Protein Ingredients Market Synopsis

Protein Ingredients Market Size Was Valued at USD 61.07 Billion in 2023 and is Projected to Reach USD 113.22 Billion by 2032, Growing at a CAGR of 7.1% From 2024-2032.

A protein is a naturally occurring, complex substance that consists of amino acid residues joined by peptide bonds.

• Proteins are utilized as main components in health supplements, sports beverages, and protein bars to boost muscle recovery and support overall health. They are also incorporated into common food items such as cereals, baked goods, and snacks to increase their protein level.
• Protein-based coatings, known as Edible Coatings, are used on food surfaces to extend shelf life, preserve freshness, and improve texture. These coatings are present on fruits, vegetables, and processed meats. In the food industry, proteins act as emulsifiers by mixing oil and water-based ingredients and as stabilizers to preserve the texture of products such as dressings, sauces, and ice cream.
• Bioactive peptides (BAPs) and protein hydrolysates are utilized for their targeted health advantages, like enhancing heart health, and immune system functionality, and acting as antioxidants. Protein hydrogels can trap active compounds and slowly release them, which makes them ideal for drug delivery and as vehicles for nutrients in wellness items.
• Food scientists utilize proteins in product development to innovate new food items with enhanced texture, taste, and nutritional qualities. Plant-based meat alternatives, such as soy or pea protein, heavily depend on protein ingredients to imitate the texture and nutritional content of meat. In nanotechnology, proteins are utilized to create bionanomaterials for various purposes, such as drug delivery, bio-sensing, and advanced packaging materials.
• The growing popularity of plant-based diets, protein ingredients from soy, peas, chickpeas, and oats are more commonly being utilized to create substitutes for animal products such as milk, meat, and eggs. In Nutritional Enhancement Protein ingredients are included in food to boost their nutritional value, particularly in items catering to specific groups such as babies, athletes, and seniors, to guarantee they fulfill dietary needs.

Top Active Players Involved Are:

“Archer Daniels Midland Company (USA), Cargill, Incorporated (USA), DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (USA), Kerry Group plc (Ireland), Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited (New Zealand), Arla Foods Ingredients Group P/S (Denmark), Glanbia plc (Ireland), Friesland Campina Ingredients (Netherlands), Royal DSM N.V. (Netherlands), Ingredion Incorporated (USA), CHS Inc. (USA), Bunge Limited (USA), Mead Johnson Nutrition Company (USA), Amco Proteins (USA), Hilmar Ingredients (USA), Burcon NutraScience Corporation (Canada), Roquette Frères (France), Sotexpro (France), Axiom Foods, Inc. (USA), PlantFusion (USA), Sunwarrior (USA), NOW Foods (USA), Farbest Brands (USA), GELITA AG (Germany), BENEO GmbH (Germany) and Other Active Players.”

Protein Ingredients Market Trend Analysis

Increase in Demand for Proteins as Nutritional and Functional Ingredients

• The increase in the need for proteins as nutritional and functional components is a major factor driving the expansion of the worldwide protein ingredients market. This trend is based on consumers' changing awareness regarding health and well-being, resulting in a broad acknowledgment of proteins' essential role in promoting an active lifestyle and preserving good health.
• Proteins, known for their role in promoting muscle development, healing, and recovery, are now a fundamental part of the eating habits of both athletes and health enthusiasts. This consumer group actively looks for products with more protein, leading to innovation in the food industry with protein-enriched items like bars, shakes, and specialized meal replacements.
• The expansion of plant proteins has been facilitated by a transition in diet towards plant-based options, driven by environmental, ethical, and health reasons. Soy, pea, and other plant-based sources have become increasingly popular, attracting not just vegans and vegetarians but also mainstream consumers. This has resulted in a variety of protein ingredients being used as manufacturers try out different sources and forms to meet this demand.
• Proteins' functional characteristics, like their capacity to serve as emulsifiers, stabilizers, and texture enhancers, have also become essential in the food industry. From baked goods to dairy substitutes, proteins play a role in creating new products that satisfy both nutritional and taste requirements.
• The market's expansion is also supported by a rising understanding of proteins' significance in preventing and managing diseases and the aging population's heightened demand for easily digestible and nutrient-rich foods. As consumers become increasingly selective about the quality and origins of their protein intake, the industry is providing a variety of natural, organic, and sustainably sourced protein. Hence, in this way Increase in Demand for Proteins as Nutritional and Functional Ingredients acts as a Driver in the Protein Ingredients Market.

