Pea Protein Market By Type (Isolate, Concentrate, Textured Pea Protein), By Form (Powder, Liquid), By Application (Food & Beverages, Animal Feed, Nutritional Supplements, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics & Personal Care), By End-User Industry (Food Processing, Animal Feed Industry, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics & Personal Care), and By Region; Global Insights & Forecast (2023 – 2030)

As per Intent Market Research, the Pea Protein Market was valued at USD 2.1 Billion in 2024-e and will surpass USD 3.9 Billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 10.5% during 2025-2030.

The global pea protein market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for plant-based proteins across various industries such as food & beverages, animal feed, and pharmaceuticals. As a sustainable and nutritious alternative to animal-based proteins, pea protein appeals to both health-conscious consumers and those following vegan or vegetarian diets. Pea protein is sourced primarily from yellow peas and is valued for its high digestibility, amino acid profile, and versatility in numerous applications. As the market continues to expand, several subsegments within the pea protein space are emerging as key drivers of growth.

Isolate Segment Is Largest Owing to High Protein Content

Among the various types of pea protein, the pea protein isolate segment is the largest and is expected to maintain a dominant position in the market. Pea protein isolate is highly sought after due to its superior protein content, often exceeding 90%, making it ideal for use in protein-enriched food formulations, nutritional supplements, and sports nutrition. This high protein concentration makes it a highly efficient ingredient for manufacturers looking to create protein-focused products. Additionally, isolates are favored for their clean taste and smooth texture, which makes them suitable for various plant-based food applications, including dairy alternatives and meat substitutes.

The growing preference for plant-based diets, combined with the rise in fitness and wellness trends, has further contributed to the popularity of pea protein isolates. This demand is particularly noticeable in the food and beverage sector, where pea protein isolates are commonly used to develop protein bars, plant-based beverages, and ready-to-eat meals. The isolate segment is also supported by increasing consumer awareness about the environmental benefits of plant-based proteins and their role in sustainable food systems.

Powder Form Is Fastest Growing Due to Versatility

When it comes to form, the pea protein powder subsegment is the fastest growing within the market. Powdered pea protein offers unmatched versatility, as it can be easily incorporated into a wide array of products, such as protein shakes, smoothies, plant-based protein snacks, and baked goods. This form is increasingly favored for its ease of use in both household and industrial applications. It also has a longer shelf life and is easier to transport, which makes it a preferred option among food manufacturers, fitness enthusiasts, and nutritionists.

As demand for plant-based protein products continues to rise, pea protein powder is gaining traction due to its ability to meet the needs of various sectors, including fitness, vegan food, and health supplements. Additionally, pea protein powder serves as a cleaner, allergen-free alternative to other protein powders like whey and soy, driving its popularity among those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

Food & Beverages Application Is Largest Due to Rising Consumer Demand for Vegan Foods

In terms of application, the food & beverages segment is the largest due to the rapidly growing demand for plant-based alternatives in food products. The rise in veganism, vegetarianism, and flexitarian diets, along with a growing focus on sustainability, has led to a surge in plant-based food products. Pea protein, being a highly functional ingredient, is commonly used in various food items such as dairy alternatives, meat substitutes, protein shakes, and energy bars.

The shift toward plant-based diets, influenced by environmental, health, and ethical considerations, has led to significant innovation in the food & beverage sector, with pea protein playing a pivotal role. Its benefits, such as a high protein-to-calorie ratio, versatility in cooking, and hypoallergenic properties, make it a preferred choice for food manufacturers aiming to cater to the growing demand for nutritious, plant-based foods.

Food Processing End-User Industry Is Largest Due to Growing Plant-Based Food Production

The food processing industry is the largest end-user of pea protein, accounting for a significant portion of the market. The increasing consumer preference for plant-based ingredients and clean-label products is pushing food manufacturers to adopt pea protein as a key ingredient in processed food products. This trend is amplified by the growing demand for plant-based proteins in snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and meat alternatives. Food processors use pea protein to create healthier products that meet consumer demand for high-protein, low-fat, and allergen-friendly options.

The food processing industry is also benefitting from advances in food technology, which allow for the effective integration of pea protein into various product formulations. This enables the creation of plant-based products that closely mimic the texture and taste of traditional animal-based offerings, such as plant-based burgers, sausages, and dairy-free beverages.

North America Is Largest Region Due to Strong Demand for Plant-Based Products

Regionally, North America is the largest market for pea protein, driven by the region’s strong demand for plant-based products. The United States and Canada are at the forefront of the plant-based food revolution, with a growing number of consumers adopting plant-based diets for health, ethical, and environmental reasons. The increasing popularity of vegan and vegetarian diets, coupled with the rise in fitness and wellness trends, has significantly boosted the demand for pea protein.

North America also benefits from a well-established food processing industry and an increasing number of product launches that incorporate pea protein as a key ingredient. Major food manufacturers and startups are launching plant-based meat products, dairy alternatives, and protein-packed snacks, thus contributing to the expansion of the pea protein market in the region. Additionally, the growing focus on sustainability and reducing environmental footprints is driving manufacturers to turn to plant-based proteins like pea protein.

Leading Companies and Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape in the pea protein market is marked by the presence of several key players who are leading the industry through innovation, strategic partnerships, and acquisitions. Companies such as Roquette Frères, Ingredion Incorporated, Cargill, Inc., and Axiom Foods, Inc. are major contributors to the market, with a strong focus on expanding their pea protein product lines and increasing production capacity to meet the growing demand. These companies are actively involved in research and development to improve the functionality of pea protein, making it suitable for a wider range of applications, from food & beverages to animal feed and pharmaceuticals.

Strategic alliances and acquisitions have also become a common strategy for growth in this highly competitive market. Companies are collaborating with plant-based food brands and expanding their production facilities to cater to the increasing demand for plant-based ingredients. The market is expected to remain competitive, with companies striving to innovate and provide higher-quality, sustainable protein alternatives to meet evolving consumer preferences.

List of Leading Companies:

• Cargill, Inc.
• Ingredion Incorporated
• Roquette Frères
• The Scoular Company
• Nutri-Pea Ltd.
• Axiom Foods, Inc.
• Emsland Group
• Cosucra Groupe Warcoing S.A.
• Burcon NutraScience Corporation
• Pea Protein Company
• Greenyard NV
• J.R. Simplot Company
• Farmingdale Enterprises
• Kerry Group
• ADM (Archer Daniels Midland Company)

Recent Developments:

• Roquette Frères launched a new range of plant-based proteins, including pea protein, to cater to the growing demand for vegan and alternative protein sources in the food and beverage sector.
• Ingredion Incorporated acquired the pea protein business from Verdient Foods to strengthen its position in the plant-based protein market, including pea protein production.
• Axiom Foods, Inc. announced the expansion of its pea protein production capacity to meet the increasing demand for plant-based proteins for food and beverage applications.
• Cargill, Inc. partnered with various plant-based food brands to supply pea protein and strengthen its footprint in the growing market for plant-based meat alternatives.
• Burcon NutraScience Corporation received a regulatory approval for its pea protein production process, which enhances its ability to scale up production for the growing demand in the plant-based food sector.

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