Forage Market Projected to Surpass USD 1,261.13 million by 2032, with a 5.0% CAGR

Forage Market Stats

The global forage market size was valued at USD 810.85 million in 2023. The market is projected to grow to USD 1,261.13 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.0% from 2023 to 2032.

Forage Market Overview

Forage refers to plant-based material primarily consumed by grazing livestock such as sheep, cattle, goats, and horses. It is an important part of their diet and offers essential nutrients that aid in digestion and support overall animal health. Forage encompasses a wide range of plant material, including legumes, grass, and other herbaceous plants. It can be consumed by animals directly or harvested and stored to feed later.

There are various forage types in the forage market, based on how it is stored or consumed. Fresh forage is meant for direct animal consumption in pastures, whereas hay is cut and dried for fodder. Silage is forage preserved in a succulent condition by partial anaerobic acid fermentation. In addition, plant residue remaining on the land after harvest can serve as forage.

There is a rising demand for higher-quality animal feed that can ensure the productivity and overall health of livestock. Forage plays a crucial role in meeting this demand by providing a natural, nutrient-dense, and fiber-rich diet. In addition, the consumption of forage promotes ruminant health in ruminant animals like cows and sheep. The use of high-quality forage enables livestock producers to reduce their dependence on costly commercial supplements and concentrates, impacting the forage market demand favorably.

Forage Market Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Chronic Illnesses in Livestock

Chronic illnesses and conditions such as lameness, mastitis, metabolic disorders, and parasitic infections are increasingly affecting the productivity and overall health of animals globally. This is prompting farmers and livestock producers to focus on more sustainable and preventive nutritional strategies. Forage, especially nutrient-dense forage options like clover, silage, and ryegrass, assists in maintaining digestive health and boosts the immune response in livestock. The natural bioactive compounds in forage reduce the chances of chronic diseases. Thus, as livestock producers become more aware of the link between nutrition and long-term animal health and livestock monitoring gains traction, the forage market continues to grow.

Emergence of New Technologies

The forage market has witnessed the introduction of several new technologies in forage cultivation, harvesting, processing, and storage. Advancements such as automated forage harvesters, precision agriculture, and advanced moisture sensors have improved the productivity, efficiency, and quality of forage. With precision farming, which allows for real-time monitoring of soil health and nutrient levels, farmers can make data-driven decisions that enhance yield and nutritional value. In addition, advances in technology have resulted in the development of genetically improved forage varieties that offer improved digestion, have higher protein content, and provide better resistance to pests and environmental stressors.

Forage Market Trends

Shift Towards Organic and Sustainable Forage Practices

Forage producers are increasingly adopting eco-friendly techniques such as natural fertilization, reduced chemical usage, and crop rotation to optimize resource utilization and ensure long-term soil vitality. The rising demand for organically produced forage, especially in emerging economies, has encouraged producers to opt for certifications that improve the value and credibility of their products. Along with supporting better livestock nutrition and welfare, sustainable forage also aligns with evolving consumer preferences for clean-label products. Thus, the rising shift towards organic and sustainable animal farming practices due to increased awareness about environmental awareness and food safety is expected to drive the forage market development in the coming years.

Growing Popularity of High-Protein Forage Crops

There has been a noticeable shift towards the cultivation of high-protein forage varieties such as clover, alfalfa forage, and chicory, as they offer enhanced nutritional value. These crops are being increasingly preferred by producers looking to improve milk yields, enhance meat quality, and ensure the overall well-being of animals. The need for high-protein forage is further fueled by the rising global demand for protein-rich animal products. As a result, agricultural researchers and seed companies are making significant investments in the development of forage cultivators that offer enhanced digestibility, improved protein content, and resilience to environmental factors.

Forage Market Segment Insights

Forage Market Assessment by Crop Type Insights

By crop type, the market is segmented into cereals, legumes, and grasses. The legumes segment held the largest market share in 2022 and is projected to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period. The segment’s dominance is largely due to the excellent nutritional profile and environmental benefits of legumes. Leguminous forage crops such as vetch, lupins, and clover are widely recognized for their high protein content, which plays a crucial role in enhancing animal productivity and growth rates. In addition, these crops help in improving soil quality through nitrogen fixation, lowering the dependance on synthetic fertilizers, and supporting sustainable farming practices. Furthermore, the shift towards organic agriculture practices has prompted more farmers to shift towards legumes owing to their contribution to improving soil health and forage crop rotation systems.

Forage Market Evaluation by Product Type Insights

By product type, the market is segmented into stored forage and fresh forage. The stored forage segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share in 2022. Stored forage, which includes hay, haylage, and silage, has a longer shelf life and offers year-round availability. The forage type also provides better nutrition preservation. All of these elements are critical to ensure a consistent supply of livestock feed and nutrition, irrespective of seasonal fluctuations or weather-related disruptions in the supply of fresh forage. Farmers are livestock producers are heavily dependent on stored forage during off-seasons or in regions with limited pasture growth, making it an important component of feed management systems.

Forage Market Outlook by Animal Type Insights

Based on animal type, the market is segmented into ruminants, swine, poultry, cattle, and others. The poultry segment is projected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period. The segment’s robust growth is largely attributed to the rising demand for forage among poultry producers and the growing emphasis on proper nutrition and maintenance to ensure fresh and high-quality meat. In addition, the increased protein consumption worldwide and rising health awareness among poultry consumers contribute to the growth of the segment.

Forage Market – Key Players and Competitive Insights

The market for forage is characterized by competition. It is driven by factors such as collaborations, mergers and acquisitions, and other strategic partnerships. The key players in the market strive to differentiate themselves in terms of pricing, quality, and offering. Also, they make significant investments in R&D initiatives to introduce advanced forage to cater to diverse consumer needs.

Several market participants are prioritizing the development of sustainable forage that aligns with consumer expectations and complies with stringent government regulations. A few of the key players covered in the report are: