Delray Beach, FL, Oct. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a research report "Wheat Protein Market by Product (Gluten, Protein Isolate, Textured Protein, Hydrolyzed Protein), Form, Concentration, Application (Bakery & Snacks, Pet Food, Nutritional Bars & Drinks, Processed Meat, Meat Analogs) & Region - Global Forecast to 2028" published by MarketsandMarkets™ INC, the wheat protein market size is projected to reach USD 3.2 billion by 2028 from USD 2.5 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period in terms of value. The market for wheat protein by concentration is experiencing growth due to the increasing demand for plant-based protein products in food & beverages, dietary supplements, and animal feed industries.
Wheat Protein Industry Growth Drivers: Increase in Consumer Preference for Meat Analogs
Plant-based alternatives to meat products have seen significant growth in the global market. Consumers are increasingly seeking meat substitutes that replicate the fibrous structure, texture, and mouthfeel of traditional meat. This demand has spurred interest in the development of plant protein-based meat alternatives worldwide. As consumers become more aware of the benefits of healthy and nutritious food options, a rising demographic of "flexitarians" is emerging, eager to reduce their meat consumption. This shift in eating habits has led to the creation of innovative products that not only satisfy taste preferences but also offer high protein nutritional value.
A notable example is the LikeMeat project in Europe, where academic researchers and small to medium-sized enterprises collaborated to develop new meat alternatives. The project utilized an adapted cooking extrusion process to create fibrous, meat-like structures from plant proteins, which were then transformed into various food products.
The journey of meat alternatives began with texturized vegetable protein (TVP), made through the cooking extrusion of defatted soy meals, soy protein concentrates, or wheat gluten. These ingredients provide an elastic and spongy texture, suitable for use in stews, patties, and sauces. While soy protein and wheat gluten have long been the dominant raw materials for meat alternatives, they are now complemented by proteins sourced from other plant-based ingredients, including peas, chickpeas, lupins, rice, corn, and canola.
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Wheat Protein: A Nutritional Powerhouse for the Evolving Pet Food Market
The pet food market is currently influenced by two key trends: premiumization and humanization. As pet owners increasingly view their pets as family members, there is a growing demand for high-quality pet food that offers nutritional benefits, enhanced digestibility, and superior ingredient quality. In response to this evolving consumer preference, major companies like Crespel & Deiters Group (Germany) are introducing wheat protein as a valuable ingredient for pet food formulations.
Wheat serves as a high-quality carbohydrate source in dry dog foods and biscuits. It not only provides essential energy for daily activities but also enhances the food's processing capabilities. As a significant nutrient source, wheat offers numerous advantages, including a rich composition of starches, vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and fiber. These wheat-based products present holistic solutions that optimize pet nutrition, contributing to the development of balanced and healthful pet food options.
North America: A Catalyst for Market Growth in the Coming Years
Countries such as the US, Canada, and Mexico have been considered in this study. The North American wheat protein market is driven by the growing consumer awareness about the importance of protein in the diet, which, in turn, has encouraged the demand for functional food & beverages. The versatile functionality of wheat protein has sustained the demand in the baking industry, leading to constant growth in consumption. Research and technological developments in hydrolyzed wheat protein have also led to a long-term consumption trend of wheat protein in the US. However, the increase in discussion on gluten intolerance acts as a hindrance to the growth of the wheat protein market in this region. The high functional profile, low carbon footprint, and low price of wheat-sourced proteins are the key factors encouraging the consumption of wheat protein, particularly in baked products.
Report Details:
| Report Coverage | Details |
| Forecast Period | 2023-2028 |
| Forecast Period 2023 to 2028 CAGR | 4.9% |
| 2028 Value Projection | USD 3.2 billion |
| Segments covered | Application, Form, Product, Concentration, Region |
| Regional scope | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and RoW |
| Dominant Geography | North America |
Wheat Protein Concentrate: Dominating the Market with 75% Concentration
Wheat protein at a 75% concentration is typically more affordable than its higher concentration counterparts, making it a cost-effective choice for applications where the protein's functional properties are not as crucial. Additionally, 75% wheat protein may offer a wider range of nutrients compared to high-concentration varieties, making it appealing for products like meal replacement shakes and nutritional supplements. Moreover, this concentration often has a milder taste, which can be beneficial for certain food products, especially those where a strong protein flavor is not desired.
- ADM (US)
- Cargill, Incorporated (US)
- Tereos (France)
- Südzucker AG (US)
- MGP Ingredients (US)
- Roquette Frères (France)
- Glico Nutrition Foods Co., Ltd. (Japan)
- Kerry Group PLC (Ireland)
- Manildra Group (Australia)
- Kröner-Stärke (Germany)
- Crespel & Deiters Group (Germany)
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How does the consumption of wheat protein in Europe compare to other regions?
Europe leads the world in wheat protein consumption, outpacing other regions. The rising costs of animal-sourced protein have prompted consumers to increasingly favor plant-based proteins, such as wheat protein. This trend has facilitated the growth of affordable plant-sourced proteins, like wheat and vegetable proteins, which serve as viable alternatives to animal-derived options.
Germany represents a key market for both manufacturers and exporters. Bread is a staple in the German diet and plays a crucial role in the baked goods sector. The country's bakery and snacks industry is well-established, supported by a large consumer base with significant purchasing power. Health-conscious consumers in Germany seek nutritious baked goods that do not sacrifice taste. In response to this demand, major players in the bakery sector are actively developing and marketing innovative products. Additionally, barley and wheat are the primary grains used for feed products in Germany.
Key Wheat Protein Market Trends
- Rising Demand for Plant-Based Proteins
- Growth in Functional Foods
- Focus on Clean Label Products
- Innovation in Food Applications
- Expansion in the Pet Food Sector
- Sustainability Concerns
- Regulatory Developments
- Geographic Variations
What You Need to Know: Key Questions from the Wheat Protein Market Report
- What is the projected market value of the global wheat protein market?
- What is the estimated growth rate (CAGR) of the global wheat protein market for the next five years?
- What are the major revenue pockets in the wheat protein market currently?
- What are the nutritional benefits of wheat protein?
- What are the factors driving the growth of the wheat protein market?
