Feed Plant-based Protein Report 2025: Growth Driven by Government Incentives and Partnerships

Key Insights

The global feed plant-based protein market, valued at $4051 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and ethical food production. The rising global population and the growing awareness of the environmental impact of traditional animal feed are key factors fueling this expansion. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.3% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant market opportunity. Key drivers include the growing adoption of plant-based protein sources in animal feed to enhance animal health, reduce reliance on conventional protein sources, and improve the sustainability of livestock farming. Furthermore, advancements in plant protein processing technologies, leading to improved digestibility and palatability, are bolstering market growth. While challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and regulatory hurdles might pose some restraints, the long-term outlook remains positive, primarily driven by increasing investments in research and development and the growing interest from major food and feed companies in integrating plant-based proteins into their product lines. Market segmentation reveals significant growth potential across various applications, including pet food, swine feed, and poultry feed, with soy and pea-based proteins dominating the type segment. The geographically diverse market shows strong growth prospects across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, with significant potential in developing economies experiencing rapid agricultural expansion.

The competitive landscape features a mix of established global players and regional companies, indicating opportunities for both large-scale manufacturing and specialized niche markets. The continued diversification of plant-based protein sources and the exploration of novel protein extraction and processing techniques are likely to further shape the market in the coming years. Increased collaboration between research institutions, feed producers, and livestock farmers will be crucial in fostering the wider adoption of plant-based protein in animal feed and ensuring its efficient integration into sustainable food systems. The market’s future growth will depend on continuous innovation, addressing regulatory challenges, and meeting the evolving needs of the animal feed industry and consumers alike. This creates opportunities for both established players and new entrants who can offer innovative products and solutions.

Feed Plant-based Protein Concentration & Characteristics

The global feed plant-based protein market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and ethical feed solutions. Concentration is largely seen in soy and pea protein, which account for approximately 70% of the market, with soy holding the larger share. Other significant sources include wheat and canola. The market size is estimated at $15 billion USD.

Concentration Areas:

• Soy Protein: Dominates the market with an estimated 45% share, primarily due to its affordability and wide availability. Significant production comes from the US, Brazil, and Argentina.
• Pea Protein: Experiences rapid growth with a projected 20% market share due to increasing consumer and regulatory preference for non-GMO and hypoallergenic options. Canada and European countries are major producers.
• Wheat Protein: A substantial contributor, holding approximately 15% of the market, with strong presence in North America and Europe.

Characteristics of Innovation:

• Improved Protein Solubility & Digestibility: Innovations focus on enhancing the nutritional value of plant-based proteins for better absorption by animals.
• Functional Properties: Modifications to improve texture, viscosity, and emulsification properties in feed formulations.
• Sustainability & Traceability: Increased focus on sustainable sourcing practices and traceability initiatives to meet consumer demands.

Impact of Regulations:

Regulations concerning GMOs, labeling, and feed safety significantly impact market dynamics. Stringent regulations, particularly in Europe and North America, drive the demand for non-GMO and organically sourced plant-based proteins.

Product Substitutes:

Animal-based proteins (meat and bone meal, fish meal) remain the primary substitutes. However, plant-based proteins are increasingly competing due to concerns about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and disease outbreaks.

End User Concentration:

The poultry and swine sectors are the largest consumers of plant-based feed protein, each accounting for roughly 30% of the market. The remaining share is distributed across ruminants, aquafeed, and pet food.

Level of M&A:

Moderate M&A activity is observed, with larger players like Kerry Group and Ingredion strategically acquiring smaller companies to expand their product portfolios and geographic reach. The value of M&A activities in the last 5 years is estimated to be around $2 billion.

Feed Plant-based Protein Trends

The feed plant-based protein market exhibits several key trends:

• Growing Demand for Sustainable Feed: Increasing concerns over the environmental impact of animal agriculture are driving the shift towards plant-based alternatives. Consumers are demanding more sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. This trend is particularly strong in Europe and North America.

• Rise of Non-GMO and Organic Options: Growing preference for non-genetically modified and organically produced plant-based proteins is pushing innovation in sustainable cultivation and processing methods. Premium prices are observed for these products.

• Technological Advancements: Continuous improvements in protein extraction, processing, and formulation technologies are enhancing the nutritional value, digestibility, and functional properties of plant-based proteins. This includes innovations in fermentation and bioprocessing to enhance protein yield and quality.

• Focus on Traceability and Transparency: Consumers and regulatory bodies are increasingly demanding greater transparency and traceability in the supply chain, to ensure quality and sustainability. Blockchain technology is being explored for enhanced supply chain management.

• Expansion into Novel Protein Sources: Research and development efforts are expanding into alternative protein sources, including algae, insects, and single-cell proteins, offering further potential for diversification and sustainability.

