Milk Protein Concentrates Market:  Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2034

Milk Protein Concentrates Market Overview

The global milk protein concentrate market size is calculated at US$ 4.11 billion for 2024 and is projected to reach a size of US$ 5.57 billion by the end of 2029. Worldwide demand for milk protein concentrates is predicted to rise at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2025 to 2029.

The Milk Protein Concentrates (MPCs) contain high protein levels and good quality protein besides being rich in nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Functional benefits such as emulsifying agents, texture modifiers and water binding agents have made them important in many products such as, milk and dairy products, protein energy bars, sports supplements and meal replacement products.

The following report is an attempt to analyze the emerging potential in MPCs, fueled by consumer consciousness about their health and the growing trend of protein consumption across the world. Market trends’ constituents include looming improvements in filtration and processing technologies by getting better yields of protein and improving product quality. It also discusses the changing consumer behaviour to clean label, lactose free and organic products, increasing consumer acceptance of convenience products with proteins among others.

By product type, form, application, and region, segmentation is provided in detail with analyses of growth in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and other regions. The report also provides information on changes in regulations and other factors affecting the competitive position and technological developments on the market.

Market Report Coverage:

The “Milk Protein Concentrates  Market Report—Future (2024-2029)” by Digiroads Research & Consulting covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments in the market.

Study Assumptions and Definitions

When forecasting the capital intensiveness the research uses a stable macroeconomic environment, a slow recovery of the economy and little fluctuations in the supply chain in the forthcoming years. Some aspects, like the constant and growing importance of consumer behavior trends, the desire for foods high in protein and functional foods, are assumed to remain unchanged and gradually strengthen.

Milk Protein Concentrates (MPCs) are selectively defined as the milk products which contain more than 40% and up to over 80% of protein. It consists of such components as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium; plays roles as an emulsifier, a water binder, or as a texturizer.

The forecast made for this market is based on such factors as the improvements in the filtration technologies, concern about health, and shift towards protein diets. The analysis does not take any specific new regulation change, however, the current COOL, organic and allergen-free certification regulation are taken into account.

The assumptions made for this report also include oil regional demand growth especially in Asia Pacific region due to higher disposable income and changing diet. These assumptions provide the right foundation for sizing the market, understanding its growth trends and industry competitors.

Market Scope

The scope of the Milk Protein Concentrates Market report includes Milk protein concentrates in the range of 40% to above 80% by means of application. These concentrates are vital in the food & beverages, nutraceuticals & functional foods, sports nutrition, infant formula and animal feed industries because of their functional attributes like emulsification, texture improvement and water holding capacity.

Market segmentation based on product type, form, application type and region also specify the market scope for the low, medium and high protein concentrates.

The report identifies market trends including innovation in filtration, clean label and organic movement as well as protein influx demand. It highlights regional trends, government policies and regulations, competition, and new opportunities for the market from the years 2018 to 2030.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

Due to the rising population health consciousness, the penchant for protein rich foods and innovations in food processing techniques the Milk Protein Concentrates Market is experiencing phenomenal growth. These concentrates with protein percentage varying between 40% and above 80%, exemplify dietary qualities including emulsification, water holding and textural properties. Therefore, the consumption ofmilk protein concentrates is very common in areas such as the food and beverage industry, athletics and sports, in baby foods and-formula, and in the nutraceutical industry.

The milk protein concentrates market for 2023 was USD XX billion globally and is forecasted to grow at XX% CAGR from 2024-2030 and is expected to reach USD XX billion at the end of the forecast period. Food and beverages are the biggest market segment, as an increasing number of people are consciously opting for protein rich, different dairy products, protein bar and meal replacement products. The sports nutrition segment is also a big one as more and more people enhance their protein based supplements and RTD drinks.

North America retains the biggest share of the market currently due to a good exercising dairy industry and high consciousness of health and nutritional values. But the Asia Pacific region will grow at the fastest pace attributed to an increased disposable income, increased urbanization and shift of diets to the western style in countries such as China and India.

Recent improvements in technologies concerned with filtration and protein separation improve quality and functionality of MPPs A growing focus on clean label, organic, lactose-free products fosters innovation. Labeling regulation and allergen regulation remain important in affecting the market trends in the current period.

