Feed Protein Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

According to the report, the global feed protein market size was approximately USD 66.20 billion in 2023. Aided by the growing middle class with higher disposable incomes, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% between 2024 and 2032 to attain a value of nearly USD 137.35 billion by 2032.

Feed protein refers to a variety of protein sources that are incorporated into animal feed to provide essential nutrients required for the growth, maintenance, and overall health of livestock and aquaculture. These proteins can be derived from multiple sources, including plants, animals, and microbes. Common plant-based proteins come from soy, canola, and corn, while animal-based sources may include fish meal, meat and bone meal, and whey proteins. Microbial sources, such as yeast and algae, are emerging as innovative alternatives, offering high levels of protein with relatively low environmental footprints.

The global feed protein market is an essential segment within the broader animal feed industry, reflecting the growing demand for high-quality protein sources to ensure optimal animal health and productivity. As the global population continues to rise, so does the demand for animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy, which, in turn, fuels the need for nutritious and efficient feed options.

The global feed protein market growth is propelled by improvements in economic conditions, particularly in emerging markets. There is a notable surge in the consumption of meat, dairy, and eggs. This increase is largely fuelled by a growing middle class with higher disposable incomes and evolving dietary preferences towards protein-rich diets. Livestock producers are responding to this demand by optimising feed efficiency to raise healthier animals at a faster rate, thereby reducing the time from farm to table. The push for increased production has led to a greater reliance on high-quality feed proteins that promote rapid growth and excellent health in animals.

The environmental footprint of traditional animal agriculture, characterised by extensive water and land use, has prompted a shift towards more sustainable practices in the global feed protein market. Concerns over the sustainability of marine protein sources like fish meal due to overfishing have accelerated the adoption of alternative plant-based proteins. Soy and algae, for instance, are not only less taxing on the environment but are also highly efficient in terms of the protein content they can deliver per unit of input. These sustainable practices are increasingly favoured as they help mitigate the impact of farming on natural resources and biodiversity.

The feed sector is leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance the efficacy of products in the global feed protein market. Modern processing techniques like extrusion and fermentation have been refined to increase the bioavailability of nutrients in feed, making proteins more digestible and appealing to animals. This not only improves the efficiency with which animals convert feed into body mass but also reduces waste products. Additionally, precision nutrition technologies are being employed to tailor feeds to the specific requirements of different animal species and developmental stages, thereby maximising growth and health outcomes.

Governments and international bodies are implementing strict regulations on animal feed quality to ensure the safety and health of both animals and consumers. This regulatory environment is pushing manufacturers in the global feed protein market towards sources of protein that are free from contaminants and residues of antibiotics, which are increasingly linked to concerns about antibiotic resistance in humans. The trend towards antibiotic-free feed proteins is gaining momentum, influenced both by consumer preferences and regulatory mandates.

There is a growing feed protein demand for speciality feeds that address specific health and nutritional needs of animals. These feeds include proteins that enhance immune system function, improve gut health, and cater to the nutritional demands of animals at different life stages. Such functional feeds are becoming popular as they contribute to the overall well-being of animals, leading to better yield in terms of meat, milk, and eggs, and potentially reducing the need for veterinary interventions.

The global feed protein market expansion is aided by the exploration and incorporation of alternative protein sources, driven by the need to decrease reliance on traditional inputs like soy and fish meal, which are often subject to price volatility and supply chain issues. Innovative sources such as insect meal, single-cell proteins derived from microorganisms, and byproducts from the biofuel industry (e.g., distillers' grains) are being examined for their potential to serve as cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives. These new protein sources are also vital for diversifying the protein supply, thus enhancing food security and stability in feed production.

Market Segmentation

The global feed protein market can be divided based on type, source, application, and region.

Market Breakup by Type

• Concentrate
• Isolate

Market Breakup by Source

• Animal Based
• Soy
• Cereals
• Rapeseed
• Pulses
• Pea
• Others

Market Breakup by Application

• Pet Food
• Swine
• Poultry
• Aquatic
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Competitive Landscape

The report looks into the market shares, plant turnarounds, capacities, investments, and mergers and acquisitions, among other major developments, of the leading companies operating in the global feed protein market. Some of the major players explored in the report are as follows:

• Roquette Frères
• Kerry Group plc
• AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG
• Royal Avebe
• Ingredion Corporation
• CropEnergies AG
• EW Nutrition
• Emsland Group
• Nuproxa Switzerland Ltd.
• Schils BV
• AMINOLA BV
• Others