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Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 223.31 Million |
Market Size (2030) | USD 346.76 Million |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 9.20 % |
Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Europe Pea Protein Market Analysis
The Europe Pea Protein Market size is estimated at USD 223.31 million in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 346.76 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 9.2% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The European pea protein market is experiencing significant transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences and sustainability concerns. A notable shift towards plant protein diets is evident across Europe, with recent studies showing that 59% of Italian consumers reduced their meat consumption in 2023, while 34% of the French population identified as flexitarian in 2022. The growing awareness of environmental sustainability and ethical consumption has led to increased demand for alternative protein, particularly in processed foods and beverages. This shift is further supported by government initiatives, such as Germany's allocation of USD 41.24 million in its 2024 budget to promote sustainable protein, demonstrating strong institutional support for the industry's growth.
Supply chain dynamics are playing a crucial role in shaping the market landscape. In 2023, there was a significant increase in pea protein imports from non-EU-27 countries, particularly in Spain, indicating the region's growing dependency on external sources. The market faced challenges when Canadian pea production, a major source for European imports, decreased to 2.6 million tons in 2023, marking a 23.7% reduction from the previous year. This supply constraint has prompted European manufacturers to diversify their sourcing strategies and invest in local production capabilities, as evidenced by Nordzucker's investment of over EUR 100 million in plant protein production focusing on locally cultivated peas.
The industry is witnessing substantial technological advancements and product innovations. Major companies are expanding their research and development capabilities, with Kerry Group operating 1,100 scientists dedicated to innovative solutions. The focus has shifted towards improving protein ingredients content, texture, and functionality, particularly in meat alternatives and sports nutrition products. This innovation drive is reflected in recent product launches, such as Roquette's expansion of its pea protein portfolio in February 2024 with the introduction of NUTRALYS® Pea F853M, featuring enhanced gel strength for improved firmness and thickness.
Consumer health consciousness continues to drive market growth, with increasing attention to nutritional content and clean-label products. According to the British Nutrition Foundation, the average daily protein intake in the United Kingdom is 76.0 g/day for adults aged 19-64 years, highlighting the significant role of protein in daily nutrition. The market is particularly resonating with younger consumers, as evidenced by the Vegan Society's finding that 4.1% of UK students identify as vegan, more than double the general population. This demographic shift is influencing product development strategies, with manufacturers focusing on clean-label, allergen-free, and sustainably sourced pea protein products to meet evolving consumer preferences.
Europe Pea Protein Market Trends
Rising Demand for Plant-Based Products and Vegan/Vegetarian Diets
The European pea protein market is experiencing substantial growth driven by the increasing adoption of plant-based diets and changing consumer preferences toward sustainable food choices. According to the United States Department of Agriculture data from 2022, Germany alone reported 1.5 million vegan protein consumers and approximately 8 million vegetarians, highlighting the significant shift in dietary preferences across the region. This trend is further evidenced by the Federal Agency of Agriculture and Food (BLE) data, which revealed that meat consumption in Germany decreased to 6.5 million tons in 2022, showing a consistent decline since 2018 without any upturn.
The shift towards plant-based diets is particularly pronounced among younger consumers who are increasingly eco-conscious and aware of the environmental impact of meat consumption. This awareness has led to a surge in demand for alternative protein sources, with pea protein emerging as a preferred choice. According to the EU Smart Protein project information, 59% of Italian consumers had reduced their meat consumption in 2023, citing health, environment, and animal welfare as their primary motivations. Similarly, in France, the Glanbia Nutritionals Healthy Snacking study revealed that 34% of the population identified as flexitarian in 2022, indicating a growing market for vegetable protein alternatives.
Health and Nutritional Benefits
The health and nutritional benefits associated with pea protein have emerged as a significant driver for market growth across Europe. According to the British Nutrition Foundation, the average daily protein intake in the United Kingdom is 76.0 g/day for adults aged 19-64 years and 67.0 g/day for adults aged 65 years and over, with an increasing proportion of consumers seeking plant-based protein sources to meet these requirements. Pea protein's naturally low fat and cholesterol content, combined with its high digestibility and complete amino acid profile, makes it particularly attractive for health-conscious consumers looking to maintain optimal nutrition while reducing animal protein consumption.
