Wheat Protein Market - Global Industry Analysis and Forecast (2024-2030) by Product Type, Form, Protein Concentration, Application and Region

Wheat Protein Market Overview

 

Wheat protein is a type of protein derived from wheat, primarily consisting of gluten and hydrolyzed wheat proteins, used to enhance the texture and nutritional content of various food products. The wheat protein market refers to the industry segment that produces and sells wheat-derived proteins, such as gluten and hydrolyzed wheat proteins, used in food products to enhance texture, nutritional value, and functionality. The wheat protein market is expected to witness significant growth by 2023 due to the growing health-conscious consumer trend and the growing popularity of plant-based diets. Wheat gluten leads the industry due to its adaptability and meaty texture, especially when used in plant-based seitan and other meat alternatives. Companies capitalizing on this trend include Upton’s Naturals and Vital Wheat Gluten.

 

The Asia-Pacific region dominates the global wheat protein market due to the growing demand for protein-rich foods and high wheat production in countries such as China and India. The wheat protein market is also growing rapidly in North America, driven by the growing trend of consumers adopting plant-based and health-conscious eating habits. To meet this demand, major companies, including Cargill, ADM and Bunge, are investing in technology and innovation. Challenges such as gluten sensitivity and allergies are forcing companies to get creative and come up with gluten-free solutions. All things considered, the wheat protein market is thriving due to its versatility and the trend toward healthier, plant-based diets.

 

 

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Wheat Protein Market Trend

 

Rising Plant-Based Diets Trend Drive Demand and Innovation in the Wheat Protein Market

 

In 2023, more and more people are adopting a plant-based diet for health and environmental reasons. As a result, the demand for plant-based proteins is increasing, significantly impacting the wheat protein market. Gluten and hydrolyzed wheat protein, two types of wheat proteins, have become key players in this movement. They are perfect for boosting the protein content of plant-based products and mimicking the texture of meat due to their adaptability and functional qualities.

 

For instance, companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat have incorporated wheat protein into their recipes to improve the nutritional profile and provide a meat-like texture, reflecting a growing trend in the wheat protein market.

 

• Beyond Meat incorporated wheat protein to make its burgers more meat-like in 2021. Similarly, Impossible Foods utilized hydrolyzed wheat protein to mimic the mouthfeel of beef in its plant-based offerings in 2022.

 

Companies like Vital Wheat Gluten are using wheat proteins in plant-based meat alternatives like seitan, which are high in protein and have a meat-like consistency. This usage is influencing product innovation and allowing the wheat protein market to expand beyond traditional applications like protein bars and baked goods. These trends in the wheat protein market are indicative of a broader consumer movement toward health-conscious and environmentally friendly food options, which is driving significant innovation in plant-based protein sources.

 

Wheat Protein Market Dynamics

 

Growing Health Trends Drive Innovation and Growth in the Global Wheat Protein Market

 

The global wheat protein market is expected to grow due to the rising consumer demand for high-protein, low-fat diets driven by increasing awareness of health and fitness. Dietary decisions aimed at improving fitness, weight management, and overall health are becoming increasingly important to consumers, which is fueling demand in the wheat protein market. Wheat proteins are central to this trend due to their high protein content and numerous physiological benefits, including gluten and hydrolyzed wheat proteins.

 

The ability of wheat proteins to enhance the stability and texture of many food products has been widely recognized, significantly impacting the wheat protein market.

 

For instance, Beneo’s wheat protein ingredients are used to improve the texture and nutritional profile of pasta and protein-rich snacks, reflecting the growing influence of wheat proteins in diverse food applications. Kellogg’s also adds wheat protein to its cereals to boost protein content while maintaining low fat, showcasing another key role of wheat proteins in meeting consumer needs.

 

• In 2022, Beneo launched new wheat protein ingredients aimed at enhancing the texture and nutritional profile of various food products, including pasta and protein-rich snacks. Their innovations highlight the versatility of wheat proteins in improving food quality while meeting consumer demands for healthier options.

