Europe Protein Market Size and Share Analysis - Growth Trends and Forecast Report 2025-2033

The Europe Protein Market is expected to reach US$ 9.26 billion by 2033 from US$ 5.68 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 5.60% from 2025 to 2033. Rising consumer demand for a variety of protein sources, wellness and health trends, technological advancements in protein extraction, sustainability initiatives, greater awareness of balanced diets, and the expanding appeal of protein-enriched foods are all driving the European protein market.

Europe Protein Industry Overview

Growing consumer knowledge of nutrition and health has led to a notable expansion in the European protein market. Customers are adding more protein to their meals and looking for both plant-based and animal-based sources as a result of the increased emphasis on balanced diets. Since protein is known to be crucial for weight management, muscle regeneration, and general health, the growing popularity of fitness and wellness trends has contributed to the shift toward higher-protein diets. The demand for goods high in protein, like meat, dairy, eggs, and legumes, has increased as a result. Meanwhile, a dynamic change in the protein landscape has been brought about by the growing popularity of plant-based substitutes, giving customers access to more ethical and sustainable solutions.

The range and accessibility of protein products have increased due to technological developments in food processing, industrial techniques, and protein extraction. The variety of protein sources on the market has increased thanks to innovations like insect protein, plant-based protein substitutes, and lab-grown proteins. Additionally, as consumers seek more ecologically friendly options, there is a growing interest in eco-friendly and sustainable production methods. The sector is also being shaped by the European Union's legislative frameworks that support food safety, traceability, and sustainability, which guarantee that protein products fulfill strict requirements. The European protein market is poised for sustained growth and innovation, meeting the needs of both established and new consumer preferences, thanks to the growing need for a variety of protein sources and developments in food technology.

The shifting dietary habits and lifestyle choices of consumers are causing a major shift in the European protein market. In 2022, about one-third of Belgians will be eating vegetarian burgers, reflecting a significant shift in the sector toward plant-based and flexitarian diets. In nations like Austria, where 25.8% of citizens identified as flexitarian in 2022, this tendency is especially noticeable. A recent survey conducted in France revealed that 26% of participants would be open to trying veganism, further demonstrating the increasing acceptance of plant-based substitutes. Manufacturers have been forced to invest in cutting-edge protein solutions and diversify their product lines as a result of this nutritional development.

Significant investments and technological developments in protein production capacities are being observed in the industry. Major industry participants such as Roquette showed their dedication to satisfying the increasing demand in 2023 by investing USD 49 million in facilities for the manufacture of pea protein. The industry's emphasis on increasing production capacity is also demonstrated by Uralchem Innovation's establishment of a pilot facility for pea isolate. Alongside these expenditures, producers are able to enhance the usefulness and versatility of protein applications through advancements in extraction technology, processing techniques, and product formulations.

Growth Drivers for the Europe Protein Market

Health and Wellness Trends

Protein's significance in general well-being is becoming more widely recognized as health and wellness movements continue to gain traction. Protein's advantages in immune system function, weight management, and muscle repair are well known. Customers are moving toward higher-protein diets as a result of this awareness, with many looking for breakfast, snack, and meal alternatives that are high in protein. As part of this trend, demand for both plant-based and animal-based proteins is rising. While plant-based sources like lentils, tofu, and quinoa are becoming more popular due to their nutritional advantages, animal proteins like meat, eggs, and dairy are still widely consumed. The market for protein products in Europe is being driven in part by this shift toward diets high in protein.

Fitness and Active Lifestyles

The demand for protein products has been greatly impacted by the development in fitness and active lifestyles, particularly among younger generations. Protein-rich products are becoming more and more popular among consumers who participate in sports or exercise regularly in order to enhance muscle repair, performance, and general health. Many fitness enthusiasts increasingly include protein shakes, protein bars, and supplements in their meals, which has led to a rise in the market for foods and drinks that are enhanced with protein. Because more people are adding protein into their daily routines due to the increased popularity of fitness trends like yoga and strength training, this need is not just among athletes. Protein products' efficacy and convenience are what keep the market expanding.

Sustainability Concerns

The market for proteins is changing significantly due to sustainability concerns. Consumers are looking for food goods with less ecological footprints as environmental consciousness rises. People are choosing plant-based proteins since animal agriculture contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water consumption. Sources including chickpeas, peas, soy, and legumes are said to be more environmentally friendly than conventional animal husbandry. Furthermore, the environmental effect of producing plant-based protein is typically substantially lower, which appeals to consumers who are concerned about the environment. This trend is further evidenced by the growth of plant-based meat substitutes, as companies concentrate on providing ethical, sustainable, and high-protein solutions that satisfy customer demand for more sustainable, healthier diets while also having a less environmental impact.

Challenges in the Europe Protein Market

Supply Chain Disruptions

Disease outbreaks like avian influenza or African swine fever, which can result in the culling of animals and consequent meat shortages, are among the many causes that can trigger supply chain disruptions that could seriously affect the European protein market. Geopolitical instability, trade restrictions, and tariffs can also impede the seamless cross-border movement of protein products, leading to delays and decreased supply. Further complicating supply chains and raising costs are logistical problems like labor shortages or transportation problems. Consumers may be impacted by these disruptions in the form of higher pricing and restricted product availability, in addition to producers who may encounter production delays and higher operating costs. Therefore, resolving these persistent supply chain issues is essential to the market's overall stability.