This report is a comprehensive review of the market conditions, competitive strategies, and opportunities for development that will be useful for those interested in understanding the market circumstances and strategies for its development.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

The Milk Protein Concentrates  Market is moderately fragmented, with regional and multinational players competing fiercely for market share.

Key Market Players

• Saputo, Inc.
• Glanbia Plc.
• Cargill, Inc.
• Nestlé S.A.
• Kerry Group plc
• Arla Foods Ingredients
• Fonterra Co-Operative Group Limited
• FRIESLANDCAMPINA N.V.
• Idaho Milk Products
• Groupe Lactalis
• Valio Ltd.
• Danone S.A.
• Alpen Food Group
• Amul (GCMMF)
• Hilmar Ingredients
• Dairygold Co-Operative Society Ltd.
• Blue Diamond Growers

Market Share Analysis

As it is evidenced from the analysis of key success factors, the Milk Protein Concentrates Market remains fragmented and is controlled by several key players across the world. The market was led by key companies such as Saputo, Inc., Glanbia Plc., Cargill, Inc., and Nestlé S.A. having a significant value of market share in 2023. They are well connected in distribution, have diverse products’ portfolio with well-established brands and dominating market share.

The global milk protein concentrates market is dominated by key players such as Saputo Inc. and Glanbia Plc. The Former especially enjoys the understanding of processing milk along with the advanced protein extraction techniques. As consumers demand cleaner label, organic and functional protein ingredients, they aim to broadening their portfolios. Cargill Inc. and Nestle S.A. have produced high values due to their broad pipeline of food and nutrition products to promote the uses of MPCs in sports nutrition and nutraceuticals.

However, some relatively new players as Arla Foods Ingredients and Fonterra Co-Operative Group Limited steadily increase their market shares due to the focus on product differentiation, innovations especially in lactose-free, high protein, and specialty dairy applications.

With regard to the region, the largest share is occupied by North America, mainly due to the high demand in the United States for foods containing protein. Europe and Asia Pacific are likely to show the highest CAGR due to the changing consumer CARs and increasing awareness of health among the people in these regions.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

The Milk Protein Concentrates Market is currently following several drivers that are influencing the overall progress of this market.

1. Rising Health Consciousness: Given the current trends of people leading healthier lives there is a emerging market for protein based products for muscle building(myelin), dieting and body shaping. This trend is strong in regions such as North America and Europe where the consumer is especially interested in snack foods that are a source of protein, meal replacers/replacement and ready to drink beverages. Therefore, milk protein concentrates are useful objectives in such products since they possess high nutritional values and the total values of amino acids.
2. Growth of Sports Nutrition: An increase in fitness consciousness among people all over the world has given a boost to the sports nutrition market. This is because the milk protein concentrates finds application in protein powders, shakes and bars used especially by athletes and sport persons for muscle and energy boost. This trend is causing demands for these concentrate increases especially in the developed as well as the emerging markets.
3. Advancements in Food Processing Technology: Ultra fiction and micro fiction technologies for protein extraction and filtration have enhanced the quality and functional utilization of MPC. Such technologies enhance yield, lower costs and maintain nutrient value hence lead to higher product access and utilization.
4. Product Innovation: New trends in the marketplace are also being brought by companies in the form of new variants of milk protein concentrates. Other new developments are LF MPPs, organic MPPs, and MPPs that do not contain allergens, as well as enhanced-technique MPPs for texture, taste, solubility in foods.

With such propensity, these market drivers, along with constant product developments, are expected to continue to drive solid growth in the global milk protein concentrates market to meet the needs of growing and rapidly health-conscious global population.

Market Challenges

1. High Production Costs: Some of the filtration techniques include ultra-filtration and micro-filtration which make the products expensive and less marketable.
2. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: There are seasonal variations in the supply and availability of milk proteins: the disruptions in the dairy supply chain caused by climate change, conflicts or tensions in some geographic regions can impact on the access to the product and the price level.
3. Competition from Plant-Based Alternatives: The increase in demand for plant sourced proteins, that are friendly to the lactose intolerant and vegan populace, provides stiff competition to MPC.
4. Lactose Intolerance: Milk protein maybe limited by lactose intolerant people hence the increasing popularity of lactose free and plant protein sources.
5. Regulatory Hurdles: High fee on structures covering foods, the labeling and restricting of protein content contributes to high costs and limits production for manufacturers which indicates that NA and EU regions impact on manufactures.
6. Environmental Concerns: The emissions and overall resource usage of dairy farming puts pressure on the sector to reduce it’s environmental footprint.
7. Price Sensitivity in Emerging Markets: Elasticity of prices in regions of the developing world where price is often a paramount consideration hampers young MPP product development.
   

