Global Sunflower Meal Market: Market Size & Forecast 2026

Sunflower meal is the residual material left after oil extraction from sunflower seeds, containing approximately 28% to 40% protein depending on the processing method. It serves as a cost-effective protein source in compound feeds, particularly valued for its amino acid profile and non-GMO status. The market is closely linked to sunflower oil production volumes and global crush margins.

• •Market valued at approximately $7.4 billion in 2025 with projected growth to around $9.7 billion to $10 billion by 2030
• •Primary end-use is animal feed, especially for poultry and swine sectors
• •Production closely tied to global sunflower crushing activity and oil extraction volumes

Rising global meat consumption, particularly in Asia and Latin America, is increasing demand for high-protein feed ingredients. The non-GMO and sustainable positioning of sunflower meal makes it attractive in regions with strict regulatory requirements or consumer preferences for natural products. Additionally, sunflower meal prices often remain competitive relative to soybean meal, supporting substitution in feed formulations.

• •Expanding livestock production in developing markets driving feed ingredient demand
• •Non-GMO and allergen-free attributes supporting adoption in specialized feed formulations
• •Price competitiveness with other protein meals supporting market share gains

The market can be segmented by protein content, with high-protein sunflower meal commanding premium pricing for monogastric animal feeds. Geographically, Europe and the Black Sea region dominate production, with Russia, Ukraine, and the European Union representing key supply sources. The Asia-Pacific region represents the fastest-growing demand center due to expanding animal protein production.

• •Black Sea region (Russia and Ukraine) serves as the dominant production and export hub
• •Europe accounts for significant domestic consumption within the EU livestock sector
• •Asia-Pacific emerging as a key demand driver with growing poultry and aquaculture sectors

What are the recent trends and outlook?

Protein concentrate segments of the sunflower meal market are gaining attention as functional food ingredients, particularly in plant-based food applications. Advances in extraction technology are improving protein yields and quality, potentially expanding the addressable market beyond traditional feed uses. Sustainability certification and traceability requirements are becoming increasingly important for market access, especially in European and North American supply chains.

• •Expansion of sunflower planted acreage in major producing regions supporting supply growth
• •Growing interest in sunflower protein isolate and concentrate for human food applications
• •Sustainability and certification requirements shaping procurement strategies