Global Plant-Based Protein Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In November 2023, Nestle India launched a range of plant-based alternatives to traditional seafood, such as vrimp, a plant-based shrimp derived from seaweed, and plant-based alternatives to chicken shreds and eggs. These offerings cater to the growing demand for sustainable and animal-free food choices.

• In July 2023, Burcon NutraScience Corporation and HPS Food and Ingredients Inc. collaborated to launch the first-ever commercially available high-purity, soluble hempseed protein isolate. Due to its improved solubility and functionality, this development opens up new possibilities for using hemp protein in various food and beverage applications.

The global plant-based protein market is witnessing significant growth as consumers increasingly turn to plant-based alternatives for health, sustainability, and ethical reasons. The market is segmented by source into soy, wheat, pea, canola, oats, rice & potato, and beans & seeds. Soy protein is one of the most dominant sources in the market due to its complete amino acid profile, making it a popular ingredient in plant-based meat substitutes, dairy alternatives, and protein powders. Wheat protein, particularly in the form of seitan, offers a meat-like texture and is widely used in plant-based products. Pea protein, recognized for its digestibility and neutral flavor, has become a key player in the market, especially in protein beverages, plant-based meats, and dairy-free products. Canola, oats, rice & potato proteins, along with beans and seeds, provide a variety of options to cater to those with allergies or preferences for non-soy, non-gluten, or non-GMO ingredients, expanding the appeal of plant-based protein to a broader audience.

The market is also segmented by type into isolates, concentrates, and protein flour. Protein isolates are the most refined form of plant-based proteins, containing higher protein content and lower levels of fats and carbohydrates, making them a popular choice for protein bars, shakes, and nutritional supplements. Protein concentrates, which retain a higher percentage of non-protein components compared to isolates, are used in a variety of applications such as plant-based meat substitutes, dairy alternatives, and bakery products. Protein flour, which is less processed than isolates and concentrates, is primarily used in the production of bakery items and food formulations where texture and binding properties are essential. Each type of plant-based protein offers distinct benefits, depending on the application and desired nutritional content, allowing manufacturers to choose the right form to meet consumer demand for clean, nutritious, and sustainable products.

In terms of application, the plant-based protein market spans several key sectors, including protein beverages, dairy alternatives, nutrition supplements, and others. Protein beverages, such as shakes and smoothies, are among the fastest-growing segments, driven by the increasing popularity of plant-based diets and the need for on-the-go protein solutions. Dairy alternatives, including plant-based milks, yogurts, and cheeses, are seeing widespread adoption as more consumers opt for vegan or lactose-free products. Plant-based proteins, especially from sources like pea, soy, and oats, are used in these products to provide texture, creaminess, and nutritional benefits. Nutrition supplements, including protein powders and bars, also represent a significant portion of the market, with plant-based options becoming increasingly popular among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and health-conscious individuals. The “others” category includes various applications such as snacks, bakery products, and functional foods, where plant-based protein is used to enhance nutritional value and appeal to consumers seeking plant-based, protein-rich options. As demand for plant-based alternatives continues to rise, the market for plant-based proteins is expected to grow and diversify across multiple sectors, offering opportunities for innovation and expansion.

Global Plant-Based Protein Market Analysis

The Global Plant-Based Protein Market has been segmented by Source, Type, Application, and Geography.

Global Plant-Based Protein Market, Segmentation by Source

The Global Plant-Based Protein Market has been segmented by Source into Soy, Wheat, Pea, Canola Oats, Rice & Potato, Beans & Seeds.

The global plant-based protein market is rapidly expanding, driven by the growing consumer demand for plant-based and sustainable protein alternatives to animal-derived products. The market is segmented by source into soy, wheat, pea, canola, oats, rice & potato, and beans & seeds. Soy protein is one of the most widely recognized plant-based protein sources, favored for its complete amino acid profile, making it a popular choice in various food and beverage applications. Soy protein is commonly found in products like tofu, tempeh, plant-based meat alternatives, and protein powders, catering to both vegetarian and vegan consumers. Wheat protein, also known as seitan, is gaining popularity due to its meat-like texture and versatility in plant-based meat products. It is rich in gluten and widely used in plant-based meat substitutes, particularly in Asia and Europe.

