Protein Ingredients in Infant Nutrition Market Report 2026

The protein ingredients in infant nutrition market size has grown strongly in recent years. It will grow from $9.34 billion in 2025 to $10.19 billion in 2026 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1%. The growth in the historic period can be attributed to increasing infant formula consumption, rising awareness of infant nutrition needs, growth in urban birth rates, expansion of dairy protein processing capabilities, increasing pediatric nutritional research.

The protein ingredients in infant nutrition market size is expected to see strong growth in the next few years. It will grow to $14.67 billion in 2030 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5%. The growth in the forecast period can be attributed to increasing demand for premium infant nutrition products, rising focus on allergy-friendly formulations, expansion of plant-based infant nutrition, growing investments in clinical nutrition research, increasing regulatory emphasis on infant food safety. Major trends in the forecast period include increasing demand for specialized infant protein formulations, rising adoption of hydrolyzed and easily digestible proteins, growing focus on nutritional balance and bioavailability, expansion of plant-based infant protein alternatives, enhanced quality and safety standards.

The rising global population growth rate is expected to drive the growth of protein ingredients in the infant nutrition market going forward. Global population growth is largely attributed to declining poverty levels and advancements in modern medicine, which have improved infant survival rates and overall life expectancy. As the population continues to expand, the number of newborns increases, driving greater demand for adequate nutrition to support early growth and development. Protein ingredients play a critical role in infant nutrition by supporting muscle development, immune function, and overall physical and cognitive growth. For instance, in July 2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, a United States-based government agency, the global population is estimated to reach 8.1 billion in 2025, up from 8 billion in 2023, and is projected to reach 9 billion by 2038 and 10 billion by 2057. Therefore, the rising population growth rate worldwide is driving the growth of protein ingredients in the infant nutrition market.

Major companies in the infant nutrition market are prioritizing product innovation, particularly through plant-based formulas, to satisfy the increasing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable nutrition options for children. These plant-based formulas are nutritious beverages crafted specifically for infants, utilizing whole, plant-based ingredients without dairy or soy, thus offering a convenient and healthy choice. For example, in April 2024, Else Nutrition Holdings Inc., a Canada-based producer of plant-based nutrition products, introduced its plant-based 'Follow-On' formula for infants aged 6 to 12 months and Toddler Drink for those aged 12 to 36 months in Australia, marking the company's initial commercial entry into the region. Both products are available on Amazon Australia, with plans for broader distribution through additional retailers. Manufactured in Europe, these formulas adhere to stringent quality standards. They are free from antibiotics, hormones, pesticides, GMOs, and heavy metals, addressing rising parental concerns. Composed of almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca, the formula boasts a carbon footprint that is approximately 65% lower and undergoes no chemical processing, thereby preserving the integrity of the proteins.

In May 2024, Danone S.A., a France-based food and beverage company, acquired Functional Formularies Inc. for an undisclosed amount. Through this acquisition, Danone aims to strengthen its U.S. Specialized Nutrition portfolio by expanding its enteral and medical nutrition offerings, integrating Functional Formularies’ organic, whole-food-based formulas into its existing product range, and enhancing its ability to support specialized nutritional needs globally. Functional Formularies Inc. is a US-based company specializing in nutritional formulations, including protein-focused products for infant and medical nutrition applications.

Major companies operating in the protein ingredients in infant nutrition market are Nestlé SA, Danone SA, Abbott Laboratories, Mead Johnson Nutrition Company, FrieslandCampina NV, Fonterra Cooperative Group Ltd., Arla Foods Ingredients Group P S, Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Company Limited, Beingmate Baby And Child Food Co Ltd, Meiji Holdings Co Ltd, Ausnutria Dairy Corporation Ltd, China Feihe Limited, Synutra International Inc, Perrigo Company plc, HiPP GmbH And Co Vertrieb KG, Hain Celestial Group, Bellamy’s Organic, Holle Baby Food AG, Biostime Group, Royal DSM, Glanbia plc, Lactalis Group.

Asia-Pacific was the largest region in the protein ingredients in infant nutrition market in 2025. The regions covered in the protein ingredients in infant nutrition market report are Asia-Pacific, South East Asia, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East and Africa. The countries covered in the protein ingredients in infant nutrition market report are Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, Russia, South Korea, UK, USA, Italy, Spain, Canada.

The protein ingredients in infant nutrition market consists of sales of protein ingredients used for the development and growth, as well as tissue healing, and aid in preserving the pH and appropriate balance of bodily fluids in infants. Values in this market are ‘factory gate’ values, that is the value of goods sold by the manufacturers or creators of the goods, whether to other entities (including downstream manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers) or directly to end customers. The value of goods in this market includes related services sold by the creators of the goods.

The market value is defined as the revenues that enterprises gain from the sale of goods and/or services within the specified market and geography through sales, grants, or donations in terms of the currency (in USD unless otherwise specified).

The revenues for a specified geography are consumption values that are revenues generated by organizations in the specified geography within the market, irrespective of where they are produced. It does not include revenues from resales along the supply chain, either further along the supply chain or as part of other products.

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