High Protein-based Food Market Analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, Middle East and Africa - US, China, France, Germany, Russia - Size and Forecast 2024-2028

High Protein-Based Food Market Size 2024-2028 

The high protein-based food market size is forecast to increase by USD 50.2 billion at a CAGR of 8.65% between 2023 and 2028. The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key drivers. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing health and wellness, leading to a heightened demand for ingredients like plant-based proteins from sources such as tofu, legumes, and pea protein. These alternatives offer essential nutrients while being free from saturated fat and cholesterol. Additionally, sustainability and ethical considerations are becoming crucial factors in food choices. As a result, the market is witnessing a shift towards plant-based protein sources. Moreover, endorsements from celebrities and sportspersons have further fueled the market's growth. However, stringent government regulations on high-protein-based food products ensure that only safe and nutritious offerings reach consumers. The FDA also regulates the use of protein ingredients, such as dairy protein and bitter whey protein, in these products.  Fiber-rich plant-based proteins are particularly popular, as they contribute to overall health and wellness. By focusing on these trends, businesses can capitalize on the growing demand for high-protein, health-conscious, and sustainable food options.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market in the United States is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing awareness of the importance of protein in maintaining a balanced diet. Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in building and repairing body tissues, and it is a key component of every cell in the human body. The demand for high protein foods is not limited to the sports nutrition sector alone. In recent years, protein has become a mainstream ingredient in various food products, including beverages, snacks, and shelf-life items.

Moreover, consumers are increasingly seeking out protein-rich alternatives to animal products due to concerns over saturated fat, cholesterol, and environmental sustainability. Taste preference is a crucial factor driving the growth of the market in the United States. Consumers want protein-rich foods that not only meet their nutritional needs but also taste good. This has led to the development of a wide range of alternative proteins, such as tofu, legumes, and pea protein, which offer a rich and savory flavor profile. Moreover, food technology and culinary innovation have played a significant role in expanding the consumer base for high protein-based foods.

Furthermore, Plant-based burgers, sausages, meatless chicken, and fish alternatives have gained immense popularity among consumers who prefer nutritious diets but do not want to compromise on taste. Furthermore, essential minerals and fiber are often added to high protein-based foods to enhance their nutritional value. These additives not only provide additional health benefits but also help to improve the texture and taste of the products. The market in the United States is expected to continue growing due to the increasing demand for convenient and nutritious food options. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are looking for foods that provide the necessary nutrients to support an active lifestyle while also being delicious and accessible.

Market Segmentation

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

• Product
  • Protein-rich drinks
  • High-protein and high energy sports drink
  • Protein supplements
  • High-protein and nutritious sports drink
  • Protein-rich packaged foods
• Distribution Channel
  • Offline channel
  • Online channel
• Geography
  • North America
    • US
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • France
  • APAC
    • China
  • South America
  • Middle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The protein-rich drinks segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Protein-based food products, including protein-rich drinks, are essential for maintaining optimal health and nutrition, particularly for individuals engaged in athletic activities or seeking muscle growth. The United States, the UK, and Germany are significant markets for high-protein food items due to their active sports cultures and health-conscious consumer bases. Protein-rich drinks offer numerous benefits, such as providing essential minerals and optimal hydration through electrolytes. These beverages are popular among athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts. However, consumer adoption in some Asian countries is limited due to a lack of awareness and promotion of these products' benefits. Environmental sustainability is a growing concern in the food industry, leading to increased demand for natural resources in the production of animal products.

Further, food technology and culinary innovation have led to the development of plant-based alternatives, such as plant-based burgers, sausages, meatless chicken, and fish alternatives, which cater to the growing consumer base seeking sustainable and ethical food sources. These alternatives offer a viable solution to address the environmental impact of animal agriculture while providing comparable nutritional value. In conclusion, the high-protein-based food market, including protein-rich drinks, is expected to grow significantly due to increasing consumer awareness, health-consciousness, and the availability of innovative plant-based alternatives. 

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The protein-rich drinks segment accounted for USD 26.80 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Insights

North America is estimated to contribute 36% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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In 2023, North America led The market, with the United States being the largest market in this region. The market is witnessing growth in both volume and value due to shifting consumer demographics and increasing awareness of the health benefits of protein and the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. This trend is not limited to athletes and bodybuilders but also extends to individuals who do not engage in sports activities. In response, manufacturers are focusing on product innovation and improvements, offering simpler formulations and more convenient formats to cater to this expanding market. Taste preference plays a crucial role in consumer decision-making, and companies are investing in research and development to create high protein-fortified drinks and other shelf-stable products that not only meet nutritional requirements but also appeal to consumers' taste buds. The high protein food market in North America is poised for continued growth, driven by these factors and the ongoing trend towards nutritious diets.

