Global Textured Pea Protein Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In June 2022, Roquette announced the launch of a new range of textured pea protein products designed to enhance meat substitutes and provide better texture for plant-based foodsIn March 2021**, ADM acquired Sojaprotein, expanding its capabilities in plant-based proteins, including textured pea protein, to cater to the growing plant-based food sector .

• In 2020, Ingredion launched a new line of plant-based protein ingredients, including textured pea protein, to meet the rising demand for clean-label, sustainable products.

The global textured pea protein market is characterized by several key segments, each contributing to the overall growth of the market. These segments include product type, nature, end use, and processing type, all of which define the various applications and demand drivers for textured pea protein.The market is divided into yellow peas and green peas, with each type offering distinct characteristics in terms of protein content and flavor profile. Yellow peas are generally preferred for their higher protein content and neutral flavor, making them a staple in the production of meat alternatives and protein-rich snacks. Green peas, on the other hand, are often used in products that require a slightly stronger flavor or more distinct color, such as in protein bars or certain bakery products. The selection of pea type depends on the application, with yellow peas dominating the market in terms of volume.

The market is further segmented into organic and conventional pea proteins. Organic pea protein has become increasingly popular due to consumer preferences for clean-label, non-GMO, and pesticide-free products. As the demand for organic products continues to rise, organic pea protein is expected to experience significant growth. Conventional pea protein, however, remains more affordable and is widely used in mainstream food products, making it the dominant category in terms of production volume.

The versatility of textured pea protein allows it to be used in various applications, including food processing, meat alternatives, bakery products, confectionery, snacks and cereals, and functional beverages. The growing popularity of plant-based meat products has driven substantial demand for pea protein in this sector. Additionally, pea protein is used in animal feed, nutraceuticals, and personal care, expanding its potential applications beyond the food industry.

Textured pea protein is processed using either dry processing or wet processing methods. Dry processing involves the use of heat to extract protein from the pea, resulting in a more concentrated and textured protein product. Wet processing involves the use of water to extract protein, often resulting in a smoother, more refined protein concentrate. The processing method used depends on the desired end product, with dry processing typically used for meat alternatives and wet processing used in applications like protein powders or beverages.

The textured pea protein market continues to evolve as consumer preferences shift towards plant-based alternatives, and technological advancements in processing methods improve the efficiency and quality of pea protein production. As demand for plant-based products increases, so too will the opportunities for textured pea protein in a wide range of industries.

Global Textured Pea Protein Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Textured Pea Protein Market has been segmented by Product Type, Nature, End Use, Processing Type, and Geography.

Global Textured Pea Protein Market, Segmentation by Product Type

The Global Textured Pea Protein Market has been segmented by Product Type into Yellow Peas and Green Peas.

Yellow peas are the most commonly used variety for pea protein production, accounting for a substantial share of the market. Yellow peas are known for their high protein content, generally ranging between 20-25%. They are cultivated extensively in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, where their ability to grow in diverse climates and soil conditions makes them a staple crop. Yellow peas are typically less expensive to cultivate compared to other varieties and are therefore the primary choice for large-scale pea protein production.

The main advantage of yellow peas lies in their neutral flavor profile, making them highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications in the food and beverage industry. The extraction process for pea protein from yellow peas typically involves mechanical processing or wet extraction techniques, which yield a highly concentrated and digestible protein powder. This makes yellow peas a preferred choice in the production of textured pea protein for meat alternatives, sports nutrition, and functional beverages, where taste and texture are crucial considerations. Additionally, the high protein and fiber content of yellow peas enhance their nutritional profile, which appeals to health-conscious consumers.

Green peas, although less commonly used in pea protein production than yellow peas, are gaining popularity due to their distinct properties. Green peas tend to have a slightly different nutritional composition, with a somewhat higher fiber content and a different amino acid profile, which can be beneficial in specific dietary applications. Green peas are commonly found in regions with cooler climates, such as parts of Europe and Canada, and are often cultivated for fresh consumption or frozen products. However, their use in pea protein extraction is expanding, driven by the growing interest in plant-based nutrition and the diversification of protein sources.

