Protein Supplements Market
Updated Date : 09 January 2026   |   Report Code : 5992

Protein Supplements Market Size, Growth, and Trends 2025 to 2035

The global protein supplements market size is forecasted to expand from USD 32.88 billion in 2026 to reach USD 70.24 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period from 2026 to 2035. This market is driven by rising health awareness, increasing fitness trends, and growing demand for convenient nutrition solutions. Expanding applications across sports nutrition, weight management, clinical nutrition, and general wellness are accelerating market adoption.

Last Updated: 09 January 2026 Category: Dietary and Nutraceutical Supplements Insight Code: 5992 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

Protein Supplements Market Size 2025 to 2035

The global protein supplements market size estimated at USD 30.22 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to increase from USD 32.88 billion in 2026 to nearly reaching USD 70.24 billion by 2035, witnessing a CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period from 2026 to 2035. The growing health and fitness trend and expanding sports nutrition are driving the market.

Protein Supplements Market Size 2025 to 2035

Key Highlights

  • By region, North America dominated the global market with 37% largest share in 2025.
  • By region, the Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a fastest CAGR from 2026 to 2035.
  • By source, the animal-based segment held the major market share in 2025. 
  • By source, the plant-based segment is projected to grow at the fastest between 2026 and 2035.
  • By product, the protein powder segment contributed the biggest market share in 2025.
  • By product, the ready-to-drink segment is expanding at the fastest CAGR between 2026 and 2035.
  • By application, the functional foods segment dominated the market in 2025.
  • By application, the sports nutrition segment is expected to grow at the fastest significant CAGR over the projected period. 
  • By distribution channel, the online segment held the major market share in 2025.
  • By distribution channel, the supermarkets segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR between 2026 and 2035.

Protein Supplements Industry Coverage

Study Coverage Details
Growth Rate from 2026 to 2035 CAGR of 8.8%
Market Size in 2026 USD 32.88 Billion
Market Size in 2027 USD 35.77 Billion
Market Size by 2035 USD 70.24 Billion
Largest Market North America
Base Year 2025
Forecast Period 2026 to 2035
Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa

What is the Protein Supplements?

Protein supplements repair build, and maintain skin, muscles, and hair in the body. They also help decrease weight, reduce cholesterol, strengthen immunity, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and provide several other benefits. The protein supplements market is mainly driven by increased health awareness, gym culture, and online retail, with growing demand for animal and plant-based protein

  • Industry Growth Overview: The protein supplements market is experiencing significant growth, primarily driven by increased health awareness and a global shift toward fitness-oriented lifestyles. The surging demand for protein bar, ready-to-drink beverages, and powders among bodybuilders, elite athletes, and casual exercisers is expected to propel market growth. The presence of numerous brands, including Quest Nutrition, Optimum Nutrition, Bio-Engineered Supplements and Nutrition (BSN), NOW Foods, and United States Nutrition, is anticipated to further enhance global market expansion. 
  • Sustainability Trends: Nutrition experts and researchers are increasingly interested in sustainable protein sources, particularly plant-based options such as wheat gluten, soy, and pea proteins. Key growth drivers include heightened awareness of the environmental impact of traditional animal farming, recognized health benefits of plant-based diets, and growing ethical concerns regarding animal welfare. Brands like Beyond Meat, Impossible Foods, and Oatly have played a crucial role in mainstreaming alternative protein, showcasing their broad appeal to consumers.
  • Startup Ecosystem: The startup ecosystem is also adapting by localizing flavors, customizing products for different age groups, and offering subscription services to encourage daily protein intake. Innovative startups are disrupting the food supply chain by providing high-quality plant-based proteins. Advanced technologies such as precision fermentation, cellular agriculture, and AI-driven research and development are crucial to this entrepreneurial landscape.
  • One such US-based startup, Lupii, founded in 2019, produces plant-based protein bars using lupini beans, which are known for their high nutritional value. 
  • Finnish food technology startup Solar Foods announced the development of a new protein shake powder made from its Solein product, a protein created by fermenting microbes using only air and renewable energy.

Key Technological Shift in the Protein Supplements Market 

There is no doubt that technology is transforming protein production. Microencapsulation techniques allow for controlled nutrient delivery, enhancing protein absorption rates. Animal protein substitutes and microbial protein fermentation technologies are further supporting the growth of plant-based proteins, broadening the range of available protein options. Additionally, artificial intelligence and automation are streamlining production processes in the protein supplements market, improving supply chain efficiency and reducing time-to-market for new formulations.

