The global alternative protein market size is expected to reach USD 26.52 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% over the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Product innovations and technological advancements are expected to be the major factors fueling the market’s growth. Alternative proteins are used in diverse applications; for instance, the isolates have a high dispersibility and very fine particle size, so they are widely used in dairy applications. Consumers’ belief in the health benefits associated with these products has been a key growth driver over the past few years, and the trend is anticipated to continue during the forecast period.
The fast-paced lifestyles prevalent across the globe create a demand for convenient and readily available plant-based protein options. The development of grab-and-go plant-based snacks, pre-packaged meals, and easy-to-prepare plant-based protein ingredients align with the need for convenience without compromising health. This presents a lucrative opportunity for companies to cater to modern consumers’ desire for on-the-go plant-based solutions that can be incorporated into their daily routines.
Strategic partnerships and collaborations across the supply chain offer lucrative growth opportunities for players in the alternative protein industry. Engaging with retailers, food service providers, and culinary influencers can increase the visibility and accessibility of plant-based proteins. Building alliances with agricultural suppliers, investing in sustainable sourcing practices, and ensuring transparent communication about the origins of plant-based ingredients can help build customer trust.
The growing demand for plant-based protein alternatives has paved the way for innovative market opportunities, with a particular focus on hexane-free plant proteins. Hexane, a commonly used solvent in the extraction process of some plant proteins, has raised concerns regarding its potential health and environmental impact. As a result, consumers are increasingly seeking cleaner and more sustainable options, creating a niche market for hexane-free plant protein products.
Request a free sample copy or view report summary: Alternative Protein Market Report
Based on product, the plant-based protein segment accounted for a revenue share of 89.8% in 2023. The driving force behind the growing demand for alternative proteins in the animal feed industry is a convergence of various factors that align with evolving consumer preferences, sustainability concerns, and advancements in nutritional research.
Based on application, the animal feed segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.0 from 2024 to 2030. The increasing demand for alternative proteins in the animal feed industry is propelled by a combination of factors that match shifting consumer tastes, sustainability considerations, and advancements in nutritional studies.
North America accounted for a revenue share of 37.7% in 2023. The increasing consumer awareness of animal welfare and environmental sustainability are expected to contribute to the increased demand for alternative and plant-based protein sources.
Grand View Research has segmented the global alternative protein market based on product, application, and region:
Alternative Protein Product Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Plant Proteins
Cereals
Wheat
Wheat Protein Concentrates
Wheat Protein Isolates
Textured Wheat Protein
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
HMEC/HMMA Wheat Protein
Rice
Rice Protein Isolates
Rice Protein Concentrates
Hydrolyzed Rice Protein
Others
Oats
Oat Protein Concentrates
Oat Protein Isolates
Hydrolyzed Oat Protein
Others
Legumes
Soy
Soy Protein Concentrates
Soy Protein Isolates
Textured Soy Protein
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein
HMEC/HMMA Soy Protein
Pea
Pea Protein Concentrates
Pea Protein Isolates
Textured Pea Protein
Hydrolyzed Pea Protein
HMEC/HMMA Pea Protein
Lupine
Chickpea
Others
Roots
Potato
Potato Protein Concentrate
Potato Protein Isolate
Maca
Others
Ancient Grains
Ancient Wheat
Quinoa
Sorghum
Amaranth
Chia
Millet
Others
Nuts & Seeds
Canola
Canola Protein Isolates
Hydrolyzed Canola Protein
Others
Almond
Flaxseeds
Others
Microbe-based Protein
Algae
Bacteria
Yeast
Fungi
Insect Protein
Coleoptera
Lepidoptera
Hymenoptera
Orthoptera
Hemiptera
Diptera
Others
Alternative Protein Application Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
Food & Beverages
Bakery & Confectionary
Beverages
Breakfast Cereals
Dairy Alternatives (cheese, desserts, snacks, others)
Dietary Supplements/Weight Management
Meat Alternatives & Extenders
Snacks
Sports Nutrition
Others
Infant Formulations
Clinical Nutrition
Animal Feed
Others
Alternative Protein Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
UK
Germany
France
Italy
Asia Pacific
China
Japan
India
Australia & New Zealand
Central & South America
Brazil
Middle East & Africa
South Africa
List of Key Players in the Alternative Protein Market
ADM
Cargill Inc.
Lightlife Foods, Inc.
Impossible Foods Inc.
International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc.
Ingredion Inc.
Kerry Group
Glanbia plc
Bunge Limited
Axiom Foods Inc.
Tate & Lyle PLC
SunOpta Inc.
Glanbia plc
AGT Food and Ingredients
Emsland Group
"The quality of research they have done for us has been excellent..."