Animal Proteins

Global Animal Proteins Market to Reach US$3.1 Billion by 2030

The global market for Animal Proteins estimated at US$1.9 Billion in the year 2023, is expected to reach US$3.1 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.8% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Food & Beverage Application, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 7.1% CAGR and reach US$1.6 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Dietary Supplements Application segment is estimated at 7.2% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$508.8 Million While China is Forecast to Grow at 10.3% CAGR

The Animal Proteins market in the U.S. is estimated at US$508.8 Million in the year 2023. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$734.2 Million by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 10.3% over the analysis period 2023-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.4% and 6.0% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 4.1% CAGR.

Global Animal Proteins Market - Key Trends and Drivers Summarized

What Are Animal Proteins and How Do They Contribute to Human Nutrition?

Animal proteins are a diverse group of macronutrients derived from animal sources such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and eggs. They are composed of long chains of amino acids that play a vital role in the growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. One of the key characteristics that set animal proteins apart from plant-based alternatives is their completeness; animal proteins contain all nine essential amino acids that the human body cannot synthesize on its own, making them a highly efficient source of nutrition. Amino acids like leucine, lysine, and methionine, found abundantly in animal proteins, are crucial for muscle protein synthesis, immune function, and hormone regulation. This nutritional profile is especially important for individuals at different life stages—children and adolescents need these proteins for proper growth, while adults and elderly populations rely on them to maintain muscle mass and prevent conditions like sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss). Moreover, animal proteins are more bioavailable than most plant proteins, meaning that the body can absorb and utilize them more efficiently. This higher bioavailability is attributed to the protein`s structural similarities to human tissues and the presence of additional nutrients such as vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are either absent or less abundant in plant-based proteins. Because of these attributes, animal proteins are considered a cornerstone of dietary plans aimed at promoting health, strength, and overall well-being, making them indispensable not just for individuals following traditional diets but also for athletes, bodybuilders, and people recovering from illness or surgery.

Why Are Animal Proteins So Widely Used in the Food and Supplement Industries?

The prevalence of animal proteins in the food and supplement industries is a result of their superior nutritional profile, functional properties, and consumer demand. In the food industry, animal proteins are valued for their ability to enhance flavor, texture, and mouthfeel in a wide range of products. For instance, casein and whey proteins derived from milk are commonly used as emulsifiers, gelling agents, and stabilizers in processed foods, yogurts, and protein-enriched snacks. Similarly, collagen from bovine or fish sources is used extensively in the production of gelatins and protein bars, as well as in functional foods targeting joint and skin health. Meat proteins, such as those from beef or chicken, contribute to the succulence and binding properties in sausages, patties, and ready-to-eat meals. In the supplement industry, animal-based proteins like whey, casein, and egg protein powders are widely regarded as gold standards for muscle recovery and growth due to their rapid digestibility and complete amino acid profile. These proteins are heavily marketed towards athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those seeking to increase their protein intake in a convenient, concentrated form. The rise of specialized dietary needs has further boosted the demand for hydrolyzed animal proteins, which are broken down into smaller peptides for easier digestion, making them ideal for people with sensitive stomachs or those who require rapid nutrient absorption. Beyond their functional and nutritional benefits, the longstanding consumer preference for animal proteins stems from their association with high quality and superior taste, factors that are difficult for plant-based proteins to replicate.

What Innovations Are Transforming the Animal Protein Market?

The animal protein market is experiencing a wave of innovation driven by advancements in production technology, sustainability initiatives, and consumer demand for health-centric products. One of the major innovations is the use of precision fermentation and biotechnology to enhance the nutritional quality and sustainability of traditional animal proteins. Companies are experimenting with gene-editing technologies like CRISPR to produce livestock and fish with improved feed conversion ratios and higher yields, thereby reducing environmental impacts associated with animal farming. In parallel, innovations in feed additives, such as algae-based supplements, are being used to boost the omega-3 fatty acid content in fish and poultry, making them healthier for human consumption. Another noteworthy development is in the realm of protein extraction and refinement techniques. For instance, the refinement of hydrolysis processes has led to the production of highly purified protein isolates and concentrates, which offer enhanced functionality and are increasingly being used in clinical nutrition and medical food applications. Additionally, the market is witnessing the growth of alternative animal proteins derived from less conventional sources like insects and marine life. Proteins from crickets, mealworms, and shellfish are gaining traction for their high nutrient density, sustainable production methods, and lower environmental footprint compared to traditional livestock proteins. The incorporation of these novel proteins into protein powders, bars, and even pet foods is expanding the consumer base and creating new growth opportunities. Moreover, advancements in meat processing technology, such as the use of enzyme treatments and cold-pressed methods, are improving the texture and taste profiles of animal proteins, making them more versatile for culinary applications. The development of functional animal protein blends that combine dairy, egg, and meat proteins to optimize their nutrient profiles and enhance solubility and digestibility is also emerging as a significant trend.

What Factors Are Propelling the Growth of the Animal Protein Market?

The growth in the animal protein market is driven by several factors, including the rising demand for high-quality protein sources, the expanding global population, and the increasing prevalence of protein deficiency-related health conditions. A primary growth driver is the global emphasis on protein as a crucial dietary component, especially in the wake of widespread malnutrition and protein-energy malnutrition in developing regions. With the world’s population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the need for efficient and sustainable protein sources is more pressing than ever, positioning animal proteins as a vital element in addressing global food security. Another factor fueling growth is the increasing consumer interest in high-protein diets, driven by trends such as the ketogenic, paleo, and low-carb diets, which have popularized the consumption of meat, dairy, and egg-based proteins. This trend is particularly strong in North America and Europe, where consumers are seeking animal proteins not only for weight management and muscle building but also for satiety and metabolic health benefits. Additionally, the growing aging population is contributing to increased demand for easily digestible, high-quality animal proteins to prevent muscle loss and support overall health. The functional food and nutraceutical sectors are also driving demand, as manufacturers incorporate animal proteins into a variety of fortified products aimed at specific health outcomes, such as bone health, skin elasticity, and immune function. Technological advancements in the animal agriculture sector, such as improved breeding techniques and feed optimization, are enhancing the productivity and nutritional quality of animal protein sources, further supporting market growth. Lastly, the growing interest in sustainable sourcing and animal welfare is shaping the industry, with consumers gravitating towards ethically sourced, pasture-raised, and organic animal proteins. This shift is prompting producers to adopt more transparent and sustainable practices, such as regenerative farming, which aims to improve soil health and reduce the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Together, these factors are driving not only the growth but also the evolution of the animal protein market towards a more sustainable and health-focused future.

Select Competitors (Total 48 Featured) -

• Amco Proteins
• Arla Foods
• Bovogen Biologicals Pty Ltd
• Cargill Inc.
• Cooke Inc
• Gelita AG
• Kerry Group
• Maple Leaf Foods
• Tyson Food
• Valley Proteins, Inc.

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