Global Pea Protein Market Expected to Reach $2.59 Billion by 2031

DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Sept. 21, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- MarketsandMarkets™ has released a comprehensive report on the global pea protein market, projecting significant growth over the next five years. According to the report, the market is expected to reach $2.59 billion by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2026 to 2031. This growth is driven by increasing consumer preference for plant-based and protein-rich foods, rising demand for meat alternatives, and expanding use in sports and performance nutrition.

The report highlights that Europe is currently the largest regional market for pea protein, accounting for 39.9% of the market in 2026. The conventional pea protein segment is expected to dominate the market, holding approximately 91.8% of the market share. However, the textured segment is projected to witness the highest CAGR of 12.8% during the forecast period, driven by its suitability for plant-based meat alternatives.

In terms of applications, the food segment is expected to lead the market during the forecast period. Pea protein is increasingly used in meat substitutes to provide protein content and desirable texture. Performance nutrition products such as protein powders, sports drinks, and protein bars are also gaining traction among consumers seeking plant-based protein sources. Functional foods, snacks, bakery products, and confectionery are incorporating pea protein to enhance nutritional profiles and support clean-label product development.

Beverages are also seeing significant growth in the use of pea protein. Plant proteins are being incorporated into a wide range of refrigerated and shelf-stable beverages as consumers seek convenient sources of protein. The growing number of ready-to-drink products with added protein is further supporting the use of pea protein in beverage formulations. The shift toward non-GMO, allergen-friendly, clean-label, and sustainably sourced ingredients, along with advances in extraction, processing, flavor masking, and formulation technologies, is expected to broaden the use of pea protein across these applications.

Asia Pacific is expected to register the fastest growth in the global pea protein market, driven by rapid population growth, an expanding middle class, and fast-changing consumer requirements. The region's food industry is also being influenced by increasing awareness of chronic diseases, growing demand for sustainable food production, and the need for innovative food value chains amid climate change and rising energy costs. The growth of the plant-based meat market and increasing funding for alternative protein companies are further supporting regional demand for pea protein.

Key players in the pea protein market include Roquette Frères, ADM, Ingredion, Kerry Group, Glanbia, Cargill, International Flavors & Fragrances, PURIS, Emsland Group, Yantai Shuangta Food, Burcon, Axiom Foods, Shandong Jianyuan, ET-Chem, and AGT Food and Ingredients. These companies are investing in advanced technologies to enhance the sensory experience of plant-based meat and seafood products, such as high-moisture extrusion technology, which aims to provide distinct advantages like heightened juiciness and a texture resembling real muscle fibers.

The report also notes that the pea protein market is shifting from conventional use in basic plant-based and meat-alternative products toward higher-value, functional, and application-specific protein solutions. This trend is driven by growing demand for clean-label, plant-based, allergen-conscious, and protein-fortified products. The market value growth is increasingly supported by sports and active nutrition, functional foods and beverages, dairy alternatives, meat alternatives, dietary supplements, and pet nutrition.