Protein Bar Market Size To Reach $20.87 Billion By 2030

Protein Bar Market Growth & Trends

The global protein bar market size is expected to reach USD 20.87 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2024 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. With increasingly busy lifestyles and a shift toward on-the-go eating habits, consumers are gravitating toward snacks that offer both convenience and health benefits. Protein bars have become a popular choice for those looking to supplement their diet with essential protein, which plays a crucial role in muscle building, repair, and promoting satiety. To cater to diverse tastes and preferences, manufacturers are continuously innovating with new flavors and formats. Recent introductions include unique flavors like salted caramel, chocolate chip cookie dough, and birthday cake, as well as new formats that incorporate added fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Protein bars have emerged as a convenient, ready-to-eat nutritional supplement, especially favored by fitness enthusiasts. Their high protein content makes them an ideal post-workout snack for gym-goers, athletes, and individuals engaged in physically demanding activities. The need for protein to maintain energy levels and enhance performance is driving the adoption of protein bars. As global participation in fitness activities rises, so does the demand for these products.

Furthermore, both large and small market players are focusing on product innovation to address the specific needs of athletes and active individuals. This drive for innovation is helping to expand the variety of protein bars available, catering to a broad spectrum of dietary requirements and preferences. For instance, in August 2023, Barebells Functional Foods, a Swedish company, launched a new flavor of soft protein bars in the U.S. - banana caramel. The bars feature a creamy banana-flavored core, a smooth caramel sauce, and a thick milk chocolate coating. Each bar contains 16 grams of protein and no added sugar.

Changes in lifestyle, longer travel times, and hectic schedules at work make it necessary to have healthy meal options, wherein the demand for convenience foods is rapidly growing. Therefore, healthy bars are a promising alternative to meals that are easy to carry and provide control over hunger by acting as an instant energy booster. According to the ‘Food & Health Survey’ conducted in 2018 by the International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation, about 10% of the surveyed American population said they would prefer protein for energy. More than 10% stated that they would consume its proteins against cardiovascular issues. Therefore, the high demand for healthy foods owing to the increasing number of health clubs is expected to propel the demand for protein-enriched bars in the near future.

Changes in lifestyle, longer commutes, and demanding work schedules have heightened the need for convenient and healthy meal options. As a result, the demand for convenience foods is rapidly growing. Healthy bars, in particular, have emerged as a practical solution, offering portability and helping to manage hunger while providing a quick energy boost. According to the 2018 Food & Health Survey by the International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation, around 10% of Americans indicated a preference for protein to boost energy levels, and more than 10% chose protein to address cardiovascular health concerns. With the increasing number of health clubs and rising health consciousness, the demand for protein-enriched bars is expected to continue to grow in the near future.

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Protein Bar Market Report Highlights

• Based on type, sports nutritional bars accounted for a share of 49.2% in 2023. With busy lifestyles, athletes and active individuals seek convenient and portable nutrition solutions. Sports nutritional protein bars offer a quick and easy way to meet protein and energy needs without the hassle of meal preparation. Their portability makes them ideal for consumption before or after workouts, during travel, or between meals, aligning with the fast-paced lives of many consumers

• Based on protein source, plant-based protein bars are expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2024 to 2030. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing health and wellness, and plant-based diets are seen as a healthier and more sustainable option. Plant-based protein bars, made from ingredients like pea protein, brown rice protein, and hemp protein, align with the growing preference for whole, natural foods that support overall well-being and reduce the risk of chronic diseases

• Based on distribution channel, the online segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2024 to 2030. Online retailers often have extensive product catalogs that include a wide variety of protein bar brands, flavors, and formulations. Consumers have access to products that may not be available locally, enhancing their choices and allowing them to explore different options based on dietary preferences or health goals

• North America accounted for a share of 37.6% in 2023. The North American market has seen significant innovation and expansion, with a wide range of flavors, formulations, and specialized options available. Brands have developed protein bars to cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly options. This variety and innovation attract a broader consumer base, driving the overall demand for protein bars in the region

Protein Bar Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global protein bar market on the basis of type, protein source, distribution channel, and region.

Protein Bar Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

• Sports Nutritional Bars

• Meal Replacement Bars

• Others

Protein Bar Protein Source Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

• Animal-Based Protein Bars

• Plant-Based Protein Bars

Protein Bar Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

• Hypermarkets & Supermarkets

• Convenience stores

• Online

• Others

Protein Bar Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

• North America

  • U.S.

  • Canada

  • Mexico

• Europe

  • UK

  • Germany

  • France

  • Italy

  • Spain

• Asia Pacific

  • China

  • India

  • Japan

  • South Korea

  • Australia & New Zealand

• Central & South America

  • Brazil

• Middle East & Africa

  • South Africa

List of Key Players in the Protein Bar Market

• Clif Bar & Company

• Quest Nutrition

• Kellogg Company (RXBAR)

• General Mills (Nature Valley)

• MusclePharm

• GNC (General Nutrition Corporation)

• ThinkThin (Think Products)

• Larabar (General Mills)

• Orgain

• PowerBar