Mexico Protein Ingredient Market Overview, 2029

The protein ingredients market in Mexico is experiencing significant growth driven by various factors, including the increasing awareness of the importance of protein in the diet, changing dietary preferences, and the rising demand for functional food and beverages. The demand for plant-based protein ingredients is rising in Mexico, driven by the growing number of consumers adopting vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets. Plant-based protein sources like soy protein, pea protein, and rice protein are gaining popularity. These ingredients are used in a range of products, including meat substitutes, plant-based milks, protein bars, and snacks. The demand for plant-based protein ingredients is rising in Mexico, driven by the growing number of consumers adopting vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets. Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals pursuing active lifestyles are seeking protein-rich products to support their exercise routines and recovery. Protein powders, bars, and ready-to-drink beverages are popular in this segment. The market for protein-fortified convenience and snack foods is growing in Mexico. Protein-enhanced products, such as protein bars, ready-to-drink protein shakes, and protein snacks, are gaining popularity as consumers seek convenient and healthy on-the-go options. Mexico has regulations governing food safety, labeling, and ingredient claims to ensure consumer protection. Protein ingredient manufacturers and suppliers must comply with these regulations and obtain necessary approvals to market their products. The protein ingredients market in Mexico presents opportunities for both domestic and international players to cater to the evolving consumer preferences and market trends.

According to the research report "Mexico Protein Ingredient Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the Mexico Protein Ingredient market was valued at more than USD 1.90 Billion in 2023. The market for protein ingredients is anticipated to expand significantly throughout the projected period, according to Bonafide Research's research report, ""Mexico Protein Ingredients Market Overview, 2027."" Due to the increasing popularity of foods made with protein ingredients, such as margarine, cold cuts, bakery goods, spreads, yoghurt, and milk sausages, the market is gaining speed and experiencing strong demand. The market is expanding as a result of rising sales of these items among senior and health-conscious consumers. A rise in the development of proteins by different producers that contain a variety of amino acids and serve certain purposes, including satiety, muscle repair, weight loss, and energy balancing, is additionally anticipated to supply the market with tremendous potential opportunities. Moreover, Mexico's large agricultural sector supports the production of essential protein sources such as soy, wheat, and corn, which are used in both animal feed and human food products. The demand for plant-based proteins is also rising, with consumers looking for sustainable alternatives to animal-derived proteins, driven by environmental concerns and dietary preferences. The country's growing middle class and increasing awareness of nutrition are further fueling the market. Additionally, Mexico’s proximity to the U.S. and its trade agreements, like the USMCA, facilitate the import of protein ingredients, boosting supply and variety.

Mexico is significant, primarily driven by the demand for high-quality proteins in both the food and animal feed sectors. Among animal-based proteins, egg protein is gaining popularity due to its high biological value and digestibility, making it a preferred ingredient in sports nutrition products, protein supplements, and functional foods. Egg protein is often used in meal replacements and protein bars, which cater to the health-conscious consumer segment. Milk proteins such as whey protein and casein/caseinates are also in high demand. Whey protein, in particular, is one of the most widely used proteins in the sports nutrition market in Mexico, thanks to its fast absorption rate and rich amino acid profile, which supports muscle growth and recovery. Casein, on the other hand, is slower digesting and is often used in products targeted at sustained protein release, such as overnight protein shakes. Both milk proteins benefit from Mexico’s proximity to the U.S., where major suppliers are located, making imports more efficient and cost-effective. Gelatin, derived from animal collagen, remains a staple in Mexico, particularly in the confectionery and pharmaceutical industries. It is commonly used in gummy candies, marshmallows, and capsules for dietary supplements. Other animal protein ingredients, such as collagen peptides, are also gaining traction as consumers become more aware of their benefits for joint health, skin elasticity, and overall wellness.

