China Protein Ingredient Market Overview, 2029

The protein market in China has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years. Animal-based proteins, such as pork, poultry, beef, and seafood, have traditionally dominated the protein market in China. With a large population and a growing middle class, there is a substantial demand for animal protein sources in various forms, including fresh meat, processed meat products, and seafood. Soybeans are a significant protein source in China. They are widely used to produce various soy-based products, including tofu, soy milk, and other soy protein-based foods. China is also one of the largest producers and consumers of soy protein globally. Ensuring food safety and quality is a priority for the Chinese government. The authorities have implemented regulations and standards to monitor and improve the safety of protein products in the market, aiming to protect consumer health and build trust. With the rise of fitness culture and sports participation in China, the sports nutrition market has witnessed significant growth. This includes protein-based sports supplements, such as protein powders, amino acid supplements, and protein bars, catering to the needs of athletes and active individuals. Protein market in China is influenced by evolving consumer preferences, changing dietary habits, health trends, government regulations, and cultural factors. The market continues to evolve as consumers seek a balance between traditional protein sources and emerging alternatives.


According to the research report "China Protein Ingredient Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the China Protein Ingredient market is anticipated to grow at more than 8.19% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. The China protein ingredient market is driven by several key factors, including increasing consumer demand for health and wellness products, a rising awareness of protein's role in muscle recovery and overall health, and a growing number of individuals adopting fitness and wellness lifestyles. Additionally, the expansions of the plant-based food sector and the shift towards sustainable, animal-free protein sources have contributed significantly to market growth. As China's population becomes more health-conscious, there has been a marked rise in the demand for plant-based protein ingredients, such as soy protein, pea protein, and rice protein, which are popular in both food and beverage formulations as well as dietary supplements. The demand for animal-based protein ingredients, including whey protein and collagen peptides, also remains strong, driven by the popularity of dairy and meat products in Chinese diets. Key players in the China protein ingredient market include both domestic and international companies. Major global protein ingredient suppliers such as Cargill, DuPont, ADM, and Kerry Group have established a significant presence in the country. These companies cater to the diverse consumer base by offering a wide range of protein ingredients, from plant-based options to dairy and meat-derived proteins. Domestic players like Yunnan Tin Company and Zhongtai International are also playing pivotal roles in the market, focusing on sourcing and developing locally produced protein ingredients. Furthermore, local startups and innovators are pushing the boundaries of plant-based protein development, creating new formulations that cater to the preferences and dietary needs of Chinese consumers.

Egg protein is a popular ingredient, primarily used in sports nutrition and weight management products due to its high bioavailability and complete amino acid profile. As the demand for convenient and protein-rich food products grows, egg protein is also increasingly found in bakery items, snacks, and beverages. Milk protein, which includes both casein and whey proteins, is another key segment in the market. Milk proteins are well-regarded for their nutritional value, particularly for supporting muscle growth and recovery. This category benefits from the popularity of dairy products in China, where milk consumption has steadily increased, especially among younger populations. Whey protein, one of the most prominent animal-based protein ingredients, is widely used in nutritional supplements, particularly in fitness and bodybuilding communities. Whey protein’s rapid digestion and rich amino acid profile make it a preferred choice for post-workout recovery, contributing to its growing demand in China. Casein and caseinates, slow-digesting proteins derived from milk, are also gaining traction in the market due to their ability to provide sustained protein release, making them ideal for meal replacements or evening supplementation. Casein is especially popular in the sports nutrition segment. Gelatin is another key animal protein ingredient, used primarily in the food and pharmaceutical industries. It serves as a gelling agent in products like confectionery, marshmallows, and capsules. Due to its versatility and well-established presence in the market, gelatin continues to be in demand. Other animal-based protein ingredients, such as collagen peptides, are also gaining popularity, particularly in the beauty and health supplements sectors, driven by increasing interest in skin health and anti-aging products.

In China’s protein ingredient market, plant-based proteins have gained significant traction due to the growing consumer preference for plant-based, sustainable, and health-conscious food options. Soy protein remains the dominant plant protein ingredient in China, largely due to its versatility, high protein content, and long-standing use in the food industry. Soy protein is widely incorporated into products like meat alternatives, dairy substitutes, protein bars, and beverages. It has also found popularity in traditional Chinese dishes, where soy-based products such as tofu and tempeh are staples, making it a familiar and culturally accepted protein source. Pea protein, a rapidly growing segment, is increasingly sought after for its hypoallergenic properties and suitability for plant-based meat alternatives. As consumer interest in vegan and vegetarian diets rises, pea protein is becoming a popular choice in plant-based burgers, sausages, and other meat substitutes. Its clean taste and ability to mimic the texture of animal proteins make it an ideal ingredient for companies looking to meet the rising demand for meat alternatives. Additionally, pea protein is a valuable source of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which is appealing to fitness enthusiasts and athletes in China. Wheat protein, also known as gluten, is another key ingredient in the plant-based protein market. Though less popular than soy and pea proteins, wheat protein is still used in various food products, particularly in the creation of meat substitutes like seitan, which is widely consumed in Chinese and other Asian cuisines. Other plant-based proteins, such as canola, rice, and potato protein, are also gaining ground in China. These proteins are often used in specialty food products for those with specific dietary needs or allergies. Rice protein is particularly valued for its hypoallergenic properties, making it a popular choice for infant food formulations and allergen-free products.

The Food & Beverages sector is the largest and most dynamic application for protein ingredients. There has been a growing demand for protein-enriched food and drinks, including protein bars, functional beverages, plant-based meat alternatives, and dairy substitutes. This is fueled by the rising popularity of fitness, weight management, and plant-based diets. Whey protein, soy protein, and pea protein are commonly used, not only to fortify products but also to cater to the increasing preference for clean-label and sustainable food options. Protein ingredients also enhance the texture and nutritional profile of foods such as soups, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. In the Animal Feed industry, protein ingredients play a crucial role in livestock and poultry production. With China being one of the world’s largest consumers of meat, demand for high-quality animal feed is substantial. Ingredients like soy, wheat, and canola proteins are used to improve the nutritional content and growth rates of animals. As the demand for meat continues to rise, so does the need for effective, protein-rich feed formulations. The Cosmetics & Personal Care sector has seen a growing use of protein ingredients such as collagen, keratin, and silk proteins. These proteins are valued for their benefits to skin elasticity, anti-aging, and hair health. Collagen peptides, in particular, are widely used in beauty supplements, skincare, and haircare products to promote youthful skin and prevent signs of aging. The Pharmaceutical & Nutraceuticals sectors also increasingly rely on protein ingredients for their therapeutic properties. Protein-based products, such as collagen for joint health and whey protein for muscle recovery, are integral to dietary supplements aimed at enhancing wellness and treating specific health conditions like muscle wasting or malnutrition.



Considered in this report
• Geography: China
• 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.