Global protein markets projected for continued plant-based product boom
The US is leading the protein-based market, with Sweets and Snacks Expo showcasing companies in the segment, including Blue Unicorn. Pic: Neill Barston
Significant expansion of plant-based product ranges, including confectionery series has been projected, with markets forecast to raise from $22 billion, to $38bn, by 2033, according to latest analysis, writes Neill Barston.
As Confectionery Production discovered at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo, there were a number of companies exploring product development within the category, including Blue Unicorn, a specialist in protein bars, among the event’s Start-up street. (Watch our exclusive video review of this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo below).
The innovative, fast-rising business was one of many firms at the recent event in Las Vegas to place plant-based, and specifically protein, front and centre, as manufacturers seek to tap into the ever-rising health and wellness market.
Moreover, as the fresh studies from Persistence Market Research notes, the increase in product launches within the category has been driven by greater consumer awareness of ingredients, as well as a growing lactose intolerance, and increasing demand for sustainable food systems.
As the company noted, plant-based proteins offer nutritional benefits, allergen-friendly options, and lower environmental impact, making them attractive to both consumers and food manufacturers.
In terms of territories, North America leads the pack, with around 42% global market share, supported by strong consumer demand for health-focused and clean-label protein products. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is noted as the fastest growing region, expanding at annual growth rates of 11.% over the next decade, as consumers shift to more vegan and ‘flexitarian’ diets.
Notably, as the studies found, health authorities have discovered that nearly 68% of the global population experiences some degree of lactose malabsorption, creating a large consumer base for non-dairy protein products.
This shift is particularly evident in Asia, Africa, and parts of Latin America, where dairy digestion challenges are widespread. Plant-based proteins derived from soy, pea, rice, and wheat are increasingly incorporated into beverages, protein powders, dairy alternatives, and functional snacks, as evidenced in Las Vegas for Sweets & Snacks Expo, as well as at the 2026 edition of ISM in Cologne, Germany.
Their ability to deliver protein without common dairy-related digestive issues makes them highly appealing across diverse consumer groups.
Furthermore, as the study found, sales plant-based dairy alternatives and protein-enriched beverages continued to grow globally, supporting increased demand for high-quality protein ingredients. Manufacturers are responding by improving taste profiles, texture, and amino acid composition to better compete with traditional animal proteins.
Beyond dairy alternatives, plant-based proteins are finding applications in clinical nutrition, infant nutrition, and healthy aging products. As consumers become more conscious of ingredient transparency and digestive wellness, demand for plant-based protein solutions continues to accelerate across developed and emerging markets.
In addition, the research found soy protein dominates the market with an estimated 36% share, benefiting from its balanced amino acid profile, scalability, and versatility across multiple food and beverage applications.
