Protein Market Size to Reach USD 108.76 Billion by 2034, Rising Adoption of Fermentation-Derived Proteins

Yahoo

4 hours ago

According to Towards FnB, the global protein market size is projected to grow from USD 56.25 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 108.76 billion by 2034, representing a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034, driven by rising consumer demand for protein-rich diets, increasing plant-based product innovation, and expanding applications in sports nutrition, functional foods, and pharmaceuticals.
Ottawa, Aug. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global protein market size stood at USD 52.28 billion in 2024 with projections indicating a rise from USD 56.25 billion in 2025 to reach nearly USD 108.76 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 7.6% from 2025 to 2034, according to study published by Towards FnB, a sister firm of Precedence Research.
The market has experienced a significant surge in recent years, driven by high demand for protein-rich diets among consumers, increased awareness of the importance of incorporating protein into diets, and its benefits for overall body function.
Note: This report is readily available for immediate delivery. We can review it with you in a meeting to ensure data reliability and quality for decision-making.
Access the Full Study Instantly | Download Sample Pages of the Report Now@ https://www.towardsfnb.com/download-sample/5744
Market Overview
The protein market has undergone huge growth in the last few years due to high demand for protein-rich foods by consumers from all age groups. The consumer base for the market is rapidly expanding due to increasing awareness about the importance of protein for the overall body and its functioning. Protein is essential for the body as it helps in building and repairing tissues, creating enzymes and hormones, and enhancing immunity. The vital micro-nutrient is also essential for people on their weight management journey to keep them satiated and avoid munching on junk foods.
Key Highlights of the Protein Market:
By region, North America dominated the protein market in 2024, whereas the Asia Pacific is expected to grow in the forecast period due to high demand for protein-rich diets in the region and growing urbanization.
By source, the animal-based protein segment dominated the protein market in 2024, whereas the fermentation-derived protein segment is expected to grow in the foreseeable period.
By form, the concentrate segment led the market in 2024, whereas the hydrolysate segment is expected to expand in the foreseen period due to its beneficial properties.
By application, the food and beverages segment dominated the market in 2024, whereas the meat substitutes segment is expected to grow in the foreseeable period due to high demand for plant-based alternatives.
By end-user, the human nutrition segment dominated the market in 2024, whereas the industrial/biotech applications segment is expected to grow in the foreseen period due to its high demand in various fields.
By processing method, the wet processing segment led the protein market in 2024, whereas the fermentation segment is observed to grow with the highest CAGR in the foreseen period.
By distribution channel, the business-to-business (B2B) segment dominated the market for protein in 2024, whereas the online retail segment is expected to grow in the foreseeable period.
New Trends in the Protein Market
Improving standard of living, increasing number of health-conscious consumers, and rising health awareness are some of the major factors helping the growth of the protein market.
Increasing demand for protein-rich foods such as cheese, butter, curd, and other dairy products is also aiding the market's growth.
High demand for plant-based protein is another market growth fueling factor, with a consumer base of vegans and consumers following a plant-based diet.
Advanced technology helping in curating plant-based protein and other healthy alternatives, along with clean labels and their complete information, is also helping the growth of the market.
The global protein market growth reflects the broadening role of protein across both traditional and emerging food categories,' said Vidyesh Swar, Principal Consultant at Towards FnB. 'Sectors such as plant-based meat substitutes and precision fermentation are creating new commercial opportunities while addressing sustainability concerns.
How Has AI Impacted the Protein Market?
The use of artificial intelligence has greatly impacted the protein market. AI-driven platforms such as Shiru's ProteinDiscovery.ai are proving instrumental in the discovery of proteins with desirable properties such as better texture, flavor, and nutritional value. Collaborations between companies such as Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition and Shiru are leading to the synthesis of sweet proteins that can potentially replace sugar in beverages. Generative AI tools are also being deployed to perfect processes such as emulsification and gelation, improving the texture and taste of plant-based protein ingredients. Along with this, AI is allowing for better digestibility predictions, slowly replacing time-consuming in-vivo and in-vitro testing. Artificial intelligence is also playing a key role in the growth of precision fermentation and cultured meat. It aids in optimizing microbial strains, refining cell-culture media, and automating bioprocessing, allowing for higher production scaling, lower waste, and in turn, reduced cost of production.
View Full Market Intelligence@ https://www.towardsfnb.com/insights/protein-market
How Big is the Europe Protein Market and How Fast is it Growing?
According to Towards FnB, the Europe protein market size is valued at USD 6.39 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 10.02 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of about 5.12%. This growth is driven by rising adoption of plant-based and flexitarian diets, particularly in France, the UK, and Belgium, coupled with strategic capacity expansions by major producers such as Roquette and Uralchem in pea-protein production.
Europe Protein Market Key Highlights:
Germany accounted for 21% of the European protein market share in 2024, driven by high consumer demand for clean-label, protein-packed foods and advanced food processing infrastructure.
Netherlands and Nordic countries are projected to experience the fastest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2034, fueled by rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and a rise in plant-based dietary trends.
By source, animal-based proteins led the market with a 52% share in 2024, owing to their ease of consumption.
By source, algae protein is expected to see substantial growth at a notable CAGR between 2025 and 2034, driven by the increasing demand for high-purity proteins in sports nutrition and fortified food products.
By product form, concentrates held the largest share of 45% in 2024, thanks to their longer shelf life, superior storage stability, and ease of integration into food production processes.
By product form, the isolates segment is anticipated to experience strong growth at a significant CAGR between 2025 and 2034, as demand rises for ready-to-drink beverages and convenient food formulations.
By application, the food & beverages sector dominated with 62% of the market share in 2024, due to the high demand for elastic, plant-based proteins in products like bread, cookies, and snacks.
By application, the sports & performance nutrition segment is expected to grow at a remarkable CAGR between 2025 and 2034, driven by the increasing popularity of vegan and flexitarian diets seeking texture-rich alternatives.
Note: This Report is Readily Available for Immediate Delivery| Download the Sample Pages of this Report@ https://www.towardsfnb.com/download-sample/5751
Recent Developments in the Protein Market
In August 2025, Country Delight, an essential Indian kitchen brand, launched its high-protein cow milk with 2X the protein compared to regular cow milk. The main aim of the brand is to aid the protein requirements of Indians, for vegetarians and non-vegetarians, easily. (Source-https://www.thehansindia.com)
In August 2025, Burcon NutraScience announced the successful launch of 'FavaPro,' a 90%+ high-purity fava protein isolate. The main aim of the brand is to fulfill the rising needs of clean and plant-based protein in the market. (Source- https://nutraceuticalbusinessreview.com)
Market Dynamics
What are the Growth Drivers of the Protein Market?
There are multiple factors driving the growth of the protein market in recent times. The rise of preventative therapeutics, a growing perception among consumers that protein is necessary for health and fitness, along with cultural shifts towards high-protein diets, is leading to rising demand for products containing protein. Increased awareness about the importance of protein for the human body and its importance for the smooth functioning of the system is another major reason for the growth of the protein market. High demand for sports nutrition and an increasing pool of gym-going consumers are other major reasons for the growth of the market.
Challenges
How is High Production Cost Hampering Growth in the Protein Market?
One of the major challenges faced by the market is the high production costs incurred by the manufacturers. The costs incurred for sourcing clean and raw materials, and materials required for the manufacturing of plant-based raw materials, are another hurdle for the growth of the protein market. Costs involved in the intricate supply chain issues and use of various processing methods are another major issue for the growth of the protein market.
Opportunity
How is Plant-Based Protein Helping the Growth of the Market?
High demand for plant-based and clean sources of protein is one of the major opportunities for the growth of the market. It helps in maintaining overall health, completing protein intake for the day, and also helps to maintain sustainability, which is essential in recent times. Such alternative proteins are made from plants, fungi, insects, algae, or animal cells that help to lower the carbon footprint for enhanced sustainability.
Protein Market Regional Analysis
North America dominated the Protein Market in 2024
North America dominated the protein market in 2024 due to multiple factors aiding the growth of the market in the region. The rise of gym culture and the exponential growth of the health and fitness market in the United States, in particular, is leading to a high demand for protein products. There is a growing emphasis on protein as a method of weight loss and gaining muscle mass. The popularity of plant-based protein is also being reflected in the new products being launched. High demand for protein supplements for overall health is another major reason for the growth of the market. High demand for plant-based protein supplements is also helping to fuel the market's growth in North America.
Asia Pacific is Expected to Grow in the Forecast Period
Asia Pacific is expected to grow in the foreseen period due to high demand for a protein-rich diet in the region, helping the growth of the protein market. The high influence of Western culture in the region is leading to high demand for protein-rich foods and supplements. Consumers in the region are more aware of the benefits of protein for muscle development and weight management. This is evident with the growing number of fitness centers, gyms, and a growing number of shops exclusively offering protein supplements. Whey protein powders and plant-based proteins are gaining widespread popularity among the younger generations in countries like India and China. Consumer awareness about the importance of protein for immunity and other beneficial aspects of the body is also helping the market's growth. Hence, the market is expected to grow in the foreseen period.