Growing Potential of Dairy and Plant Proteins

• The increasing importance of dairy and plant proteins in the worldwide protein ingredients market demonstrates the industry is adapting to changing consumer preferences and health trends. This chance arises from a variety of reasons, such as acknowledging the distinct advantages of each protein source, the increasing worldwide need for healthier food options, and the pursuit of sustainable and ethical methods of food manufacturing.
• Dairy proteins like whey and casein have been highly appreciated for their superior amino acid compositions, which are beneficial for both muscle recovery and general well-being. Their practical characteristics, such as enhancing the consistency and durability of food items, have made them popular with food producers. As the demand for clean-label and nutrient-rich items rises among consumers, the dairy protein sector is adjusting by providing organic and minimally processed choices, appealing to customers who prioritize quality and purity.
• The Plant-based proteins from various sources like peas, soy, and hemp are catering to the increasing number of consumers shifting to plant-based diets for environmental, health, and ethical concerns. These proteins are appealing to not just vegans and vegetarians, but also to flexitarians trying to decrease their meat intake. Continued research is increasing the market potential of plant proteins by enhancing their taste, digestibility, and bioavailability, which makes them more attractive to a wider range of consumers.
• The emerging trend of blending dairy and plant proteins in product formulations caters to both dietary preferences and functional needs. Plant proteins are seen as the future because they generally use less water and produce fewer greenhouse gases compared to animal sources, thus promoting sustainability. Hence, in this way Growing Potential of Dairy and Plant Proteins acts as an opportunity in the Protein Ingredients Market.

Source: Company Database

• The market value for plant protein in 2023 is 13.1 billion U.S. dollars. Compared to the 12.2 billion the market was estimated to be worth in 2022. This would constitute an increase of over seven billion U.S. dollars.

Protein Ingredients Market Segment Analysis:

Protein Ingredients Market Segmented based on Source, Form, Application, End-User.

By Form, Dry Segment Is Expected to Dominate the Market During the Forecast Period

• The factors such as food and beverages, feed, and pharmaceuticals contribute to the dry segment's dominance in the protein ingredients market, making it a top choice for industries. One major benefit is the ease of storing and transporting items. Dry protein ingredients, like powders, have a greater shelf life than liquid protein ingredients. This allows for effective management of logistics, leading to lower storage expenses.
• Dry protein ingredients can be effortlessly blended into various mixtures without changing the texture or consistency of the end product. This makes them appropriate for various products, including sports nutrition supplements, baked goods, and beverages. Manufacturers often choose them because they are easy to blend and have consistent concentrations.
• Dry forms are usually more resistant to changing environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, which is important for preserving product quality over time. This consistency guarantees reliable performance in various product categories.
• Protein supplements and fortified foods are in high demand among health-conscious individuals because of their convenience and the option to tailor serving sizes based on personal preferences. Manufacturers are compelled to include dry protein ingredients in their products due to this requirement.
• The importance of sustainability considerations is growing. The dehydrated version of protein components, particularly those derived from plants, is commonly perceived as more eco-conscious because of the reduced need for transportation and refrigeration, reflecting the increasing consumer demand for sustainable products. By Form, Dry Segment Is Expected to Dominate the Protein Ingredients Market.

