Protein Bar Market

Protein Bar Market Outlook (2024 to 2034)

Expanding at a CAGR of 6.3%, the global protein bar market is projected to increase from a valuation of US$ 5.18 billion in 2024 to US$ 9.55 billion by 2034.

The growing customer desire for packaged, ready-to-eat, and meal-replacing foods is driving up demand for these products. The demand for health and nutrition bars in the global market is rising because of growing awareness of their benefits, which include how they are helping with tissue growth and repair, blood pressure regulation, weight loss, and other benefits.

For example, the Viby-based company Arla Foods Ingredients claims having created an energy bar concept that allows companies to double the protein content of all the components of their protein bars-mass, filling, and coating-while maintaining texture and flavor. 30% of the protein in each bar of Arla's Lacprodan range of milk chocolate mass is created with whey and milk protein components to preserve taste and softness over time.

Even though protein bars are getting more popular, companies are putting increased emphasis on cutting back on sugar and artificial chemicals in their products, which is a trend that is expected to fuel the market for nutrition bars in the years to come. Moreover, it is forecasted that sportsmen and sportspeople would consume more nutrition bars.

Protein bars are bought by consumers for several purposes, such as weight control, muscle building, and energy increase. Furthermore, the marketing campaigns of fitness clubs endorsing energy bars as a substitute for meal replacements are increasing sales of these products. The growing number of fitness clubs and the increasing popularity of protein bars are driving demand for the product throughout the projected period, leading to increasing protein bar market size.

Customers' interest in products that support the general maintenance of health and wellness increased because of the unpredictability of the global situation, which forced them to increase nutritional intake and eat safer and healthier meals. For instance, Quest Nutrition released the Quest snack bar in 2020 to go along with its original line of energy bars, which includes rich and crispy bars with fewer calories and sugar. Furthermore, there was a greater need for protein bars as more individuals began working from home or spending more time at home, which is contributing to their popularity as quick snacking option.

Report Attribute	Detail
Protein Bar Market Size (2024E)	US$ 5.18 Billion
Forecasted Market Value (2034F)	US$ 9.55 Billion
Global Market Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.3% CAGR
North America Market Value (2024E)	US$ 1.24 Billion
Mexico Market Value (2034F)	US$ 461.8 Million
Animal Protein Segment Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.4% CAGR
United States Market Value (2034F)	US$ 1.06 Billion
Key Companies Profiled	GNC (General Nutrition Corporation); Clif Bar & Company; PowerBar; Quest Nutrition; Orgain; Kellogg Company (RXBAR); Larabar (General Mills); General Mills (Nature Valley); ThinkThin (Think Products); MusclePharm.

Why are Market Stakes Rising for Protein Bars Globally?

“More Customers Looking for Easy to Make Snacks”

Healthy protein-rich bars are becoming better liked as several consumers look for snacks that are easier to make, tasty, and natural. To accommodate those with lactose sensitivity and provide easily consumable protein-fortified food items for the younger demographic, producers also use technology to eliminate the majority of lactose.

Since next-generation protein is a key component of sustainable product development, market participants are introducing sustainable goods containing this protein. For example, Tokyo-based business ODD FUTURE Co., Ltd. introduced chocolate and matcha-flavored cricket protein snacks in May 2021.

Because it contains dairy products, artificial sweeteners, and is gluten-free/genetically modified, the product embodies the body and earth-friendly brand notion. Thereby, market players are witnessing growth potential from the development of new products with innovative protein sources and lower sugar content.

“Protein Bar Gaining Momentum Due to Popularity of Nutritional Supplement”

A recently popular food item that is widely utilized as a nutritional supplement is protein bar. The capacity of its main constituent, proteins, to develop muscle is causing fitness-conscious people to take an increased interest in this easy-to-eat form of protein.

For athletes, those doing hard jobs requiring more physical activity, and anybody interested in the gym, it is regarded as a good post-workout snack. Weightlifters and athletes need to consume protein to remain energized and perform better. Thereby, growing inclination to fitness activities to contributing to the widespread consumption of protein bars.

Both the major and minor competitors in the industry are highly motivated to innovate new products that cater to the unique needs of sportsmen. For example, the Netherlands-based sports nutrition business Maxim Nutrition introduced the Maxim Apple cinnamon energy bar in September 2020 to give athletes superior nutrients and a strong framework for success, contributing to the overall expansion of the protein bar market growth.

“Hectic Lifestyle Making People Switch to Convenient Meal Options”

Convenience meals are becoming increasingly popular, yet there is a rising need for nutritious meal alternatives due to changing lifestyles, longer commutes, and busy work schedules. As a result, nutritious bars offer a viable substitute for portable meals that suppress appetite by boosting energy instantly.

About 10% of American respondents to the 2018 International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation "Food & Health Survey" stated they would choose protein for energy. Over ten percent said they would eat its proteins to prevent cardiovascular problems. Thus, there is a greater need for protein-enriched bars due to the growing number of health clubs and the strong demand for nutritious meals.

What is Stopping Key Players from Increasing Profit Margin?

