Protein Crisps Market – Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, By Product (Pea Protein Crisps, Milk Protein Crisps, Whey Protein Crisps, Others), By Sales Channel (Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Departmental Stores, Online, Others), By Region & Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Protein Crisps Market was valued at USD 1.59 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 2.57 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 8.39% during the forecast period. The global protein crisps market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for high-protein, low-calorie, and functional snacks. Rising health consciousness, dietary preferences, and the popularity of protein-rich foods are fueling market expansion. Key players are innovating with plant-based, whey, and soy protein crisps to cater to diverse dietary needs. The market is also benefiting from the surge in sports nutrition and weight management trends. In 2023, nearly half of U.S. households bought plant-based milk at least once, while only 15% purchased plant-based meat and seafood.

Market Drivers

Rising Health Consciousness and Demand for High-Protein Diets

Consumers are increasingly prioritizing health and wellness, leading to a surge in demand for high-protein diets. Protein is essential for muscle growth, weight management, and overall well-being, making protein crisps a popular choice for health-conscious individuals. With growing awareness of the benefits of protein consumption, consumers are shifting away from traditional high-carb snacks and opting for protein-rich alternatives. This trend is particularly strong among fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and individuals following specialized diets such as keto, paleo, and high-protein meal plans. The increasing emphasis on health and functional foods is expected to drive sustained market growth.

Expansion of Plant-Based and Alternative Protein Sources

The rise of plant-based diets and growing concerns over sustainability have led to an increasing demand for plant-based protein crisps. Consumers are seeking alternatives to animal-based protein sources, driving the development of crisps made from pea protein, soy protein, lentils, chickpeas, and other plant-based ingredients. These products cater to the vegan and flexitarian populations, which are rapidly expanding worldwide. Additionally, food manufacturers are investing in research and development to enhance the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of plant-based protein crisps. Innovations in alternative protein sources, including insect-based and lab-grown proteins, are also gaining traction, offering new opportunities for market expansion. According to the study, plant-based foods accounted for 1.1% of total retail food and beverage dollar sales in 2023.

Growth in Sports Nutrition and Weight Management Trends

The increasing adoption of active lifestyles and the rising popularity of sports nutrition are key factors fueling the demand for protein crisps. Fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and bodybuilders require protein-rich snacks for muscle recovery, endurance, and performance enhancement. The convenience of protein crisps as a grab-and-go snack makes them highly appealing to this consumer segment. Additionally, protein crisps are gaining traction among individuals focused on weight management, as they offer a satisfying and nutritious alternative to high-calorie, sugar-laden snacks. With the global fitness industry expanding and consumers prioritizing healthy snacking options, protein crisps are expected to witness continued market growth.

Download Free Sample Report

Key Market Challenges

High Production Costs and Pricing Challenges

One of the significant challenges in the global protein crisps market is the high cost of production. Protein crisps are made from specialized ingredients such as whey protein, soy protein, pea protein, and other plant-based sources, which are often more expensive than conventional snack ingredients like corn or wheat. Additionally, processing high-protein ingredients requires advanced manufacturing techniques, such as extrusion and dehydration, to maintain nutritional integrity and texture.

These factors contribute to higher production costs, leading to premium pricing for protein crisps. While health-conscious consumers may be willing to pay a premium for high-protein snacks, price sensitivity remains a barrier to mass adoption. Many consumers, especially in emerging markets, still opt for traditional, lower-cost snack options. To address this challenge, manufacturers must optimize production processes, explore cost-effective protein sources, and introduce budget-friendly product lines to cater to price-sensitive consumers.

Taste and Texture Limitations

Protein crisps often face criticism for their taste and texture compared to traditional snacks like potato chips or corn-based crisps. Some high-protein ingredients, especially plant-based proteins, can have a bitter, chalky, or grainy taste, which may deter consumers from repeat purchases. Achieving a crispy, crunchy texture while maintaining high protein content is another challenge, as protein-rich formulations may result in a dense or dry mouthfeel.

Manufacturers must invest in research and development (R&D) to enhance the sensory experience of protein crisps. Flavor innovation, such as adding spices, herbs, and natural sweeteners, can help improve taste. Advanced food processing technologies, including the use of hydrocolloids and emulsifiers, can enhance texture and create a more enjoyable eating experience. Overcoming these limitations is crucial for protein crisps to compete with mainstream snack options and gain wider consumer acceptance.

Key Market Trends

Functional and Fortified Protein Crisps

Consumers are looking for more than just protein in their snacks—they want functional benefits that align with their health and wellness goals. As a result, protein crisps fortified with additional nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, probiotics, and adaptogens are becoming increasingly popular.