 

• In 2021, Kellogg’s began incorporating wheat protein into its breakfast cereals to boost protein content while keeping fat levels low. This move was part of a broader strategy to cater to health-conscious consumers looking for nutritious breakfast options.

 

Mochi and Chobani have leveraged wheat proteins in their innovative yogurt and snack products to provide consumers with protein-rich options that support muscle maintenance and repair without adding fat. These examples highlight the wheat protein market's adaptation to health-conscious trends by delivering nutritional benefits without compromising on fat content.

• In 2023, Mochi introduced a new line of protein-rich snack products that utilize hydrolyzed wheat protein. These snacks are designed to support muscle maintenance and repair, aligning with the growing trend of consumers seeking high-protein, low-fat snacks.

 

• Chobani launched a range of plant-based yogurts in 2022 that incorporate wheat proteins to enhance their nutritional profile. This innovation allows Chobani to offer consumers a protein-rich yogurt alternative that supports health and wellness goals.

 

Overall, the wheat protein market is expanding and innovating rapidly due to the growing focus on health and wellness. Manufacturers are increasingly turning to wheat proteins to meet consumer demand for healthy, practical, and low-fat food options, driving significant growth and development in the market.

 

Allergen Concerns and Gluten Sensitivity are Major Challenges for the Global Wheat Protein Market

 

With gluten being a common allergen, allergen concerns continue to pose a serious threat to the global wheat protein market. Wheat allergies, celiac disease and gluten sensitivity can all be exacerbated by wheat proteins, particularly gluten. This is a significant obstacle for the wheat protein market   as companies in the sector face stringent labeling regulations and increasing consumer demand for gluten-free products.

 

For instance, to address gluten concerns, General Mills and Kellogg's, two significant competitors in the wheat protein market, have had to modify their product lines. To gain market share in gluten-free products, General Mills has invested in creating and promoting gluten-free alternatives, such as its Chex cereal line. Similarly, to meet consumer demand for safe, allergen-free products in the wheat protein market, Kellogg's has increased the number of gluten-free options in its Rice Krispies product line.

• In 2021, General Mills expanded its gluten-free product offerings, particularly through its Chex cereal line. This initiative aimed to cater to consumers with gluten sensitivities and those choosing gluten-free diets for health reasons. The company emphasized the importance of clear labeling to ensure that consumers could easily identify gluten-free options.

 

• In 2022, the Kellogg’s increased the number of gluten-free options in its Rice Krispies product line, introducing new flavors and formulations that are safe for individuals with gluten allergies. This move was part of Kellogg's strategy to capture a larger market share in the gluten-free segment.

 

Even if they do not have any specific sensitivities, many consumers are turning to gluten-free diets in response to the growing awareness of the health risks associated with gluten. Wheat protein consumption is affected by this trend, as manufacturers in the wheat protein market must ensure that their products are gluten-free and clearly labeled to attract customers to this market. In the wheat protein market, Udi's Gluten Free is an example of how companies are responding to these allergen concerns by cleverly carving out a niche market with a variety of gluten-free breads and snacks.

 

Companies in the wheat protein market manufacturing wheat protein products are currently facing higher operating costs and increasing complexity due to the need for clear labeling and strict compliance with certifications. Get gluten-free. Therefore, to meet dietary and health requirements while addressing allergy issues, the wheat protein market must continuously expand and adapt.

 

 

Based on Product Type, according to SMR analysis in 2023, wheat gluten dominated the global wheat protein market. Its widespread use in conventional and novel food applications, especially in the plant-based and health food segments of the wheat protein market, is the main reason for its dominance.

 

Wheat gluten is a naturally occurring protein that is prized for its versatility and meat-like texture in a wide range of products. Seitan, a popular meat substitute among vegetarians and vegans, is the result of wheat protein production, demonstrating its dominance in the market. Capitalizing on this trend, companies such as Vital Wheat Gluten are leading the wheat protein market, offering seitan products that are high in protein, versatile in texture, and effective meat substitutes.

 

 For instance, Upton’s Naturals and The Seitan Company have used wheat gluten to create a variety of seitan products, demonstrating the product’s broad suitability for plant-based diets and its notable impact on the wheat protein market.

