Global Protein Ingredients Market Size By Type (Animal Protein Ingredients, Plant Protein Ingredients), By Application (Nutritional Supplements, Food), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 to 2032

The Global Protein Ingredients Market, valued at USD 43.2 billion in 2023, is projected to grow to USD 72.8 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2023 to 2031. This market expansion is largely attributed to the rising demand for high-quality protein sources across food, beverage, and dietary supplement sectors, driven by an increasing consumer focus on health and wellness. Protein ingredients play a vital role in nutrition, muscle repair, and overall health, finding extensive application in functional foods, sports nutrition, and personal care products.

Drivers:

Health and Wellness Trend: A growing emphasis on fitness and nutrition is leading consumers to seek protein-enriched products, driving the demand for protein ingredients.

Plant-Based Protein Demand: Increasing preference for plant-based diets fuels demand for protein alternatives, such as soy, pea, and almond proteins, to cater to vegan and vegetarian consumers.

Rise in Functional Foods and Beverages: Protein ingredients are integral in enhancing the nutritional value of foods and beverages, a trend gaining traction as consumers prioritize health.

Restraints:

High Production Costs: The production of high-quality, specialized protein ingredients, particularly plant-based proteins, can be costly, affecting overall pricing.

Taste and Texture Challenges: Certain protein ingredients may affect the taste and texture of food products, posing challenges in formulation for manufacturers.

Opportunity:

Expansion in Emerging Markets: Growing disposable income and awareness of health benefits in emerging markets provide a lucrative opportunity for protein ingredient suppliers.

Innovation in Alternative Proteins: Advancements in protein extraction and processing are opening avenues for unique protein sources like algae and insect protein, meeting diverse consumer demands.

Market by Type Insights:

The Animal Protein segment, including whey, casein, and collagen, leads the market in 2023 due to its high amino acid profile and functionality in various applications. However, Plant Protein is expected to exhibit the highest growth, driven by increasing plant-based diet trends and innovation in sources like soy and pea protein.

Market by Application Insights:

The Food and Beverages segment is the largest application segment, driven by demand for protein-fortified foods. Within this, the sports nutrition and functional foods sub-segments are experiencing rapid growth due to the popularity of protein products for muscle development and overall health.

Market by Regional Insights:

North America dominates the protein ingredients market, driven by high consumer awareness and demand for functional foods. However, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to witness the highest growth, fueled by increasing health awareness and a growing middle class in countries such as China and India.

Competitive Scenario:

Key players in the Global Protein Ingredients Market include Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), Cargill, Inc., DuPont, Kerry Group, Glanbia plc, Fonterra Co-operative Group, and Roquette Frères. These companies focus on expanding their portfolios, with investments in alternative proteins and partnerships for research in sustainable protein sourcing. For instance:

In 2023, ADM launched a new line of plant-based protein solutions designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable and allergen-free protein ingredients.

Roquette announced its expansion into alternative protein sources by opening a new research facility in 2024.

Scope of Work – Global Protein Ingredients Market

Key Market Developments:

2023: ADM introduced a plant-based protein line to meet the increasing demand for allergen-free and sustainable protein ingredients in food applications.

2024: Roquette expanded its research facility for alternative protein sources, with a focus on sustainability and innovation in protein extraction.

2025: Glanbia plc entered a strategic partnership with a major sports nutrition brand to develop specialized protein blends for athletic performance.

FAQs

What is the current market size of the Global Protein Ingredients Market?

The market size was USD 43.2 billion in 2023.

What is the major growth driver of the Global Protein Ingredients Market?

Major growth drivers include the rising health and wellness trend, increased demand for plant-based diets, and the expansion of functional food applications.

Which is the largest region during the forecast period in the Global Protein Ingredients Market?

North America currently holds the largest market share, but Asia-Pacific is expected to experience the highest growth rate.

Which segment accounted for the largest market share in the Global Protein Ingredients Market?

The Animal Protein segment held the largest share, driven by high functionality and amino acid profile.

Who are the key market players in the Global Protein Ingredients Market?

Key players include ADM, Cargill, DuPont, Kerry Group, Glanbia, and Roquette Frères.