By Application, Food and Beverages Segment Held the Largest Share In 2023

• The protein ingredients market is influenced by the shift in dietary preferences and health trends worldwide, resulting in a considerable portion being occupied by the food and beverages sector. Consumers are more and more looking for healthy and easy food choices that fit their busy lives and health aspirations. Protein, known for its importance in muscle development, weight control, and general well-being, has become a key element in these dietary preferences.
• The increase in demand for health and fitness products that provide functional benefits like high-protein snacks and drinks, reflecting a greater focus on wellness. These items are attractive to customers who want to increase their daily protein consumption without sacrificing flavor.
• Advancements in food technology have allowed for the creation of novel protein-fortified products that easily fit into everyday eating habits. From protein bars to fortified cereals, smoothie mixes, and protein-infused waters, the diversity of products caters to all consumer preferences, fueling the expansion of the market.
• The need for plant-based diets is driving plant protein ingredients such as soy, pea, and rice proteins. The move towards vegan and vegetarian choices is driven by worries about the environment, moral beliefs, and health advantages, resulting in a wider usage in developing food and drink products.
• Protein ingredients play a major role in sports and performance nutrition. Athletes and people who are passionate about fitness look for products high in protein to help with muscle recovery and growth, driving the need for protein-enriched drinks and snacks.
• The marketing efforts and consumer awareness initiatives have successfully emphasized the advantages of protein, turning it into a highly desired macronutrient. Food and beverage companies take advantage of this trend by marketing their products as high in protein, attracting health-conscious customers. Hence, in this way By Application, the Food and Beverages Segment Held the Largest Protein Ingredients Market.

Protein Ingredients Market Regional Insights:

North America is Expected to Dominate the Market Over the Forecast Period

• North America Is a leading region in the protein ingredients market due to a combination of factors connected to its dietary preferences, focus on health, and industrial progress. Consumers are showing a growing interest in health-oriented lifestyles, particularly focusing on protein-rich diets for purposes such as weight control, muscle development, and general well-being.
• The area has experienced an increase in the popularity of vegan and vegetarian diets, leading to a higher demand for alternative protein sources such as soy, pea, and other plant-based proteins. This is in line with the increasing popularity of flexitarianism, in which individuals are decreasing their intake of meat and choosing plant-based options instead.
• North America has a significant number of gym-goers and athletes who place a heavy emphasis on fitness and use protein supplements for improving performance and recovery. This specific group plays a major role in the need for protein ingredients. The food industry in this region is known for its innovation, as companies continuously create new protein-rich products to meet evolving consumer tastes.
• Regulatory and investment support are also advantageous in the region, promoting the growth of the protein ingredients industry through favorable regulatory environments and substantial investment in research and development. This refers to improvements in protein extraction methods and the introduction of new protein sources in the market. Hence, in this way, North America is Expected to Dominate the Protein Ingredients Market.

Protein Ingredients Market Active Players

• Archer Daniels Midland Company (USA)
• Cargill, Incorporated (USA)
• Dupont De Nemours, Inc. (USA)
• Kerry Group Plc (Ireland)
• Fonterra Co-Operative Group Limited (New Zealand)
• Arla Foods Ingredients Group P/S (Denmark)
• Glanbia Plc (Ireland)
• Frieslandcampina Ingredients (Netherlands)
• Royal Dsm N.V. (Netherlands)
• Ingredion Incorporated (USA)
• CHS Inc. (USA)
• Bunge Limited (USA)
• Mead Johnson Nutrition Company (USA)
• Amco Proteins (USA)
• Hilmar Ingredients (USA)
• Burcon Nutrascience Corporation (Canada)
• Roquette Frères (France)
• Sotexpro (France)
• Axiom Foods, Inc. (USA)
• Plantfusion (USA)
• Sunwarrior (USA)
• Now Foods (USA)
• Farbest Brands (USA)
• Gelita Ag (Germany)
• Beneo Gmbh (Germany) and Many Other Active Players

Key Industry Developments in the Protein Ingredients Market:

• In February 2024, Roquette Announced that it is going to launch four multi-functional pea proteins named NUTRALYS® Pea F853M (isolate), NUTRALYS® H85 (hydrolysate), NUTRALYS T Pea 700FL (textured) and NUTRALYS® T Pea 700M (textured) that are designed to improve taste, texture, and creativity in plant-based food and high-protein nutritional products. These latest innovations present new format and formulation options, offering refined textures and high protein content for end products, such as nutritional bars, protein drinks, and plant-based meat and dairy alternatives.
• In November 2023, Valio Leading Finnish dairy company launched a new milk protein concentrate (MPC), Valio Eila® MPC 65. The Powdered ingredients are suitable for versatile processes. You can make UHT products such as RTD beverages and shakes, fermented products such as spoonable and drinkable yogurts, neutral products like puddings and desserts, or even ice cream.