Protein supplements market seen nearly doubling by 2033

The global protein supplements market is projected to grow from US$32.9 billion in 2026 to US$60.9 billion by 2033, according to Persistence Market Research. The forecast points to rising health awareness, stronger protein guidance, and demand for plant-based and convenient formats across broader consumer groups.

Why it matters: - The protein supplements market is moving beyond gym-focused buyers and into mainstream wellness, aging, and everyday nutrition. - Forecast growth from US$32.9 billion in 2026 to US$60.9 billion by 2033 points to a market that could nearly double in seven years. - Brands that can win in plant protein, ready-to-drink formats, and personalized nutrition are positioned to capture the fastest demand growth.

What happened: - Persistence Market Research projected the global protein supplements market will grow at a 9.2% compound annual growth rate through 2033. - The forecast was published in London on June 23, 2026. - The report said demand is broadening from athletes and fitness users to working professionals, older adults, and wellness-focused consumers. - The report also highlighted product, format, end-user, and regional segmentation across the category. - A free sample report and custom insights request were offered with the release. - The complete market report was also promoted.

The details: - The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans emphasize daily protein targets, reinforcing protein’s role in muscle maintenance, recovery, and overall wellness. - Whey protein remains the dominant product type and is projected to account for about 38% of market revenue in 2026. - Pea protein is the fastest-growing product segment as plant-based nutrition gains momentum. - Protein powders remain the largest product form and are expected to hold more than 47% market share. - Ready-to-drink protein beverages are growing quickly as consumers look for convenience and portability. - Athletes and bodybuilders are still the largest end-user group, with an estimated 42% share of market revenue in 2026. - Lifestyle users are expected to be the fastest-growing end-user group as protein becomes tied to general wellness, weight management, and healthy aging. - North America is projected to hold about 36% of global market share in 2026. - Asia-Pacific is forecast to be the fastest-growing regional market, helped by urbanization, rising incomes, fitness infrastructure, and preventive health initiatives. - The competitive field includes Glanbia plc, Abbott Laboratories, Herbalife Nutrition, and Iovate Health Sciences.

Between the lines: - The shift toward plant protein and RTD beverages shows consumers want protein that fits routine use, not just training regimens. - The report’s emphasis on aging populations and lifestyle users suggests the category is becoming a broader health and nutrition play, not only a sports nutrition market. - Supply-chain and raw-material volatility remain a risk, especially for dairy, soy, and pea inputs. - Innovation appears concentrated in plant protein extraction, personalized nutrition platforms, and formulations aimed at older consumers. - Digital health tools, wearables, and subscriptions are becoming part of the competitive strategy as brands look for repeat purchases and better customer retention.

What's next: - Companies are likely to keep investing in acquisitions, digital tools, and differentiated formulations to defend market share. - Product launches focused on plant-based nutrition, digestive health, and flavor innovation are expected to continue. - Consumer education and wider distribution could help sustain growth through 2033. - Further pressure on margins could come from currency swings, transportation disruptions, packaging shortages, and ingredient price changes.

The bottom line: - Protein supplements are becoming a mainstream wellness category, and the next phase of growth will likely come from convenience, plant-based products, and broader consumer adoption.