansion.

8. Investment Feasibility – Assessment of market attractiveness for new entrants.

9. Consumer Behavior Analysis – Evaluation of purchasing patterns and preferences.

10. Strategic Recommendations – Actionable insights for gaining market share.

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