Italy Protein Ingredient Market Research Report, 2029

Italy has a long-standing tradition of consuming protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, and legumes. The sports nutrition segment, including protein powders, bars, and supplements, has been growing in Italy. With the rising popularity of fitness and active lifestyles, there is an increased focus on protein intake for muscle recovery and development. The market for plant-based proteins has been expanding in Italy, as in many other countries. Consumers are seeking out plant-based options such as soy, pea, rice, and hemp proteins. These are used in a variety of products, including plant-based meat substitutes, dairy alternatives, and protein powders. Despite the growth of alternative proteins, traditional protein sources such as meat, fish, and dairy continue to play a significant role in the Italian diet. However, there has been an increased emphasis on quality, traceability, and organic options. The protein ingredient market in Italy is rapidly gaining momentum, fueled by evolving consumer preferences toward healthier and more functional food products. As awareness of health and wellness grows, Italians are increasingly embracing protein-enriched products across food, beverage, and supplement categories. Protein ingredients, derived from animal, plant, and alternative sources, form the foundation of a broad range of goods catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences. Traditional sources, such as dairy-based proteins (whey and casein), continue to hold a strong presence, especially within the sports nutrition and dietary supplement segments, reflecting Italy's deep-rooted dairy culture. According to the research report, "Italy Protein Ingredient Market Research Report, 2029," published by Actual Market Research, the Italy Protein Ingredient market is anticipated to add to more than USD 640 Million by 2024–29. The protein ingredient market in Italy is rapidly gaining momentum, fueled by evolving consumer preferences toward healthier and more functional food products. As awareness of health and wellness grows, Italians are increasingly embracing protein-enriched products across food, beverage, and supplement categories. Protein ingredients, derived from animal, plant, and alternative sources, form the foundation of a broad range of goods catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences. Traditional sources, such as dairy-based proteins (whey and casein), continue to hold a strong presence, especially within the sports nutrition and dietary supplement segments, reflecting Italy's deep-rooted dairy culture. Italian manufacturers are integrating protein ingredients into traditional foods such as pasta, bread, and dairy products, tailoring products to suit local tastes. High-protein pasta, for example, is increasingly popular, allowing consumers to enjoy familiar Italian meals with added nutritional value. Such innovations align with Italy’s culinary heritage while catering to the demand for functional foods. The Italian government closely monitors food safety, labeling, and health claims to ensure consumer protection. For example, regulations mandate clear labeling of allergen-containing ingredients, like soy and dairy proteins, and restrict health claims unless scientifically validated, aiming to reduce misleading information. Plant-based proteins and novel proteins, such as insect-based ingredients, are also subject to strict safety assessments before market entry, in line with the EU’s novel food regulations. Furthermore, the Italian Ministry of Health has issued guidelines that specifically address nutritional profiles and permissible health claims, contributing to transparency and trust in protein products.

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The protein ingredient market is divided into two types, mainly plant-based and animal-based protein ingredients. The animal-based protein ingredient is the summation of egg, milk, whey, caseins/caseinates, gelatin, and fish protein. The whey protein ingredient is one of the drivers for the growth of animal-based protein ingredient, there are almost 9 amino acids which are required for the body and must be obtained through diet. These amino acids are present in the milk protein. It is also studied that around 80% of caseins and 20% of the whey protein are present in the cow’s milk. Similarly, plant-based proteins consist of soy protein, pea protein, wheat protein, and rice protein. Some plant proteins do not contain all the amino acids but lower the LDL cholesterol level, which is a risk factor for heart disease. The plant protein ingredients also help to maintain the blood sugar levels, which helps us to maintain the weight loss. The pea protein and wheat protein ingredients are the major growth-driving protein ingredients for the plant-based protein ingredient type. The level of veganism in the country is also increasing because of the citizens' sudden shift towards the plant-based protein type because of the risk factors associated with it. Almost 26% of German citizens are willing to pay a high price for the plant-based protein ingredient. The largest demand for protein ingredients is within the food and beverages sector, where consumer interest in health, wellness, and plant-based diets is growing. Plant proteins from sources like peas, soy, and wheat are increasingly used in meat alternatives, dairy substitutes, and protein-enriched foods such as bars, shakes, and snacks. Dairy proteins, including whey and casein, continue to dominate sports nutrition products like protein powders and fortified beverages. The animal feed industry in Italy is another significant application for protein ingredients. There is a growing shift toward alternative, sustainable protein sources such as insect protein, algae, and plant-based proteins to replace traditional feed ingredients like fishmeal and soy. This trend aligns with Italy’s strong focus on sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of livestock farming. In the cosmetics and personal care sector, protein ingredients, especially hydrolyzed collagen, keratin, and silk proteins, are widely used in skincare and haircare products for their moisturizing, anti-aging, and strengthening properties. Collagen supplements, in particular, are popular in Italy for supporting skin elasticity and joint health. The pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals sector also makes extensive use of protein ingredients. Whey, collagen, and plant-based proteins are common in dietary supplements and functional foods, supporting muscle growth, immune function, and overall wellness. 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.

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Rahul Jagtap

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Considered in this report • Geography: Italy • 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

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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.