Global Protein Powder Market – Industry Trends and Forecast to 2031

Protein Powder Market Analysis and Size

In the realm of sports nutrition, protein powder is a fundamental component for athletes and fitness enthusiasts asuch as. It serves as a convenient and efficient way to supplement protein intake, essential for muscle repair, growth, and recovery post-exercise. Athletes often rely on protein powder to meet their increased protein requirements, aiding in the maintenance of lean muscle mass and supporting overall athletic performance. Protein powders come in various forms, including whey, casein, soy, and plant-based options, offering versatility to cater to different dietary preferences and goals.

In 2021, a study in Malaysia revealed that a significant majority of gym-goers, around 73.7%, favored protein shakes as their preferred supplement, with 68.3% specifically opting for whey protein. This data underscores the widespread popularity of protein powders, particularly among individuals engaged in fitness activities, reaffirming their crucial role in sports nutrition for muscle support and recovery.

Global protein powder market size was valued at USD 22.83 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 36.95 billion by 2031, with a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2031, In addition to the insights on market scenarios such as market value, growth rate, segmentation, geographical coverage, and major players, the market reports curated by the Data Bridge Market Research also include in-depth expert analysis, geographically represented company-wise production and capacity, network layouts of distributors and partners, detailed and updated price trend analysis and deficit analysis of supply chain and demand.

Report Scope and Market Segmentation       

Market Definition

Protein powder is a dietary supplement typically made from whey, casein, soy, or plant-based sources such as pea or hemp. It's widely used by athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals seeking to increase their protein intake conveniently. Protein powder can be mixed with water, milk, or blended into smoothies to support muscle repair, growth, and overall health goals.

Protein Powder Market Dynamics

Drivers

• Increasing Health Awareness among the Consumers

As people become more conscious about their nutrition and overall well-being, they are increasingly turning to protein supplements to support their active lifestyles and fitness goals. Protein powders are seen as a convenient and efficient way to supplement protein intake, especially for those engaged in fitness activities. Protein powders are seen as a way to support muscle recovery, growth, and overall performance, making them popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

For instance, Nestlé's acquisition of Orgain underscores the surging demand for premium protein supplements, particularly plant-based options, reflecting consumers' increasing focus on nutrition and wellness. This move aligns with the diverse offerings in the protein powder market, where brands such as Optimum Nutrition, Quest Nutrition, and MusclePharm cater to various consumer preferences, displaying the industry's growth and potential.

• Rising Convenience Demand due Increased Adoption of Protein Powder

With busy lifestyles and increasing health consciousness, consumers are seeking quick and easy ways to meet their nutritional needs. Protein powder offers a convenient solution for individuals looking to boost their protein intake without the hassle of preparing elaborate meals. It can be easily mixed into shakes, smoothies, or even baked goods, making it a versatile option for on-the-go consumption. Overall, the convenience factor plays a significant role in driving the expansion of the protein powder market.

Opportunities

• E-commerce Expansion Facilitates Access to Diverse Product Offerings from Numerous Brands and Suppliers

Through online platforms, consumers can explore diverse product offerings, compare prices, read reviews, and make informed purchasing decisions without geographical constraints. This accessibility enhances consumer convenience and fosters competition among brands, driving innovation to cater to evolving consumer preferences and boost protein powder sales. Furthermore, e-commerce facilitates seamless transactions, quick delivery, and personalized shopping experiences, thereby fueling the growth of the protein powder market by expanding its reach to a global audience and tapping into previously untapped markets.

• Growing Product Innovation due to Evolving Concumers’ Preferences

Manufacturers invest in research and development to introduce new formulations, flavors, and delivery formats, catering to diverse tastes and dietary requirements. Innovations such as plant-based protein powders, clear protein shakes, and personalized nutrition solutions enhance market appeal and broaden consumer reach. Additionally, advancements in ingredient sourcing, processing techniques, and packaging contribute to product differentiation and competitive advantage. As consumers seek novel and convenient ways to incorporate protein into their diets, ongoing innovation drives market growth and sustains consumer interest in protein powder products.

The launch of Apollo II by Unico Nutrition in collaboration with Perfect Day Inc. displays product innovation in the protein powder market. This hybrid product combines sustainable whey from fermentation with grass-fed animal-based protein, offering a greener, more ethically-created alternative with enhanced performance benefits. Additionally, the use of advanced packaging technology reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact, aligning with the broader trend of sustainability within the industry.

Restraints/Challenges

• Raw Material Price Volatility Impacts Protein Powder Adoption

Price fluctuations can be influenced by factors such as changes in supply and demand, weather conditions affecting agricultural yields, geopolitical events, and currency fluctuations. Such volatility can pose challenges for manufacturers in terms of predicting production costs and setting stable pricing for their products. Sudden spikes in raw material prices may lead to higher production costs, which could ultimately be passed on to consumers, potentially reducing affordability and demand for protein powders.

• Growing Allergen Concerns Limits the Adoption of Protein Powder Market

Consumers having allergies or intolerances, options become limited, reducing the potential consumer base. This limitation affects product formulation and marketing strategies, as manufacturers must navigate allergen labeling regulations and develop alternative formulations to cater to allergy-conscious consumers. Moreover, concerns about cross-contamination in manufacturing facilities further complicate the production process and may deter consumers with severe allergies from purchasing protein powder products.

This market report provides details of new recent developments, trade regulations, import-export analysis, production analysis, value chain optimization, market share, impact of domestic and localized market players, analyses opportunities in terms of emerging revenue pockets, changes in market regulations, strategic market growth analysis, market size, category market growths, application niches and dominance, product approvals, product launches, geographic expansions, technological innovations in the market. To gain more info on the market contact Data Bridge Market Research for an Analyst Brief, our team will help you take an informed market decision to achieve market growth.

