Alternative Protein Market Size, Share, Forecast, & Trends Analysis by Type (Plant Protein [Soy, Pea, Potato], Insect Protein [Crickets, BSF], Microbial [Algae Protein, Fungal Proteins]), Application (Food & Beverage, Animal Feed) - Global Forecast to 203

Alternative Protein Market Size, Share, Forecast, & Trends Analysis by Type (Plant Protein [Soy, Pea, Potato], Insect Protein [Crickets, BSF], Microbial [Algae Protein, Fungal Protein]), Application (Food & Beverage, Animal Feed)—Global Forecast to 2032

According to the research report titled, ‘Alternative Protein Market Size, Share, Forecast, & Trends Analysis by Type (Plant Protein [Soy, Pea, Potato], Insect Protein [Crickets, BSF], Microbial [Algae Protein, Fungal Protein]), Application (Food & Beverage, Animal Feed)—Global Forecast to 2032,’ the alternative protein market is projected to reach $54.78 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 14.3% during the forecast period 2025–2032. In terms of volume, the alternative protein market is projected to reach 15,370.4 thousand tons by 2032, at a CAGR of 10.2% during the forecast period of 2025–2032. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the global alternative protein market across five major regions, emphasizing the current market trends, market sizes, recent developments, and forecasts till 2032.

Succeeding extensive secondary and primary research and an in-depth analysis of the market scenario, the report conducts the impact analysis of the key industry drivers, restraints, opportunities, and trends. The growth of this market is driven by rapid urbanization, increasing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable food options, and the surge in venture capital investments directed toward alternative protein startups. Innovations in food processing and biotechnology, along with the high nutritional value of edible insects and other novel protein sources, are also contributing to the market’s expansion. Additionally, the production and consumption of alternative proteins offer significant environmental advantages, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower water and land usage, and a smaller ecological footprint compared to traditional livestock farming.

Despite these positive factors, the market faces certain challenges. The relatively high cost of producing alternative proteins compared to conventional animal-based proteins, along with a strong consumer preference for traditional meat and dairy products in many cultures, continues to restrain market growth. However, there is growing consumer interest in plant-based diets, driven by health consciousness, ethical concerns, and increased awareness of environmental sustainability. These shifting preferences are expected to create significant opportunities for companies operating in the alternative protein space. In addition, increased government support for sustainable food initiatives, expanding product availability in retail and foodservice sectors, and strategic collaborations among key players are anticipated to further accelerate market growth in the near future.

The key players operating in the alternative protein market are Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (U.S.), Cargill, Incorporated (U.S.), Roquette Frères (France), Ingredion Incorporated (U.S.), Kerry Group plc (Ireland), International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF) (U.S.), Now Health Group, Inc. (U.S.), Tate & Lyle Plc (U.K.), Axiom Foods Inc. (U.S.), Burcon NutraScience Corporation (Canada), BENEO GmbH (A Part of Südzucker AG) (Germany), Glanbia Plc (Ireland), Sotexpro (France), Farbest-Tallman Foods Corporation (U.S.), CHS Inc. (U.S.), Ÿnsect (SAS) (France), Protix B.V. (Netherlands), Entomo Farms (Canada), Global Bugs Asia Co., Ltd. (Thailand), Aspire Food Group (U.S.), EnviroFlight, LLC (U.S.), Haocheng Mealworm Inc. (China), JR Unique Foods Ltd. (Thailand), Armstrong Cricket Farm Georgia (U.S.), Rocky Mountain Micro Ranch (U.S.), Cricket Lab Limited (U.K.), DIC Corporation (Japan), Cellena Inc. (U.S.), Taiwan Chlorella Manufacturing Company (Taiwan), Cyanotech Corporation (U.S.), Bluebiotech International GmbH (Germany), Pond Technologies Holdings Inc. (Canada), E.I.D.-Parry (India) Limited (India), Tianjin Norland Biotech Co., Ltd. (China), MycoTechnology Inc. (U.S.), Enough. (U.K.), Corbion NV (Netherlands), Sun Chlorella Corporation (Japan), Plantible Foods, Inc. (U.S.), Far East Bio-Tec Co., Ltd. (Taiwan), Far East Microalgae Industries, Co. Ltd. (Taiwan), Algenfarm Klötze GmbH & Co. KG (Germany), Yaeyama Shokusan Co., Ltd. (Japan), Unibio Group (Denmark), String Bio Pvt. Ltd (India), Calysta, Inc. (U.S.), Angel Yeast Co., Ltd (China), and Lesaffre (France).

