Overview
The global Pea Protein Market Size is growing rapidly as consumers shift toward plant-based diets and seek healthier alternatives to animal-based proteins. Pea protein, derived from yellow peas, has gained popularity due to its high protein content, easy digestibility, and suitability for individuals with dietary restrictions like lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. In 2024, the market size for pea protein reached around USD 2417.46 Million, and it is expected to experience robust growth in the forecast period of 2025-2034. The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 20.10%, with the value reaching an impressive USD 15093.48 Million by 2034. This significant increase in market value highlights the growing demand for plant-based protein sources in various industries, including food and beverages, sports nutrition, and functional foods.
The increasing awareness regarding the health benefits of plant-based proteins, along with the rising vegan and vegetarian populations globally, is expected to drive the growth of the pea protein market. In addition, pea protein is not only used in food applications but also in animal feed, offering a wide range of opportunities across various industries. The demand for plant-based protein is expected to continue increasing as more consumers prioritize sustainability and clean-label products in their purchasing decisions.
Pea Protein Market Size and Growth: 2025-2034
The global pea protein market is witnessing rapid expansion, with the market size reaching approximately USD 2417.46 Million in 2024. The market’s growth is driven by the increasing demand for plant-based food alternatives, particularly in response to growing concerns about the environmental impact of animal agriculture. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are seeking protein sources that are not only nutritionally beneficial but also align with their values of sustainability and ethical consumption.
From 2025 to 2034, the market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.10%, ultimately reaching a value of USD 15093.48 Million by 2034. This growth can be attributed to several key factors, including the rising adoption of plant-based diets, advancements in pea protein production technology, and an increase in demand for functional foods and beverages. Additionally, the growth of the sports nutrition industry and the development of pea protein-based meat alternatives further contribute to the market’s expansion. The increasing availability of pea protein in various forms and the ability to incorporate it into different product categories will also support this growth trajectory.
Pea Protein Market Trends: 2025-2034
The pea protein market is evolving rapidly, with several emerging trends expected to shape the industry in the coming years. One of the most significant trends is the growing consumer demand for plant-based protein sources due to concerns over the health implications of animal-based proteins. As consumers seek cleaner, sustainable alternatives, pea protein is positioned as an ideal option due to its nutritional profile and versatility in various applications. This trend is reinforced by the rising popularity of veganism and vegetarianism globally.
Another trend is the increasing investment in the development of pea protein-based products that cater to different dietary needs. This includes innovations in pea protein isolate, concentrate, and textured forms, which offer a variety of options for food manufacturers and consumers. In addition, there is a growing focus on clean-label products that contain minimal ingredients, driving the demand for pea protein as a natural, unprocessed option.
In the functional food and beverage segment, the demand for pea protein is rising due to its role in enhancing the protein content of products while maintaining a clean label. Additionally, the sports nutrition market is expanding rapidly, and pea protein is increasingly being used in protein supplements, energy bars, and shakes to meet the growing need for plant-based protein in the athletic community. The foodservice and retail sectors are also embracing pea protein as a key ingredient in plant-based meat alternatives, reflecting a broader trend toward more sustainable and healthy food choices.
Pea Protein Industry Segmentation
Breakup by Type
The pea protein market can be segmented based on the type of product, including isolate, concentrate, and textured pea protein.
Isolate: Pea protein isolate is a highly refined form of protein with a protein content of about 90% or more. It is commonly used in various food and beverage applications due to its high protein content and neutral flavor. Pea protein isolate is especially popular in sports nutrition, vegan protein powders, and protein-enriched beverages.
Concentrate: Pea protein concentrate contains a lower protein content than isolates, typically ranging from 50% to 80%. It retains a more substantial amount of the pea’s natural fiber and other nutrients, making it ideal for use in a variety of products such as plant-based meat alternatives, snacks, and bakery items.
Textured: Textured pea protein is used primarily as a meat substitute in plant-based foods. It has a fibrous, meat-like texture and is an essential ingredient in plant-based burgers, sausages, and other meat alternatives.
