ADM Launches 2025 Protein Report

Ingredient supplier ADM has published its 2025 Protein Report, highlighting trends in consumption and innovation in alternative proteins that will shape the market in the future.

Consumers, particularly in younger generations, are more open to protein variety than ever before, so there’s ample room to work with protein sources that put nutritional value, sensorial experiences, and affordability front and center, while not asking consumers to dramatically change their dietary habits, the company reported.

Consumer Cohorts

According to ADM, the alternative protein market will be fueled by three consumer cohorts:

• Flexitarians, which make up 46% of global consumers who believe protein from a variety of sources is healthier;
• Vegetarians and vegans (4% and 1% of consumers, respectively);
• Carefree consumers, who don’t intentionally seek out or avoid animal or alternative proteins. Representing 49% of the population, this cohort, which skews slightly older, mostly (67%) believes that eating more plant proteins will improve their overall health.

Legacy and Novel Proteins

Both legacy and novel alternative proteins have their merit, according to ADM.

Soy, for instance, is considered a good source of protein for building/maintaining muscle by 83% of consumers, while 81% believe it’s a great option for reducing fat intake, and 79% associate it with healthy/active lifestyles. Similarly, other wholesome grains, seeds, and beans like chickpea are in high demand.

Meanwhile, lentils are the “new kid on the block,” ADM stated, and their extremely strong consumer perception as very healthy lends well to wellness-positioned ready meals and snacks.

Fermentation

Fermentation-derived proteins are also generating interest, with 72% of millennials and 68% of Gen Z interested in fermentation-derived proteins.

“When exposed to next-gen alternatives, plant-forward consumers are most interested in trying plant-based products with novel ingredients across categories, followed now equally by hybrid/blended sources and fermentation-derived ones.

More is Better

Consumers still seek out protein in all of their meals, with nearly 80% stating it will help them “age better,” and 78% stating it will help build or maintain muscle mass and strength.

The majority of Baby Boomers (58%), Gen X (64%), Millenials (70%) and Gen Z (70%) reported to ADM that they’re still looking to increase the protein content in their diet.

Do Consumers Want Blended Proteins?

According to ADM, advances in food technology have made it possible to create new sources of hybrid or blended protein ingredients, with the incorporation of novel technologies like fermentation. Protein blends can meet demand for protein diversity, higher protein content, sustainability, affordability, and adequate taste and texture.

The majority of Millennials (75%), Gen Z (72%), Gen X (66%), and Baby Boomers (53%) told ADM that they would be interested in trying blended or hybrid products.

To read the full report, click here.