The alternative protein market is segmented by type (plant protein [soy protein {soy protein concentrate, soy protein isolate, textured soy protein, and other soy proteins}, wheat protein {vital wheat gluten, wheat protein isolate, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and textured wheat protein}, pea protein {pea protein isolate, pea protein concentrate, textured pea protein, pea protein hydrolysate, pea flour, and other pea protein}, canola protein {canola protein isolate, canola protein concentrate, and other canola protein}, potato protein {potato protein concentrate and potato protein isolate}, rice protein {rice protein isolate, rice protein concentrate, and rice protein hydrolysate}, corn protein {corn protein isolate, corn protein concentrate, and other corn protein}, and other plant protein], insect protein [crickets, black soldier fly, and other insect protein], and microbial protein [algae protein, fungal protein {mycoprotein, mushroom protein, and yeast protein}, and bacterial protein]), application (plant protein-based applications [food & beverage { meat, poultry, and seafood, bakery, meat analogs, dairy alternatives, cereals & snacks, beverages, and other food & beverage applications}, animal feed, nutrition & health supplements, pharmaceuticals, and other plant protein-based applications], insect protein-based applications [food & beverage {processed whole insects, processed insect powder, insect protein bars & shakes, insect baked products & snacks, insect confectioneries, insect beverages, and other food & beverage applications}, and feed {animal feed, aquaculture feed, and pet food}], and microbial protein-based applications [nutraceuticals, food & beverage, animal feed, cosmetics, and others]), and geography. The study also evaluates industry competitors and analyzes the country-level markets.

Based on type, the plant protein segment is expected to account for the largest share of 81.3% of the alternative protein market in 2025. The major share of this market is mainly attributed to the surging demand from food & beverage manufacturers, the huge availability of raw materials for processing, and the lower cost than other alternative proteins. Plant protein, derived from sources such as soy, peas, rice, and chickpeas, are widely favored for their versatility, neutral taste, and ease of integration into a broad range of products. However, the insect protein segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period of 2025–2032. The high growth rate of this segment is mainly driven by the growing demand for environmentally friendly, protein-rich food and the rising investments in edible insect farming. Insects such as crickets, mealworms, and black soldier flies offer high protein content, require minimal land and water resources, and produce significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional livestock.

Based on application, the plant protein-based applications segment is expected to account for the largest share of the alternative protein market in 2025. The large share of this segment is attributed to the increasing vegetarian and vegan population, rising consumer inclination towards clean-label products, and the growing investments and expansions by plant-based product manufacturers.

However, the insect protein-based applications segment is expected to record the highest CAGR of 29.4% during the forecast period. Based on type, the insect protein-based applications market is further segmented into food & beverage and feed. In 2024, the food & beverage segment is expected to account for a larger share of the insect protein-based applications market. The large share of this segment is driven by the increasing food shortage globally, the rising consumption of processed whole insects as food, and the increasing demand for high-quality alternative protein and amino acid sources among end users.

An in-depth geographic analysis of the industry provides detailed qualitative and quantitative insights into the five major regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa) and the coverage of major countries in each region. Asia-Pacific is slated to register the highest CAGR of 16.4% during the forecast period, mainly due to the rising consumer awareness of health and wellness, especially regarding the importance of protein-rich diets. The region also benefits from rapid urbanization, a fast-growing middle-class population, and increasing disposable incomes, which are fueling demand for functional foods and beverages. Moreover, technological advancements in food processing and preservation, along with strong government initiatives to modernize agriculture and food manufacturing infrastructure, are accelerating market growth.

In addition, the Asia-Pacific region boasts a diverse and abundant base of raw materials, such as soy, pulses, rice, and seaweed, which are essential for protein production and innovation. Countries like China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Australia are emerging as key contributors to this growth, each with unique market drivers. For instance, China’s investment in biotech food solutions, India’s booming plant-based industry, and Japan’s aging population seeking high-nutrition food products are all shaping regional trends.