Price Volatility

One major issue facing the European protein industry is the volatility of raw material prices, especially those of energy and animal feed. The price fluctuations of important inputs like grain, soybeans, and other feed ingredients have a significant impact on the cost of generating animal protein. These prices may suddenly surge or fall due to shifts in global supply and demand, weather patterns, and market dynamics. An additional element of uncertainty is introduced by growing energy costs, which are essential for farming and processing operations. Because their profits are directly impacted by variable costs, protein producers find it challenging to maintain constant pricing as a result of this volatility. In order to provide premium goods at competitive costs, producers must manage these price swings, which frequently puts a strain on their finances.

Europe Protein Market Overview by Regions

By countries, the Europe Protein market is divided into Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom, Rest of Europe.

France Protein Market

With a robust demand for both plant-based and animal-based proteins, the French protein market accounts for a sizeable portion of the nation's food business. Consumption of animal protein is substantial, particularly in the form of dairy products and meat (poultry, beef, and pork). However, consumer preferences are moving toward more ethical and sustainable protein sources due to trends in sustainability and health. Legumes, soy, and pea protein are examples of plant-based proteins that are becoming more and more well-liked as substitutes for conventional animal proteins. This change is reflected in the growth of plant-based meat substitutes, such as those offered by Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods. Protein-enriched foods and supplements are also becoming more popular in the French market as a result of rising fitness and health consciousness. The French protein market is still being shaped by ethical sourcing and sustainability concerns.

United Kingdom Protein Market

Growing consumer interest in wellness, exercise, and health is fueling the UK protein market's continuous expansion. Despite a discernible move towards leaner and more sustainable protein sources, meat consumption is still high, especially for beef, hog, and fowl. In line with the growing trend toward plant-based diets, plant-based proteins - such as soy, pea, and lentil protein - are becoming more and more well-liked as substitutes for animal-based products. As more people lead active lifestyles, there is also a significant demand in the market for meals that are high in protein, such as shakes, snacks, and supplements. Concerns about sustainability and growing awareness of animal welfare are further influencing the industry by increasing demand for plant-based, organic, and ethically sourced products. In general, the protein market in the UK is expanding to accommodate shifting consumer tastes and environmental concerns.

Germany Protein Market

Due to the high demand for both plant-based and animal-based proteins, Germany has one of the biggest protein markets in Europe. The most popular protein is pork, which is followed by poultry. Beef consumption has somewhat decreased as a result of environmental and health concerns. Growing health consciousness and worries about sustainability have led to a preference for plant-based substitutes as well as lean meats like chicken and fish. Supplements, snacks, and prepared meals that are high in protein are becoming more and more popular, especially with younger customers. Innovations in plant-based protein, like alternatives to meat, are also becoming more popular. Due to consumer desires for sustainability and ethical sourcing, German companies have adopted eco-friendly techniques and are now providing protein products that are organic and obtained sustainably.

Italy Protein Market

Pork, beef, and chicken are the main sources of meat in Italy's deeply ingrained culinary culture, which drives the country's protein sector. The most common is pork, which is used in many classic Italian meals including sausages, prosciutto, and salami. However, as sustainability issues and health trends gain traction, consumer preferences are changing. As vegetarian and vegan diets gain popularity, there is a growing interest in plant-based proteins such quinoa, soy, and legumes. Consumers' desire for products derived from ethically and sustainably raised animals is another factor driving the need for alternative protein sources. Protein-enriched foods, such as plant-based meat substitutes, snacks, and supplements, are also becoming more and more well-liked. The protein market in Italy is developing to accommodate these shifting tastes.

Europe Protein Market Segments

Type

• Animal

1.1.1 Casein and Caseinates

1.1.2 Collagen

1.1.3 Gelatin

1.1.4 Insect Protein

1.1.5 Milk Protein

1.1.6 Whey Protein

1.1.7 Egg Protein

1.1.8 Others

• Plant

1.2.1 Hemp Protein

1.2.2 Pea Protein

1.2.3 Rice Protein

1.2.4 Soy Protein

1.2.5 Wheat Protein

1.2.6 Others

• Microbial

1.3.1 Algae Protein

1.3.2 Mycoprotein

End User

• Animal Feed
• Food and Beverages

2.2.1 Bakery

2.2.2 Beverages

2.2.3 Breakfast Cereals

2.2.4 Condiments/Sauces

2.2.5 Confectionery

2.2.6 Dairy and Dairy Alternative Products

2.2.7 RTE/RTC Food Products

2.2.8 Snacks

• Personal Care and Cosmetics
• Supplements

2.4.1 Baby Food and Infant Formula

2.4.2 Elderly Nutrition and Medical Nutrition

2.4.3 Sport/Performance Nutrition

Country

• Belgium
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Netherlands
• Russia
• Spain
• Turkey
• United Kingdom
• Rest of Europe

Company Analysis: Overview, Recent Development & Strategies, Product Portfolio & Product Launch in Last 1 Year, Revenue

• 3fbio Ltd
• Archer Daniels Midland Company
• Arla Foods AMBA
• Darling Ingredients Inc.
• Groupe LACTALIS
• International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc.
• Kerry Group plc.
• Laita
• Roquette Frère
• Royal FrieslandCampina N.V