The global protein ingredients market was valued at USD 77.69 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a revenue-based compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2023 to 2030. This steady growth is driven by rising demand for a variety of food products such as margarine, cold cuts, bakery items, spreads, yogurt, and milk sausages that use protein ingredients. Increased consumption of these protein-rich foods among health-conscious and elderly consumers is further fueling the market. The growing interest in these products stems not only from their nutritional benefits but also from specific functional properties, such as satiety, muscle repair, weight loss, and energy balance. These functions are made possible by innovative protein formulations containing diverse amino acid profiles, which present vast growth opportunities for the market.

The market has also experienced a notable rise in demand for animal-based protein products. In the U.S., demand for animal-derived protein is especially strong and is expected to continue growing in the near future. Companies that produce and distribute these products have undertaken supply chain initiatives to ensure a steady and reliable distribution network, supporting sustained market growth.

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Plant-based protein ingredients, derived from crops like soy, canola, wheat, and pea, are also seeing significant demand. Soy protein, in particular, leads the plant-based category and is anticipated to grow rapidly over the forecast period. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has even approved a health claim that suggests soy protein, when consumed daily in four servings, can lower LDL cholesterol levels by around 10%. This endorsement has further boosted soy protein’s popularity as a health-supportive ingredient.

In addition to soy protein’s growth, technological advancements and innovative production methods are further propelling market expansion. Protein ingredients are now applied across diverse products, such as isolates, which have high dispersibility and fine particle size, making them ideal for dairy applications. Growing consumer awareness of health benefits associated with protein ingredients has been a major growth driver for the market in recent years and is likely to continue this trajectory.

Application Segmentation Insights:

In terms of applications, the food and beverage segment led the market in 2022, capturing a 39.21% revenue share, and it is expected to retain this leading position over the forecast period. Whey protein ingredients, for instance, are an affordable source of protein and are widely used in the bakery and confectionery sectors. Recent advancements in process design and technology have refined whey products, resulting in higher quality variations like demineralized whey, Whey Protein Isolates (WPIs), and Whey Protein Concentrates (WPCs). These improvements have enabled greater use of protein ingredients in various functional food products, making them nutrient-dense options for consumers.

Animal feed is another key application area projected to grow rapidly, with an estimated CAGR of 6.3% by revenue over the forecast period. The animal feed industry is focusing on reducing environmental impact, which has increased interest in alternative proteins for feed products. The need to improve animal feed formulations with high-protein content, particularly with non-GMO sources, is becoming a priority.

Traditional protein sources for animal feed, such as soybean meal and fishmeal, have become more expensive due to rising demand, limited availability, and environmental concerns. This shift has led to an increased interest in alternative protein sources like insect meal, algae, and single-cell proteins, which are generally more sustainable and cost-effective. By using these alternative proteins, the animal feed industry aims to meet nutritional needs while reducing dependency on conventional, high-cost protein sources, thereby enhancing the sector’s overall sustainability and cost-efficiency.

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