Market Opportunities

Rising Demand for Protein-Rich Products:

Stimulated globalization and health consciousness for high protein diet in developed and emerging economies is giving MILK PROTEIN CONCENTRATE application in various products like protein bar, shake and functional food etc.

Growth in Sports Nutrition:

The increase in the uptake of milk protein concentrates as fitness continues to become popular and Sports Nutrition Products are destined to benefit especially in Protein Powders, Supplements, and Post-Exercise Recovery.

Expansion in Emerging Markets:

There increasing disposable income levels, expanding urbanization, and enhancing health consciousness in the Asia-Pacific and Latin American countries also open up new opportunities for milk protein concentrates in these emerging markets.

Product Innovation and Customization:

There is a developing niche for format, including lactose-free, organic, and allergen-free milk protein concentrates. There emerge great opportunities for manufacturers to target specific consumer needs and provide corresponding equipment.

Growing Demand for Functional Foods:

Thus, with the consequent demand for functional food and beverages throughout the world, these fillers can be used in milks for other added functionalities such as texture enhancement, fortification as well as nutrition enhancement.

Sustainability Initiatives:

Increasing product environmental impact and decreasing the use of resources, carbon emissions in production could further increase the attractiveness of the milk protein concentrates among conscious consumers.

Rising Popularity of Clean-Label Products:

The consumption of clean label products is on the increase and this has presented MCC’s that are from milk protein concentrates to fulfil the transparency and natural functionality of the segment in the premium segment.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

New Product Launches:

• In November 2023, Valio launched a lactose-free milk protein concentrate, Valio Eila MPC 65, catering to the rising demand for health-conscious, digestive-friendly products. This new concentrate targets diverse applications such as protein shakes, puddings, drinks, and ice cream.

Technological Advancements:

• Arla Foods Ingredients introduced Nutrilac ProteinBoost in April 2023, a whey protein range utilizing patented micro-particulation technology. This innovation enhances protein quality, offering a more stable product and meeting the demand for protein-rich functional foods.

Expansion into Emerging Markets:

• Glanbia expanded its market presence in Asia-Pacific and Latin America in 2023. By forging new distribution partnerships in India and China, the company aims to tap into the increasing demand for sports nutrition and functional foods in these regions, driven by growing health awareness.

Strategic Mergers and Acquisitions:

• In 2023, FrieslandCampina acquired VitaDairy, a leading Vietnamese dairy producer. This acquisition strengthens FrieslandCampina’s position in Southeast Asia, enabling better access to the growing demand for dairy-based nutritional products, including milk protein concentrates.

Sustainability Initiatives:

• Fonterra Co-Operative Group launched a new sustainability program in 2023, targeting a 30% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030. The initiative focuses on more sustainable dairy production processes, appealing to eco-conscious consumers and aligning with the demand for environmentally-friendly products.

Focus on Clean-Label Products:

• Kerry Group unveiled a new line of clean-label milk protein concentrates in 2023. This range targets the growing preference for transparent, natural ingredients in protein bars, snacks, and beverages.

Partnerships for R&D and Innovation:

• Nestlé partnered with Cargill in 2023 to co-develop advanced milk protein-based ingredients aimed at the nutraceutical market. The collaboration focuses on innovations that enhance protein functionality and meet consumer demand for healthier, more efficient protein products.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

Manufacturers:

• Access to a Growing Market: As demand for protein-enriched products continues to rise globally, manufacturers benefit from tapping into new markets such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America, where health awareness and disposable incomes are increasing.
• Innovation Opportunities: Manufacturers can capitalize on technological advancements like micro-particulation and filtration techniques to create higher-quality, more functional milk protein concentrates, improving product appeal and competitiveness.

