During the 2021/2022 campaign, over 871,000 metric tons of pistachios were consumed worldwide. Europe accounted for 30% of this consumption, making it the largest pistachio-consuming region.
In Spain, according to the International Nut & Dried Fruit Council (INC), pistachio consumption doubled in recent years,, rising from 0.179 to 0.324 kg per capita per year. Given that local production is still expanding, a significant portion of these pistachios is imported. In Spain alone, imports exceed 14,000 metric tons, double the amount from five years ago. Most pistachios come from the U.S., representing 67% of global production.
Consumer demand for pistachios is driven by health and nutrition, particularly in Europe, where there's a growing demand for functional foods, clean-labeled products, and plant-based ingredients.
In contrast, in India, one of the world's most populous countries, pistachios have shifted from being a decorative ingredient in sweets to a primary ingredient in the ice cream, bakery, and confectionery industries, also becoming a key element in the luxury gastronomy sector. Additionally, pistachios are gaining ground in the cosmetics industry.
