China Rice Protein Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

The China Rice Protein Market Report is Segmented by Type (Concentrates, Isolates, and Hydrolyzed/Textured), Nature (Conventional and Organic), and End-User (Food and Beverages, Supplements, and Personal Care and Cosmetics). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

China Rice Protein Market Size and Share

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China Rice Protein Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The China rice protein market is estimated to be valued at USD 123.10 million in 2025, and is projected to reach USD 162.29 million by 2030, registering a CAGR of 5.68% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing health consciousness among consumers, government-backed food-security policies, and the availability of a robust domestic rice supply chain. Rice protein's hypoallergenic properties, complete amino-acid profile, and neutral flavor make it a preferred ingredient in functional foods, sports nutrition, and infant formulations. Additionally, advancements in extraction and modification technologies are expanding its functional applications, enhancing its versatility across various industries. The growing demand for clean-label products is further accelerating the adoption of premium organic rice protein formats. However, as competition intensifies, manufacturers are focusing on addressing solubility challenges, achieving organic certifications, and exploring high-value opportunities in emerging segments such as cultured meat carriers and cosmeceuticals, which are expected to drive future market growth.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By type, isolates led with a 54% market share of the China rice protein market in 2024; hydrolyzed and textured formats are projected to grow at a 6.47% CAGR through 2030.
  • By nature, conventional products held a 70% share of the China rice protein market in 2024, whereas the organic segment is forecast to expand at an 8.50% CAGR to 2030.
  • By end user, food and beverages captured a 55% share of the China rice protein market in 2024; personal care and cosmetics is advancing at a 7.40% CAGR to 2030.

Segment Analysis

By Type: Isolates Lead Despite Processing Challenges

In 2024, rice protein isolates held a 54% market share, driven by their high protein content and versatility in various applications. Their complete amino acid profile and low-fat content make them ideal for sports nutrition and functional foods. Wuxi Jinnong Biotechnology Co., Ltd., a key player in China's rice protein market, offers JNPR-Rice Protein Powder with over 80% protein content. Packaged in 20 kg bags with a 2-year shelf life, it is used in food, beverages, nutritional products, and vegan meat alternatives. However, isolates face challenges like poor water solubility, limiting their use in specific applications.

Hydrolyzed and textured rice proteins are expected to grow fastest, with a projected CAGR of 6.47% from 2025 to 2030. These variants address solubility issues and improve digestibility and bioavailability. Hydrolyzed rice protein is used as a mild surfactant in personal care and enhances amino acid absorption in nutrition. Innovations like bio-enzyme hydrolysis by Bioway Organic Inc. have improved the bioavailability and antioxidant properties of rice peptides, expanding their use in pharmaceuticals, health products, and cosmetics. Concentrates, while lower in protein than isolates, are cost-effective and nutritionally balanced, ensuring steady market demand. Advances in physical, chemical, and enzymatic modification techniques are expected to enhance the functionality of all rice protein types, potentially shifting segment dynamics.

China Rice Protein Market: Market Share by Type
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Nature: Organic Segment Captures Premium Market

In 2024, conventional rice protein dominated the market with a commanding 70% share, thanks to its lower production costs and broader availability. This conventional variant underpins the market, especially in price-sensitive sectors like animal feed and everyday food items. The Heilongjiang Provincial Government focuses on crafting high-value rice products and refining processing technologies. This initiative is poised to fortify the conventional rice protein segment, aiming to elevate the overall processing rate to 75% by 2025, thereby bolstering the supply chain for rice-derived ingredients.

