The Canada protein ingredient market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for high-protein foods, particularly in sectors such as plant-based products, sports nutrition, and health supplements. With a growing awareness of the health benefits associated with protein, such as muscle maintenance, weight management, and overall wellness, Canadian consumers are increasingly opting for protein-enriched foods. This trend is further amplified by the rise of vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian diets, which have spurred demand for plant-based protein ingredients like pea, hemp, and soy proteins. Animal-based protein ingredients, such as whey, casein, and collagen, continue to maintain strong market shares, especially within the dairy and supplement industries. Canada maintains a robust framework for the safety and labeling of protein ingredients. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Health Canada oversee the regulatory landscape, ensuring that protein ingredients meet stringent safety standards. The Canadian Food and Drug Act mandates that any health claims made on food labels must be substantiated by scientific evidence, with specific regulations governing the use of terms like "high protein" or "protein source." Moreover, protein ingredients derived from novel or non-traditional sources, such as insects or algae, must undergo additional regulatory scrutiny to confirm their safety and nutritional profile before being allowed on the market. These regulations, alongside rising consumer demand for transparency, push manufacturers toward clear labeling practices and a growing focus on sustainability, especially in plant-based protein production. According to the research report "Canada Protein Ingredient Market Research Report, 2029," published by Actual Market Research, the Canada Protein Ingredient market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 2.19 Billion by 2029. Several key factors are driving the growth and shaping the trends within Canada’s protein ingredient market. One of the primary drivers is the increasing consumer shift toward healthier and more sustainable eating habits. There is a growing demand for high-protein diets, fueled by a heightened focus on fitness, weight management, and overall well-being. This has resulted in an uptick in popularity for protein-enriched products, such as snacks, beverages, and supplements. The rise of plant-based eating is another significant factor, as Canadian consumers increasingly embrace vegan and vegetarian diets, leading to a surge in demand for plant-based protein ingredients, particularly from sources like pea, soy, hemp, and lentils. This trend is also reflective of broader sustainability concerns, with consumers preferring plant-based options due to their lower environmental impact compared to animal-derived proteins. The growing popularity of sports nutrition, particularly among young adults and athletes, who seek protein-rich supplements to support muscle recovery and performance. This has prompted innovations in protein formulation, with brands offering diverse products catering to various dietary preferences, including dairy-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO options. Additionally, the aging population in Canada is contributing to the demand for protein ingredients in products that promote muscle health and combat age-related muscle loss, such as fortified foods and nutritional supplements. Canada’s protein ingredient market is benefiting from its advanced agricultural and food processing sectors, with the country being a significant producer of plant-based ingredients like peas, which support both domestic production and export opportunities.
Asia-Pacific dominates the market and is the largest and fastest-growing market in the animal growth promoters industry globally
Download SampleIn Canada, animal-based protein ingredients play a vital role in the food and supplement industries, with each type serving distinct purposes across various sectors. Egg protein is particularly popular in sports nutrition and weight management products due to its high biological value and complete amino acid profile. It is commonly found in protein powders, bars, and ready-to-drink beverages, particularly appealing to athletes and bodybuilders. Though not as prevalent as other proteins, egg protein holds a niche position due to its excellent digestibility and versatility in both savory and sweet formulations. Milk protein, which includes both whey and casein, is widely used in Canada’s dairy industry and sports nutrition market. Whey protein, one of the most popular protein ingredients globally, is highly favored in Canada for its quick absorption and high protein content. It is commonly found in protein powders, shakes, and functional foods aimed at fitness enthusiasts and consumers seeking muscle recovery products. As Canada is one of the world’s top dairy producers, whey protein is a major domestic product, with many manufacturers leveraging it for both local consumption and export. Casein and its derivatives, such as caseinates, are valued for their slow-digesting properties, making them ideal for meal replacements, overnight protein products, and sustained energy formulations. These proteins are widely used in both the dairy industry and health supplements. Gelatin, derived from animal collagen, is commonly used in the production of gummies, confectionery, and pharmaceutical products like capsules. Plant-based protein ingredients have become a significant force in Canada's protein ingredient market, driven by increasing consumer interest in plant-based diets, sustainability, and allergen-free options. Pea protein has gained substantial traction in recent years, particularly in plant-based meat alternatives like burgers, sausages, and protein powders. Canada is one of the world's leading producers of peas, and this has fueled the domestic market for pea protein. Pea protein is highly valued for its high digestibility, hypoallergenic nature (unlike soy), and sustainable production, making it particularly popular among health-conscious consumers and those with food sensitivities. Brands such as Beyond Meat and other plant-based food innovators have driven significant demand for pea protein in Canada, positioning it as a key ingredient in the plant-based protein landscape. Wheat protein, often used in the form of vital wheat gluten, is another important ingredient in the plant protein sector. It is primarily used to improve the texture and elasticity of plant-based meat substitutes, such as seitan, a popular meat alternative. Other plant proteins, such as canola, rice, and potato protein, are gaining ground as allergen-free, hypoallergenic alternatives to soy and gluten-based proteins. Canola protein, in particular, is emerging as a sustainable, high-quality option in plant-based food products. Rice and potato proteins are increasingly being used in protein powders, snacks, and beverages due to their easy digestibility and low allergenic potential. As the food and beverage industry grows as a result of growing government and consumer spending, the market for protein components is anticipated to increase. The development of the global market for protein ingredients is anticipated to be constrained by governmental regulations governing labeling and incorporation in application sectors. The standards and labeling requirements for plant-based products differ by market, which makes it challenging for these products to be exposed to and placed in application sectors, hence limiting the market growth for protein components. Socioeconomic trends including increased urbanization, rising affluence, and ageing populations are the drivers boosting protein demand for healthy ageing, and it is becoming more and more understood how important protein is to a healthy diet. The use of protein ingredients in the global market is anticipated to be constrained by the adverse effects of overusing protein compounds, which include skin allergies, constipation, and nausea. Soy and milk protein components can be the root of several illnesses and allergies.
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: Canada • Historic Year: 2018 • Base year: 2023 • Estimated year: 2024 • Forecast year: 2029 Aspects covered in this report • Canada 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
We are friendly and approachable, give us a call.