  • Protera, for instance, manufactures protein-based ingredients by integrating protein and food science expertise with advanced AI technology, producing safe, sustainable, and affordable protein-based food components through a unique process called Natural Intelligence.

Trade Analysis of the Protein Supplements Market: Export and Import Statistics

  • Most protein supplement exports from India are directed towards the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands. 
  • On a global scale, the top three exporters of protein supplements are the United States, the United Kingdom, and Poland. The United States leads with 6,006 shipments, followed by the United Kingdom with 1,072 shipments and Poland with 910 shipments. 
  • The United States exported 7,264 shipments of protein powder, handled by 610 U.S. exporters to 598 buyers, 
    The majority exports of protein powder from the United States going to Vietnam, the Philippines, and Mexico.
  • In Germany, 21 protein food supplement suppliers shipped to 31 buyers worldwide, with 11 active exporters between June 2024 and May 2025. The top-performing German exporters by volume included: 
    • OPELLA HEALTHCARE INTERNATIONAL SAS: 20 shipments (59%)
    • Logwin Poland Sp. z o.o.: 6 shipments (18%)
    • DANONE TRADING MEDICAL B.V.: 2 shipments (6%)

Value Chain Analysis of Protein Supplements Market

Raw Material Procurement 

  • Raw material sourcing includes procuring whey and casein, plants like soy and pea, and sometimes hemp. 
  • Key players: Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), DuPont, Cargill, Kerry Group, and Arla Foods Ingredients. 

Processing 

  • Processing of protein supplements includes extracting protein from sources like milk or plants, purifying it by removing fats, carbs, and lactose through filtration, concentrating it, and then drying it into powder
  • Key players: Abbott Laboratories, Amway Corporation, Glanbia PLC, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). 

Distribution 

  • Distribution of protein supplements relies heavily on supermarkets or hypermarkets and a rapidly growing online retail sector, supplemented by specialty stores, pharmacies, gyms, and health clubs. 

Protein Supplements Market Regional Insights

Which Region Dominated the Protein Supplements Market in 2025?

North America dominated the market in 2025. The rising obesity rate has contributed to the growth of the market, as awareness of the importance of a healthy diet and regular exercise has increased in recent years. Protein supplements have become a popular choice for individuals looking to enhance their diets with additional protein to support their fitness goals. Companies are also educating consumers about the benefits of protein ingredients while adhering to regulatory standards set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

  • For instance, in fiscal year 2024, General Mills generated more than $100 million in retail sales from its protein cereal lines, including Nature Valley Protein, Cheerios Protein, and Ghost Protein. (Source: CNBC)

North America Protein Supplements Market Size 2025 to 2035

The North America protein supplements market size was calculated at USD 11.18 billion in 2025 with projections indicating a rise from USD 12.17 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 26.34 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 8.95% throughout the forecast period from 2026 to 2035.

North America Protein Supplements Market Size 2025 to 2035

U.S. Protein Supplements Market Growth Drivers

The rising importance of maintaining an active lifestyle and increasing awareness of the health benefits of protein are major factors driving market growth in the United States. Various sports nutritional supplements include protein-based beverages, drinks, powders, bars, and shakes made to stimulate growth of the muscles, help with appetite control and enhance the overall good health. As consumers focus more on fitness and bodybuilding, the demand for probiotic sports nutrition supplements, particularly protein supplements, is growing across the U.S.

How Big is the U.S. Protein Supplements Market?

The U.S. protein supplements market size was valued at USD 8.39 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow steadily from USD 9.12 billion in 2026 to reach nearly USD 19.89 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 9.02% during the forecast period from 2026 to 2035.

U.S. Protein Supplements Market Size 2025 to 2035

Which is the Fastest-Growing Region in the Protein Supplements Market During the Forecast Period?

Asia Pacific is experiencing fastest growth in the market during the forecast period. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious in response to rising obesity rates and increasing focus on environmental sustainability. From an environmental perspective, plant-based proteins emit fewer greenhouse gases, require fewer natural resources, and have a smaller ecological footprint. Additionally, plant-based products such as soy protein are gaining popularity as alternatives to dairy and meat proteins in the APAC region. The market is also trending toward veganism. Innovations in culinary practices and technological advancements in the food industry are making plant-based proteins a cost-effective alternative to animal-based sources, while still offering similar nutritional benefits.

