US Whey Permeate Market Research Report: By Application (Food and beverages, Animal Feed, Others) - Forecast to 2035

US Whey Permeate Market Overview

US Whey Permeate Market Size was estimated at 175.5 (USD Million) in 2023. The US Whey Permeate Market Industry is expected to grow from 182.25(USD Million) in 2024 to 307.43 (USD Million) by 2035. The US Whey Permeate Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 4.868% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Key US Whey Permeate Market Trends Highlighted

The US Whey Permeate Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors. One of the key market drivers is the rising demand for lactose-free products and increased health consciousness among consumers. As more people seek to incorporate protein-rich ingredients into their diets, whey permeate emerges as a favorable option due to its nutritional profile and cost-effectiveness. The growing inclination toward clean-label products also supports the shift, as manufacturers are increasingly opting for natural ingredients in their formulations. Opportunities in this market are expanding as the food and beverage industry shifts toward using functional ingredients.The versatility of whey permeate allows it to be utilized in various applications, including dairy, baked goods, and sports nutrition. Additionally, as the protein fortification trend continues to gain traction, there is potential for further exploration in creating innovative products that cater to specific dietary needs or preferences. In recent times, there has been a notable increase in the adoption of plant-based diets among consumers in the US. This trend has led to an interest in dairy alternatives, yet whey permeate still holds value as a sustainable option for those looking for more protein in their diets. Furthermore, the rise in online grocery shopping has made it easier for consumers to access whey permeate products, increasing their visibility and sales potential.The landscape of the US Whey Permeate Market is evolving, and with it, the dynamics of consumer preferences continue to shape the future of the industry.

US Whey Permeate Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Protein Supplements

The increasing trend toward health and fitness in the US has resulted in a significant surge in the demand for protein supplements, including those derived from whey permeate. According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition, 77% of American adults regularly consume dietary supplements, many of which are protein-based. This trend is expected to grow as more people are becoming aware of the benefits of protein in their diets, particularly among the fitness-conscious population.Established brands in the protein supplement industry, such as Muscle Milk and Optimum Nutrition, have been expanding their product lines to include whey permeate due to its nutritional benefits and cost-effectiveness. This growing consumer demand is likely to propel the US Whey Permeate Market Industry forward as manufacturers increase their offerings to meet the health trends.

Increase in Cheese Production

The US cheese production has been on the rise, reaching approximately 1.4 billion pounds in recent years, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). As whey permeate is a byproduct of the cheese-making process, the increase in cheese production directly contributes to the availability of whey permeate in the market. The USDA has projected a steady increase in cheese production, which implies a corresponding increase in the supply of whey permeate.This surplus of whey permeate is beneficial for various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed, thus stimulating growth in the US Whey Permeate Market Industry.

Growing Applications in Animal Feed

The utilization of whey permeate in animal feed has gained traction owing to its high nutritional value and cost efficiency. The American Feed Industry Association has reported that around 70 million tons of animal feed are produced annually in the US, and there has been an increasing interest in incorporating whey permeate as it provides an affordable source of carbohydrates and proteins. This factor is especially appealing to livestock and poultry producers looking to enhance the nutritional quality of feed while managing costs.The burgeoning demand for quality animal feed, driven by the expanding livestock sector in the US, is likely to provide a significant push to the US Whey Permeate Market Industry.

US Whey Permeate Market Segment Insights:

Whey Permeate Market Application Insights

The US Whey Permeate Market exhibits significant growth potential within the application segment, which is crucial for a variety of industries, including food and beverages, animal feed, and others. The demand for whey permeate in food and beverages is increasingly driven by the growing consumer preference for healthier and protein-rich products. This segment benefits from versatile applications, including as a functional ingredient in dairy products, bakery items, and nutritional supplements. In the realm of animal feed, whey permeate plays a vital role due to its rich nutritional profile, enhancing the growth and health of livestock.It provides a cost-effective protein source for feed formulations, thus satisfying the rising need for sustainable animal nutrition. Moreover, the growing global population and the resultant increase in demand for animal protein serve as key growth drivers for this segment, making it significant in the market landscape. Other applications of whey permeate also contribute to its overall value, showcasing its utility in various industries, even in non-food applications. As such, the US Whey Permeate Market segmentation highlights a diverse and dynamic landscape where each application plays an integral role in shaping consumer preferences and industry demand.It is apparent that as the focus on health and sustainability intensifies, the relevance of these segments within the market is poised for notable advancements, reflecting significant opportunities for innovation and expansion in the years ahead.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