Green peas tend to be sweeter and more aromatic than yellow peas, which gives green pea protein a slightly different flavor profile. This can be advantageous for applications where a more delicate flavor is preferred, such as in high-end plant-based food products or certain nutritional supplements. However, green pea protein tends to be less cost-effective than yellow pea protein due to the lower yields and more specialized processing required. Despite this, green pea protein is sought after for premium formulations, as it offers a unique flavor, texture, and nutritional composition that appeals to consumers looking for variety in their plant-based protein options.

Global Textured Pea Protein Market, Segmentation by Nature

The Global Textured Pea Protein Market has been segmented by Nature into Organic and Conventional.

Organic pea protein is derived from peas that are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Organic farming practices aim to promote biodiversity, conserve water, and reduce the carbon footprint of agricultural activities. For consumers who prioritize sustainability, organic food production represents a crucial element in their purchasing decisions. The organic segment of the pea protein market has been growing steadily, particularly in regions like North America and Europe, where consumers are becoming more health-conscious and environmentally aware.

Organic pea protein is not only more expensive to produce but also requires stricter certification processes and regulations, which can impact the overall cost of the end product. Despite this, many consumers are willing to pay a premium for organic pea protein, viewing it as a healthier, more sustainable alternative to conventionally grown proteins. This trend is further supported by the rise in plant-based diets, with a significant number of consumers looking for products that align with their organic and eco-friendly values. In the food industry, organic pea protein is commonly used in premium plant-based products such as meat alternatives, protein bars, and shakes, where consumers are willing to invest in high-quality, clean-label products.

Conventional pea protein, on the other hand, is produced using traditional agricultural practices, which may include the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified seeds. While conventional farming methods are more cost-effective and yield higher production rates, they may not appeal to the growing segment of consumers who are particularly concerned about environmental sustainability and health. Conventional pea protein accounts for the majority of the market share due to its affordability and availability.

Conventional pea protein is used widely in various food products, including meat alternatives, baked goods, snacks, and functional beverages. It is also a popular ingredient in the animal feed industry, where the demand for protein-rich feed is high. The lower production costs associated with conventional pea protein make it an attractive option for large-scale manufacturers and producers who are looking to keep costs down while still offering a high-quality, plant-based protein source. However, as consumer preferences shift toward organic and sustainable products, manufacturers in the conventional pea protein market are exploring ways to enhance the environmental impact of their operations, such as adopting more eco-friendly farming practices and reducing pesticide use.

Global Textured Pea Protein Market, Segmentation by End Use

The Global Textured Pea Protein Market has been segmented by End Use into Food Processing, Meat Alternatives, Bakery Products, Confectionery, Snacks & Cereals, Meat-Based Products, Functional Beverages, Others, Animal Feed, Livestock, Cattle, Swine, Poultry, Pet Food, Aquafeed, Nutraceuticals, Sports Nutrition, Infant Nutrition, and Cosmetic & Personal Care. By Processing Type; Dry Processing and Wet Processing,

Food processing is one of the largest sectors for textured pea protein, accounting for a significant portion of the market. Pea protein is used in a variety of processed foods, including meat alternatives, snacks, bakery products, confectionery, and beverages. The growing demand for plant-based, protein-rich foods has significantly boosted the use of pea protein in food processing applications. Within this category, pea protein is frequently used in meat alternatives like plant-based burgers, sausages, and nuggets, where it serves as a meat substitute with a similar texture and mouthfeel to animal-based proteins. It is also used in protein-enriched snacks, protein bars, and functional beverages due to its ability to provide a complete amino acid profile and functional properties that improve texture, flavor, and nutritional content.Animal feed represents another important end-use segment for pea protein. As the demand for plant-based protein grows in the food industry, so does the need for sustainable and nutritious alternatives in the animal feed sector. Pea protein is used as a supplement in livestock feed for cattle, poultry, swine, and aquaculture due to its high protein content, digestibility, and amino acid profile. Pea protein is particularly appealing as a replacement for traditional animal-based protein sources like fishmeal and soybean meal, offering a more sustainable option for animal nutrition. Additionally, pea protein is used in pet food, as pet owners are increasingly seeking plant-based and high-protein options for their pets.