Protein Market Report Scope
Report Attribute
Key Statistics
Base Year
2024
Forecast Period
2025 to 2034
Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034
CAGR of 7.6%
Market Size in 2024
USD 52.28 Billion
Market Size in 2025
USD 56.25 Billion
Market Size by 2034
USD 108.76 Billion
Dominated Region
North America
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific
Regions Covered
North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa
Have Questions? Let's Talk—Schedule a Meeting with Our Insights Team: https://www.towardsfnb.com/schedule-meeting
Protein Market Segmental Analysis
Source Analysis
The animal-based protein segment dominated the protein market in 2024 due to high demand for animal-based protein at a higher level. The world is aware of the benefits of animal-based protein and its importance for different functions of the body. The segment is also observing growth due to multiple other reasons, such as the high influence of Western culture globally, leading to high demand for a protein-rich diet, and the prevalence of chronic diseases caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, such as diabetes and obesity, are also some of the major reasons for the growth of the segment.
Fermentation-derived protein segment is expected to grow in the foreseen period due to the increasing population of vegans and consumers preferring plant-based diets. Such protein alternatives help to maintain gut health and are also easy to consume with other food and beverage options. Fermented proteins improve amino acid ratios with a plant-based approach to maintain sustainability.
Form Analysis
The concentrate segment dominated the protein market in 2024 because of its availability in powder form, which is helpful for consumers to blend it in different types of food and beverages. Such types of products also have longer shelf lives, allowing the segment and market to grow. Such a form of protein allows consumers easy consumption, leading to multiple benefits for the body. Celebrity influence on such forms of proteins is also helping the growth of the protein market.
The hydrolysate segment is observed to grow in the foreseen period due to its beneficial factor of quicker absorption in the human body. It is helpful for people with digestive issues after protein consumption. Hence, the protein market is expected to grow with the growth of the hydrolysate segment in the foreseeable period. Such protein sources also help in nutritional support for the body, and hence, the segment is expected to grow in the foreseen period.
Application Analysis
The food and beverages segment led the protein market in 2024 owing to the ease of incorporation into different types of food and beverages, helping the growth of the segment and the market. It helps to enhance the quality, texture, and nutritional quality of food and beverages, further fueling protein market growth in 2024. High demand for protein-rich food products and beverages also helps in the growth of the market. Hence, the segment dominated the market in 2024.
The meat substitutes segment is expected to grow in the forecast period due to high demand for plant-based alternatives for different types of domains. Such alternatives are made from plant-based sources and are also rich in protein. Hence, the segment has a huge consumer base of vegans and consumers following a plant-based diet. It helps in maintaining gut health and also helps to maintain the protein intake for the day, which is essential for overall health.
End-User Analysis
The human nutrition segment dominated the protein market in 2024 due to consumer awareness about the importance of protein for the body and its overall functioning. The vital component is essential for various functions of the body, such as overall nutrition, immunity, weight management, and also for the proper functioning of the cells of the body.
The industrial/biotech segment applications segment is observed to grow in the foreseen period due to its high application in different domains such as food, pharmaceuticals, and various industrial applications. Amalgamation of advanced technology with the vital component further helps to enhance the quality of protein and the foods in which the component is mixed.
Processing Method Analysis
The wet processing segment dominated the protein market in 2024 due to high quality assurance by producing pure and high-quality protein. It is also easy to blend such protein in different types of food products, such as dairy products, and in different types of beverages. Hence, the segment dominated the market in 2024.
The fermentation segment is expected to grow in the foreseeable period due to high demand for plant-based protein alternatives by consumers following veganism or plant-based diets. The process involves the biosynthesis of protein compounds similar to animal-based proteins. Hence, it allows the consumer base of the market to get the same taste, nutritional value, and texture, further fueling the growth of the market in the foreseen period.
Distribution Channel Analysis
The B2B segment dominated the protein market in 2024 due to high demand for protein by different domains such as the food and beverage industry, dietary supplement makers, the nutraceutical industry, and various similar industries. Large-scale protein purchase by such industries helps to maintain the financial stability of the market, fueling its growth. Hence, the segment dominated the market in 2024.
The online retail segment is expected to grow in the foreseeable period due to its convenience factor, allowing consumers to order products from the convenience of being at home. It also allows consumers to glance through the ingredients, product images, and reviews, which is helpful to make a better decision and order accordingly. Consumers can also have a look at protein-rich snacks for healthy munching and maintaining their health goals while traveling or on outings. Hence, the segment is observed to grow in the foreseen period.