• Increased Regulatory Scrutiny: Regulatory bodies across the globe are enhancing standards and guidelines for feed safety, labeling, and sustainability, influencing product development and market access.

• Regional Variations: Growth rates vary by region. Asia-Pacific, particularly China and India, is experiencing significant growth due to their large livestock populations and increasing demand for protein. Europe shows steady growth, driven by strong environmental regulations. North America holds a mature market with continued but slower growth.

• Product Diversification: The market is evolving beyond basic soy and pea protein to offer a broader range of plant-based protein blends tailored to specific animal needs.

• Precision Nutrition: The integration of precision nutrition principles into feed formulations is tailoring plant-based protein sources to improve animal health, production efficiency, and reduce environmental footprint.

• Collaboration and Partnerships: Increased collaborations between feed manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, and research institutions are accelerating innovation and market expansion.

Key Region or Country & Segment to Dominate the Market

The Poultry segment is expected to dominate the feed plant-based protein market. Poultry production is significant globally, and there's an increasing drive to reduce reliance on traditional feed ingredients. The high feed conversion ratio in poultry makes it highly sensitive to feed costs.

• High Growth Potential: Poultry farming's global scale ensures substantial market potential for plant-based protein incorporation. Rising incomes in developing countries further fuel this demand.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Strategically incorporating plant-based proteins offers opportunities to reduce overall feed costs while maintaining bird health and productivity.

• Sustainability Concerns: Growing concerns about the environmental impact of conventional poultry feed (soybean, corn reliance) push adoption of more sustainable plant-based alternatives.

• Consumer Preferences: Consumers' growing awareness of sustainability and animal welfare translates into higher demand for poultry raised on more ethical feed sources.

• Technological Advancements: Innovations in feed formulation and processing enhance the digestibility and bioavailability of plant-based proteins in poultry diets.

• Geographical Distribution: North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific exhibit significant poultry farming activity, presenting substantial opportunities for plant-based protein suppliers.

Key Regions:

• North America: Established poultry industry, strong consumer focus on sustainability, and established regulatory framework promote market growth. The US is particularly significant.

• Europe: High consumer demand for sustainable and traceable feed ingredients and stringent regulations drive the adoption of plant-based alternatives.

• Asia Pacific: Rapid growth in poultry consumption, especially in China and India, coupled with increasing investment in efficient feed production methods.

Feed Plant-based Protein Product Insights Report Coverage & Deliverables

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the feed plant-based protein market, encompassing market size, growth drivers, challenges, key trends, competitive landscape, and regional insights. It includes detailed profiles of major players, analysis of product innovations, market segmentation by application and type, and future market outlook. Deliverables include market forecasts, competitive benchmarking, and strategic recommendations.

Feed Plant-based Protein Analysis

The global feed plant-based protein market is estimated at $15 billion USD in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7% to reach $25 billion USD by 2028. Soy protein holds the largest market share, followed by pea protein. Market growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for sustainable and affordable feed solutions, coupled with advancements in protein extraction and processing technologies.

Market Size: The market is segmented by type (soy, pea, wheat, others), application (poultry, swine, ruminants, aquaculture, pets, others), and region. Soy protein dominates the market by type, while poultry and swine are the leading application segments.

Market Share: Kerry Group, Ingredion, and Roquette Frères are among the leading players, holding significant market share through their diverse product portfolios and extensive distribution networks. Smaller companies, particularly those focused on specialized plant-based protein sources, also contribute significantly to market dynamics.

Growth: Growth is driven by increasing demand for sustainable and ethical feed solutions, coupled with advancements in protein extraction and processing technologies. Furthermore, favorable regulatory environments in certain regions, such as the EU and North America, stimulate market growth. Concerns around animal welfare and environmental impacts of traditional animal feed contribute to the increased adoption of plant-based alternatives.

