The popularity and availability of plant protein is increasing as many consumers’ diets and lifestyles undergo radical change. A greater number of people are adopting plant-based diets, especially in Europe and North America, and are relying on vegan protein sources and high protein vegetables to meet their nutritional needs. Additionally, the demand for high-protein sports nutrition products is increasing as fitness becomes an essential part of people’s lives worldwide, which has increased the sales of protein powders, isolates, and other protein products across the board. Here are the top 3 types of plant proteins available in the global market, as determined by BizVibe:
1.Soy protein: Of all of the non meat sources of protein available, soy protein is currently the most popular plant protein by far and most commonly used. It is expected to maintain this leading position through 2021. The global market for soy protein is expected to grow at a rate of more than 10% over the next four years. Soy protein is extracted from soybean meal that has been de-fatted and de-hulled. Soy protein is widely used in functional foods like bakery and confectionery, dietary supplements, soups and sauces, fruit drinks, sports drinks, animal feed, and vegetable broths. It is also available in protein bars and as protein powder that can be mixed in or added to smoothies and other foods.
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2.Pea protein: The global pea protein market is expected to reach a value of more than USD 38 million by 2021. Pea protein is particularly popular with consumers who have sensitivities to soy, wheat, and dairy-based protein products. Most varieties of pea protein average about 15 grams of protein per serving, and also provide benefits in terms of helping to support weight management, maintain healthy muscle mass, and improve calcium absorption. When it comes to making vegan or vegetarian food rich in protein, pea protein is one of the best choices available in the plant protein market. Additionally, unlike wheat and soy protein isolates, pea protein is unlikely to cause allergic reactions (as long as you aren’t allergic to peas).
3.Wheat protein: Wheat protein is derived from wheat flour. A single serving of wheat protein isolate contains around 20 grams of protein, making this variety especially popular with gym-goers and athletes. It aids in post-workout recovery and, due to its relatively low calorie content, is a suitable addition to healthy diets focused on nutrition and weight loss. The global market for wheat protein is expected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 5% over the next four years. Due to a rise in gluten-free diets and an increase in diagnoses of Celiac disease, this market is expected to face some competition from pea protein, as well as traditionally less popular varieties of plant-based protein such as hemp.
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