U.S. Pea Protein Market Summary

The U.S. pea protein market size was estimated at USD 482.9 million in 2023 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 12.9% from 2024 to 2030. Growth is strongly supported by the rising popularity of flexitarian diets, as more consumers shift toward plant-based proteins due to health and sustainability concerns. Increasing awareness of the cardiovascular risks associated with red meat consumption has accelerated demand for alternatives such as pea protein. In addition, growing consumer knowledge of the adverse effects linked to gluten-containing foods and certain fibers is further encouraging adoption of pea protein in various applications.

The U.S. pea protein market represented 22.8% of the global market share in 2023. The country benefits from the presence of major meat producers such as Tyson, JBF, Cargill, and National Foods, which are increasingly incorporating pea protein as a texturizing agent in plant-based meat and hybrid products. The strong shift toward sustainable and clean-label proteins is being amplified by limited availability of alternative protein sources, as crops such as soy and canola are increasingly diverted for bio-based chemical production. Moreover, the geographic proximity of the U.S. to Canada, one of the largest producers of yellow peas, provides a reliable supply chain that enhances the competitiveness of pea protein as a preferred raw material in the food and beverage industry.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• The isolates segment held the largest revenue share of 49.7% in 2023. This dominance is supported by the rising demand for gluten-free protein alternatives as awareness about gluten-related disorders continues to grow. Pea protein isolates, with their high protein concentration and neutral taste, are widely used in dairy alternatives, plant-based meats, and sports nutrition products. Increased investments in research related to human health and nutrition have further strengthened the positioning of isolates in the U.S. market.
• The yellow split peas segment led the market with a revenue share of 75.8% in 2023. Yellow peas are the most widely cultivated variety in the U.S., accounting for nearly two-thirds of total pea production. Their versatility makes them a valuable raw material for various applications. In North America, yellow peas are extensively used in the compound feed industry, where they are processed as whole seeds and ground together with cereals to create balanced animal feed formulations. This dual-use in food and feed industries highlights their importance in sustaining market growth.
• The dry pea protein segment accounted for 67.4% of revenue share in 2023. Dry milling, combined with air classification, enables the production of pea protein with preserved native functionality, making it suitable for a variety of end-use applications. The ability to retain natural protein characteristics ensures versatility in food and beverage formulations, contributing to the strong adoption of dry pea protein in the U.S. market.
• The food and beverages segment dominated with a revenue share of 39.0% in 2023. A major growth driver is the increasing use of pea protein in sports nutrition and dietary supplements. Its application in muscle-building protein powders and performance-based nutrition products has significantly expanded consumer acceptance. Moreover, plant-based protein beverages, dairy alternatives, and bakery items are emerging as high-potential areas where pea protein is increasingly being incorporated to meet evolving dietary preferences.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2023 Market Size: USD 482.9 million
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 1,127.5 million
• CAGR (2024 - 2030): 12.9%

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key players operating in the market includeAxiom Foods, Inc., Ingredion, and The Scoular Company

• Axiom Foods, Inc., headquartered in California, was established in 2005. The company manufactures and distributes protein ingredients, dairy alternatives, sugar, and syrups. Its product portfolio includes brown rice protein, organic pea protein, sacha inchi protein, whole grain rice milk, whole grain oat milk, brown rice sugar solid, and organic coconut palm sugar
• Ingredion manufactures and markets sweeteners, starches, nutrition ingredients, and biomaterials for end-use industries, including food & beverage, paper, and pharmaceutical

Key Players

• Axiom Foods, Inc.
• Ingredion
• The Scoular Company
• DuPont
• PURIS
• A&B Ingredients
• Burcon NutraScience Corporation
• Emsland Group
• Roquette Frères
• Sotexpro

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Conclusion

The U.S. pea protein market is poised for robust growth, fueled by the rising demand for plant-based diets, the health-driven shift away from red meat, and the increasing awareness of gluten-related health issues. With strong adoption in food and beverages, particularly sports nutrition and dairy alternatives, pea protein is emerging as a mainstream protein source. Segments such as isolates, yellow split peas, and dry pea protein continue to drive product innovation and supply stability. Backed by favorable consumer trends and reliable sourcing, pea protein is set to play a critical role in the country’s evolving food and nutrition landscape.