Feed Plant-based Protein Regional Insights

• North America
  • United States: High consumption of poultry and swine products, driving demand for plant-based protein. Strong focus on sustainability.
  • Canada: Significant pea protein production, contributing to the growth of the plant-based feed market.
  • Mexico: Growing poultry and livestock industries are increasing reliance on cost-effective protein sources.
• South America
  • Brazil: Major soy producer, making it a key player in the global feed plant-based protein market.
  • Argentina: Significant soy production, contributing to the global supply of plant-based protein.
  • Rest of South America: Moderate growth potential driven by the expanding livestock industries in several countries.
• Europe
  • United Kingdom: Focus on sustainable and ethical sourcing, driving demand for plant-based proteins.
  • Germany: Significant poultry and swine industries, driving demand for cost-effective protein alternatives.
  • France: Growing consumer awareness of sustainability, influencing feed ingredient choices.
  • Italy: Similar to France, increased interest in sustainable animal feed.
  • Spain: Poultry and swine are significant livestock sectors, driving demand for affordable and high-quality protein.
  • Russia: Large livestock sector with increasing focus on cost-effective feed alternatives.
  • Benelux: High consumer awareness of sustainable practices, creating demand for plant-based alternatives.
  • Nordics: Strong focus on environmental sustainability, resulting in high demand for plant-based proteins.
  • Rest of Europe: Diverse growth patterns driven by variations in livestock production and consumer preferences.
• Middle East & Africa
  • Turkey: Significant poultry and livestock industries, driving growth in the feed plant-based protein market.
  • Israel: Focus on innovation and sustainable agriculture, driving development of novel plant-based proteins.
  • GCC: Growing demand for high-quality and affordable poultry and meat products.
  • North Africa: Moderate growth potential due to the expanding livestock industry.
  • South Africa: Significant poultry and livestock sector creating opportunities for plant-based proteins.
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa: Growth is influenced by economic development and livestock production patterns.
• Asia Pacific
  • China: Largest consumer market due to its massive livestock and aquaculture industries, driving strong demand.
  • India: High growth potential due to a rapidly expanding livestock sector and rising consumer income levels.
  • Japan: High consumer demand for high-quality and safe feed products, with a focus on traceability.
  • South Korea: Similar to Japan, strong preference for high-quality feed with strict regulations.
  • ASEAN: Diverse growth patterns driven by differences in livestock production practices and consumer preferences.
  • Oceania: Relatively smaller market but driven by growth in aquaculture and poultry.
  • Rest of Asia Pacific: Growth influenced by economic development and changing dietary habits.

Driving Forces: What's Propelling the Feed Plant-based Protein Market?

The increasing consumer demand for sustainable and ethical food production is a major driver. Concerns about the environmental impact of traditional animal feed, coupled with cost pressures, are pushing the adoption of plant-based alternatives. Technological advancements in protein extraction and processing are improving the nutritional value and functionality of plant-based proteins.

Challenges and Restraints in Feed Plant-based Protein Market

Challenges include the need to improve the digestibility and palatability of some plant-based proteins for animals. The cost-competitiveness with traditional animal-based feed ingredients is another challenge. Furthermore, ensuring the consistent supply and quality of raw materials, especially during volatile weather conditions, poses a challenge. Regulatory hurdles and consumer perception related to novel plant-based proteins also impact growth.

Emerging Trends in Feed Plant-based Protein Market

Emerging trends involve the exploration of novel protein sources, such as insects and single-cell proteins. Precision nutrition, tailoring plant-based protein blends to animal needs, is a significant trend. Increased focus on traceability and transparency through blockchain technology ensures product quality and sustainability. Furthermore, bio-fortification strategies enhance the nutritional profile of plant-based proteins.

Feed Plant-based Protein Industry News

• January 2023: Roquette Frères announced a new pea protein facility in Europe, increasing production capacity.
• March 2023: Kerry Group launched a new line of sustainable feed solutions incorporating plant-based proteins.
• June 2023: Ingredion announced a collaboration with a research institute to develop novel plant-based protein sources.
• September 2023: DuPont announced significant investments in R&D for improving the digestibility of plant-based proteins.

Leading Players in the Feed Plant-based Protein Market

• Kerry Group
• Ingredion
• Emsland Group
• DuPont
• Batory Foods
• AGRANA
• AGT Foods
• Avebe
• Roquette Frères
• BENEO
• Vestkorn
• Aminola
• FoodChem International
• Sotexpro
• Crown Soya Group

Feed Plant-based Protein Segmentation

• 1. Application
  • 1.1. Pets
  • 1.2. Swine
  • 1.3. Ruminants
  • 1.4. Poultry
  • 1.5. Aquatic Animals
  • 1.6. Others
• 2. Types
  • 2.1. Soy
  • 2.2. Wheat
  • 2.3. Pea
  • 2.4. Others

Feed Plant-based Protein Segmentation By Geography

• 1. North America
  • 1.1. United States
  • 1.2. Canada
  • 1.3. Mexico
• 2. South America
  • 2.1. Brazil
  • 2.2. Argentina
  • 2.3. Rest of South America
• 3. Europe
  • 3.1. United Kingdom
  • 3.2. Germany
  • 3.3. France
  • 3.4. Italy
  • 3.5. Spain
  • 3.6. Russia
  • 3.7. Benelux
  • 3.8. Nordics
  • 3.9. Rest of Europe
• 4. Middle East & Africa
  • 4.1. Turkey
  • 4.2. Israel
  • 4.3. GCC
  • 4.4. North Africa
  • 4.5. South Africa
  • 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
• 5. Asia Pacific
  • 5.1. China
  • 5.2. India
  • 5.3. Japan
  • 5.4. South Korea
  • 5.5. ASEAN
  • 5.6. Oceania
  • 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific