The global pea protein market was valued at USD 2.12 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.1% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is largely attributed to the increasing awareness surrounding the environmental impact of animal agriculture and the health risks associated with excessive meat consumption. As more consumers seek to reduce their intake of animal-based products, plant-based alternatives are becoming a preferred choice. Among these, pea protein is emerging as a leading source of high-quality protein, appealing particularly to vegetarians, vegans, and health-conscious individuals. One of its major advantages is that it is free from common allergens like soy and gluten, making it an attractive option for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities. 

The growing global shift towards vegan and vegetarian lifestyles is significantly influencing consumer preferences, leading to a strong demand for plant-based products. As a result, pea protein is gaining traction as a versatile ingredient in a wide range of applications, from meat substitutes and dairy alternatives to functional foods that offer additional health benefits. This surge in demand is also fueled by the increasing number of vegan restaurants, cafes, and new product launches catering to the growing consumer base that prefers plant-based diets.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Pea Protein Market

Regional Insights

North America Pea Protein Market
In 2023, the North America pea protein market held the largest revenue share, accounting for 33.1%. Major retailers and food chains in the region have recognized the growing demand for plant-based products, which has led to an expansion of shelf space dedicated to pea protein-based products. As a result, consumers now have greater access to these products, which are widely available in supermarkets, health food stores, and online platforms. This increased availability has made it easier for consumers to try pea protein-based options.

U.S. Pea Protein Market Trends
The U.S. pea protein market represented the largest share of the North American market in 2023. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the potential health benefits of plant-based proteins, including improved cardiovascular health, better weight management, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Pea protein is gaining popularity as a healthier alternative to animal-based proteins because it is low in fat, cholesterol-free, and rich in essential amino acids. Additionally, pea protein is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with sensitivities or allergies to common proteins like dairy, soy, or gluten.

Asia Pacific Pea Protein Market Trends
The Asia Pacific region is projected to experience the fastest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) during the forecast period. This growth is driven by a significant shift toward vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets, fueled by increasing health concerns, greater environmental awareness, and ethical considerations. Urban areas, in particular, are seeing a surge in plant-based nutrition awareness, as well as a broader availability of plant-based products, leading to growing demand for alternative protein sources like pea protein.

China Pea Protein Market Trends
In 2023, China led the Asia Pacific pea protein market in terms of revenue share. The increasing focus on fitness and healthier lifestyles has contributed to a growing demand for high-quality protein sources that support muscle growth, recovery, and overall performance. Pea protein is particularly popular because of its high content of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are essential for muscle repair and growth. Moreover, pea protein is easily digestible, making it a preferred choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who seek alternatives to whey or soy protein. The expanding range of sports nutrition products, including protein powders, shakes, and bars, that incorporate pea protein is driving market growth in China.

Europe Pea Protein Market Trends
The pea protein market in Europe is expected to see significant growth over the forecast period. High-profile influencers, such as celebrities, athletes, and social media personalities, are promoting plant-based diets and fitness routines, which has helped increase consumer awareness and visibility of pea protein products. Documentaries and social media campaigns emphasizing the health benefits and environmental impact of plant-based diets further contribute to the growing demand for pea protein. This increased visibility is helping expand the consumption of plant-based foods and encouraging more consumers to try pea protein-based products, which is expected to drive market growth across the continent.

UK Pea Protein Market Trends
In 2023, the UK accounted for the largest share of the European pea protein market. The food service industry in the UK is responding to the rising demand for healthier, sustainable, and allergen-friendly foods by incorporating more plant-based options into restaurant menus. Fast-food chains, cafes, and restaurants are introducing pea protein-based dishes, such as plant-based burgers, bowls, and smoothies, to cater to health-conscious diners and individuals with dietary restrictions.

Browse through Grand View Research's Category Nutraceuticals & Functional Foods Industry Research Reports.

• The global gummy market size was valued at USD 23.93 billion in 2023and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% from 2024 to 2030.
• The global dietary supplements market size was valued at USD 177.50 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% from 2024 to 2030.

Key Pea Protein Company Insights

The pea protein market is driven by several key players who are contributing to the growth and innovation in this segment. Notable companies include Nutri-Pea, The Scoular Company, Roquette Frères, Axiom Foods, Inc., and others. These companies are at the forefront of developing new pea protein products and expanding the applications of pea protein across various industries.

Leading Companies in the Pea Protein Market

The pea protein market is highly competitive and characterized by a mix of global leaders and specialized companies. The following companies are recognized as the top players in the market, holding a significant share and driving trends through innovation and strategic market positioning:

• Burcon: A leader in plant-based protein extraction technology, Burcon is known for developing high-quality pea protein and other plant-based proteins used in food and nutrition.
• Roquette Frères: One of the largest players in the pea protein market, Roquette Frères is a global leader in plant-based ingredients, offering a wide range of pea protein solutions for food, nutrition, and industrial applications.
• The Scoular Company: A key player in the agricultural supply chain, Scoular is involved in the sourcing and distribution of pea protein and other food ingredients.
• DuPont: Known for its innovation in the food and nutrition sector, DuPont offers pea protein and other plant-based ingredients through its broad portfolio of food solutions.
• COSUCRA: A European leader in the production of pea protein and other legume-based ingredients, COSUCRA focuses on high-quality, sustainable ingredients for food, health, and nutrition.
• Nutri-Pea: Specializing in pea-derived ingredients, Nutri-Pea is a significant supplier of pea protein and related products to the food and beverage industry.
• Shandong Jianyuan Group: Based in China, Shandong Jianyuan Group is a key manufacturer of pea protein and other plant-based ingredients, serving both local and global markets.
• SOTEXPRO: A company focused on the production of pea protein and other plant-based ingredients, SOTEXPRO provides protein solutions for a wide range of applications, including health and wellness products.
• Ingredion: A global leader in food ingredients, Ingredion produces pea protein and other plant-based ingredients that support the growing demand for alternative proteins.
• Axiom Foods, Inc.: A major player in the plant-based protein market, Axiom Foods offers a variety of pea protein products that are used in a range of food applications, including dairy alternatives and protein supplements.
• FENCHEM: A supplier of a range of ingredients, including pea protein, FENCHEM focuses on delivering plant-based solutions for the food, beverage, and nutrition industries.
• Martin & Pleasance: This company is a provider of natural ingredients, including pea protein, with a focus on health and wellness products that support plant-based nutrition.
• The Green Labs LLC: Specializing in plant-based protein, The Green Labs offers pea protein as part of its product line for food manufacturers looking to meet the demand for healthier, sustainable ingredients.

These companies collectively dominate the pea protein market, driving its growth through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and an increasing focus on sustainability. With the global shift toward plant-based diets and health-conscious eating, these industry leaders are well-positioned to capitalize on the rising demand for pea protein in food, beverage, and nutrition products.

Order a free sample PDF of the Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.