South America Pea Protein Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends And Forecast (2025 - 2030)

South America Pea Protein Market Trends and Insights

Increasing demand for plant-based protein alternatives

The South America pea protein market is experiencing strong growth driven by the rising demand for plant-based protein alternatives. Growing health consciousness, shifting dietary preferences toward vegan and vegetarian lifestyles, and concerns over animal welfare and environmental sustainability are fueling this trend. In 2024, 74% of Brazilians expressed a willingness to reduce or completely eliminate meat from their diets, according to a survey conducted by the Brazilian Vegetarian Society ^{[1]Source: Vegconomist, "Study: 74% of Brazilians Would Consider Cutting Down on or Eliminating Meat", vegconomist.com}. Consumers increasingly view plant-based proteins as clean-label, allergen-free, and highly digestible substitutes for animal-derived proteins. The expanding adoption of flexitarian diets across major economies such as Brazil, Argentina, and Chile is further supporting market expansion. Food and beverage manufacturers are incorporating pea protein in products like meat alternatives, nutritional supplements, and dairy substitutes. The popularity of plant-based diets among fitness enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers is also accelerating demand. Overall, pea protein’s versatility and nutritional profile are positioning it as a key ingredient in South America’s evolving protein landscape.

Rising vegan and vegetarian population

The rising vegan and vegetarian population is a major driver of the South America pea protein market. Consumers are increasingly shifting toward plant-based diets driven by growing health awareness, environmental sustainability, and ethical concerns over animal welfare. This trend is especially evident in Brazil, where an estimated 10 million people identified as vegan in 2024, marking a significant rise in plant-based lifestyle adoption ^{[2]Source: The Vegan Society, "The Right to be a Vegano: How are Vegans Protected Under Brazilian Law? vegansociety.com}. Urban youth and health-conscious consumers are leading this transition, influenced by global wellness and sustainability movements. Pea protein’s clean-label, allergen-free, and nutrient-rich profile makes it an ideal choice for vegan food and beverage formulations. The expanding retail and foodservice availability of plant-based meat, dairy alternatives, and snack products further supports market growth. As consumer adoption strengthens, the South America pea protein market continues to witness robust expansion driven by rising demand for plant-forward nutrition.

Rising demand for clean label and allergen-free products

The rising demand for clean-label and allergen-free products is a key driver of the South America pea protein market. Consumers are increasingly seeking transparency in food ingredients, preferring natural, minimally processed, and easily recognizable components. Pea protein aligns well with this trend as it is plant-based, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from common allergens such as soy and dairy. Growing awareness of food intolerances and sensitivity issues is further reinforcing consumer trust in pea protein-based formulations. Food and beverage manufacturers are capitalizing on this preference by launching products positioned as clean, sustainable, and health-oriented. The shift toward ingredient simplicity and label transparency is particularly strong among urban and health-conscious populations. As a result, clean-label demand continues to accelerate pea protein adoption across South America’s functional food and beverage segments.

Rising popularity of meat substitutes and plant-based meat

The rising popularity of meat substitutes and plant-based meat is a key driver of the South America pea protein market. Growing consumer preference for healthier, sustainable, and ethical food choices is accelerating the shift from traditional animal-based products. Pea protein has become a preferred ingredient for plant-based meat due to its high protein content, neutral flavor, and functional flexibility. In Argentina, where livestock dominance sets high standards for sensory quality, economic pressures are creating opportunities for affordable plant-based options that undercut premium beef prices. Meanwhile, Chile’s 2024 NotCo legal victory removed labeling restrictions, allowing clearer marketing of plant-based product benefits and accelerating category growth ^{[3]Source: Good Food Institute, "Reimagining protein", gfi.org}. Regional food manufacturers are expanding portfolios to meet rising demand from vegan and flexitarian consumers. Overall, technological advancements, supportive policy shifts, and affordability factors continue to drive the expansion of the South America pea protein market.

High production costs of pea protein extraction

High production costs associated with pea protein extraction act as a significant restraint on the South America pea protein market. The extraction and isolation process involves complex technologies such as wet fractionation, which require substantial energy input and specialized equipment. Limited regional processing infrastructure further adds to operational costs, making locally produced pea protein less price-competitive compared to imported or alternative plant proteins. Fluctuating raw material prices and supply chain inefficiencies also contribute to cost pressures. These high production expenses often translate into elevated pricing for end products, restricting affordability for mass-market consumers. Small and mid-sized food manufacturers face additional challenges in scaling production due to capital-intensive processing requirements. Consequently, cost constraints continue to limit the broader penetration and competitiveness of pea protein within South America’s plant-based protein market.

Taste and texture challenges in product formulations

Taste and texture challenges in product formulations remain a key restraint for the South America pea protein market. Pea protein often imparts a distinct earthy or beany flavor, which can affect the sensory appeal of plant-based foods and beverages. Achieving desirable texture and mouthfeel comparable to animal-based products also poses difficulties, particularly in meat and dairy alternatives. These limitations can hinder consumer acceptance, especially in markets like Argentina and Brazil, where taste expectations are high. Manufacturers face increasing research and development costs to improve flavor masking, texture enhancement, and product consistency. Although advancements in processing technologies are addressing these issues, solutions remain costly and not yet widespread. As a result, sensory challenges continue to constrain the large-scale adoption of pea protein in diverse food formulations across South America.

