A new report from Persistence Market Research reveals significant growth prospects for the global pea protein market, which is set to expand from $2.36 billion in 2025 to $4.20 billion by 2032, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6%. This growth is largely attributed to the rising consumer preference for plant-based diets, increasing awareness of health and sustainability, and the growing demand for allergen-free and non-GMO ingredients in a variety of products.
Pea protein, primarily derived from yellow split peas, is already a key ingredient in several sectors, including meat and dairy alternatives, nutritional supplements, and baked goods. Its nutritional benefits, such as being high in protein and iron, coupled with its hypoallergenic, non-GMO, and gluten-free characteristics, have made it a staple in plant-based food production. As demand surges, manufacturers are also finding new uses for pea protein in cosmetics, clinical nutrition, and sports supplements.
Regulatory roadblocks
However, according to the report from Persistence Market Research, the sector is facing significant regulatory challenges that may impact its growth trajectory. A major hurdle is the lack of harmonized global standards for plant protein classification, purity, and usage. Different regulations in regions such as the US, Europe, and Asia complicate international trade, requiring manufacturers to adjust formulations, labels, and documentation to meet varying regional requirements.
The report also highlights the increasing scrutiny around food safety and quality, with growing concerns over contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticide residues, and microbial hazards. While peas are generally considered hypoallergenic, cross-contamination during processing remains a key challenge. Manufacturers are under increasing pressure to implement rigorous traceability systems to ensure their products meet the required safety standards.
Navigating stricter guidelines
In addition, regulatory bodies like the FDA in the US and EFSA in Europe are imposing stricter guidelines on health and nutritional claims. Pea protein-based products must be supported by scientific evidence to make claims such as promoting muscle health or aiding digestion, which can be both costly and time-consuming for manufacturers.
The Persistence Market Research report also emphasizes the importance of certifications in navigating these regulatory hurdles. Industry-recognized certifications, such as ISO 22000 for food safety, Non-GMO Project Verification, and USDA Organic certification, are becoming increasingly essential for companies looking to gain consumer trust and ensure product quality. Additionally, as sustainability concerns grow, manufacturers will likely face new regulations regarding environmental impact, including carbon footprints and water usage, further complicating the regulatory landscape.