For example, some brands are incorporating ingredients like collagen for skin health, probiotics for gut health, or omega-3 fatty acids for brain function. Protein crisps that support immunity, digestion, and muscle recovery are particularly appealing to fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers. This trend is driving innovation in ingredient formulation, with manufacturers developing multi-functional snacks that cater to a wide range of dietary needs.

Expansion of Clean-Label and Natural Ingredient Offerings

The demand for clean-label products—those made with minimal, natural, and recognizable ingredients—is influencing the protein crisps market. Consumers are scrutinizing food labels more closely, avoiding artificial additives, preservatives, and excessive processing.

Brands are responding by formulating protein crisps with simple, natural ingredients, avoiding synthetic flavorings and colorings. The use of organic, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced ingredients is also becoming a key selling point. This trend is particularly strong in North America and Europe, where regulatory standards and consumer awareness about food quality are high.

To stay competitive, manufacturers are focusing on transparency in labeling, providing clear information about protein sources, nutritional benefits, and ingredient origins. This shift towards cleaner formulations is expected to drive long-term market growth.

Segmental Insights

Sales Channel Insights

Hypermarkets/supermarkets dominated the global protein crisps market due to their extensive product variety, strong distribution networks, and consumer preference for in-store shopping. These retail outlets offer high visibility and accessibility, allowing shoppers to compare brands, ingredients, and prices. Promotions, discounts, and strategic shelf placements further boost sales. Additionally, the ability to physically inspect products enhances consumer trust, especially for health-conscious buyers. With expanding supermarket chains worldwide and increasing demand for convenient, high-protein snacks, this segment is expected to maintain its dominance, despite the growing influence of online retail channels in the protein crisps market.

Product Insights

Pea protein crisps dominated the global protein crisps market due to their high nutritional value, allergen-free properties, and growing consumer preference for plant-based protein sources. Pea protein is rich in essential amino acids, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers, vegans, and those with dairy or soy allergies. Additionally, the rising demand for sustainable and clean-label snacks has propelled the adoption of pea protein crisps. Food manufacturers are investing in innovative formulations to enhance taste and texture, further driving market growth. With increasing awareness of plant-based nutrition, pea protein crisps are expected to maintain their leading market position.

Download Free Sample Report

Regional Insights

North America dominated the global protein crisps market due to strong consumer demand for high-protein snacks, rising health consciousness, and the widespread adoption of fitness-oriented lifestyles. The region's well-established sports nutrition industry, growing preference for plant-based protein options, and high disposable incomes drive market growth. Additionally, the presence of leading food manufacturers and extensive retail and e-commerce networks enhance product availability. The U.S. leads the market, fueled by innovation in protein-based snacks, clean-label trends, and increasing consumer preference for functional foods. With continued advancements in product formulations, North America is expected to maintain its market leadership in the coming years.

Recent Developments

• In November 2024, India's Origin Nutrition introduced high-protein, compression-popped pea chips under the Mojo Pops brand, offering flavors like Pudina Chutney, Sour Cream and Onion, and Tomato, aiming to cater to the growing healthy snacking market.

• In January 2025, Ferrero Group announced an agreement to acquire Power Crunch, a leading protein snack company known for its high-protein products, from Bio-Nutritional Research Group, Inc.

• In December 2024, General Mills expanded its protein product lineup by introducing Cheerios Protein cereal, offering 8 grams of protein per serving. Available in Cinnamon and Strawberry flavors, this new offering caters to consumers seeking nutritious breakfast options.

• In November 2024, Quest Nutrition became the official protein snack partner for USA Rugby's national teams, the USA Eagles and Sevens, providing athletes with performance-driven nutrition to support their training and competition needs

Key Market Players

• Nestlé S.A.
• General Mills Inc.
• WK Kellogg Co
• PepsiCo, Inc.
• Proti Foods LLC
• WorldPantry.com LLC. (Quest)
• Premier Nutrition Company, LLC
• Post Holdings, Inc.
• Bio-Nutritional Research Group, Inc. (Power Crunch)
• THG Nutrition Limited (Myprotein)

Report Scope:

In this report, the global Protein Crisps Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

·          Protein Crisps Market, By Product:

o   Pea Protein Crisps

o   Milk Protein Crisps

o   Whey Protein Crisps

o   Others

·         Protein Crisps Market, By Sales Channel:

o   Hypermarkets/Supermarkets

o   Departmental Stores

o   Online

o   Others

·         Protein Crisps Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  Germany

§  Spain

§  Italy

§  United Kingdom

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  Japan

§  India

§  Vietnam

§  South Korea

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

§  Turkey

§  Kuwait

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the global Protein Crisps Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Protein Crisps Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

·         Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

Global Protein Crisps Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at sales@techsciresearch.com