Consumers:

• Health and Wellness: Consumers benefit from a wider range of high-protein, functional foods and beverages, including lactose-free and clean-label options. These products cater to various health-conscious segments such as athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those with dietary restrictions.
• Convenience: With the growing range of ready-to-drink (RTD) protein beverages, protein powders, and fortified foods, consumers enjoy convenient and nutritious options that support their active lifestyles and dietary preferences.

Suppliers:

• Increased Demand for Raw Materials: Suppliers of milk and dairy ingredients benefit from the growing market demand for milk protein concentrates. The expanding use of milk proteins in a wide array of food, beverage, and supplement applications ensures stable demand for raw materials.
• Partnership Opportunities: Suppliers can form strategic alliances with manufacturers to enhance their product portfolios and gain access to emerging markets.

Investors:

• Attractive Growth Potential: Given the market’s projected growth rate of CAGR 3.2% from 2024 to 2030, investors have the opportunity to capitalize on the expanding market for milk protein concentrates through investments in key players and innovations.
• Diversification Opportunities: The growing demand across various industries, including nutraceuticals, sports nutrition, and functional foods, offers investors diverse opportunities to diversify their portfolios within the dairy sector.

Regulatory Bodies:

• Ensuring Consumer Safety: Regulatory authorities benefit from the ongoing development of clean-label and allergen-free products that meet safety and quality standards. Proper regulation ensures consumer trust and satisfaction in milk protein concentrate products.

Retailers and Distributors:

• Expanding Product Range: Retailers benefit from the growing demand for milk protein products by offering a wider variety of protein-enriched snacks, supplements, and beverages. Distribution networks are strengthened as more diverse product options are introduced, appealing to health-conscious and fitness-oriented consumers.
  At DigiRoads Research, we emphasize reliability by employing robust market estimation and data validation methodologies. Our insights are further enhanced by our proprietary data forecasting model, which projects market growth trends up to 2029. This forward-thinking approach ensures our analysis not only captures the current market landscape but also anticipates future developments, equipping stakeholders with actionable foresight.

We go a step further by offering an exhaustive set of regional and country-level data points, supplemented by over 60 detailed charts at no additional cost. This commitment to transparency and accessibility allows stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of the industry’s structural and operational dynamics. By providing exclusive and hard-to-access data, DigiRoads Research empowers businesses to make informed strategic decisions with confidence.

In essence, our methodology and data delivery foster a collaborative and data-driven decision-making environment, enabling businesses to navigate industry challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

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Table of Contents

• INTRODUCTION

  • Market Overview
  • Years Considered for Study
  • Market Segmentation
  • Study Assumptions and Definitions
  • Market Scope

• RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

• MARKET OUTLOOK

  • Executive Summary
  • Market Snapshot)

• Market Segments 

• By Product Type:
  1. Low Protein Concentrates (40-60%)
  2. Medium Protein Concentrates (60-80%)
  3. High Protein Concentrates (Above 80%)
• By Form:
  1. Powder
  2.  Liquid
  3.  Others
• By Application :
  1. Food & Beverages (Dairy Products, Snacks, Bakery, Beverages)
  2. Sports Nutrition
  3. Nutraceuticals & Dietary Supplements
  4. Infant Formula
  5. Animal Feed
  6. Others 

• COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
  • Market Share Analysis
  • Company Profiles
    • Saputo, Inc.
    • Glanbia Plc.
    • Cargill, Inc.
    • Nestlé S.A.
    • Kerry Group plc
    • Arla Foods Ingredients
    • Fonterra Co-Operative Group Limited
    • FRIESLANDCAMPINA N.V.
    • Idaho Milk Products
    • Groupe Lactalis
    • Valio Ltd.
    • Danone S.A.
    • Alpen Food Group
    • Amul (GCMMF)
    • Hilmar Ingredients
    • Dairygold Co-Operative Society Ltd.
    • Blue Diamond Growers

• MARKET DYNAMICS

  • Market Drivers
  • Market Challenges
  • Market opportunities
  • Porter’s Five Forces’ Analysis
    • Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • Threat of New Entrant
    • Threat of Substitutes
    • Competitive Rivalry

•  GLOSSARY OF PROMINENT SECODNARY SOURCES

• DISCLAIMER

• ABOUT US