India Protein Supplements Market Analysis

India is witnessing a nutrition-driven shift, with protein supplements becoming essential for preventive health and wellness. A growing segment of consumers, including professionals and seniors, is now turning to daily protein supplements to boost immunity, aid muscle recovery, and sustain energy levels. Brands like MuscleBlaze, Amul, and Oziva are responding with affordable and clean-label options to meet this rising demand. India's protein supplements market is showing diverse growth patterns across various regions, influenced by factors such as urbanization, fitness awareness, income levels, and access to organized retail chains.

  • In August 2025, SuperYou, co-founded by Ranveer Singh and entrepreneur Nikunj Biyani, entered the protein supplements category with the launch of SuperYou Pro. This innovative range of clean-label protein powders is powered by advanced bio-fermented yeast protein technology. (Source: Hotelier India)

Protein Supplements Market Share, By Region, 2025 (%)

Europe Protein Supplements Market Trends

The European protein supplements market growth is also driven by an increasing emphasis on healthy living, a growing trend of preventive healthcare, and rising demand for protein supplements from countries like the U.K. and Germany, which is expected to enhance market growth over the forecast period. Furthermore, the aging population and increasing consumer awareness about healthy eating and exercise will likely drive the demand for protein supplements. In Europe, high disposable incomes and fast-paced lifestyles are expected to further fuel market growth.

Germany Protein Supplements Market Trends

The protein supplements market in Germany is expanding rapidly. This growth is primarily supported by increasing health consciousness, a rise in fitness activities, and a growing trend toward preventive healthcare, particularly in the post-pandemic era. The demand for nutritional products continues to surge as individuals seek to improve physical performance, address specific dietary needs, and support overall well-being. The market has particularly benefited from heightened awareness of immunity and wellness, with vitamins and protein supplements experiencing high demand.

The Middle East and Africa Protein Supplements Market Expansion

The Middle East and Africa region accounts for a significant portion of the market due to rising health and fitness trends. As more people adopt healthier lifestyles, the consumption of protein supplements is increasing to support muscle development and body weight management. The growing interest in fitness, coupled with a better understanding of the need for a nutritious diet, is positively influencing market demand. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce platforms is making protein products more accessible to a broader audience.

UAE Protein Supplements Market Growth

The growth of the protein supplements market in the UAE is primarily driven by increasing health awareness among both UAE citizens and the expatriate population. Additionally, the rise in the number of gyms in Dubai and Abu Dhabi has led to greater demand for protein powders and bars. Influencers and wellness campaigns also contribute to this increasing demand. Key growth factors include higher disposable incomes and consumer spending on premium products, a trend towards plant-based and clean-label items driven by sustainability concerns.

  • In October 2025, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office launched a strategic collaboration with New Agrarian Company Limited to explore the development of a large-scale, multi-tenant protein fermentation center in Abu Dhabi. This collaboration supports the emirate’s AgriFood Growth and Water Abundance cluster, aiming to generate AED 90 billion in GDP impact by 2045. (Source: media office)

South America Protein Supplements Market Study

The South American protein supplements industry is undergoing a significant transformation due to changing consumer preferences and growing health consciousness. Rising rates of conditions like diabetes and hypertension are increasing the demand for supplements aimed at boosting immunity and addressing specific health needs. Many consumers are increasingly adopting protein-rich diets to support active lifestyles and manage their weight. There remains strong demand for natural, plant-based, and clean-label protein products throughout the region.

Brazil Protein Supplements Market Drivers

The fitness and wellness sector is emerging as a vital driver of protein consumption patterns across Brazil. According to preliminary data from the Brazilian Association of Gyms, the sector reached 40,000 units in September 2025, as reported by the National Classification of Economic Activities for physical and fitness activities. This represents an increase of 10,000 establishments compared to 2019, before the pandemic. The market is experiencing a surge in demand for specialized protein products that cater to specific dietary needs and restrictions. In addition, the Brazilian protein supplements market share is driven by trends in weight management, the growing popularity of vegetarian diets and natural ingredients, as well as the expansion of e-commerce platforms. (Source: Valor International)

Protein Supplements Market Segmental Insights

Source Insights

Why did the Animal-Based Segment Dominate the Protein Supplements Market in 2025?