While the organic rice protein segment remains smaller, it's set to surge at an impressive CAGR of 8.50% from 2025 to 2030. This uptick mirrors a growing consumer inclination towards clean-label and eco-friendly products. Factors fueling this growth include heightened health awareness, the rising allure of vegetarianism, and a quest for allergen-free offerings. Companies such as BIOWAY Industrial Group LTD (Bioway Xi'an Organic) are seizing this momentum, providing certified organic rice protein powder boasting over 80% protein content. This product finds its niche in sports nutrition, protein snacks, and meal replacements. The premium status of organic rice protein empowers manufacturers to set higher price points, balancing out the extra expenses tied to organic certification and niche production methods. With a rising tide of consumer consciousness regarding health and environmental matters, the organic segment is poised to steadily expand its market share, especially in upscale domains like premium sports nutrition and natural cosmetics.

By End-User: Cosmetics Applications Drive Innovation

In 2024, the food and beverages sector claimed a dominant 55% share of the China rice protein market, capitalizing on rice protein's hypoallergenic traits and neutral flavor. Rice protein finds diverse applications, from plant-based meat alternatives and dairy substitutes to protein-enriched beverages. The food sector's lead is bolstered by innovative uses, like rice serving as a natural substitute for synthetic carriers in cultured meat, a method highlighted by the Beijing Academy of Food Sciences. Additionally, the growing consumer preference for clean-label and allergen-free products further drives the adoption of rice protein in this sector.

Meanwhile, personal care and cosmetics are rapidly emerging, with a projected CAGR of 7.40% from 2025 to 2030. This surge is fueled by a rising preference for natural, plant-based ingredients in beauty products. Hydrolyzed rice protein, a blend of amino acids, peptides, and protein fractions with molecular weights between 75 and 5,000, boosts moisture retention and conditioning in cosmetics. A 2025 review on rice fermentation products underscores their multifunctional skincare benefits, including improved hydration, barrier function, and properties like antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, whitening, and anti-aging effects. Furthermore, the increasing awareness of sustainable and eco-friendly formulations in the cosmetics industry is expected to amplify the demand for rice protein-based ingredients.

China Rice Protein Market: Market Share by End User
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Geography Analysis

China's rice protein market showcases pronounced regional disparities. Major rice-growing provinces dominate production, while urban centers with heightened health awareness lead in consumption. Heilongjiang province, bolstered by a provincial government action plan (2023-2025) aimed at enhancing agricultural processing, has solidified its position in the rice protein sector. Meanwhile, Jiangxi province boasts the fastest rice yield growth at 1.42% annually, as highlighted by a comprehensive three-decade agronomic study. This agricultural prowess ensures a consistent raw material supply for rice protein extraction, granting regional manufacturers a competitive edge.

In Eastern China, Jiangsu province stands out as a hub for rice protein manufacturing, hosting notable players like Wuxi Jinnong Biotechnology Co., Ltd., a leader in rice protein R&D and production. Liaoning province, another pivotal production center, is home to Panjin Hetian Food Co., Ltd., and is reaping benefits from provincial government initiatives. These initiatives, centered on fostering high-quality development in the consumer goods sector, stress the importance of structural adjustments and innovation. By prioritizing quality and brand development, the guidance aims to bolster the effective supply of consumer goods, spanning health foods to cosmetics. With these regional drives and a robust rice production foundation, China's rice protein market is poised for sustained growth, increasingly intertwining agricultural output with value-added processing.

Consumption trends reveal that tier-1 cities, notably Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou, are at the forefront of adopting rice protein products, especially in premium niches like organic and specialized formulations. The Fourth IFSCC International Cosmetics Technology Exchange Day, held in Guangzhou on March 25-26, 2025, spotlighted China's burgeoning role in the global cosmetics arena, underscoring urban centers as pivotal for rice protein's high-value applications. Simultaneously, the government's focus on food security and self-sufficiency is broadening the adoption of rice protein in animal feed and food processing, fostering a more equitable market distribution. China's rice protein market dynamics mirror its varied economic development: coastal and urban locales prioritize innovation and premium offerings, while inland areas harness their agricultural strengths for competitive production.