Impact and Current Market Scenario of Raw Material Shortage and Shipping Delays

Data Bridge Market Research offers a high-level analysis of the market and delivers information by keeping in account the impact and current market environment of raw material shortage and shipping delays. This translates into assessing strategic possibilities, creating effective action plans, and assisting businesses in making important decisions.

Apart from the standard report, we also offer in-depth analysis of the procurement level from forecasted shipping delays, distributor mapping by region, commodity analysis, production analysis, price mapping trends, sourcing, category performance analysis, supply chain risk management solutions, advanced benchmarking, and other services for procurement and strategic support.

Expected Impact of Economic Slowdown on the Pricing and Availability of Products

When economic activity slows, industries begin to suffer. The forecasted effects of the economic downturn on the pricing and accessibility of the products are taken into account in the market insight reports and intelligence services provided by DBMR. With this, our clients can typically keep one step ahead of their competitors, project their sales and revenue, and estimate their profit and loss expenditures.

Recent Developments

• In 2023, Glanbia plc underwent a strategic move by transferring its mozzarella joint ventures to join forces with Leprino Foods, a leading global dairy company. Following this transition, Glanbia Cheese Company rebranded as Leprino Foods U.K. Limited and Leprino Foods EU Limited, signifying a shift in partnership and operational focus
• In 2023, Optimum Nutrition, recognized as the world's premier sports nutrition brand, launched Clear Protein, an innovative product leveraging advanced technology to produce transparent protein shakes. With each serving delivering 20g of plant-based protein isolate and a delightful fruity taste available in lime sorbet and juicy peach flavors, Clear Protein aims to support both training regimens and daily nutritional needs
• In 2022, Nestle expanded its portfolio of nutritional offerings by acquiring a majority stake in Orgain, a prominent producer of plant-based protein powders and related products. This strategic acquisition aligns with Nestle's commitment to diversify its product range and cater to the growing consumer demand for plant-based alternatives, reinforcing its position in the competitive nutritional market

Protein Powder Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of protein type, nature, source, flavor, utility, and distribution channel. The growth amongst these segments will help you analyze major growth segments in the industries and provide the users with a valuable market overview and market insights to make strategic decisions to identify core market applications.

Protein Type

• Whey Protein
• Casein Protein
• Soy Protein
• Pea Protein
• Rice Protein
• Hemp Protein
• Egg White Protein
• Pumpkin Seed Protein
• Mixed Plant-Based Protein Blends
• Others

Nature

• Pure
• Blended

Source

• Plant Protein
• Animal Protein

Flavor

• Plain
• Flavored

Utility

• Medical Use
• Sports Nutrition

Distribution Channel

• Online
• Offline

Protein Powder Market Regional Analysis/Insights

The market is analyzed, and market size insights and trends are provided based on type, nature, source, flavor, utility, and distribution channel as referenced above.

The countries covered in the market report are U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, U.K., Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, Belgium, Russia, Turkey, and rest of Europe, Japan, China, South Korea, India, Vietnam, Australia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and rest of Asia-Pacific, Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America, South Africa, Egypt, U.A.E, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and rest of Middle East and Africa.

North America is expected to dominate the market in both market share and revenue, maintaining its dominance throughout the forecast period. This is attributed to increasing demand for protein powder across diverse industries and rising consumer interest from end-users. The region's robust market position is fueled by a combination of factors, including evolving dietary preferences and a growing emphasis on health and wellness trends. As such, North America is expected to remain a key player in the global protein powder market landscape.

Asia-Pacific is experiencing rapid growth, boasting the highest CAGR compared to other regions. This trajectory is expected to continue throughout the forecast period. One driving force behind this expansion is the increasing popularity of gym and fitness activities among individuals across the region. As more people prioritize health and wellness, the demand for fitness facilities and related services is on the rise, fueling the region's robust growth in this sector.

The country section of the report also provides individual market impacting factors and changes in regulations in the market domestically that impacts the current and future trends of the market. Data points such as down-stream and upstream value chain analysis, technical trends and porter's five forces analysis, case studies are some of the pointers used to forecast the market scenario for individual countries. Also, the presence and availability of global brands and their challenges faced due to large or scarce competition from local and domestic brands, impact of domestic tariffs and trade routes are considered while providing forecast analysis of the country data.   

Competitive Landscape and Protein Powder Market Share Analysis

The market competitive landscape provides details about the competitors. Details include company overview, company financials, revenue generated, market potential, investment in research and development, new market initiatives, global presence, production sites and facilities, production capacities, company strengths and weaknesses, product launch, product width and breadth, and application dominance. The above data points are only related to the companies focus on the market.

Some of the major players operating in the market are

• Optimum Nutrition (U.S.)
• Iovate Health Sciences International Inc. (Canada)
• BELLRING BRANDS, INC. (BRBR) (U.S.)
• Nestlé (Switzerland)
• Vega (Canada)
• Isopure (U.S.)
• QuestNutrition & WorldPantry LLC (U.S.)
• EVLUTION NUTRITION (U.S.)
• Bright Life Care Private Limited (India)
• MusclePharm. (U.S.)
• Jarrow Formulas, Inc (U.S.)
• NOW Foods (U.S.)
• Nutrabio (U.S.)
• Jym-Supplement-Science. (U.S.)
• Rule One Proteins (U.S.)
• MRM Nutrition (U.S.)
• Universal Nutrition (U.S.)
• Abbott (U.S.)

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