The growing prevalence of food allergies and intolerances has further accelerated the adoption of pea protein as a viable alternative. Unlike common allergens such as soy and dairy, pea protein is hypoallergenic and easily digestible, making it suitable for a broader consumer base. This attribute has led to increased incorporation in various food products, particularly in sports nutrition protein and elderly nutrition segments. The protein's functionality in promoting muscle protein synthesis and its cardiovascular health benefits, such as helping lower LDL cholesterol levels, have made it increasingly popular among both athletic and elderly populations seeking clean label protein, plant-based nutrition solutions.
Product Innovation and Applications
The market is witnessing significant growth driven by continuous product innovations and expanding applications across various food and beverage categories. In September 2023, German brand Endori launched a vegan tuna product manufactured from pea protein, showcasing the versatility of pea protein in creating innovative meat alternative protein products. The product's success demonstrates the market's potential for novel applications, particularly as it maintains clean-label credentials by avoiding soy, palm oil, and additives while delivering the desired nutritional profile and texture.
The investment landscape further reflects the growing confidence in pea protein applications, with major industry players committing substantial resources to expand production capabilities and develop new products. In November 2023, Nordzucker AG invested EUR 100 million to expand its production site for growing sustainable yellow peas and installed a plant-based protein processing plant in Lower Saxony, Germany. Similarly, in July 2023, Vow Sports launched Sparklean, a sparkling pea protein drink, in 1,400 Boots stores in the UK, demonstrating the protein's versatility in beverage applications. These innovations and investments are expanding the market's scope beyond traditional applications, creating new opportunities for growth and market penetration across various food and beverage segments.
Segment Analysis: By Form
Isolates Segment in Europe Pea Protein Market
The pea protein isolate segment dominates the European pea protein market, commanding approximately 62% market share in 2024, primarily due to its wide range of applications in the food and beverages sector. Pea protein isolates are particularly popular among vegan and vegetarian populations looking for alternative protein sources due to their high protein concentration and enhanced functionalities. These properties include superior emulsifying capabilities, excellent water/oil holding capacity, and effective gelling properties, making them ideal for creating dairy products and nutritional supplements like protein powders, protein bars, and meat analogs. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by its naturally low fat and cholesterol content, making it particularly appealing for health-conscious consumers and those requiring specialized dietary solutions.
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Concentrates Segment in Europe Pea Protein Market
The pea protein concentrate segment is projected to exhibit the fastest growth in the European pea protein market during 2024-2029, with an expected CAGR of approximately 7%. This growth is primarily driven by the rising health consciousness among European consumers, as pea protein concentrate-based products are increasingly consumed as replacements for less healthy alternatives. The segment's growth is further supported by significant investments in the pea protein sector, such as Nordzucker's investment of over EUR 100 million in plant-based protein production focusing on locally cultivated peas. The concentrated protein from peas aligns well with customer demand for plant protein with similar functional and nutritional characteristics to animal-based products, particularly in applications like patties and meatballs, thereby augmenting the market's expansion.
Remaining Segments in Europe Pea Protein Market by Form
The textured pea protein segment represents a crucial component of the European pea protein market, offering unique properties that make it particularly valuable for specific applications. Textured pea protein is especially important in the plant-based meat alternatives sector, where its fibrous texture and ability to mimic the consistency of animal-based proteins make it ideal for products like ground meat alternatives, sausages, and meatballs. The segment's growth is supported by increasing consumer preference for plant-based protein alternatives and the segment's ability to provide products with improved mouthfeel and enhanced visual appearance, particularly in meat analog applications.
Segment Analysis: By Application
Food and Beverages Segment in Europe Pea Protein Market
The Food and Beverages segment dominates the Europe pea protein market, accounting for approximately 93% of the total market value in 2024. This substantial market share is driven by the increasing incorporation of pea protein isolate and other protein ingredients in various food and beverage applications, particularly in meat alternatives, dairy alternatives, bakery products, and ready-to-eat/ready-to-cook food products. The segment's dominance is further strengthened by the rising consumer preference for plant-based diets and packaged foods fortified with healthy ingredients such as plant proteins. The functional properties and nutritional appeal of pea proteins have significantly influenced their demand across key end-use industries within the food and beverage sector. European consumers are increasingly seeking out plant-based products and packaged foods fortified with healthy ingredients, which has led to a proliferation of pea protein applications in different segments such as meat alternatives, beverages, and RTE/RTC food products.
Supplements Segment in Europe Pea Protein Market
The Supplements segment is projected to be the fastest-growing segment in the Europe pea protein market during the forecast period 2024-2029, with an expected growth rate of approximately 7%. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the increasing adoption of pea protein in sports nutrition, baby food and infant formula, and elderly nutrition products. The segment's growth is supported by the rising health consciousness among consumers and the growing preference for plant-based protein supplements. Sports nutrition applications, in particular, are witnessing strong demand as athletes and fitness enthusiasts increasingly opt for plant-based alternatives. The segment's expansion is further bolstered by the growing elderly population in Europe and their increasing need for protein-rich nutritional supplements, as well as the rising demand for allergen-free infant nutrition products.
Remaining Segments in Europe Pea Protein Market by Application
The Animal Feed and Personal Care & Cosmetics segments represent smaller but significant portions of the Europe pea protein market. The Animal Feed segment is gaining traction due to the increasing demand for sustainable and plant-based protein sources in animal nutrition, particularly in pig feed and aquafeed applications. The segment benefits from pea protein's excellent digestibility and naturally low antitrypsin activity, making it particularly suitable for young animal nutrition. Meanwhile, the Personal Care & Cosmetics segment is emerging as a promising application area, driven by the growing demand for natural, sustainable, and vegan ingredients in cosmetic formulations. The segment is witnessing increased adoption of hydrolyzed pea protein in skincare products, hair care formulations, and other personal care applications due to its moisturizing properties and biocompatibility.
Europe Pea Protein Market Geography Segment Analysis
Pea Protein Market in Germany
Germany dominates the European pea protein landscape, commanding approximately 25% of the total market value in 2024 while also demonstrating remarkable growth potential. The country's leadership position is driven by ongoing trends in vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian eating habits, particularly among younger consumers who are increasingly eco-conscious. The German government has shown strong support for alternative proteins, including pea proteins, by earmarking significant funding in its 2024 budget to promote plant proteins. This governmental backing, coupled with substantial investments from major manufacturers in expanding production capacities, has created a robust ecosystem for pea protein development. The market has witnessed significant activity in production expansion, with companies like Nordzucker AG investing heavily in sustainable yellow pea protein processing facilities. The growing trend of young people adopting vegan diets for healthy lifestyles and environmental awareness has particularly influenced the demand for pea protein in various applications, from bakery products to meat alternatives.
Pea Protein Market in France
The French pea protein market has established itself as a significant hub for innovation and production in Europe. The country's strong position is supported by the presence of major industry players and research facilities, including Roquette's expertise center. French consumers' increasing adoption of flexitarian lifestyles has been a key driver, with a notable portion of the population identifying as flexitarian according to recent studies. The market has benefited from collaborative initiatives like AlinOVeg "Innovating in plant-based food," which brings together public and private stakeholders to develop the French plant-based source sector. The country's focus on research and development, particularly in improving product functionality and application versatility, has made it a crucial center for pea protein innovation. French manufacturers have been particularly successful in developing pea protein applications for sports nutrition, responding to the growing demand from fitness enthusiasts and athletes.
Pea Protein Market in United Kingdom
The United Kingdom's pea protein market has evolved significantly, driven by changing consumer preferences and strong retail support. The market has been particularly influenced by the rising shift toward plant-based proteins, accompanied by sustainable lifestyle choices and government dietary guidelines. The UK government's healthy eating model, the Eatwell Guide, has been instrumental in promoting the inclusion of more beans, lentils, and peas in diets. The country has seen remarkable innovation in product development, particularly in the meat alternative and sports nutrition segments. British consumers have shown increasing interest in protein-enriched products, especially among fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals. The market has also benefited from strong retail support, with major supermarket chains actively promoting plant proteins alternatives and creating dedicated shelf space for pea protein-based products.