US Whey Permeate Market Key Players and Competitive Insights:

The US Whey Permeate Market is characterized by a dynamic landscape marked by an increasing demand for dairy-based ingredients across various food and beverage applications. The market has gained traction due to the rising use of whey permeate as a cost-effective ingredient that enhances flavor, improves texture, and contributes to the overall mouthfeel of products. Key players in this sector are focusing on innovation, product development, and strategic partnerships to leverage emerging trends and meet the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers. Companies are also emphasizing sustainability and sourcing practices to align with consumer values, thereby creating a competitive edge in this thriving market.Ingredion has established a significant presence in the US Whey Permeate Market by leveraging its extensive portfolio of food ingredient solutions. The company's strengths lie in its ability to provide high-quality, innovative ingredients that cater to the specific needs of manufacturers across various segments, including snacks, dairy, and nutritional products. Ingredion's robust research and development capabilities enable it to stay ahead of industry trends and offer tailored solutions to its customers. Additionally, Ingredion's commitment to customer partnerships and supply chain efficiency enhances its competitive advantage, making it a formidable player in the market.Fonterra exhibits a strong foothold in the US Whey Permeate Market through its diverse range of products and services that cater to different customer needs. The company’s key offerings in this sector include high-quality whey permeate that are utilized in various food applications, such as bakery products, dairy, and infant nutrition. Fonterra's strengths are derived from its extensive dairy supply chain and strong relationships with local producers, allowing for consistent quality and product availability. In recent years, Fonterra has engaged in strategic mergers and acquisitions to bolster its market presence and diversify its product offerings within the US. The company's focus on sustainability initiatives and innovation in the whey permeate segment positions it well to respond to growing consumer demands for health-oriented and environmentally friendly products within the region.

Key Companies in the US Whey Permeate Market Include:

• Ingredion


• Fonterra


• Lactalis Ingredients


• Glanbia Nutritionals


• Crown Holdings


• MMP Ingredients


• California Dairies


• Murray Goulburn


• Dairy Farmers of America


• Wheyco


• Agropur


• Arla Foods


• Dairy America


• Hilmar Cheese Company

US Whey Permeate Market Industry Developments

Recent developments in the US Whey Permeate Market have been marked by notable activities among key players such as Ingredion and Lactalis Ingredients, who are increasingly focusing on expanding their product portfolios to cater to growing demand for high-quality dairy ingredients. The market has also witnessed significant growth in valuation, driven by rising consumer preferences for protein-rich diets and the expanding applications of whey permeate in food and beverage products. Additionally, in March 2023, Glanbia Nutritionals announced an acquisition to strengthen its position in the whey protein sector, which contributes to whey permeate production. This aligns well with the industry's trajectory over the past couple of years, as California Dairies and Dairy Farmers of America have also increased their manufacturing capacities to meet steady demand. In October 2021, a focus on sustainability initiatives was noted, as companies like Arla Foods and Hilmar Cheese Company implemented eco-friendly practices to enhance their production methods. The US Whey Permeate Market continues to evolve, influenced by all these dynamics and a competitive environment that fosters innovation and expansion.

US Whey Permeate Market Segmentation Insights

Whey Permeate Market Application Outlook

Food and beverages

Animal Feed

Others

Report Scope:

Report Attribute/Metric Source:	Details
MARKET SIZE 2018	175.5(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2024	182.25(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2035	307.43(USD Million)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)	4.868% (2025 - 2035)
REPORT COVERAGE	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
BASE YEAR	2024
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD	2025 - 2035
HISTORICAL DATA	2019 - 2024
MARKET FORECAST UNITS	USD Million
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED	Ingredion, Fonterra, Lactalis Ingredients, Glanbia Nutritionals, Crown Holdings, MMP Ingredients, California Dairies, Murray Goulburn, Dairy Farmers of America, Wheyco, Agropur, Arla Foods, Dairy America, Hilmar Cheese Company
SEGMENTS COVERED	Application
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES	Increasing demand for dairy alternatives, Expanding sports nutrition segment, Growing functional food trends, Rising health consciousness among consumers, Cost-effective ingredient for food industry
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS	growing demand for protein supplements, increasing popularity of functional foods, rising health consciousness among consumers, cost-effective ingredient for food manufacturers, expanding application in sports nutrition
COUNTRIES COVERED	US