Pasta is a staple food in many households around the world, and Spain is no exception. Although Spanish cuisine is famous for traditional dishes like paella, tapas and Iberian ham, pasta has secured a special place in the everyday cooking of the Spanish population. Its versatility and popularity have driven a notable increase in consumption in recent years.
According to the latest Food Consumption Report in Spain (2024), produced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA), pasta not only maintains its place in the Spanish diet but continues to grow in consumption. Here are some key data on this growing trend.
Current Data and Trends of the Pasta Sector in Spain
The pasta sector in Spain has shown sustained growth in recent years, consolidating itself as an essential food in the diet of Spanish consumers.
In 2024, average pasta consumption reached 4.14 kg per person per year, representing a 3.9% increase compared to the previous year, despite the context of economic contraction recorded, according to Nielsen data.
This upward trend has continued over time, with cumulative growth of 17% over the past five years, reflecting a shift in consumer habits.
Some current data on the pasta sector in Europe
In 2023, the European Union produced 6.2 million tons of pasta, valued at €8.9 billion. Italy led production with 4.2 million tons (68% of the total), followed by Spain with 485,131 tons (8%).
In terms of consumption, Italy stands out with 23.3 kg per capita per year, compared to Spain’s 4.14 kg.
In terms of exports, the EU shipped nearly 2.7 million tons of pasta in 2023, of which more than half (57%) were destined for other EU countries. Italy exported 2 million tons (76% of the total), and Spain around 130,000 tons (5%).
All of this reflects Italy’s dominant position in terms of pasta production and consumption in Europe, while Spain, although it is the second largest producer in the EU, shows a significantly lower per capita consumption.
Pasta consumer profile
According to the sector data from the ‘Food Consumption Report in Spain (2024)’ by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA), several population market segments in Spain have been identified in which pasta has established itself as an essential food in their diet:
Households with children in middle and older age groups account for 22.3% of total pasta consumption, followed by people over 65, who contribute 17.84% of the volume consumed. Also notable is the group of young independent consumers, whose average consumption is 6.5 kg per person per year, exceeding the national average by more than two kilograms.
These figures reflect the growing popularity of pasta among different segments of the Spanish population, demonstrating its versatility and adaptation to diverse dietary preferences and needs.
Geographic distribution of pasta consumption
Furthermore, when analysing the sector by geographic areas:
Catalonia leads consumption with 5.27 kg per capita per year, representing 20.34% of the total volume of pasta consumed in the country. In the Balearic Islands, consumption is equal to the above, at 5.27 kg per person.
It is followed by Galicia, which records a consumption of 4.62 kg per person per year.In contrast, northern regions such as La Rioja (3.36 kg), Navarra (3.40 kg) and the Basque Country (3.43 kg) show figures below the national average.
Factors Driving Increased Consumption
Below are some of the factors that are increasing pasta consumption in the country.
First, pasta stands out for its culinary versatility, as it adapts to a wide variety of recipes, from traditional to the most innovative. In addition, its speed and ease of preparation make it an ideal option for those seeking quick and simple solutions in their daily diet.
On the other hand, its affordability, being an economical and accessible food for the majority of consumers.
Finally, the variety of healthy options available, such as wholegrain, gluten-free, and pastas made with different cereals and legumes, have broadened their appeal to diverse dietary profiles.
Conclusion
In summary, pasta consumption in Spain has shown consistent growth in recent years, consolidating itself as an essential food in the diet of Spanish consumers.
This trend reflects significant changes in eating habits, driven by pasta’s versatility, ease of preparation, affordability and the variety of healthy options it offers.
With a rising annual average consumption and notable acceptance among various segments of the population, pasta continues to gain ground as a practical and accessible option in everyday cooking.
Sources:
- Food Consumption Report in Spain (2024) – MAPA: https://www.mapa.gob.es/es/alimentacion/temas/observatorio-cadena/kantaranalsisconsumoypreciosocanoviembre2024_tcm30-696570.pdf
- La pasta gana terreno en la alimentación de los españoles: https://www.alimarket.es/alimentacion/noticia/397519/la-pasta-gana-terreno-en-la-alimentacion-de-los-espanoles