Competitive Landscape

The China rice protein market is moderately consolidated, with a few prominent players, including ETChem, Panjin Hetian Food Co., Ltd, Wuxi Jinnong Biotechnology Co., Ltd, BIOWAY Industrial Group LTD (Bioway (Xi’an) Organic), and Axiom Foods Inc., competing for market dominance. Given the limited growth opportunities in the near term, these key players are adopting strategies such as product innovation, capacity expansion, and acquisitions to strengthen their market position.

Leading companies are launching innovative protein powders, prioritizing low calories, high protein content, and natural ingredients to align with shifting consumer preferences. They're channeling substantial investments into research and development, especially targeting the natural product segment. This trend highlights a burgeoning opportunity for manufacturers to push technological boundaries and set their products apart. Furthermore, industry giants are not just ramping up production but are also bolstering export capabilities, aiming for a dominant stance in the global arena. To cement their market presence, these firms are forging strategic mergers and partnerships with local players, ensuring a robust foothold in regional landscapes.

Market players are harnessing product specialization as a key differentiator. Some chase organic certifications, while others delve into niche markets like sports nutrition and cosmetics. As the landscape shifts, competition is set to intensify. Companies from related sectors, such as soy and pea protein, are eyeing the rice protein market, drawn by its growth prospects and synergy with their existing portfolios. Additionally, there's a goldmine of opportunities in crafting specialized rice protein formulations for avant-garde applications. Think 3D-printed foods, tailored nutrition, and cutting-edge cosmeceuticals. In these domains, rice protein's unique attributes could outshine other plant-based contenders.

China Rice Protein Industry Leaders

  1. ETChem

  2. Panjin Hetian Food Co. Ltd

  3. Wuxi Jinnong Biotechnology Co.,Ltd

  4. BIOWAY Industrial Group LTD (Bioway (Xi’an) Organic)

  5. Axiom Foods Inc.

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
China Rice Protein Market
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Recent Industry Developments

  • March 2025: Axiom Foods has launched Oryzatein 2.0, a next-generation rice protein featuring a white color, grit-free texture, and enhanced solubility, designed especially for sensitive applications like infant nutrition and dairy alternative. According to the company, available in isolated and organic versions, Oryzatein 2.0 is cost-effective and enables cleaner, more functional formulations for food and beverage manufacturers.
  • May 2023: Angel Yeast, the world's foremost yeast producer, presented an extensive array of innovative products and solutions at Bakery China in Shanghai. Angel Yeast introduces its novel yeast protein products enriched with yeast beta-glucan, designed to facilitate the creation of a diverse range of baked goods with elevated levels of protein, dietary fiber, selenium, and prebiotics. Consequently, Angel Yeast has introduced a premade mix for rice bread.

Table of Contents for China Rice Protein Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4. MARKET LANDSCAPE

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Market Drivers
    • 4.2.1 Rising demand for plant-based and allergen-free proteins
    • 4.2.2 Strong rice production base in the region
    • 4.2.3 Technological advancement in processing
    • 4.2.4 Rising demand from food and beverage industry
    • 4.2.5 Policies promoting plant-based diets are supporting the market.
    • 4.2.6 Awareness of rice protein's nutritional benefits is growing.
  • 4.3 Market Restraints
    • 4.3.1 Intense competition from alternative plant proteins
    • 4.3.2 High production costs for high-quality rice protein isolates
    • 4.3.3 Concerns over the nutritional profile compared to animal proteins.
    • 4.3.4 Challenges in achieving desired taste and texture in food products.
  • 4.4 Supply-Chain Analysis
  • 4.5 Regulatory Outlook
  • 4.6 Technological Outlook
  • 4.7 Porter's Five Forces
    • 4.7.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.7.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • 4.7.3 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.7.4 Threat of Substitutes
    • 4.7.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE AND VOLUME)