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

Market Driver

Shift in preference toward natural and herbal products is the key driver of the market. The market for high protein-based foods, including alternative proteins, is experiencing significant growth due to increasing consumer interest in natural and herbal products. This trend is driven by a preference for food sources with added health benefits over synthetic ingredients. These nutraceuticals offer various advantages.

Consumers are increasingly seeking out these natural alternatives to traditional snacks like chocolate and sports drinks for their health benefits and compatibility with a healthy lifestyle. Ready-to-drink products and other convenient formats are also gaining popularity for their ease of use and portability. This trend is expected to continue as more consumers prioritize muscle mass gain and healthy living.

Market Trends

Endorsements of high-protein-based food by celebrities and sportspersons is the upcoming trend in the market. In today's health-conscious society, the demand for high protein-based food products continues to rise. Brands are responding to this trend by offering a variety of options, many of which are plant-based. These ingredients, such as tofu, legumes, and pea protein, provide essential nutrients without the added saturated fat and cholesterol found in animal-derived proteins.

Sustainability and ethical considerations are also important factors driving the market's growth. Fiber-rich plant-based proteins offer numerous health benefits, making them a popular choice for individuals seeking to maintain a balanced diet. As consumers become more aware of the advantages of plant-based proteins, the market is expected to expand further. Brands are collaborating with influencers and celebrities to promote the benefits of these products and increase their reach. 

Market Challenge

Stringent government regulations on high-protein-based food products is a key challenge affecting the market growth. The market in the United States is subject to rigorous regulations to ensure product safety and compliance. For instance, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets guidelines for the manufacturing, labeling, and marketing of functional food products, including nutrition bars, meal replacers, protein supplements, and yogurt bars. Older consumers represent a significant market segment for high protein-based foods due to their nutritional needs. Beverage producers are also incorporating high protein content into their offerings, creating a diverse range of options for consumers.

Furthermore, heatstable protein ingredients are gaining popularity due to their convenience and extended shelf life. However, companies must ensure that these ingredients meet the FDA's regulations and consumer safety standards. The FDA has banned certain ingredients, such as sodium phosphate and beta-alanine, from being used in high protein-based foods due to safety concerns. companies must stay informed of these regulations to maintain compliance and avoid potential recalls or legal issues.

Exclusive Customer Landscape

The market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.

 Customer Landscape

Key Companies & Market Insights

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.

Archer Daniels Midland Co.: The company offers high protein-based food such as pea protein and soy protein.

The market research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:

• Abbott Laboratories
• Beyond Meat Inc.
• Campbell Soup Co.
• Cargill Inc.
• Chobani Global Holdings LLC
• Conagra Brands Inc.
• Danone SA
• General Mills Inc.
• Hormel Foods Corp.
• Kellogg Co.
• Maple Leaf Foods Inc.
• Mars Inc.
• Mondelez International Inc.
• Nestle SA
• PepsiCo Inc.
• The Coca Cola Co.
• The Kraft Heinz Co.
• Tyson Foods Inc.
• Unilever PLC

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Research Analyst Overview

The market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing popularity of sports nutrition and the shift towards nutritious diets. Mainstream consumers are now preferring protein-fortified drinks, nutrition bars, meal replacers, and yogurt bars as convenient and tasty alternatives to traditional snacks like chocolate and sports drinks. The demand for high protein products is not limited to athletes and bodybuilders, but older consumers and those following ethical considerations are also opting for these foods. Product manufacturers and ingredient manufacturers are innovating to cater to diverse consumer preferences by introducing plant-based proteins such as pea protein, soybeans, lentils, chickpeas, and even aquatic plants like duckweeds. These alternatives offer sustainability benefits and address concerns around saturated fat, cholesterol, and fiber. Flavor and taste are crucial factors in the market, with consumers looking for products that do not compromise on these aspects.

Furthermore, dairy proteins like whey protein continue to be popular, but there is a growing trend towards heat-stable plant-based proteins. Beverage producers are also incorporating protein ingredients into their offerings, expanding the category beyond sports drinks. The market for high protein foods is vast and diverse, with a consumer base that includes individuals seeking muscle mass gain, weight loss, and overall health and wellness. Essential minerals and allergies are important considerations, with manufacturers addressing soy allergy and antinutritional components in soybeans and phytic acid in wheat and wheat gluten. The market is also exploring ethical considerations, with plant-based burgers, sausages, and meatless chicken gaining popularity. Food technology and culinary innovation continue to drive growth in the market.

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What are the Key Data Covered in this Market Research and Growth Report?

• CAGR of the market during the forecast period
• Detailed information on factors that will drive the market growth and forecasting between 2024 and 2028
• Precise estimation of the size of the market  and its contribution of the market in focus to the parent market
• Accurate predictions about upcoming market growth and trends and changes in consumer behaviour
• Growth of the market across North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa
• Thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about companies
• Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of market companies

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