Key Questions Answered in the Report

What is the current revenue generated by alternative protein globally?
At what rate is the global alternative protein demand projected to grow for the next 5–7 years?
What are the historical market sizes and growth rates of the global alternative protein market?
What are the major factors impacting the growth of this market at the regional and country levels? What are the major opportunities for existing players and new entrants in the market?
Which segments in terms of type and applications are expected to create major traction for the manufacturers in this market?
What are the key geographical trends in this market? Which regions/countries are expected to offer significant growth opportunities for the manufacturers operating in the global alternative protein market?
Who are the major players in the global alternative protein market? What are their specific product offerings in this market?
What are the recent strategic developments in the global alternative protein market? What are the impacts of these strategic developments on the market?

Scope of the Report:

Alternative Protein Market Assessment—by Type

Plant Protein
Soy Protein
Soy Protein Concentrate
Soy Protein Isolate
Textured Soy Protein
Other Soy Protein
Wheat Protein
Vital Wheat Gluten
Wheat Protein Isolate
Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
Textured Wheat Protein
Pea Protein
Pea Protein Isolate
Pea Protein Concentrate
Textured Pea Protein
Pea Protein Hydrolysate
Pea Flour
Other Pea Protein
Canola Protein
Canola Protein Isolate
Canola Protein Concentrate
Other Canola Protein
Potato Protein
Potato Protein Concentrate
Potato Protein Isolate
Rice Protein
Rice Protein Isolate
Rice Protein Concentrate
Rice Protein Hydrolysate
Corn Protein
Corn Protein Isolate
Corn Protein Concentrate
Corn Protein Hydrolysate
Other Plant Proteins
Insect Protein
Crickets
Black Soldier Fly
Other Insect Protein
Microbial Protein
Algae Protein
Fungal Protein
Mycoprotein
Mushroom Protein
Yeast Protein
Bacterial Protein

Alternative Protein Market Assessment—by Application

Plant Protein-based Applications
Foods & Beverage
Meat, Poultry, and Seafood
Bakery
Meat Analogs
Dairy Alternatives
Cereals & Snacks
Beverages
Other Food & Beverage Applications
Animal Feed
Nutrition & Health Supplements
Pharmaceuticals
Other Plant Protein-based Applications
Insect Protein-based Applications
Food & Beverage
Processed Whole Insects
Processed Insect Powder
Insect Protein Bars & Shakes
Insect Baked Products & Snacks
Insect Confectioneries
Insect Beverages
Other Food & Beverage Applications
Feed
Animal Feed
Aquaculture Feed
Pet Food
Microbial Protein-based Applications
Nutraceuticals
Food & Beverage
Animal Feed
Cosmetics
Other Microbial Protein-based Applications

Alternative Proteins Market Assessment—by Geography

North America
U.S.
Canada
Europe
Germany
France
U.K.
Italy
Spain
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific
China
Japan
India
Australia
Rest of Asia-Pacific
Latin America
Brazil
Mexico
Argentina
Colombia
Chile
Peru
Ecuador
Rest of Latin America
Middle East & Africa

Alternative Protein Market - Report Summary

Report Metrics	Details
Years Considered	2023 - 2032
Base Year	2024
Forecast Period	2025-2032
Page Count	713
Units Referenced	Value (USD Million), Volume (Thousand Tons)
Segments/Key Topics	Market by Type, Application, and Geography
Regions Covered	North America (U.S., Canada), Europe (Germany, France, Italy, U.K., Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, and Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Rest of Latin America), and the Middle East & Africa)
Key Companies Mentioned	Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (U.S.), Cargill, Incorporated (U.S.), Roquette Frères (France), Ingredion Incorporated (U.S.), Kerry Group plc (Ireland), International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF) (U.S.), Now Health Group, Inc. (U.S.), Tate & Lyle Plc (U.K.), Axiom Foods Inc. (U.S.), Burcon NutraScience Corporation (Canada), BENEO GmbH (A Part of Südzucker AG) (Germany), Glanbia Plc (Ireland), Sotexpro (France), Farbest-Tallman Foods Corporation (U.S.), CHS Inc. (U.S.), Ÿnsect (SAS) (France), Protix B.V. (Netherlands), Entomo Farms (Canada), Global Bugs Asia Co., Ltd. (Thailand), Aspire Food Group (U.S.), EnviroFlight, LLC (U.S.), Haocheng Mealworm Inc. (China), JR Unique Foods Ltd. (Thailand), Armstrong Cricket Farm Georgia (U.S.), Rocky Mountain Micro Ranch (U.S.), Cricket Lab Limited (U.K.), DIC Corporation (Japan), Cellena Inc. (U.S.), Taiwan Chlorella Manufacturing Company (Taiwan), Cyanotech Corporation (U.S.), Bluebiotech International GmbH (Germany), Pond Technologies Holdings Inc. (Canada), E.I.D.-Parry (India) Limited (India), Tianjin Norland Biotech Co., Ltd. (China), MycoTechnology Inc. (U.S.), Enough. (U.K.), Corbion NV (Netherlands), Sun Chlorella Corporation (Japan), Plantible Foods, Inc. (U.S.), Far East Bio-Tec Co., Ltd. (Taiwan), Far East Microalgae Industries, Co. Ltd. (Taiwan), Algenfarm Klötze GmbH & Co. KG (Germany), Yaeyama Shokusan Co., Ltd. (Japan), Unibio Group (Denmark), String Bio Pvt. Ltd (India), Calysta, Inc. (U.S.), Angel Yeast Co., Ltd (China), and Lesaffre (France).

FAQs About the Report

What is the focus of the alternative protein market study?

The alternative protein market study focuses on market assessment and opportunity analysis through sales of alternative protein across different regions and countries. This study is also focused on competitive analysis for alternative protein based on an extensive assessment of the leading players’ product portfolios, geographic presence, and key growth strategies.

What is the size of the alternative protein market, and at what CAGR is this market projected to grow during 2025–2032?

The alternative protein market is expected to reach $54.78 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 14.3% from 2025 to 2032.

Which type segment is expected to hold the major share of the market in 2025?

In 2025, the plant protein segment is expected to hold the largest share of the alternative protein market.

Which is the high-growth application segment of the plant protein market?

The nutrition & health supplements segment is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

What are the key factors supporting the growth of this market? What are the major opportunities for existing market players and new entrants in the alternative protein market?

The growth of the alternative protein is driven by rapid urbanization and growing consumer aspirations, increasing venture investments in the alternative protein industry, innovations in food technologies, the high nutritional value of edible insects, and the environmental sustainability of alternative protein production and consumption. Furthermore, consumers’ increasing inclination toward plant-based foods is expected to generate growth opportunities for the players operating in the alternative protein market.

Who are the major players operating in the alternative protein market?

Key players operating in the alternative protein market are Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (U.S.), Cargill, Incorporated (U.S.), Roquette Frères (France), Ingredion Incorporated (U.S.), Kerry Group plc (Ireland), International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (IFF) (U.S.), Now Health Group, Inc. (U.S.), Tate & Lyle Plc (U.K.), Axiom Foods Inc. (U.S.), Burcon NutraScience Corporation (Canada), BENEO GmbH (A Part of Südzucker AG) (Germany), Glanbia Plc (Ireland), Sotexpro (France), Farbest-Tallman Foods Corporation (U.S.), CHS Inc. (U.S.), Ÿnsect (SAS) (France), Protix B.V. (Netherlands), Entomo Farms (Canada), Global Bugs Asia Co., Ltd. (Thailand), Aspire Food Group (U.S.), EnviroFlight, LLC (U.S.), Haocheng Mealworm Inc. (China), JR Unique Foods Ltd. (Thailand), Armstrong Cricket Farm Georgia (U.S.), Rocky Mountain Micro Ranch (U.S.), Cricket Lab Limited (U.K.), DIC Corporation (Japan), Cellena Inc. (U.S.), Taiwan Chlorella Manufacturing Company (Taiwan), Cyanotech Corporation (U.S.), Bluebiotech International GmbH (Germany), Pond Technologies Holdings Inc. (Canada), E.I.D.-Parry (India) Limited (India), Tianjin Norland Biotech Co., Ltd. (China), MycoTechnology Inc. (U.S.), Enough. (U.K.), Corbion NV (Netherlands), Sun Chlorella Corporation (Japan), Plantible Foods, Inc. (U.S.), Far East Bio-Tec Co., Ltd. (Taiwan), Far East Microalgae Industries, Co. Ltd. (Taiwan), Algenfarm Klötze GmbH & Co. KG (Germany), Yaeyama Shokusan Co., Ltd. (Japan), Unibio Group (Denmark), String Bio Pvt. Ltd (India), Calysta, Inc. (U.S.), Angel Yeast Co., Ltd (China), and Lesaffre (France).

Which regions/countries are likely to offer significant growth opportunities for the vendors in this market during the analysis period?

Asia-Pacific is expected to register a higher CAGR during the forecast period.