The nutraceutical sector is also witnessing an increase in demand for pea protein, particularly in the form of protein supplements, functional foods, and beverages. The growing awareness of plant-based nutrition, coupled with the rise in health-conscious consumers, has contributed to the surge in demand for pea protein-based supplements. Pea protein offers a high level of digestibility and is free from common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. It is commonly used in protein shakes, bars, and other functional foods targeted at athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those looking for plant-based protein alternatives.In recent years, textured pea protein has also found applications in the cosmetic and personal care industry, where it is used in formulations for skin care products, shampoos, and conditioners. Pea protein is known for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties, which make it an attractive ingredient for skincare products aimed at improving skin elasticity and hydration. Its ability to nourish and strengthen hair also makes it a sought-after ingredient in hair care formulations.

Other applications for textured pea protein include its use in infant nutrition, where it serves as a plant-based protein source for infants with specific dietary requirements. The growing trend of vegan and vegetarian diets among children has driven the demand for pea protein-based baby foods and formula products. Similarly, pea protein is used in sports nutrition, where it provides a high-quality, easily digestible protein for muscle building and recovery.

Global Textured Pea Protein Market, Segmentation by Processing Type

The Global Textured Pea Protein Market has been segmented by Processing Type into Dry Processing and Wet Processing,

Dry processing is the most widely used method for extracting pea protein. This method involves mechanical processing of the peas to separate the protein from the other components, such as fiber and starch, using processes like milling and air classification. Dry processing is typically more cost-effective compared to wet processing, making it the preferred choice for large-scale production. It results in a fine powder that is highly concentrated in protein, making it suitable for use in a variety of applications, including meat alternatives, protein bars, snacks, and beverages.

Dry processing is known for its ability to produce a high yield of protein while maintaining the nutritional integrity of the peas. However, one limitation of dry processing is that it may not yield as high-quality protein as wet processing, particularly when it comes to protein digestibility and amino acid profiles. Nonetheless, the affordability and scalability of dry processing make it a popular choice in the textured pea protein market.

Wet processing involves using water to extract protein from peas, often through processes like wet milling and enzymatic treatment. This method tends to yield higher-quality protein with better amino acid profiles and higher digestibility, which is particularly important in applications such as sports nutrition, functional beverages, and infant nutrition. Wet processing results in pea protein isolates, which are more concentrated than the protein obtained through dry processing. While wet processing is more expensive due to the additional steps and equipment required, it is favored for premium products where higher protein quality is essential.

Wet processing is also more flexible in terms of customizing the properties of the protein, such as its solubility, texture, and functionality. This makes it suitable for more specialized applications, including those in the nutraceutical and cosmetics sectors. However, the increased costs associated with wet processing can limit its adoption in certain markets, particularly in price-sensitive applications. Despite this, the demand for high-quality pea protein in specialized markets is driving the growth of wet processing techniques.

Global Textured Pea Protein Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Textured Pea Protein Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Textured Pea Protein Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The Textured Pea Protein Market is geographically divided into five regions: North America, Europe, the Asia-Pacific (APAC), South America, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA). North America leads the market, securing the largest share, thanks to the presence of prominent manufacturers and a rising demand for plant-based protein alternatives. This region's dominance can be attributed to the increasing shift towards plant-based diets, bolstered by growing consumer awareness of the health benefits associated with plant proteins.

Europe holds the second-largest market share, with demand driven by similar trends toward plant-based nutrition. The region has seen a significant rise in the adoption of vegan and vegetarian lifestyles, contributing to the growth of plant-based protein products. The demand for textured pea protein is also fueled by the growing awareness of sustainability issues, with plant-based options being seen as more environmentally friendly compared to animal-derived proteins.

The APAC region is expected to witness the fastest growth in the coming years. This growth is driven by several factors, including a rising focus on health and wellness, increasing awareness about plant-based nutrition, and improving disposable incomes. As a result, countries like China, India, and Japan are expected to become significant contributors to the global textured pea protein market. Additionally, the region is seeing a rise in the demand for plant-based food products due to changing dietary habits and the growing adoption of Western food trends.

Meanwhile, South America and the MEA regions are predicted to contribute smaller portions to the global market. Despite these regions having some demand for plant-based proteins, they are expected to experience slower growth compared to North America, Europe, and APAC.