Segment Analysis

By Form: Isolates Lead on Purity, Textured Forms Gain in Meat Alternatives

Pea protein isolates commanded the largest market share of 53.53% in 2024 within the South America pea protein market. This dominance is largely attributed to their high protein content ranging between 80-85%, which aligns well with stringent formulation requirements in key applications such as sports nutrition, infant formula, and dairy alternatives. These sectors prioritize not only nutritional value but also functional performance and clean labeling, where pea protein isolates excel. Their versatility and ability to maintain stability and texture make them preferred choices among manufacturers. Additionally, the growing consumer awareness around plant-based proteins and allergen-free options further reinforce the leading position of pea protein isolates.
Hydrolyzed and textured pea protein forms represent the fastest-growing segments within the market, forecasted to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 8.67% through 2030. This rapid growth is propelled by increasing demand for enhanced functional properties such as improved solubility, easier digestibility, and better mouthfeel, which these forms provide. Hydrolyzed proteins are particularly favored in specialized nutrition products, including sports supplements and infant nutrition, due to their superior bioavailability. Textured pea protein caters to the meat substitute market by offering desirable texture and structure, aiding the shift toward plant-based diets. Market players are investing heavily in research and development to optimize these forms to meet evolving consumer preferences. 

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Nature: Conventional Dominates, Organic Expands on Clean-Label Mandates

Conventional pea protein dominated the South America pea protein market with an 89.34% share in 2024. This substantial lead stems from its well-established supply chains that ensure consistent availability across the region. Lower raw material costs make it particularly appealing to cost-conscious manufacturers seeking to maintain competitive pricing. The broader accessibility of conventional options positions it as the default choice for large-scale production in various applications. Manufacturers benefit from reliable sourcing without the complexities associated with certification processes. Overall, these advantages solidify conventional pea protein's entrenched role in meeting mainstream market demands.

Organic pea protein emerges as the fastest-growing segment, projected to expand at 8.04% annually through 2030. This growth is fueled by rising clean-label mandates that prioritize transparent and natural ingredients in product formulations. Retailer sustainability commitments increasingly favor organic certifications to align with environmental goals. Consumer willingness to pay premiums for verified organic products accelerates adoption in premium segments like health foods and plant-based alternatives. The segment benefits from heightened awareness of sustainable farming practices amid global eco-trends. This trajectory highlights organic pea protein's potential to capture value-added market niches despite its smaller current base.

By End User: Food and Beverages Anchor Demand, Personal Care Surges

Food and beverages dominated the South America pea protein market, capturing 63.27% of end-user demand in 2024. This leading position is anchored by key applications including dairy alternatives, meat substitutes, bakery products, and sports nutrition. Pea protein's hypoallergenic profile makes it ideal for consumers avoiding common allergens like soy or dairy. Its complete amino-acid spectrum provides essential nutritional benefits that align with health-focused formulations. Manufacturers leverage these attributes to enhance product functionality, texture, and protein content across diverse offerings. The segment's established infrastructure and high-volume consumption further reinforce its commanding market presence.

Personal care and cosmetics represent the fastest-growing end-user segment, forecasted to expand at 8.56% annually through 2030. This rapid growth stems from formulators increasingly incorporating pea peptides into innovative products like anti-aging serums and hair-care solutions. These peptides mimic keratin properties, offering natural strengthening and repair benefits for skin and hair. The shift toward clean-beauty formulations favors pea protein's plant-based, sustainable credentials over synthetic alternatives. Rising consumer demand for multifunctional, eco-friendly cosmetics accelerates adoption in premium beauty lines. Overall, this segment's trajectory underscores pea protein's expanding role beyond food into high-value personal care applications.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Geography Analysis

Brazil holds the dominant position in the South America pea protein market, commanding 45.32% of the market share in 2024. This leadership is underpinned by the country's vast agricultural infrastructure and established processing capabilities for pea sourcing and extraction. Brazil's large population and robust food processing industry drive substantial demand across key applications like meat substitutes and dairy alternatives. The nation's advanced manufacturing ecosystem supports high-volume production and export-oriented supply chains. Favorable trade policies and proximity to key raw material suppliers further solidify its market stronghold. Overall, Brazil's scale and efficiency make it the cornerstone of regional pea protein dynamics.

Peru emerges as the fastest-growing geography, forecasted to expand at 8.73% annually through 2030, outpacing all other South American countries. This surge is propelled by Lima's rapidly expanding middle class with rising disposable incomes fueling premium nutrition trends. Increasing exposure to Western dietary patterns introduces demand for protein supplementation and plant-based foods among urban consumers. Government initiatives promoting healthy eating and sustainable agriculture enhance local market potential. Investments in processing facilities position Peru to capture value-added segments like sports nutrition. This trajectory highlights Peru's transition from emerging to pivotal player in the regional pea protein landscape.

Argentina plays a significant role in the South America pea protein market through its strong agricultural base and growing adoption in plant-based innovations. As a major exporter of pulses, the country leverages local pea production for domestic processing and formulation needs. Urbanization in Buenos Aires and other centers boosts demand for functional proteins in bakery, beverages, and meat analogs. Argentina's focus on sustainability aligns with global clean-label trends, supporting market penetration. Competitive manufacturing costs enable expansion into export markets beyond South America. This positions Argentina as a steady contributor with potential for accelerated growth amid rising health consciousness.