 

• In 2022, Upton's Naturals, a brand known for its seitan products, reported a 20% increase in sales, largely attributed to the growing popularity of plant-based diets and the use of wheat gluten in their offerings.

 

The expected fastest growing wheat protein market subsegment based on product type during the forecast period is textured wheat protein. The wheat protein market is growing due to consumer demand for meat alternatives and protein-enriched meals. Textured wheat protein offers manufacturers an efficient and cost-effective way to mimic the texture of meat in a variety of plant-based meat alternatives.

 

For instance, Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods use textured wheat protein to improve the texture and nutritional value of plant-based burgers and sausages, reflecting the growing innovation in the wheat protein sector.

 

• Beyond Meat's Beyond Burger, launched in 2022, prominently features textured wheat protein, contributing to a 25% increase in sales for the company in the plant-based meat category during that year.        

 

Based on Form, according to SMR analysis in 2023, the wheat protein market is dominated by the solid form, a trend attributed to the solid form's versatility and wide range of applications in various food products, including baked goods, snacks, and meat substitutes. The solid wheat protein has carved out a significant share in the global wheat protein market due to its stability and ease of incorporation into various formulations.

 

 

In the wheat protein market, solid wheat protein is highly valued and commonly used in products like protein bars, bread, and plant-based meats.

 

For instance, companies like Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) and Cargill leverage solid wheat protein in their protein-rich products to enhance texture and protein content. The dominance of solid wheat protein in the wheat protein market is due to its ability to maintain structural integrity and provide a desirable texture, making it a staple in both traditional and innovative food applications.

 

• In 2023, the company launched a new series of meat alternatives that prominently feature wheat protein to improve texture and mouthfeel. Cargill's investment in expanding its wheat protein production capabilities included a USD 75 million facility upgrade aimed at meeting the rising consumer demand for protein-rich foods.

 

• In 2022, ADM reported that its specialty ingredients segment, which includes solid wheat protein, contributed to a revenue increase of approximately USD 1.3 billion, driven by the growing demand for plant-based foods. This segment has been pivotal in developing products like protein bars and meat substitutes.

 

Solid wheat protein also plays a critical role in the wheat protein market for the production of plant-based meat alternatives. Companies such as Quorn and MorningStar Farms use solid wheat protein to achieve a meat-like texture in their burgers and sausages. The solid form allows for better textural mimicry and functional properties, which are essential for replicating the mouthfeel and bite of meat in the wheat protein market.

 

• In 2022, the MorningStar Farms introduced a new line of plant-based sausages made with wheat protein, which received positive feedback for its texture and flavor. MorningStar Farms reported a 25% increase in sales of its plant-based products in 2022, highlighting the growing consumer interest in meat alternatives.

 

• In 2021, Quorn reported a 30% increase in sales, attributed to the popularity of its meat-free products that incorporate solid wheat protein. The company continues to innovate with new offerings, maintaining its position as a leader in the plant-based protein market.

 

Wheat Protein Market Regional Insights

 

According to SMR analysis, Asia-Pacific Wheat Protein Market dominates the Global Wheat Protein Market in 2023, due to huge wheat production, a large population, and growing consumption of protein-rich foods in the region. A continuous supply of raw materials is assured due to high wheat yields in countries such as China and India, making it profitable for regional companies to synthesize wheat proteins. Due to the high population in the region, there is a significant demand for a variety of food products, especially those enriched with wheat proteins. Also, increasing health awareness and dietary changes towards protein-rich foods are driving the growth of the wheat protein market and its expansion. Wheat protein is also essential for the growing food processing sector in Asia-Pacific, including plant-based meats, snacks, and baked goods, further solidifying the region's dominance in the wheat protein market.

 

For instances,

• According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, the country produced 136.94 million metric tons of wheat in 2021, ensuring a steady supply of raw materials for wheat protein production.

 

• In 2022, India's wheat exports hit 7.85 million tonnes in the fiscal year to March, an all-time high and a sharp increase from 2.1 million tonnes in the previous year, traders said, as Russia's invasion of Ukraine cuts off rival Black Sea supplies.

