Global Whey Protein Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

Global Whey Protein Market Outlook

The global whey protein market size reached approximately USD 12.69 billion in 2023. The market is assessed to grow at a CAGR of 8.5% between 2024 and 2032 to attain a value of around USD 26.46 billion by 2032.

Key Trends in the Market

Whey protein refers to a protein supplement that is formed by separating casein from milk or as a by-product of cheese production. It is easily digestible, boasts high nutritional value, can be rapidly absorbed, and contains essential amino acids. Whey protein is extensively used as a nutritional supplement and also finds use in the food and beverage sector.

• There is a growing utilisation of whey protein in the food and beverage sector due to its excellent functional and nutritional properties and its application as a foaming agent, texture enhancer, as well as thickening and gelling agent. Moreover, the whey protein market demand is being fuelled by the rising demand for protein-rich and clean-labelled food and beverages made using natural products like whey.

• The rising health consciousness and the growing inclination towards fitness are some prominent whey protein market trends. Whey protein is widely preferred as a sports supplement for promoting muscle recovery, supporting weight management, improving athletic performance, and enhancing muscle strength. Moreover, the rising awareness regarding the health benefits offered by the product such as improved immunity and heart health and reduced risk of diseases like diabetes is anticipated to fuel the market growth in the forecast period.

• The increasing demand for organic products amid the rising health and environmental consciousness is also aiding the whey protein market growth. Organic whey protein that is sourced from pasture-raised grass-fed cows and is free of added sugar, preservatives, GMOs, and hormones is increasingly gaining popularity among health-conscious individuals.

Market Analysis

Based on type, the whey protein market segmentation includes concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate. On the basis of application, the market can be divided into sports nutrition, dietary supplement, infant formula, food additives, and beverages, among others.

By distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, speciality stores, and online stores, among others. The major regional markets for whey protein include North America, Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa.

The comprehensive EMR report provides an in-depth assessment of the market based on the Porter's five forces model along with giving a SWOT analysis. The report gives a detailed analysis of the following key players in the global whey protein market, covering their competitive landscape and latest developments like mergers, acquisitions, investments and expansion plans.

• Glanbia plc 

• Arla Foods amba 

• Fonterra Co-Operative Group Limited 

• Lactalis Ingredients 

• Olam International Limited 

• Royal FrieslandCampina NV 

• Hilmar Cheese Company, Inc. 

• Agropur Cooperative 

• Saputo Inc. 

• Leprino Foods Company 

• Wheyco GmbH 

• Others

Market Share by Type

As per the whey protein market analysis, whey protein concentrate is anticipated to witness a high demand in the forecast period. It has a protein concentration of 70-80%, contains carbohydrates in the form of lactose, and is more affordable than other types of whey protein. The product is also known to regulate lipid and insulin profiles, boost immune health, and manage cholesterol levels, among others.

Besides, whey protein concentrates enjoy substantial popularity among athletes to gain muscle mass as they facilitate muscle synthesis.

Market Share by Application

Sports nutrition represents a significant whey protein market share as whey protein can support the development and maintenance of muscle mass, improve athletic performance, reduce body fat, and surge lean body mass. Key players are also offering whey protein in different flavours and formats that can be incorporated into different foods such as smoothies, yoghurt, and nutrition bars.

Meanwhile, the demand for whey protein in beverages is likely to increase due to their ease of digestibility, excellent nutritional profile, and neutral flavour. In the forecast period, the growing demand for functional and healthy ready-to-drink beverages that can provide nutrition on-the-go is anticipated to fuel the whey protein market demand.

Competitive Landscape

Glanbia plc is a prominent nutrition company that provides lifestyle and sports nutrition products. Headquartered in Kilkenny, Ireland, the company’s ingredients are used in beverages, food, and clinical nutritional products. It is one of the leading producers of whey protein isolates, American-style cheddar cheese, and premix solutions.

Olam International Limited, established in 1989, is an agriculture and food company, with its headquarters in Singapore. Its value chain ranges from farming to distribution, and it is one of the prominent global suppliers of feed, ingredients, food, and fibre. Through its innovative offerings and R&D activities, the company aims to sustainably address challenges posed by the rising global population.

Arla Foods amba is a prominent dairy cooperative that is owned by over 125,000 farmers from the Netherlands, Denmark, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and Sweden. The company offers dairy products that are made from high-quality ingredients and sustainable methods. Some of its well-known brands are Castello®, Lurpak®, and Arla®, among others.

Other whey protein market players include Fonterra Co-Operative Group Limited, Lactalis Ingredients, Royal FrieslandCampina NV, Hilmar Cheese Company, Inc., Agropur Cooperative, Saputo Inc., Leprino Foods Company, and Wheyco GmbH, among others.

Key Highlights of the Report