In recent years, countries like the US and Canada have been showing a growing preference for gluten-free products. This is because there are about 3 million people in North America who have celiac disease, which makes them unable to tolerate gluten. As a result, people in the region are looking for food that meets their needs. Additionally, the presence of major tapioca starch manufacturers in the region is contributing to increased sales.
Cassava starch has great potential in North America, which has seen significant growth in the global market, including Latin America. One of the main reasons for this growth is the rapid expansion of the food and beverage sectors in the region. North America has the largest population of people with gluten intolerance, and since cassava starch is gluten-free, it is in high demand. Cassava starch is also low in calories, high in fiber and antioxidants, and can be used to reduce fat and cholesterol in the body. To meet the needs of the obese population in countries like the US, Canada, and Mexico, manufacturers are introducing new and innovative cassava starch-based foods and beverages.
It's important to note that raw cassava contains cyanide, which is toxic if consumed. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare cassava correctly to remove the cyanide. There are two types of cassava: sweet and bitter. Bitter cassava is more resilient but has a higher cyanide content. In the US, most of the cassava used is the sweet variety. In the country, people grind cassava to make tapioca, which can be eaten as a pudding or used as a thickening agent. In the US, cassava is often referred to as yuca and may also be called manioc or Brazilian arrowroot. The root of the cassava plant is the most commonly consumed part and can be eaten whole, grated, or ground into flour to make bread and crackers.
In terms of market share, the US accounted for the largest share at 51.48% with a value of USD 6,423.69 million in 2020. The market is expected to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.44%. Mexico was the second-largest market with a value of USD 4,318.21 million in 2020 and is projected to have the highest CAGR of 3.92% during the forecast period.