Pea protein is another significant source in the plant-based protein market, appreciated for its high digestibility and neutral taste. It has become a key ingredient in protein shakes, dairy alternatives, and meat substitutes, providing a sustainable option for consumers seeking non-GMO and allergen-friendly products. Canola protein, derived from the canola plant, is emerging as a promising protein source due to its balanced amino acid profile and high protein content. It is often utilized in plant-based food formulations that require a smooth texture, such as dairy alternatives and meat analogs. Oats, rice, and potato proteins are also gaining traction in the market due to their hypoallergenic nature and suitability for people with allergies to soy or gluten. These protein sources are particularly popular in plant-based beverages, snacks, and baked goods. Beans and seeds, including lentils, chickpeas, and hemp seeds, provide valuable plant-based protein, often included in food products like plant-based burgers, snacks, and protein bars.

As consumers continue to seek healthier and more sustainable dietary options, the plant-based protein market is diversifying across a variety of sources. Each plant-based protein source offers distinct nutritional benefits, including varying amino acid profiles, digestibility, and allergenic potential, which cater to a wide array of consumer preferences and dietary requirements. The demand for plant-based proteins from diverse sources is being driven by a combination of health-consciousness, environmental concerns, and the increasing popularity of plant-based diets. With innovation and research supporting the development of new, high-quality plant-based protein ingredients, this market segment is expected to continue growing, with each protein source fulfilling different roles in the expanding plant-based food industry.

Global Plant-Based Protein Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Plant-Based Protein Market has been segmented by Type into Isolates, Concentrates and Protein flour.

The Global Plant-Based Protein Market, segmented by type into isolates, concentrates, and protein flour, reflects the diverse applications and nutritional profiles of plant-based proteins. Isolates are highly refined forms of plant proteins, containing a higher protein content per serving compared to concentrates and flour. They are favored in protein supplements and sports nutrition products due to their purity and effectiveness in delivering protein without excess carbohydrates or fats.

Concentrates, on the other hand, retain more of the original plant material, offering a balanced nutritional profile that includes fiber and other nutrients alongside protein. This makes concentrates versatile for use in dairy alternatives like plant-based milks and yogurts, as well as in meat alternatives such as plant-based burgers and sausages. Protein flour, derived from milling protein-rich plants like pulses and legumes, provides a natural and less processed source of plant protein. It is used in baking, food fortification, and as an ingredient in snacks and breakfast cereals, appealing to consumers seeking whole food-based protein options.

Global Plant-Based Protein Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Plant-Based Protein Market has been segmented by Application into Protein beverages, Dairy alternatives, Nutrition supplements and Others.

The Global Plant-Based Protein Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and plant-derived alternatives to animal-based proteins. This market has been segmented by application into several key categories. Protein beverages represent a significant segment within the plant-based protein market, offering alternatives to traditional dairy and whey-based protein drinks. These beverages cater to health-conscious consumers looking for nutritious options that align with their dietary preferences, such as vegan or vegetarian diets.

Dairy alternatives also play a crucial role in the plant-based protein market, offering substitutes like almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk enriched with plant proteins. These products are gaining popularity among lactose-intolerant individuals and those seeking dairy-free options for health or ethical reasons. Nutrition supplements form another vital segment, providing plant-based protein powders and bars that appeal to fitness enthusiasts and athletes. These supplements offer a convenient way to incorporate plant proteins into daily diets, supporting muscle recovery and overall health goals. As consumer awareness grows regarding the health benefits and sustainability of plant-based diets, the market for plant-based proteins is poised for continued expansion across diverse applications.

Global Plant-Based Protein Market, Segmentation by Geography

The Global Plant-Based Protein Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Plant-Based Protein Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The Global Plant-Based Protein Market is geographically segmented into five key regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. North America and Europe currently dominate the market due to strong consumer awareness and demand for plant-based products, driven by health consciousness, ethical considerations, and environmental sustainability. In these regions, there is a robust market for plant-based meat substitutes, dairy alternatives, and protein supplements, supported by a well-established food industry and increasing investments in research and development.

Asia Pacific is emerging as a significant growth region for plant-based proteins, fueled by changing dietary habits, rising disposable incomes, and a large vegetarian population in countries like India and China. The region is witnessing a shift towards plant-based diets driven by health trends and growing awareness of the environmental impact of meat production. Middle East and Africa, along with Latin America, are also experiencing gradual adoption of plant-based proteins, influenced by global health trends and increasing availability of plant-based products in urban centers. These regions present opportunities for market expansion, driven by consumer education and product innovation tailored to local tastes and preferences.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Plant-Based Protein Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Key players in Global Plant-Based Protein Market include:

• Sotexpro S.A
• Axiom Foods
• The Scoular Company
• Royal DSM
• Tate & Lyle
• Ingredion
• Kerry
• DowDuPont
• ADM (Archer Daniels Midland Company)
• Cargill

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis