The soy and milk protein ingredients market is estimated to be valued at USD 38.03 Bn in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 51.06 Bn by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2025 to 2032.
To learn more about this report, Download Free Sample
The rise in demand for soy and milk protein ingredients is substantially driving the expansion of the global soy and milk protein ingredients market by addressing evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements in food production. Consumers are increasingly seeking plant-based protein sources like soy due to their health benefits, sustainability, and suitability for lactose-intolerant or vegan populations. Milk protein, on the other hand, remains a preferred ingredient in various food and beverage formulations for its superior functional properties such as emulsification, gelation, and water-binding. Furthermore, the increasing use of protein-based components in beverages, such as sports drinks, is likely to provide significant market opportunities in the near future.
However, a lack of clarity in ingredient definitions and labeling regulations by the government is one of the key factors hampering market growth.
To learn more about this report, Download Free Sample
|
Current Events |
Description and its impact |
|
Geopolitical and Trade Events |
|
|
Economic and Market Dynamics |
|
Uncover macros and micros vetted on 75+ parameters: Get instant access to report
The increasing demand for plant-based and dairy protein in food and beverages is significantly propelling the growth of the soy and milk protein ingredients market. This surge is largely driven by evolving consumer preferences toward healthier and sustainable dietary options. Consumers are increasingly seeking protein sources that not only provide nutritional benefits but also align with environmental and ethical concerns. Plant-based proteins, such as soy, have gained traction due to their lower environmental footprint compared to animal-based proteins.
For instance, a report published by the Vegan Society in January 2025, collaborative research by YouGov and Veganuary calculated that approximately 25.8 million people globally tried veganism in 2025.
In terms of soy protein types, the soy protein concentrates segment is estimated to contribute the highest market share of 34.0% in 2025, owing to its broad applicability across diverse food and beverage products.
Soy protein concentrates are derived by removing a significant portion of carbohydrates and fats from soybeans, resulting in a concentrated protein source that typically contains around 65-70% protein content. This elevated protein level appeals strongly to manufacturers aiming to enhance the nutritional value of their products, especially in markets emphasizing plant-based nutrition and protein enrichment.
To learn more about this report, Download Free Sample
Europe region is expected to dominate the soy and milk protein ingredients market in 2025, accounting a market share of 46.3% in 2025. The market is propelling due to a strong shift in consumer preferences towards plant-based and functional proteins, as well as the established dairy industry’s continuous innovation in milk protein formulations. Europe’s leading edge in this segment is driven by the region’s advanced food processing infrastructure and heightened consumer interest in health and wellness.
For instance, according to the Good Food Institute Europe (GFI Europe), in 2024, 46% of European households purchased plant-based milk, and 22% bought plant-based meat at least once—reflecting the region's growing shift toward plant-based dietary choices and supporting the rising demand for soy and milk protein ingredients.
Germany leads the soy and milk protein ingredients market in Europe, driven by strong consumer demand for clean-label, plant-based, and high-protein foods. The country has seen a sharp rise in vegan and flexitarian diets, supported by government-backed nutrition awareness campaigns and a mature organic food sector. Germany’s advanced food processing industry and retail readiness for alternative proteins make it a central hub for innovation and product launches in both soy-based and dairy protein ingredients.
For instance, according to the German Federal Statistical Office, the range of plant-based alternatives is steadily increasing, with German companies producing almost 39% more vegetarian food in 2020 than in 2019.
The U.S. remains one of the largest markets for soy and milk protein ingredients, fueled by high consumer awareness about protein-rich diets, sports nutrition, and health-focused snacking. Growing lactose intolerance concerns and a strong demand for plant-based alternatives have supported soy-based beverages, bars, and supplements. Additionally, ongoing innovation in whey and casein-based products—backed by a well-established dairy industry—continues to drive the dairy protein segment.
According to a report by the Glanbia brand nutritional ingredients, in 2025 over half (54%) of U.S. consumers are concerned about ultra-processed foods (UPF) in their diets, and expect plant-based protein products to become more appealing to mainstream consumers—provided they feature natural, familiar, and minimally processed ingredients.
China represents a rapidly growing market for soy and milk protein ingredients, supported by rising disposable incomes and increasing health consciousness among urban consumers. Soy products are already culturally embedded in traditional diets, but modern applications in beverages, meat alternatives, and infant nutrition are expanding. The government’s efforts to promote nutrition and reduce reliance on animal proteins have further accelerated market growth, especially for soy protein isolates and concentrates.
France is emerging as a key player in the Europe soy and milk protein ingredients market, due to its progressive stance on plant-based innovation and consumer demand for high-quality, traceable protein sources. The French food industry is leveraging both soy and milk proteins in sports nutrition, bakery, and functional food sectors. With growing retail penetration of plant-based dairy alternatives and continued research into sustainable nutrition, France is shaping up to be a major market influencer in this space.
|
Region |
Price Range (USD) |
|
North America (U.S. and Canada) |
USD 2.30 – USD 4.50 |
|
Europe |
USD 2.50 – USD 4.80 |
|
Asia Pacific (China and India) |
USD 1.20 – USD 3.80 |
|
Latin America (Brazil and Argentina) |
USD 1.00 – USD 2.50 |
|
Middle East & Africa |
USD 2.50 – USD 4.50 |
Uncover macros and micros vetted on 75+ parameters: Get instant access to report
|
Macro-Economic Factors |
Micro-Economic Factors |
|
Consumer Health Awareness and Protein Trends: Growing global awareness of protein-rich diets has become a primary driver, particularly in regions like Asia Pacific where vegetarian populations are prevalent. This trend aligns with broader health movements, such as rising vegetarianism and lactose-intolerant populations seeking alternatives. |
Regulatory Challenges and Compliance Costs: Ambiguity in ingredient labeling and safety standards complicates market entry for new players. For example, producers face hurdles in documenting allergens (e.g., soy allergies) and estrogenic concerns linked to soy consumption. Example: Strict labeling laws in the EU and North America force manufacturers to invest in compliance, increasing operational costs |
|
Government Policies and Economic Investment: Government support for food and beverage (F&B) industries has catalyzed growth. For instance, increased consumer and government spending in F&B has broadened opportunities for protein ingredients. Brands like Sun Nutra Food introduced soy protein isolates during health-focused marketing campaigns (e.g., post-pandemic), leveraging policy support for nutrition. |
Competition from Plant-Based Alternatives: Rising competitors like pea, hemp, and canola proteins are fragmenting market share. These alternatives target similar niches (e.g., sports nutrition, vegan products), pressuring soy and milk protein providers to innovate. |
Uncover macros and micros vetted on 75+ parameters: Get instant access to report
| Report Coverage | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Year: | 2024 | Market Size in 2025: | USD 38.03 Bn |
| Historical Data for: | 2020 To 2024 | Forecast Period: | 2025 To 2032 |
| Forecast Period 2025 to 2032 CAGR: | 4.3% | 2032 Value Projection: | USD 51.06 Bn |
| Geographies covered: |
|
||
| Segments covered: |
|
||
| Companies covered: |
Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), Scoular Company, Cargill Inc., Dupont-Solae, Linyi Shansong Biologicals Products Cp. Ltd., and Solbar Ltd. |
||
| Growth Drivers: |
|
||
| Restraints & Challenges: |
|
||
Uncover macros and micros vetted on 75+ parameters: Get instant access to report
*Definition: Protein ingredients are essential for cell functioning that promote the repairing and healing of the human body. Proteins such as amino acids are essential for repairing and healing the body where the human body is incapable of producing amino acids. Hence, such proteins become of utmost importance to consume via diet. Protein can be extracted through plant or animal sources, such as soy and milk.
Share
Share
About Author
Shivam Bhutani has 6 years of experience in market research and strategy consulting. He is a Market Research Consultant with strong analytical background. He is currently an MBA candidate specializing in Business Analytics from BITS Pilani.
He is adept at navigating diverse roles from sales and marketing to research and strategy consulting. He excels in market estimation, competitive intelligence, pricing strategy, and primary research. He is skilled at analysing large datasets to provide precise insights, helping clients in achieving strategic transformation across various industries. He is skilled in leveraging data visualization techniques to drive innovation and enhance business processes.
Missing comfort of reading report in your local language? Find your preferred language :
Transform your Strategy with Exclusive Trending Reports :
Frequently Asked Questions
Joining thousands of companies around the world committed to making the Excellent Business Solutions.
View All Our Clients
Schedule a meeting with report Author
