Global Sports Nutrition Market Outlook, 2028

Sports nutrition products are specialized nutrition items that are designed to improve performance and recovery times during and after sports activities such as athletics, workouts, or bodybuilding. These products are used before and after physical activity to offer energy during the activity and aid in recovery. Most sports nutrition solutions contain components that improve physical capabilities and energy absorption by the body, allowing the user to get the most out of their efforts. Protein-rich sports nutrition supplements help bodybuilders create new muscles and athletes keep lean muscles, whereas goods containing minerals, electrolytes, carbs, and other types of nutrients help the body deliver energy, hydration, and nutrition. Athletes utilize a combination of sports nutrition products to maximize output and correctly complement their nutritional needs during tough workouts and physical activities. Whey protein, which is derived from milk, is used in many protein powders and protein drinks. This contributes to the product remaining as natural as possible and reducing the use of chemical additives. As customers become more concerned about the usage of components in products, the use of organic substances in the creation of sports nutrition products is gaining traction in the market. Furthermore, a surge in demand from casual customers who are not actively engaged in any strenuous physical activities is propelling market growth. Demand for energy bars and RTD protein drinks among lifestyle users is constantly expanding, assisting the market's expansion. Furthermore, the availability of such items is becoming much easier with the usage of online stores and delivery services, which is contributing to the expansion of the sports nutrition industry.

According to the research report, Global Sports Nutrition Market Outlook, 2028 the market is anticipated to reach USD 80.71 Billion market size by 2028, increasing from USD 49.93 Billion in 2022. The market is projected to grow with 8.51% CAGR by 2023-28. Beyond protein, sports nutrition products incorporate various functional ingredients to enhance performance, endurance, and recovery. These ingredients included creatine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), caffeine, vitamins, minerals, and adaptogens. Manufacturers were investing in research and development to discover new ingredients with scientifically-backed benefits. The sports nutrition market was recognising the unique needs of female athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Companies were developing specialized products designed to support women's physiological requirements, hormonal balance, and specific fitness goals. Sustainability was becoming a key consideration for consumers in the sports nutrition market. They were seeking products and brands that prioritized eco-friendly packaging, responsibly sourced ingredients, and reduced carbon footprints. The demand for plant-based and vegan sports nutrition products has grown significantly. Plant-based protein powders, bars, and other alternatives have gained popularity among athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking for non-animal-derived sources of nutrients. This trend aligns with the overall rise in plant-based diets and ethical considerations surrounding animal products. Natural energy boosters have gained attention as an alternative to traditional caffeinated drinks and stimulants. Ingredients like green tea extract, guarana, yerba mate, and adaptogens such as ashwagandha and rhodiola rosea are being incorporated into sports nutrition products to provide sustained energy and focus without the crash associated with high levels of caffeine.

Geographically, the global market for sports nutrition products is divided into Latin America, North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa. In recent years, North America has dominated the global market, accounting for the lion's share. According to the survey, this category is expected to remain at the top throughout the projected period. This region's rapid expansion can be related to increased health concerns. Furthermore, growing consumer interest in sports will almost certainly contribute significantly to the expansion of the North American sports nutrition products market in the coming years. Furthermore, Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a steady pace in the next years. A large increase in the number of individuals expected to participate in various sorts of sports is one of the key factors likely to fuel the market's overall expansion during the forecast period. Furthermore, increased disposable income and consumer knowledge of the benefits of consuming sports nutrition products are expected to fuel market expansion in the near future.

The prevalence of obesity and diabetes in the United States is drawing individuals to fitness centers. The primary growth drivers include an increase in physical disease, a healthy economy, and a shift in customer demand for organic and natural sports nutrition products. The expansion of health clubs and fitness centers, as well as the advent of online fitness classes, is assisting in the growth of the sports nutrition industry in the United States. Because of the global shutdown, there was a rise in health and fitness awareness in the United States. The growing trend of veganism in the country has resulted in a major increase in demand for plant-derived ingredient sports nutrition. Consumers are becoming more aware of the benefits of soy protein and pea protein, which is favorably benefiting the sports nutrition market. Mexico is known for its rich culinary heritage and diverse plant-based ingredients. Several unique ingredients and superfoods from Mexico, such as chia seeds, amaranth, cactus, and spirulina, are gaining attention in the sports nutrition market. These ingredients offer nutritional benefits and align with the demand for natural and sustainable options. Mexico has a strong tradition of sports such as soccer, boxing, wrestling (lucha libre), and traditional martial arts like lucha maya and charreada. Sports nutrition products tailored to these specific activities, such as supplements to support endurance, agility, and recovery, are available in the market.

Based on product type, the market is divided into Sports Supplements (tablets and Capsules), Sports Drinks, Sports Foods (Protein Bars, Energy Bars, Gels, etc.), and powder. Among them, Sports drinks will have the highest market share in 2022. Sports drinks are formulated to help athletes and individuals replenish fluids, electrolytes, and carbohydrates lost during physical activity. They contain a combination of water, carbohydrates, and electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium. This makes them an effective choice for hydration during and after exercise, especially in high-intensity or endurance activities. Major sports drink brands have invested heavily in marketing and brand promotion, establishing a strong presence in the market. These brands often sponsor high-profile sports events, teams, and athletes, creating brand recognition and an association with athletic performance. This marketing strategy has helped drive consumer preference for sports drinks. For instance, some major sports drink brands that have established a strong presence in the market include Gatorade, Powerade, Lucozade Sport, Red Bull, BodyArmor, and many more. In addition, sports Food is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Sports foods also serve as convenient snack replacements and meal substitutes for individuals seeking a quick and nutritious option. Protein bars and energy bars, in particular, can provide a satisfying and nutrient-dense alternative to traditional snacks or as a meal replacement for individuals on the go or following specific dietary plans. Further, among the sports supplements, the segment is categorized into protein supplements, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, detox supplements, electrolytes, and others. Among them, protein supplements and vitamins are major contributors, with more than 62% of the market.