The animal-based protein supplements segment led the market in 2025. Numerous health benefits associated with animal-based protein supplements are supported by strong scientific evidence and recognized by government food regulatory agencies, such as the FDA. Therefore, the increasing prevalence of health issues among consumers due to nutrient deficiencies is expected to drive demand in this market. The growing trend of consuming high-protein products has further fueled the popularity of animal-based protein supplements. 

  • In August 2025, the US active nutrition brand Silver Star Nutrition launched Select Proformance Elite Whey Protein Isolate, a fast-digesting protein designed specifically for performance-driven consumers and athletes seeking high-quality animal-based protein powder with rapid absorption benefits. (Source: FoodBev Media)

The Plant-Based Protein Segment is Expected to Experience the Fastest Growth During the Forecast Period. 

More individuals are adopting vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian diets, accelerating the demand for alternatives to animal-derived proteins. Rising health awareness is also pivotal, many consumers are increasingly avoiding dairy due to lactose intolerance, allergies, or digestive discomfort, opting instead for pea, soy, rice, and hemp protein supplements. Younger demographics, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are driving this trend by incorporating plant-based powders, bars, and ready-to-drink formats into their fitness, weight management, and everyday wellness routines.

Product Insights

Why did the Protein Powder Segment Dominated the Protein Supplements Market?

The protein powder segment held the largest share of the market in 2025. This dominance can be attributed to the high adoption rate of high protein powders supplements, which are easy to handle, cost-effective, contain relatively few additional ingredients like sugar, additives, and preservatives, and are stable in composition. Furthermore, the growing consumer demand for plant-based protein powders is expected to boost overall demand for this segment.

The Ready-to-Drink Segment is Expected to Grow at a Fastest Rate During the Predicted Timeframe. 

As consumers increasingly opt for healthy and convenient options in their daily routines, there is heightened awareness regarding the significance of protein for fitness, energy, and overall health. This shift has resulted in a growing demand for ready-to-drink shakes that cater to on-the-go lifestyles. The market is evolving beyond traditional niches such as gyms and professional athletes, now appealing to a broader demographic, including working professionals, older adults, and adherents of plant-based diets.

  • In July 2025, Nestlé introduced Milo Pro in both ready-to-drink and powder formats. This product development responds to the rising demand for high-protein nutrition across Southeast Asia, where many adolescents do not meet their daily protein requirements. (Source: Nestle)

Application Insights

Which Application Segment Dominated the Protein Supplements Market in 2025?

The functional food segment dominated the market with the largest share in 2025. The increasing consumer preference for functional foods enriched with nutritious ingredients reflects evolving desires for healthier eating habits and lifestyles. Moreover, the growing awareness of nutrition and overall well-being propels individuals to seek products that offer specific health benefits, such as improved digestion or enhanced immune function. The rising incidence of lifestyle diseases, including obesity and diabetes, has underscored the need for preventive healthcare solutions.

The Sports Nutrition segment is Anticipated to Experience the Most Rapid Growth During the Forecast Period. 

This trend is driven by heightened health awareness, a burgeoning fitness culture, and increased participation in sports activities, broadening the consumer base from professional athletes to recreational users and lifestyle consumers. Weight loss remains a significant objective, with nearly 25% of active lifestyle consumers and approximately 16% of performance consumers citing it as their primary motivation for exercising. Protein is a critical ingredient that contributes to satiety, while innovative options such as Prolibra bioactive whey protein and CapsiAtra dihydrocapsiate are gaining traction as weight loss solutions.

Distribution Channel Insights

Which Distribution Channel Accounted for the Largest Protein Supplements Market Share In 2025? 

The online segment accounted for the largest market share in 2025, attributed to the convenience, variety, and personalized shopping experiences that e-commerce platforms provide. Consumers benefit from the ability to compare ingredients, prices, and reviews across multiple brands without the need to visit physical stores, making online shopping particularly appealing for fitness-conscious buyers who prioritize efficiency and informed decision-making. Emerging direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands often emphasize clean-label transparency, sustainability, and niche benefits, effectively attracting a younger, digitally-savvy demographic.

The Supermarket Segment is Expected to Grow at the Fastest Rate During the Forecast Period.

