Global protein ingredients market analysis and insights

The global protein ingredients market estimated at US$62.3 billion in the year 2024 is now projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.09% and reach US$93.74 billion by 2030. This substantial growth is driven by several key factors that align with global trends in health, nutrition, and sustainability. One of the primary growth drivers is the increasing awareness and demand for protein-rich diets, particularly among consumers focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. As the awareness of the importance of protein in supporting muscle health, weight management, and overall well-being continues to rise, the demand for protein ingredients, both plant-based and animal-derived, is expected to soar.

Moreover, the growing trend towards plant-based diets and alternative protein sources presents a significant opportunity for the protein ingredients market. With a rising number of consumers opting for vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, there is a surge in demand for plant-based protein ingredients derived from sources like soy, pea, rice, and other legumes. Additionally, advancements in food technology and ingredient innovation are playing a crucial role in expanding the market. Companies are investing in research and development to create novel protein ingredients that not only meet nutritional needs but also address sensory attributes and sustainability concerns.

Looking ahead, the protein ingredients market is likely to experience continued growth due to the increasing adoption of protein-enriched products, the rising preference for sustainable and ethical sourcing, and the ongoing development of new protein sources and processing technologies. As the food and beverage industry adapts to changing consumer preferences, the protein ingredients market is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends and unlock new opportunities for growth.

Protein ingredients market regional insights

North American protein ingredients market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period 2024-2030. This growth can be attributed to the expanding applications of protein ingredients in diverse sectors such as sports nutrition, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, the emphasis on clean-label and sustainable ingredients, coupled with the continuous development of innovative protein sources, further contributes to the market’s growth in the region. United States contributed around 79% of the total North American protein ingredients market. It is estimated to have a market value of US$16.07 billion in the year 2024.

Asia Pacific protein ingredients market is anticipated to witness an upsurge owing to the rapid industrialization and urbanization in developing countries like China and India. Moreover, the market is being driven by high R&D expenditure by major players, combined with efforts to commercialize protein ingredients at affordable prices. China is expected to dominate the Asia-Pacific market and reach a market size of US$15.69 billion by 2030.

Within Europe, Germany, France, Italy and the U.K. are the key countries responsible for the significant growth of the regional protein ingredients market. Germany is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.41% over the forecast period.

Meanwhile, the Middle East & Africa is expected to show limited growth due to the strong presence of under-developed countries in Africa who are still struggling to meet technology standards. However, any growth that the region experiences is expected to come from developing Middle Eastern nations such as Qatar, U.A.E, and Oman due to a similar growth pattern as the Asia Pacific.

Key players

Key players profiled in the report include A&B Ingredients Inc., Agropur MSI, LLC, AMCO Proteins Co., Amway Corp., Archer Daniels Midland Co., Arla Foods Ingredients Group P/S, Armor Proteines S.A.S., Axiom Foods, Inc., Bunge Ltd., Burcon NutraScience Corp., Cargill Inc., Darling Ingredients Inc., DuPont Nutrition & Health, Fonterra Co-Operative Group Ltd., Gelita AG, Glanbia Plc, Hilmar Ingredients, Kerry Group plc, Kewpie Corp., Lactalis Ingredients, Manildra Group USA, Michael Foods, Inc., Omega Protein Corp., PB Leiner, Roquette Freres SA, Tessenderlo Group NV, The Scoular Co., and Weishardt Holding SA, among others.

Competitive landscape

November 23, 2023 – Leading Finnish dairy company Valio has launched a new milk protein concentrate (MPC), Valio Eila® MPC 65. Valio’s expertise in lactose free milk protein development helps manufacturers create better-tasting and healthier high-protein products to meet the growing global market needs.

October 09, 2023 – Arla Foods Ingredients has invested in a major upgrade to its facility in Argentina, allowing it to meet growing demand for high-quality whey ingredients, both in Latin America and globally.

Global protein ingredients market scope

• By source
  • Animal-based protein
  • Plant-based protein
  • Insects
  • Others

• By application
  • Food & beverages
  • Sports nutrition and supplements
  • Animal feed
  • Medical nutrition
  • Cosmetics & personal care
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Others

• By end-user
  • Bodybuilders
  • Lifestyle users
  • Fitness enthusiasts
  • Athletes and sportspersons
  • General consumers
  • Children and pediatric
  • Others

• By region
  • North America
  • South America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East and Africa

The research report  provides a comprehensive review of market trends, market growth drivers, PEST Analysis, Market growth inhibitors, and strategic industry activities and SWOT Analysis of key players in the market.

The report provides market estimates and forecast for geographic markets such as the North America (US, Canada, Mexico and Rest of North America), South America (Brazil, Argentina and Rest of South America), Europe (Germany, France, U.K., Russia, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Netherlands, Poland, Austria, Norway, Switzerland, Denmark and Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, India, Australia and Rest of Asia-Pacific), Middle East (Iran, Turkey, Kuwait, UAE, Israel and Rest of Middle East) & Africa.