Pea Protein Market in Other Countries
The pea protein market across other European countries, including Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and other regions, demonstrates diverse growth patterns influenced by local consumer preferences and regulatory environments. Italy has shown particular strength in the meat and dairy alternative sectors, while Spain has witnessed increasing adoption of plant-based diets among urban consumers. Switzerland has implemented progressive agricultural policies supporting local pea protein production, while other European nations have developed unique market characteristics based on their specific consumer needs and regulatory frameworks. These markets are characterized by growing awareness of sustainable protein sources and increasing demand for clean-label products. The development of local production capabilities and distribution networks has helped strengthen the pea protein ecosystem across these regions, while collaboration between local manufacturers and international players has facilitated knowledge transfer and market expansion.
Europe Pea Protein Industry Overview
Top Companies in Europe Pea Protein Market
The European pea protein market is led by established players including International Flavors & Fragrances Inc., Ingredion Incorporated, Archer Daniels Midland Company, and Kerry Group. These companies are actively pursuing product innovation through the development of new pea protein variants, including textured proteins, isolates, and concentrates to meet evolving consumer demands. The industry has witnessed significant expansion activities, particularly in production facilities across key European regions to enhance manufacturing capabilities. Strategic collaborations and partnerships have become increasingly common, especially in research and development initiatives to improve protein extraction technologies and product functionality. Companies are also focusing on sustainable sourcing practices and clean-label offerings to align with consumer preferences, while simultaneously investing in advanced processing technologies to improve product quality and production efficiency.
Consolidated Market with Strong Global Players
The European pea protein market exhibits a consolidated structure where the top four companies command a significant portion of market share, indicating high barriers to entry and established market positions. Global conglomerates dominate the landscape, leveraging their extensive research capabilities, established distribution networks, and strong financial resources to maintain market leadership. These major players have built their positions through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions, particularly focusing on regional players with specialized protein ingredients technologies or unique market access.
The market has witnessed notable merger and acquisition activities, with larger companies actively acquiring smaller, innovative firms to expand their product portfolios and geographical presence. Local specialists continue to operate in specific niches, often focusing on premium segments or specialized applications. The industry structure favors companies with integrated supply chains, from raw material sourcing to final product distribution, enabling better cost control and quality assurance. This has led to increased vertical integration efforts among major players, particularly in securing sustainable pea sources and developing proprietary processing technologies.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the European pea protein market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate while maintaining sustainable protein practices throughout their value chain. Incumbent players must focus on developing proprietary technologies for protein extraction and processing, while simultaneously expanding their application expertise to serve diverse end-user segments. Companies need to establish strong relationships with pea farmers and invest in backward integration to ensure consistent supply quality and meet growing demand. Additionally, maintaining certifications for clean-label products and implementing transparent sourcing practices has become crucial for maintaining market position.
For emerging players and contenders, the path to market share growth lies in identifying and serving underserved market segments or applications. This includes developing specialized pulse protein variants for specific food applications or focusing on premium market segments with enhanced functionality or sustainability credentials. Companies must also consider the increasing regulatory focus on plant protein and prepare for potential changes in food safety and labeling requirements. Building strong relationships with food and beverage manufacturers and investing in application development support has become essential for gaining market acceptance and establishing a competitive position in this evolving market.
Europe Pea Protein Market Leaders
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Ingredion Incorporated
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Koninklijke DSM N.V.
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Archer Daniels Midland Company
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Kerry Group PLC
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International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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Europe Pea Protein Market News
- February 2024: Roquette Freres SA launched four multi-functional pea proteins designed to improve taste, texture, and creativity in plant-based food and high-protein nutritional products. The four pea protein ingredients include NUTRALYS® Pea F853M (isolate), NUTRALYS® H85 (hydrolysate), NUTRALYS® T Pea 700FL (textured) and NUTRALYS® T Pea 700M (textured).
- July 2023: ADM and Marel accelerate their alternative protein capabilities with an innovation center in the Netherlands to manufacture and market new alternative protein products and leverage pilot plant production with novel processing techniques.
- June 2023: Cosucra raised EUR 45 million from Sofiprotéol, Wallonie Entreprendre and the Société Fédérale de Participations et d’Investissement (SFPIM). The company announced its plans to invest the money in expanding its production capacity and other operations.