  • 5.1 By Type
    • 5.1.1 Concentrates
    • 5.1.2 Isolates
    • 5.1.3 Hydrolyzed / Textured
  • 5.2 By Nature
    • 5.2.1 Conventional
    • 5.2.2 Organic
  • 5.3 By End-User
    • 5.3.1 Food and Beverages
    • 5.3.1.1 Bakery
    • 5.3.1.2 Beverages
    • 5.3.1.3 Meat/Poultry/Seafood and Meat Alternative Products
    • 5.3.1.4 Snacks
    • 5.3.2 Supplements
    • 5.3.2.1 Sport / Performance Nutrition
    • 5.3.2.2 Elderly and Medical Nutrition
    • 5.3.3 Personal Care and Cosmetics

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Market Concentration
  • 6.2 Strategic Moves
  • 6.3 Market Share Analysis
  • 6.4 Company Profiles (includes Global level Overview, Market level overview, Core Segments, Financials as available, Strategic Information, Market Rank/Share for key companies, Products & Services, and Recent Developments)
    • 6.4.1 BIOWAY Industrial Group LTD (Bioway (Xi’an) Organic)
    • 6.4.2 ETChem
    • 6.4.3 Foodchem International Corporation
    • 6.4.4 Kerry Group PLC
    • 6.4.5 Panjin Hetian Food Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.6 Wuxi Jinnong Biotechnology Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.7 Xi’an Laybio Natural Ingredients Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.8 A. Costantino & C. S.p.A.
    • 6.4.9 Südzucker AG (BENEO)
    • 6.4.10 Axiom Foods Inc.
    • 6.4.11 Shafi Group of Industries (Shafi Gluco Chem)
    • 6.4.12 RiceBran Technologies
    • 6.4.13 Anhui Shunxin Shengyuan Biotech Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.14 Jiangxi Golden Agriculture Biotech Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.15 Shaanxi Fuheng (FH) Biological Tech Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.16 AIDP Inc.
    • 6.4.17 Zhejiang Golden Shell Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.18 Nature’s Field (Xian) Bio-Technique Co., Ltd
    • 6.4.19 Angel Yeast Co., Ltd (Protein Division)
    • 6.4.20 Shandong Jianyuan Group (Protein & Starch)

7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

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China Rice Protein Market Report Scope

Rice protein is a plant-based protein derived from rice grains. Rice protein is considered hypoallergic and easily digestible.

The China rice protein market is segmented by type, nature, and end user. By type, the market is segmented into concentrates, isolates, and textured/hydrolyzed. By nature, the market is segmented into conventional and organic. Based on end-users, the market is segmented into food and beverages, supplements, personal care, and cosmetics. Based on food and beverages, the market is further segmented into bakery, beverages, breakfast cereals, meat/poultry/seafood, and meat alternative products and snacks. Based on supplements, the market is further segmented into sport/performance nutrition and elderly and medical nutrition.

For each segment, the report offers the market size in value terms in USD and volume terms in tons for all the abovementioned segments.

By Type Concentrates
Isolates
Hydrolyzed / Textured
By Nature Conventional
Organic
By End-User Food and Beverages Bakery
Beverages
Meat/Poultry/Seafood and Meat Alternative Products
Snacks
Supplements Sport / Performance Nutrition
Elderly and Medical Nutrition
Personal Care and Cosmetics
By Type
Concentrates
Isolates
Hydrolyzed / Textured
By Nature
Conventional
Organic
By End-User
Food and Beverages Bakery
Beverages
Meat/Poultry/Seafood and Meat Alternative Products
Snacks
Supplements Sport / Performance Nutrition
Elderly and Medical Nutrition
Personal Care and Cosmetics
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Key Questions Answered in the Report

What is the current size of the China rice protein market?

China rice protein market size is USD 123.10 million in 2025.

How fast is the China rice protein market expected to grow?

The market is forecast to expand at a 5.68% CAGR, reaching USD 162.29 million by 2030.

Which segment leads the China rice protein market by type?

Isolates held 54% of market share in 2024, mainly due to their high protein purity.

Which end-user industry is growing fastest for rice protein?

Personal care and cosmetics applications are projected to grow at 7.40% CAGR thanks to demand for plant-based functional ingredients.

Page last updated on: July 4, 2025

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