Breakup by Form
Pea protein can also be segmented based on its form, which includes dry and wet options.
Dry: Dry pea protein is widely used in the food and beverage industry due to its long shelf life and ease of incorporation into dry mixes, protein powders, and snack foods. It is often preferred for use in protein bars, sports nutrition products, and baked goods.
Wet: Wet pea protein is typically used in meat alternatives and functional foods where a more substantial texture or moisture content is required. It is ideal for products that need to retain moisture during cooking and processing, such as plant-based sausages and ready-to-eat meals.
Breakup by Application
The applications of pea protein are vast, ranging from bakery and confectionery to functional food and beverages, meat additives, and sports nutrition.
Bakery and Confectionery: Pea protein is gaining traction in bakery and confectionery applications as consumers demand healthier alternatives to traditional ingredients. It is used to enhance the protein content in cookies, cakes, muffins, and other baked goods, providing a clean-label option for manufacturers.
Functional Food and Beverages: Pea protein plays an essential role in functional foods and beverages, including plant-based protein drinks, smoothies, and snacks. It helps boost the nutritional profile of these products by adding a high-quality source of protein while keeping the products vegan and gluten-free.
Meat Additives: Pea protein is commonly used as a meat additive in plant-based meats and meat substitutes. It improves the texture and protein content of these products, making them suitable for consumers seeking plant-based alternatives to meat.
Sports Nutrition: The demand for plant-based protein in the sports nutrition market is growing rapidly, and pea protein is a key ingredient in many protein powders, energy bars, and shakes. It provides a sustainable and easily digestible protein source for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Breakup by Region
The pea protein market can be segmented into various regions, each contributing significantly to the market’s growth.
North America: The United States and Canada are key markets for pea protein due to the high demand for plant-based foods, health and wellness trends, and the growing adoption of vegan and vegetarian diets.
Europe: Countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy are significant players in the European pea protein market, driven by the rising consumer demand for plant-based food products and sustainability.
Asia Pacific: China, Japan, India, and ASEAN countries are emerging as major markets for pea protein. The growing popularity of plant-based diets and the increasing awareness of health and environmental issues are fueling market growth in this region.
Latin America: Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico are contributing to the growth of the pea protein market in Latin America, with rising consumer interest in plant-based food options and protein-rich diets.
Middle East and Africa: Countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, and South Africa are witnessing growing demand for plant-based proteins, including pea protein, driven by health-conscious consumers and shifting dietary preferences.
Major Competitors in the Pea Protein Market
The pea protein market is highly competitive, with several major players shaping the industry’s landscape. Some of the leading competitors in the market include:
Yantai Shuangta Food Co., Ltd: A prominent Chinese company specializing in the production of pea protein. It is known for its high-quality pea protein products used in food, beverage, and supplement applications.
Shandong Jianyuan Group: This company is involved in the production of pea protein isolate, concentrate, and other related products. It is a key supplier to the global market, especially in Asia.
Roquette Frères S.A.: A global leader in plant-based ingredients, Roquette is a significant player in the pea protein market, offering a range of pea protein products for various food and beverage applications.
COSUCRA Groupe Warcoing S.A.: COSUCRA is known for producing pea protein and other plant-based ingredients, with a focus on sustainability and high-quality production processes.
Burcon NutraScience Corporation: A Canadian company that specializes in plant protein extraction technologies, including pea protein. It is a key innovator in the pea protein space, particularly in the development of sustainable production methods.
Axiom Foods, Inc.: Axiom Foods is a major supplier of pea protein concentrate and isolate, catering to the growing demand for plant-based proteins in food and beverage products.
Naturz Organics: An organic food ingredient supplier, Naturz Organics produces pea protein for the health food and supplement markets, offering organic, non-GMO options to meet consumer demand for clean-label products.
These companies play a vital role in the pea protein market, driving innovation, product development, and the expansion of the plant-based protein sector.