Ready-to-Drink Protein Beverages Market Size

RTD Protein Beverages Market Analysis

The Ready-to-Drink Protein Beverages Market size is estimated at USD 1.68 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 2.43 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 7.72% during the forecast period (2024-2029).

Over the medium term, the consumers' inclination toward maintaining health and awareness would create immense demand for protein-enriched drinks. Currently, protein drinks are being increasingly marketed across the regions as sports nutrition drinks. Athletes and bodybuilders are increasingly consuming these protein drinks to improve their overall performance, health, and muscle growth.

In 2021, research conducted by the Southeast Dairy Foods Research Center and Northeast Dairy Foods Research Center collectively stated that Consumers are keenly looking for products that can improve their health and wellness. It further noted that 76% of American consumers between 18 and 80 made minor dietary modifications during the year to obtain an overall healthier diet. Based on survey data, researchers concluded that flavor is the most critical factor in determining whether or not to purchase foods and beverages (the percentage is around 83%). At the same time, 73% was followed by price, convenience, healthfulness, and sustainability. Protein was rated as the most desired nutrient in that same poll, with 64% of participants saying they were attempting to increase their intake. Therefore, Ready-to-drink (RTD) protein beverages' convenience and diversity draw in new customers.

Demand for plant-based protein drinks is expected to push manufacturers to bring organic clean-label protein drinks across the market channels. The high-protein trend is gaining a foothold across the globe as protein claims on food and drink launches continue their growth path. Even though the share of products carrying high-protein claims is still low in Asian countries, the absolute number of high-protein beverage product introductions experienced strong growth over the past years. It made 'high in protein' one of the most substantial growing claims in the Ready-to-Drink Beverages market.

COVID-19 stimulated protein beverage customization, as gyms across various countries were closed and sporting gatherings were banned. It provided an opportunity for companies to roll out new offerings in line with changing consumers' tastes and preferences, which is crucial, as the mainstreaming of protein-nutrition drinks is highly competitive.