Global Sports nutrition market based on end user the market is divided into Athletes, bodybuilders, and lifestyle users. Among them, Lifestyle users are leading the market. The lifestyle user segment represents individuals who are not necessarily professional athletes or bodybuilders but engage in regular physical activities and fitness routines to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This segment includes recreational athletes, fitness enthusiasts, gym-goers, and individuals seeking overall health and wellness benefits from sports nutrition products. They may use sports nutrition products to support their exercise routines, aid in weight management, enhance energy levels, and improve overall fitness. In addition, Athletes are expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Athletes, including professional athletes, competitive sports participants, and individuals engaged in high-intensity training or sports activities, have traditionally been a significant consumer base for sports nutrition products. They have specific nutritional needs to support their performance, endurance, and recovery. Athletes often require higher protein intake, energy replenishment, and targeted supplementation to optimize their training and competitive outcomes. This segment includes athletes from various sports disciplines such as soccer, basketball, running, swimming, and more.

Based on raw materials, Animal-based raw materials, such as whey protein, casein protein, and collagen peptides, are considered to have a higher biological value compared to plant-based protein sources. Biological value refers to the proportion of protein that can be incorporated into the body's tissues and used for various physiological functions. Animal-based proteins are rich in essential amino acids and have a well-balanced amino acid profile, making them highly effective for muscle recovery, repair, and growth. In addition, the mixed raw materials segment includes sports nutrition products that combine both animal-based and plant-based ingredients. This segment caters to consumers who seek a blend of protein sources or prefer a wider variety of nutritional profiles. Mixed raw material products can offer the benefits of both animal-based and plant-based proteins, such as a balanced amino acid profile and diverse nutrient content. Some sports nutrition products incorporate a combination of animal- and plant-based ingredients, such as protein bars, pre-workout supplements, and meal replacement shakes. These formulations aim to provide a diverse range of nutrients to support various aspects of athletic performance and recovery.

In terms of Distribution channels, the market is divided into Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores, Convenience Stores, Online/E-Commerce/Internet Retailing, Drugstores and Pharmacies, and other distribution channels (Healthfood Shops, Direct Selling, etc.). Online retailing, e-commerce, and internet-based platforms have seen significant growth in the sports nutrition market. Consumers can purchase sports nutrition products from various online platforms, including dedicated sports nutrition websites, e-commerce marketplaces, and brand websites. Online channels offer a wide range of products, detailed product information, customer reviews, and convenient home delivery options. For instance, some of the popular online channels include Amazon, Bodybuilding, MyProtein, Vitacost, and iHerb. In addition, Supermarkets and hypermarkets are large retail stores that offer a wide range of products, including sports nutrition products. These stores provide convenience and a one-stop shopping experience for consumers. They typically have dedicated sections for health and wellness products, including sports nutrition supplements and food items. Some of the popular hypermarkets and supermarkets include Walmart, Tesco, Carrefour, Costco Wholesale, and Kroger.

Developments:

• In April 2020, GlaxoSmithKline, a U.K.-based multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, acquired Maxinutrition Group Holdings Limited, a U.K.-based company that manufactures protein-enhanced functional nutrition products, from Darwin Private Equity, a private equity firm specializing in investments in lower middle market companies.
• In January 2022, Hydroxycut, a sports nutrition brand under its parent company, Lovate Health Sciences, launched a new product namely Cut, an energy drink that will help consumers to reduce their body fat percentage
• In March 2020, The Coca-Cola Company, a U.S.-based multinational beverage company, launched Powerade, an energy drink with different flavors. The strategy behind this was to expand the company's product portfolio with new product development.

Major Companies present in the market:

Glanbia plc, Abbott Laboratories, PepsiCo, Inc, The Coca-Cola Company , Nestlé S.A, Amway Corp, Hormel Foods Corporation, Post Holdings, Inc., Ajinomoto Co., Inc., GNC Holdings, LLC, Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd. , AJE Group, Suntory Holdings Limited, Otsuka Corporation, Herbalife Nutrition Ltd., Innovate Health Sciences, vitaco holdings limited, Olvi plc, Bulk Powders, The Jel Sert Company.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Global Sports Nutrition market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Regional-wise Sports Nutrition market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regional covered in the report:

• North America (United States, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Russia)
• Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea)
• South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia)
• Middle East & Africa (United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa)

By Product Type

• Sports Supplements (Tablet and Capsules)
• Sports Drinks
• Sports Foods (Protein Bars, Energy Bars, Gels, etc.)
• Powder

By Raw Material Type

• Animal Based
• Plant Based
• Mixed

By End user

• Athletes
• Bodybuilders
• Lifestyle Users

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Specialty Stores
• Convenience Stores
• Online/E-Commerce/Internet Retailing
• Drugstores and Pharmacies
• Other Distribution Channels (Healthfood Shops, Direct Selling, etc.)

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Sauces, Dressings & Condiments industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.