The fine food market in the United States

The report offers a thorough analysis of the gourmet or Fine Food market in the United States, focusing on its economic structure, import dynamics, consumption trends and the regulatory requirements for entering it. The products studied include confectionery, snacks, cereals, nuts, drinks, dairy products, preserves, honey, coffee, tea and derivatives.

1. Economic context and market profile

The United States remains the world's leading economy, with a GDP of more than USD 25 trillion (around 25% of global GDP) and a population of over 330 million. Services account for close to 77% of GDP, and purchasing power per capita (USD 81,695) is double that of the European Union, which drives consumption of premium products.

The Fine Food market is broad and diverse: it ranges from confectionery and snacks to dairy, drinks and preserves. In 2025, the confectionery & snacks segment generates estimated revenue of USD 141.34 billion, with forecast annual growth of 4.6% up to 2030. Per-capita consumption reaches USD 407 (45.8 kg) in 2025, with a clear trend towards healthy, high-quality products.

2. Differences from the European market

US consumers prioritise practicality and "on-the-go" consumption, while Europe stands out for more natural, less processed food. In the USA, 60% of the food consumed is ultra-processed (14% in the EU). Europeans value tradition, origin and craftsmanship, while in the USA speed and novelty prevail.

Global trends point to sustained growth in the healthy and functional food market, in both Europe and the USA, with annual growth above 8%. Consumers look for clean labels (clean label), natural products with nutritional benefits.

3. Production and imports

Despite growing local production of gourmet products (artisan cheeses, craft craft beers, premium chocolates), the USA relies heavily on imports in categories such as coffee, cocoa, honey and nuts.

• Coffee, tea and spices: USD 10.5 billion
• Cocoa and derivatives: USD 8.25 billion
• Confectionery and sugars: USD 7.17 billion
• Dairy, eggs and honey: USD 4.49 billion

The main suppliers vary by category: Brazil, Vietnam and Colombia lead in coffee and tea; Canada and Mexico stand out in cocoa; and the European Union carries weight above all in dairy and value-added products.

4. Perception of Spanish products

Spanish products enjoy a positive image associated with quality, tradition and the Mediterranean diet. Categories such as cheeses, oils, preserved vegetables and pastries are identified with authenticity and intense flavour. However, products such as honey or traditional snacks need more promotion to gain recognition in the US market.

5. Consumer profile and trends

The Fine Food consumer looks for quality, differentiation and experience. More than 60% prefer premium products if they offer transparency, traceability and health benefits.

• Origin and quality: an advantage for European and Spanish products.
• Sustainability: interest in plant-based products, organic certifications and fair trade.
• Convenience: ready-to-eat formats, single-serve packs and on-the-go.
• Digitalisation: e-commerce accounts for a growing share of gourmet product purchases.

6. Distribution and regional markets

The main channels are specialist retail retail, e-commerce and HORECA. Choosing an importer experienced in gourmet products is key to entering the market, as they handle logistics, health requirements and brand positioning.

• California and New York: a high concentration of gourmet consumers and openness to new brands.
• Florida and Texas: high cultural diversity and demand for international products.
• Massachusetts and Washington: oriented towards healthy, sustainable and organic products.

7. Access requirements and regulation

The US market has a demanding regulatory framework. The main bodies involved are the FDA (food safety and labelling), the USDA (organic certifications) and CBP (customs control).

• Registration of foreign facilities and appointment of a local agent (FSMA).
• Foreign supplier verification programme (FSVP).
• English labelling with nutritional information, allergens, origin and importer.
• Compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and preventive controls (HARPC).
• Additional certifications: Kosher, Halal or USDA Organic.

Organic products

To use the USDA Organic seal, at least 95% of ingredients must be organic and the product must be certified by an accredited body. The US-EU equivalence agreement makes marketing easier but requires an Organic Import Certificate (OIC) for each shipment.

Tariffs and taxes

Tariffs vary by product (examples: cheeses and jams, 25%). Federal charges such as the Merchandise Processing Fee (0.35%) and the Harbor Maintenance Fee (0.125%) also apply, while state taxes on food vary according to local legislation.

8. Conclusions

The Fine Food market in the USA represents a strategic opportunity for exporters, especially European ones, but requires thorough preparation.

1. Understand consumer preferences and adapt your offer.
2. Choose an importer with the right experience and coverage.
3. Comply strictly with FDA and USDA regulations.
4. Manage tariff and tax costs as part of your strategy.
5. Stand out through quality, authenticity, sustainability and innovation.

Sustained growth in demand for premium healthy, sustainable products, together with the digitalisation of consumption, opens a window of opportunity for Catalan agri-food companies wishing to position themselves in the US market for Fine Food.