Soy protein is the dominant plant-based protein in Mexico, as it is a widely cultivated crop in the region. Soy protein offers a complete amino acid profile, making it a strong alternative to animal proteins in meat analogs, dairy-free products, and protein-rich snacks. It is also cost-effective, which adds to its popularity in both food and beverage products. Pea protein is rapidly gaining market share due to its hypoallergenic properties and versatility in a variety of applications, including plant-based meat alternatives and protein-enriched foods. As the Mexican population becomes more health-conscious and environmentally aware, pea protein, along with other legume-based proteins, is increasingly used in protein blends. Wheat protein, particularly vital wheat gluten, is another important ingredient in Mexico, especially for its role in the production of meat substitutes, bread, and baked goods. The category of "others" includes emerging proteins from sources like canola, rice, potato, and other plant-based varieties, which are gaining traction in niche segments like functional foods and beverages. These proteins are valued for their nutritional profiles and the increasing consumer preference for clean-label, allergen-free, and sustainable options.

In Mexico, the Food & Beverages sector is the dominant application for protein ingredients, reflecting a growing demand for functional, nutritious, and protein-enriched products. With an increasing number of health-conscious consumers, there is a rise in the consumption of protein-based snacks, beverages, and meal replacements. Ingredients like whey protein, soy protein, and pea protein are widely used in the formulation of protein bars, smoothies, and dairy alternatives such as plant-based milk and yogurt. This trend is further fueled by the popularity of sports nutrition products, with whey and casein proteins being essential components for muscle recovery and performance. The rise of plant-based diets has also bolstered demand for plant proteins in meat substitutes and other vegan offerings, such as protein-enriched snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and protein shakes.



In the Animal Feed sector, protein ingredients play a crucial role, particularly in the livestock and poultry industries. Mexico's strong agricultural sector drives demand for soy protein, wheat gluten, and other protein-rich ingredients used in animal feed formulations. These proteins are vital for enhancing the nutritional content of animal feed, improving the growth and health of livestock, and ensuring high-quality meat and dairy products for the food industry. The Cosmetics & Personal Care market in Mexico is seeing growing interest in protein ingredients, particularly collagen and keratin, which are used in skincare, haircare, and anti-aging products. These proteins are prized for their moisturizing, anti-aging, and skin-repairing properties, catering to the increasing consumer demand for beauty products with functional benefits. In the Pharmaceutical & Nutraceuticals industry, protein ingredients like whey, casein, and soy protein are used in supplements, functional foods, and nutraceuticals designed to support immune health, muscle recovery, and overall well-being. As consumers become more aware of the importance of health supplements, proteins play a crucial role in products aimed at promoting bone health, weight management, and general nutritional supplementation.


Covid-19
The rapid spread of COVID-19 and the equally rapid government response to restrict the movement of the majority of the population in different countries have dramatically changed the consumption patterns, which has also impacted the food & agriculture industries. The significant changes in consumer purchasing behavior are gradually transforming the food industry. Due to rising health concerns, consumers have started avoiding the consumption of meat and poultry. They are now more inclined toward protein substitute products to fill in the gap. The sales of immunity-related ingredients have spiked globally. These trends have fueled the demand for protein-based products as protein is one of the most important constituents that help in building immunity. However, the corona virus has caused a severe disruption in the supply chain and has influenced the supply of ingredients and raw materials. Companies are constantly trying to handle the situation and be ready for any further disruption.


Considered in this report
• Geography: Mexico
• Historic Year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Protein Ingredients Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Application wise Protein Ingredients distribution
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Animal Protein Ingredient
• Egg Protein
• Milk Protein
• Whey Protein
• Casein/Caseinates
• Gelatin
• Others

By Plant Protein Ingredient
• Soy Protein
• Pea Protein
• Wheat Protein
• Others (canola,Rice,potato,etc.)

By Application
• Food & Beverages
• Animal Feed
• Cosmetics & Personal Care
• pharmaceutical & nutraceuticals
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analysing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to food and beverage industry, Medical industry, cosmetic industry, animal nutrition industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.