“Availability of Alternatives Bringing Market Down”

Protein powders, protein smoothies, protein-infused drinks, and protein cookies are some of the popular goods that are easily accessible in the market that provide protein supplementation. The availability of other goods, such as multivitamin bars and other snack bars that offer essential nutrients is becoming a major hinder in the market's expansion.

Additionally, growing consumer awareness of the harmful health affects of the food's hydrogenated fats and artificial sweeteners restrict demand for the product. Additionally, the stringent regulatory environment regarding the quality of ingredients, including flavors, coloring agents, sweeteners, and preservatives, is creating difficulties for the protein bar business to thrive.

Country-wise Insights

As more people become conscious and live hectic lifestyles, they are looking for easier meal diets including protein bars. This is resulting in hiking sales of protein bars around the world. Some of the major countries include the United States, China, Canada, and South Korea. The United States is forecasted to hold a strong protein bar market share in North America going forward.

Why is the United States Market Proving to be Strong in the North American Region?

“More People Opting Healthy Lifestyle Amid Climate Change Threat”

Attribute	United States
Market Value (2024E)	US$ 550.8 Million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.7% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 1.06 Billion

The United States protein bar market is proving to be strong in the North American region due to several factors. One significant reason is the growing trend among more people opting to live a healthy lifestyle amid the threat of climate change. As more individuals become conscious of their health and well-being, there is an increasing demand for convenient and nutritious food options such as protein bars. Additionally, the emphasis on fitness and wellness is leading to a surge in the consumption of protein bars as a convenient source of energy and nutrients for on-the-go consumers. This trend is contributing to expanding market size in the United States.

What is Helping Market Players to Increase Their Revenue Share in China?

“Availability of Cheap Labor Benefiting Manufacturers”

Attribute	China
Market Value (2024E)	US$ 567.3 Million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.3% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 1.05 Billion

Maximizing the revenues in China for protein bars is been attributed to the availability of cheap labor benefiting manufacturers. With a large population and a strong focus on economic development, China offers access to a vast labor force that is contributing to the efficient production of protein bars at a lower cost. This enables manufacturers to produce protein bars at competitive prices, making them more accessible to a wider consumer base. Additionally, the growing health and fitness consciousness among the people in China is creating a favorable market for protein bars, further contributing to the potential for increased revenue.

Category-wise Analysis

The market is segmented into several categories based on how suppliers and manufacturers are reaching their potential sales. Few of the major segments include quantity of protein and protein source.

Which Quantity of Protein is Significantly Bought by More Consumers?

“Medium-quality Protein Bars Becoming Increasingly Popular”

Attribute	Medium Protein
Segment Value (2024E)	US$ 2.25 Billion
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.8% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 4.35 Billion

The quantity of protein significantly bought by consumers varies, but the medium protein segment is majorly sought after by more individuals. This segment caters to individuals looking for a balanced protein intake without the extremes of high or low protein content. Products within the medium protein segment are popular among consumers seeking a moderate and sustainable protein source for their dietary needs.

Which Protein Source is Bringing More Profits to Manufacturers?

“Plant Protein Gaining More Attraction Compared to Animal Protein”

Attribute	Plant Protein
Segment Value (2024E)	US$ 2.79 Billion
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	6.2% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 5.09 Billion

In terms of bringing more profits to manufacturers, plant protein is gaining more attraction compared to animal protein. As the demand for plant-based products continues to rise, manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by focusing on plant protein sources such as soy, pea, and chickpeas. These sources not only appeal to the growing number of consumers seeking plant-based options but also offer several health and sustainability benefits. The shift towards plant protein reflects evolving consumer preferences and presents a lucrative opportunity for manufacturers to meet the market demand and drive profitability.

Competitive Landscape

Key players in the protein bar market are focusing on bringing on new products including protein ice creams and protein supplements.

• Gelita unveiled Optibar, a novel component used to produce soft, sugar-free protein bars, in May 2024. Higher protein content is possible without sacrificing a satisfying, creamy texture thanks to this combination, which also functions as a sugar-free binder, allowing for the use of terms like "low sugar" and "no sugar."
• Leading active nutrition brand Ready increased its commitment to offering families tasty and nutritious snack alternatives in April 2024 with the release of its new Kids Whole Grain Protein Bars. Compared to other top kids' whole grain snack bars, these ones include 20% less sugar, 6 grams of protein, and 8 grams of whole grains to satisfy the nutritional demands of active youngsters.

Fact.MR provides detailed information about the price points of key players in the protein bar market positioned across the world, sales growth, production capacity, and speculative technological expansion, in this new market report.

Segmentation of Protein Bar Market Research

• By Product Type :

  • Snack Bars
  • Women’s Protein Bars
  • Sports Nutrition/Energy Protein Bars
  • Low-Carb Protein Bars
  • Meal Replacement Bars

• By Quantity of Protein :

  • Low Protein
  • Medium Protein
  • High Protein

• By Protein Source :

  • Animal Protein
  • Plant Protein

• By Distribution Channel :

  • Specialty Stores
  • Online Stores
  • Modern Trade
  • Online Stores
  • Others

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • Latin America
  • East Asia
  • South Asia & Pacific
  • Middle East & Africa