 

North America is one of the fastest-growing regions in the wheat protein market. The growing consumer demand for plant-based diets and the increasing trend toward healthy eating are key drivers of the region’s rapid growth. With significant investments in food innovation and advanced food technology, the United States and Canada have played a crucial role in this expansion. Companies that are actively producing wheat protein to meet the rising demand for plant-based and protein-rich products include Bunge North America and ADM. Significant advances in food processing technology and the growth of the protein supplement and meat alternative markets have all contributed to the dynamic growth of the wheat protein market in North America.

 

Wheat Protein Market Competitive Analysis

 

The leading companies in the wheat protein market are competing severely as they strive to meet growing demand and capitalize on emerging trends. Cargill and Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) continued to dominate the specialty and functional wheat protein market by leveraging their extensive manufacturing networks and research and development resources. Cargill prioritizes clean-label and sustainable products to appeal to health-conscious consumers, while ADM focuses on improving the texture and nutritional profile of wheat proteins for a variety of applications. Bunge North America is another key player, driving the development of wheat protein technology to meet growing demand and drive innovation in plant-based foods. Tereos features naturally sourced wheat protein and focuses on clean label products that meet consumer demands for sustainability and transparency.

 

With high local wheat production and contributing to the regional wheat protein market dynamics, regional competitors such as China National Cereals, Oils and Foodstuff Corporation (COFCO) and Globus Spirits Limited are key players in the Asia-Pacific wheat protein market.

 

• In October 2022, Cargill, Unitec Foods, and Fuji Nihon Seito Corporation entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to bolster their partnership in innovation and expand their presence in the food ingredient solutions market in Japan and the Asia Pacific region.

 

• In September 2022, Cargill collaborated with the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) to inaugurate its inaugural digital business studio in Asia.

 

• In January 2022, Cargill published the introduction of its new line of wheat protein products, which are specifically designed for meat alternative applications.

 

• In December 2021, ADM published the expansion of its plant-based protein production facility in Missouri, USA, to meet the growing demand for plant-based proteins, including wheat protein products.

 

Wheat Protein Market Scope

Wheat Protein Market Scope
Market Size in 2023	USD 3.88 Bn.
Market Size in 2030	USD 5.35 Bn.
CAGR (2024-2030)	4.8%
Historic Data	2018-2022
Base Year	2023
Forecast Period	2024-2030
Segment Analysis	By Product Type Wheat Gluten Wheat Protein Isolate Textured Wheat Protein Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
	By Form Solid Liquid
	By Protein Concentration 75% Protein Concentration 80% Protein Concentration 95% Protein Concentration
	By Application Dairy Bakery & Confectionery Nutritional Supplements Animal Feed Others
Regional Scope	North America – United States, Canada, and Mexico Europe – UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Russia, Austria, and Rest of Europe Asia Pacific – China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, ASEAN, Rest of APAC Middle East and Africa – South Africa, GCC, Egypt, Nigeria, Rest of the Middle East and Africa South America – Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America

 

Wheat Protein Key players

 

North America

1. Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) - USA
2. Cargill, Incorporated - USA
3. Tate & Lyle PLC - USA
4. Beyond Meat - USA
5. Bunge Limited - USA
6. Ingredion Incorporated – USA

Europe

1. Emsland Group - Germany
2. Kroener-Staerke - Germany
3. Roquette Freres - France
4. Muhlenchemie – Germany
5. BASF SE - Germany
6. Tereos - France
7. Penta International - UK

Asia Pacific

1. China National Cereals, Oils and Foodstuffs Corporation (COFCO) - China
2. SDF Soya - China
3. Wilmar International Limited - Singapore
4. Bohui Healthcare - China
5. Tiancheng International Holdings - China

Middle East and Africa (MEA)

1. Almarai - Saudi Arabia
2. Mabrouk Group - UAE
3. Agthia Group - UAE
4. Pioneer Foods - South Africa

South America

1. Moinho Sao Jorge - Brazil
2. GrainCorp - Argentina
3. Drogasil - Brazil