Europe Pea Protein Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
- 1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET DYNAMICS
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4.1 Market Drivers
- 4.1.1 Growing Demand for Plant Based Alternatives
- 4.1.2 Expanding Application of Pea Protein Toward Food Fortification
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4.2 Market Restraints
- 4.2.1 Low Awareness and Application of the Additive
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4.3 Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.3.1 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.3.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers/Consumers
- 4.3.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.3.4 Threat of Substitute Products
- 4.3.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION
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5.1 Form
- 5.1.1 Protein Isolate
- 5.1.2 Protein Concentrate
- 5.1.3 Textured Protein
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5.2 Application
- 5.2.1 Bakery
- 5.2.2 Meat Extender and Substitute
- 5.2.3 Nutritional Supplement
- 5.2.4 Beverage
- 5.2.5 Snacks
- 5.2.6 Other Applications
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5.3 Geography
- 5.3.1 Spain
- 5.3.2 United Kingdom
- 5.3.3 Germany
- 5.3.4 France
- 5.3.5 Italy
- 5.3.6 Russia
- 5.3.7 Rest of Europe
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Most Adopted Strategies
- 6.2 Market Share Analysis
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6.3 Company Profiles
- 6.3.1 Cargill, Incorporated
- 6.3.2 Kerry Group PLC
- 6.3.3 Roquette Freres SA
- 6.3.4 Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
- 6.3.5 Koninklijke DSM N.V.
- 6.3.6 Emsland Food GmbH
- 6.3.7 Ingredion Incorporated
- 6.3.8 Cosucra Groupe Warcoing SA
- 6.3.9 International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc.
- 6.3.10 Ceresal Gmbh
- *List Not Exhaustive
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
Europe Pea Protein Industry Segmentation
Pea protein is a food product and protein supplement derived and extracted from yellow and green split peas, Pisum sativum.
The European pea protein market is segmented by form, application, and geography. Based on form, the market is segmented into protein isolate, protein concentrate, and textured protein. Based on application, the market is segmented into bakery, meat extender and substitute, nutritional supplement, beverage, snacks, and other applications. By geography, the market is segmented into Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, and the Rest of Europe.
The market sizing has been done in value terms in USD and volume terms in tons for all the abovementioned segments.
Form | Protein Isolate |
Protein Concentrate | |
Textured Protein | |
Application | Bakery |
Meat Extender and Substitute | |
Nutritional Supplement | |
Beverage | |
Snacks | |
Other Applications | |
Geography | Spain |
United Kingdom | |
Germany | |
France | |
Italy | |
Russia | |
Rest of Europe |
Europe Pea Protein Market Research FAQs
How big is the Europe Pea Protein Market?
The Europe Pea Protein Market size is expected to reach USD 223.31 million in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 9.20% to reach USD 346.76 million by 2030.
What is the current Europe Pea Protein Market size?
In 2025, the Europe Pea Protein Market size is expected to reach USD 223.31 million.
Who are the key players in Europe Pea Protein Market?
Ingredion Incorporated, Koninklijke DSM N.V., Archer Daniels Midland Company, Kerry Group PLC and International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc. are the major companies operating in the Europe Pea Protein Market.
What years does this Europe Pea Protein Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Europe Pea Protein Market size was estimated at USD 202.77 million. The report covers the Europe Pea Protein Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Europe Pea Protein Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Our Best Selling Reports
Europe Pea Protein Market Research
Mordor Intelligence offers a comprehensive analysis of the pea protein industry. We leverage extensive expertise in plant protein and alternative protein research. Our detailed examination covers various forms, including pea protein isolate, textured pea protein, and hydrolyzed pea protein. We place particular focus on yellow pea protein applications. The report, available as an easy-to-download PDF, provides an in-depth analysis of protein ingredients across Europe. It includes developments in functional protein and innovations in pulse protein.
Stakeholders gain valuable insights into emerging trends across vegan protein and vegetable protein segments. There is detailed coverage of organic pea protein and sustainable protein developments. The analysis encompasses sports nutrition protein applications and the growing demand for clean label protein products. Our research extensively covers pea protein concentrate manufacturing processes and their role in developing meat alternative protein solutions. The report PDF download includes comprehensive data on market dynamics, competitive landscapes, and future growth opportunities in the European region.