Whether it’s because of celiac, digestive sensitivity or simply a lifestyle change, more people are continuing to avoid gluten. This is good news for the gluten-free products market which is projected to reach $4.89 billion by 2021, up from $2.85 billion in 2014, according to new analysis by Transparency Market Research.

Gluten-free food products are eatables that do not contain any traces of gluten, a protein composite found in barley, rye, wheat, and all their species. The gluten-free products market is driven by the rising number of celiac disease patients and the rising prevalence of non-celiac disease gluten sensitivity among people. Growing consumer awareness about the health benefits of gluten-free food is driving the market. Rising efforts for weight management among people across the globe are driving the gluten-free food products market. The high demand for gluten-free bakery products is also encouraging the market's growth. On the other hand, lack of awareness regarding celiac disease is a huge challenge, which is restraining the growth of the gluten-free products market. However, the focus of key gluten-free food product manufacturers on the fresh food industry will open new opportunities of growth in the market.

In 2014, Europe dominated the gluten-free food products market and represented a share of 52.5 percent. North America is expected to be the fastest growing regional market by 2021, on account of the positive consumer response to a gluten-free diet and the rising number of people suffering from celiac disease.

In terms of product type, gluten-free bakery products held the largest revenue market share in 2014. Analysts say an increase in consumption of gluten free biscuits worldwide is driving growth of the gluten free bakery products market. In addition, increasing awareness about gluten-free bakery products will enable manufacturers to shift focus from the specialty diabetic sector and invest in gluten free bakery products. For example, researchers say Boulder Brands acquired Glutino in 2011, followed by Udi's in 2012, to add gluten-free bakery products in its product portfolio. Among all other product types, gluten-free bakery products held the largest market share both in terms of value and volume and are expected to maintain dominance during the forecast period.