Due to its widespread presence, in-store sampling opportunities, and the trust it fosters among consumers. Retailers such as Aeon in Japan, Big Bazaar in India, Walmart and Kroger in the United States, Woolworths in Australia, and Carrefour in China offer a diverse selection of protein supplements across various price tiers. Supermarkets cater to both impulse buyers and regular consumers, providing bundled promotions and seasonal discounts that stimulate volume sales.

Recent Developments in the Protein Supplements Market

Abbott

  • Launch: In December 2024, Abbott, a global leader in science-based nutrition, announced the launch of two new shakes designed to support muscle health and nutrition goals within its Ensure Max Protein line: Ensure Max Protein 42g and Ensure Max Protein 2-in-1 Muscle Support. (Source: PR Newswire)

Tetra Pak

  • Launch: In November 2025, Tetra Pak unveiled a new powder development center aimed at assisting food and beverage manufacturers in validating and optimizing powder-formulated products. This center is equipped with modular production lines, advanced powder-handling technologies, and a testing laboratory to facilitate innovation across various applications, including dairy, beverages, and protein supplements, while also aiding producers in meeting sustainability objectives. (Source: Food Ingredients 1st)

Top Companies in the Protein Supplements Market

  • Abbott Laboratories stands as a major player in the protein supplements market, focusing on nutrition science, research, and development to deliver products and educational resources that address the evolving needs of consumers.
  • Glanbia plc is a key contender in the protein supplements sector, operating across the entire value chain with renowned consumer brands such as Optimum Nutrition (ON) and providing ingredient supply through Glanbia Nutritionals. As a leading manufacturer of whey protein, Glanbia offers a range of dairy-based, plant-based, and functional proteins characterized by substantial nutritional value and superior functional properties.
  • Herbalife International has established itself as a major global entity in the protein supplements industry, marketing its products as the No.1 protein shake in the world and being recognized as the No. 1 active and lifestyle nutrition brand, distributed through a vast network of independent distributors.
  • Nestlé S.A. is also a significant player in the protein supplements market, particularly through its Nestlé Health Science division, which leverages extensive research and development in protein science to provide established brands such as BOOST and Carnation Breakfast Essentials.

Other Key Players in the Market 

Segments Covered in the Report

By Source

  • Animal-Based
    • Whey
    • Casein
    • Egg
    • Fish
    • Others
  • Plant-Based
    • Soy
    • Spirulina
    • Pumpkin Seed
    • Wheat
    • Hemp
    • Rice
    • Pea
    • Others

By Product

  • Protein Powder
  • Protein bars
  • RTD
  • Others

By Application

  • Sports Nutrition
  • Functional foods

By Distribution Channel

  • Supermarkets
  • Online
  • DTC
  • Others

By Region

  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • MEA
  • Latin America
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  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Vidyesh Swar, Senior Research Analyst at Towards Food & Beverages, specializes in market research, focusing on supply-demand evaluation, pricing analysis, alternative proteins, plant-based foods, and sustainable food technologies within the industry.

Learn more about Vidyesh Swar

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in Food and Beverages market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards FnB's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

Answer : The market was valued at USD 30.22 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 70.24 billion by 2035, growing at a strong 8.8% CAGR. Growth is driven by rising fitness culture, sports nutrition demand, and health awareness.

Answer : North America leads with a 37% market share due to strong fitness culture and regulatory support, while Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region fueled by plant-based trends and rising health consciousness.

Answer : Animal-based proteins, especially whey, dominated in 2025 due to proven effectiveness and regulatory approval. However, plant-based proteins are growing fastest due to vegan trends and lactose intolerance concerns.

Answer : Consumers are shifting toward sustainable, ethical, and allergen-free protein sources like pea, soy, and hemp, driven by environmental concerns and digestive health preferences among millennials and Gen Z.

Answer : Protein powders dominate due to affordability, long shelf life, easy consumption, and minimal additives, making them ideal for daily fitness and nutritional use.

Answer : Functional foods dominate as consumers seek protein-enriched products for immunity, digestion, and disease prevention, especially in response to rising lifestyle disorders.

Answer : AI-driven R&D, precision fermentation, microencapsulation, and microbial protein production are improving absorption, sustainability, and product customization while reducing time-to-market.

Answer : Major players include Abbott, Glanbia, Herbalife, Nestlé, GNC, and Quest Nutrition, focusing on innovation, brand trust, and global distribution networks.