Feel Free to Get in Touch with Us for Orders or Any Questions at: [e-mail]
Additional Topics Worth Exploring:
Fava Bean Protein Market: The global fava bean protein market size is expected to grow from USD 1,032.43 million in 2025 to USD 1,400.99 million by 2034, at a CAGR of 3.45% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Textured Vegetable Protein Market: The global textured vegetable protein market size is expected to grow from USD 1.92 billion in 2025 to USD 3.48 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 6.97% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Milk Protein Market: The global milk protein market size is expected to grow from USD 14.65 billion in 2025 to USD 25.39 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 6.3% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Animal Protein Market: The global animal protein market size is expected to grow from USD 23.16 billion in 2025 to USD 34.18 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 4.42% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Wheat Protein Ingredients Market: The global wheat protein ingredients market size is projected to witness strong growth from USD 6.44 billion in 2025 to USD 9.33 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 4.2% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Organic Rice Protein Market: The global organic rice protein market size is expected to grow from USD 88.42 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 265.62 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 13% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Fermented Plant Protein Market: The global fermented plant protein market size is rising from USD 3.92 billion in 2025 to USD 9.46 billion by 2034. This projected expansion reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Alternative Protein Ingredients Market: The global alternative protein ingredients market size is expected to grow from USD 26.24 billion in 2025 to USD 86.70 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 14.2% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Single Cell Protein Products Market: The global single cell protein products market size is set for steady growth increasing from at USD 11.89 billion in 2025 to USD 28.17 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 10.06% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Alternative Protein Market: The global alternative protein market size is projected to witness strong growth from USD 99.48 billion in 2025 to USD 232.66 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 9.9% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.
Protein Market Key Players
ADM (Archer Daniels Midland)
Cargill, Inc.
DuPont (IFF)
Kerry Group plc
Glanbia plc
Royal DSM N.V.
Nestlé Health Science
Arla Foods Ingredients
Ingredion Incorporated
Roquette Frères
Now Foods
Fonterra Co-operative Group
Amway Corp.
Burcon NutraScience
MycoTechnology Inc.
Puris Foods
Givaudan (incl. Naturex)
Bunge Limited
Corbion N.V.
Axiom Foods Inc.
Segments Covered in the Report
By Source
Animal-Based Protein
Whey Protein
Casein & Caseinates
Egg Protein
Collagen Protein
Gelatin
Plant-Based Protein
Soy Protein
Pea Protein
Rice Protein
Hemp Protein
Other Plant Proteins (Pumpkin, Sunflower, Fava Bean)
Insect Protein
Algae Protein (e.g., Spirulina, Chlorella)
Fermentation-Derived & Cultured Proteins (Microbial, Fungal, Mycoprotein)
By Form
Isolate
Concentrate
Hydrolysate
Whole/Raw
By Application
Food & Beverages
Sports Nutrition
Functional Foods
Bakery & Confectionery
Dairy Alternatives
Meat Substitutes
Infant Formula
Pharmaceuticals & Medical Nutrition
Animal Feed
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Industrial Applications (e.g., adhesives, films)
By End User
Human Nutrition
Animal Nutrition
Industrial/Biotech
By Processing Method
Wet Processing
Dry Processing
Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Fermentation
By Distribution Channel
Business-to-Business (B2B)
Retail (B2C: Online, Supermarkets, Specialty Stores)
By Region
North America
U.S.
Canada
Asia Pacific
China
Japan
India
South Korea
Thailand
Europe
Germany
UK
France
Italy
Spain
Sweden
Denmark
Norway
Latin America
Brazil
Mexico
Argentina
Middle East and Africa (MEA)
South Africa
UAE
Saudi Arabia
Kuwait
Thank you for exploring our insights. For more targeted information, customized chapter-wise sections and region-specific editions such as North America, Europe, or Asia Pacific—are also available upon request.
For Detailed Pricing and Tailored Market Report Options, Click Here: https://www.towardsfnb.com/price/5744
Feel Free to Get in Touch with Us for Orders or Any Questions at: [e-mail]
Unlock expert insights, custom research, and premium support with the Towards FnB Annual Membership. For USD 495/month (billed annually), get full access to exclusive F&B market data and personalized guidance. It's your strategic edge in the food and beverage industry: https://www.towardsfnb.com/get-an-annual-membership
About Us
Towards FnB is a global consulting firm specializing in the food and beverage industry, providing innovative solutions and expert guidance to elevate businesses. With an in-depth understanding of the dynamic F&B sector, we deliver customized market analysis and strategic insights. Our team of seasoned professionals is committed to empowering clients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, ensuring they stay ahead of market trends. Partner with us as we redefine success in the rapidly evolving food and beverage landscape, and together, we'll navigate this transformative journey.
Our Trusted Data Partners
Precedence Research | Statifacts | Towards Packaging | Towards Chemical and Materials| Nova One Advisor | Food Beverage Strategies |
For Latest Update Follow Us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/towards-food-and-beverages