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

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers:

• Rising Demand for Plant-Based Protein
• Health Consciousness and Dietary Preferences

• Environmental Sustainability and Ethical Considerations-The growing awareness of environmental sustainability and ethical concerns is one of the key drivers of the textured pea protein market. Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental footprint of their food choices, especially regarding traditional animal-based proteins, which contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and deforestation. Plant-based proteins like pea protein are seen as a more sustainable alternative due to the lower resources required for their production.

  Peas, as a crop, are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and enhancing soil health. This makes pea cultivation an environmentally friendly option compared to animal farming, which often relies heavily on synthetic inputs and contributes to soil degradation. As global concerns over climate change and sustainability intensify, pea protein has emerged as a viable solution for addressing both dietary and environmental needs. Additionally, the ethical considerations surrounding animal welfare have led many consumers to seek plant-based alternatives that align with their values, contributing to the increasing demand for textured pea protein.

  With the rising shift towards more sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, food manufacturers, including those in the meat alternatives and animal feed industries, are actively seeking plant-based options to replace traditional animal-derived proteins. This trend is further supported by various regulatory bodies and governments that are pushing for more sustainable agricultural practices. As consumers continue to demand products that align with their ethical and environmental values, textured pea protein's role in the global food system is set to expand, making it a key player in the drive toward a more sustainable and ethical future.

Restraints:

• High Production Costs
• Limited Awareness in Some Regions

• Supply Chain Challenges-Supply chain challenges are one of the significant restraints hindering the growth of the textured pea protein market. While pea protein has established itself as a popular plant-based protein source, the supply chain involved in its production and distribution is not without challenges. One of the key issues is the reliance on agricultural production, which is subject to seasonal variations, weather conditions, and crop yields. Factors such as droughts, floods, and changing climatic conditions can significantly impact the availability and cost of peas, leading to supply disruptions and price volatility in the market.

  The processing and extraction of pea protein involve complex procedures that require specialized equipment and facilities. Ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of raw materials, along with the necessary infrastructure to process and distribute the final product, can be challenging. Supply chain disruptions, whether due to natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, or logistical issues, can lead to delays in production, increased costs, and reduced availability of pea protein products in the market. This can affect the pricing of textured pea protein, making it less competitive compared to other protein sources and limiting its accessibility in some regions.

  The growing demand for pea protein, coupled with the increasing competition in the plant-based protein market, has placed pressure on suppliers to scale up production and expand their supply chains. This expansion often requires significant investment in infrastructure, technology, and distribution networks, which may be difficult for smaller producers or emerging markets to achieve. To overcome these supply chain challenges, companies in the pea protein market must invest in more resilient and sustainable sourcing and distribution practices to ensure a steady supply of high-quality protein and meet the demands of an increasingly globalized market.

Opportunities:

• Growing Vegan and Flexitarian Population
• Technological Innovations in Protein Extraction

• Expansion in Emerging Markets-Emerging markets present a significant growth opportunity for the textured pea protein market. While North America and Europe have been the primary regions driving the demand for plant-based proteins, other regions, such as Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East, are expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years. The increasing awareness of health and wellness, coupled with the growing adoption of plant-based diets, is creating a rising demand for pea protein in these regions.

  In Asia Pacific, for example, countries like China and India are experiencing a shift in dietary preferences due to urbanization, rising incomes, and changing lifestyles. Consumers in these regions are increasingly adopting plant-based diets, driven by factors such as health consciousness, environmental concerns, and dietary preferences. As a result, the demand for plant-based protein ingredients, including textured pea protein, is expected to grow substantially.

  Similarly, in Latin America and the Middle East, where there is a rising middle class and greater access to health-conscious food products, the demand for plant-based protein is gaining traction. This creates an opportunity for manufacturers of textured pea protein to expand their presence in these regions and cater to the growing consumer demand for sustainable and nutritious food products. As more local producers and suppliers enter these markets, the competition will intensify, creating further opportunities for innovation and growth in the global pea protein market.

  By establishing a strong presence in these emerging markets, companies can tap into the growing consumer base that is increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional animal-based proteins. This expansion will not only contribute to the growth of the textured pea protein market but also play a pivotal role in driving the global shift toward more sustainable, plant-based food systems.