Protein Ingredients Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F

Food & Beverages is the fastest growing segment, North America is the largest regional market

The Global Protein Ingredients Market, valued at USD 90.14 Billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.75% to reach USD 126.07 Billion by 2030. Protein ingredients are concentrated protein sources derived from animal, plant, and microbial origins, used to enhance nutritional value, functionality, and texture across food, beverage, and dietary supplement applications. Market growth is primarily fueled by rising global health and wellness awareness, increased demand for protein-rich diets, an expanding aging population requiring adequate protein intake, and strong momentum in the sports nutrition sector. Additionally, the growing shift toward sustainable, ethically sourced plant-based proteins continues to stimulate innovation within the industry.

Key Market Drivers

The increasing emphasis on consumer health and wellness stands as a primary catalyst for the expansion of the global protein ingredients market

Consumers are shifting toward functional foods and beverages that support weight management, muscle maintenance, and overall vitality, driving heightened interest in protein-enriched products. According to Cargill’s 2025 Protein Profile, 61% of consumers increased their protein intake in 2024, up from 48% in 2019. This shift strengthens demand for protein isolates, concentrates, and hydrolysates across the food and beverage sectors.

Simultaneously, the accelerated transition to plant-based proteins is reshaping the market, driven by environmental awareness, ethical concerns, and perceived health benefits. Product developers are broadening the use of soy, pea, and rice proteins in categories such as dairy alternatives, plant-based yogurts, and confectionery. According to the Good Food Institute’s State of the Industry reports, global sales of plant-based meat and dairy alternatives reached $28.6 billion in 2024, up 5% from 2023. Additionally, a March 2024 PMC research article noted that plant-based proteins already represent about 60% of total global protein supply, emphasizing their foundational role in meeting global protein needs.

Key Market Challenges

The Global Protein Ingredients Market faces a significant challenge from the persistent volatility in raw material pricing and disruptions within the global supply chain

Fluctuating raw material prices increase production costs, complicate budgeting, and often lead to higher final product prices, which can dampen consumer demand. Supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical instability, transportation bottlenecks, and environmental events further constrain material availability and hinder manufacturers’ ability to meet demand. According to Vesper’s 2024 analysis, whey protein isolate prices rose nearly 25% year-over-year, significantly impacting cost structures within the sports nutrition segment. Such volatility restricts market stability and slows expansion by elevating operational complexities for producers.

Key Market Trends

The global protein ingredients market increasingly emphasizes sustainable and upcycled protein sourcing

Companies are adopting circular economy practices by converting food byproducts into valuable protein sources, addressing environmental concerns and reducing waste. The Good Food Institute reported that alternative protein funding reached $1.1 billion in 2024, driven by sustainability-focused innovation. Misfits Market’s 2023 Impact Report highlighted a partnership with the Upcycled Food Association, featuring 60 Upcycled Certified products and three co-created offerings, underscoring the sector’s sustainability momentum.

Key Market Players Profiled:

• Archer Daniels Midland Company
• Tessenderlo Group nv
• Kewpie Corporation
• Roquette Belgium NV
• The Scoular Company
• CHS, Inc.
• Mead Johnson & Company, LLC
• CropEnergies AG
• Cargill, Incorporated
• Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Protein Ingredients Market has been segmented into the following categories:

By Product:

• Plant Proteins
• Animal/Dairy Proteins
• Microbe-based Protein
• Insect Protein

By Application:

• Food & Beverages
• Infant Formulations
• Clinical Nutrition
• Animal Feed
• Others

By Region:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle East & Africa

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Protein Ingredients Market.

Available Customizations:

With the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report.

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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