Rice Protein Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Product, Application, and Region, 2025-2033

The global rice protein market size was valued at USD 814.29 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 1,038.38 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 2.60% from 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a market share of 43.2% in 2024. Consumers are moving towards vegetarian diets, and this trend is strongly propelling the market growth. Moreover, the emphasis on health, fitness, and athletic performance is offering a favorable market outlook. Apart from this, technological innovations in food processing and protein extraction to advance the quality and functionality of protein are rice protein market share.

The rice protein market is presently experiencing rapid growth as more consumers are shifting towards plant-based diets. Consumers are becoming more aware about the health advantages linked with plant proteins and making a conscious effort to decrease their consumption of products of animal origin. For this reason, rice protein is becoming popular as it is hypoallergenic in nature, easy to digest, and compatible with vegan and vegetarian diets. Health-conscious consumers are opting for natural, gluten-free, and allergen-free products, and rice protein is addressing these needs appropriately. There is an ongoing innovation by rice protein manufacturers to come up with new rice protein products as consumers' demand increases across various groups. They are incorporating rice protein into shakes, protein bars, ready-to-drink beverages, and meal replacement shakes, thereby impelling the rice protein market growth.

There is tremendous growth in the United States rice protein sector, with consumers increasingly turning to plant-based eating patterns. Americans are going vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian in record numbers and specifically looking for clean-label, allergen-free protein alternatives. As per the data provided by the World Population Review, approximately 1.5% of the population of the US is following a vegan lifestyle in 2025. Rice protein is meeting this need through a hypoallergenic, gluten-free, and lactose-free solution that is also striking a chord among health-focused consumers and those with dietary limitations. Athletes and gym goers are now also discovering rice protein as a sound substitute for whey or soy, particularly with the commonality of lactose intolerance across the country. By placing rice protein as a gut-friendly and nutrition-dense choice, companies are successfully tapping new niches in the sports nutrition category.

Rice Protein Market Trends:

Increasing Demand for Allergen-Free and Plant-Based Diets

Consumers are moving towards vegetarian diets, and this trend is strongly propelling the market growth. Individuals are realizing the health, ethical, and environmental consequences of meat-based diets, so they are choosing more plant-based options. Rice protein is gaining popularity because it is not only vegetarian but also free from allergens, which is appropriate for those having soy, dairy, or gluten intolerance. World Population Review stated that in 2025, around 65% of the adult population is suffering from lactose intolerance. This is further responsible for encouraging people to choose better and safer options instead of dairy. Parents are adding hypoallergenic proteins to kids' diets, and adults with digestive issues are choosing rice protein over popular choices such as whey or soy. The food and beverage (F&B) market is reacting by reformulating products to address these needs, and rice protein is being added to protein bars, plant-based drinks, and meal replacements.

Increase in Fitness and Sports Nutrition Trends

The rising emphasis on health, fitness, and athletic performance is offering a favorable rice protein market outlook. Individuals are taking part in frequent workout sessions, weight lifting, and distance athletics, and they are looking for protein supplements to aid in muscle recovery and building. Rice protein is being used as a clean, plant-based alternative to conventional whey protein, especially by athletes and health buffs who have lactose intolerance or are vegan. Its bioavailability, full amino acid complement (particularly when blended with pea protein), and minimal allergenicity are leading to its high demand in protein shakes, powders, and sports bars. Companies are marketing rice protein as a valid source of recovery nutrition post-workout, and consumers are clamoring. Influencers, trainers, and wellness experts are recommending plant proteins increasingly, which is further catalyzing the demand. In 2024, ZymeBase Inc., a biotech firm located in Shanghai, launched a novel plant-derived protein, an enhanced hydrolyzed and modified rice protein with better taste and consistency. It eliminates typical allergens by incorporating non-GMO components and contains a minimum of 80% protein.

Food Technology and Product Innovation Advancements

One of the major rice protein market trends is the technological innovations in food processing and protein extraction to advance the quality and functionality of rice protein. Advanced enzymatic hydrolysis, ultrafiltration, and spray-drying methods are being employed by manufacturers to enhance the purity, solubility, and flavor of rice protein products. These advances are making rice protein useful in a variety of applications, from plant-based milk and meat alternatives to fortified snacks and infant and geriatric nutrition. Product formulators are blending rice protein with other ingredients to produce unique formulations that provide complete nutrition with great texture and stability. These technologies are also reducing the chalky flavor or gritty mouthfeel that rice protein once had. As the clean-label trend expands, manufacturers are creating minimally processed, natural rice protein products, which are satisfying consumer demands for purity and quality. This technological advancement is making alternative protein sources more acceptable. The IMARC Group predicts that the global food alternative protein market is projected to attain USD 56.7 Billion by 2033.

Rice Protein Industry Segmentation:

Analysis by Product:

• Rice Protein Isolates
• Rice Protein Concentrates
• Others

Rice protein isolates stand as the largest component in 2024, holding 60.7% of the market. They are gaining popularity due to their multiple health and functionality benefits and are a favorite ingredient in nutritional foods. Rice protein isolates are being used more by people because they are providing a high content of protein while being free from allergens, such as dairy, soy, and gluten. Customers are enjoying that rice protein isolates are being easily broken down and leading to fewer gastrointestinal problems than other protein sources. Bodybuilders are using them because these isolates are helping with muscle recovery and maintenance without the weight of some animal proteins. Food companies are employing rice protein isolates in numerous foods, such as protein shakes, energy bars, and vegetarian meal substitutes. The isolates are being selected due to their neutral flavor, soft texture, and high solubility, which are increasing product appeal.

Analysis by Application:

• Food and Beverages
• Pharmaceutical
• Cosmetics
• Animal Feed

Food and beverages lead the market with 53.4% of market share in 2024. Leading companies increasingly employ rice protein as a nutritional and functional ingredient in many applications. They are fortifying plant-based milks, protein bars, ready-to-drink beverages, and meat alternatives with rice protein to boost protein levels and respond to consumer demand for clean-label, allergen-free products. Companies are substituting conventional animal-derived proteins with rice protein to meet the demands of vegan, vegetarian, and lactose-intolerant consumers actively seeking out healthier and greener alternatives. Rice protein is also being blended with other plant proteins like pea or hemp to design balanced amino acid profiles, which is driving functional food development. Overall, they are highlighting rice protein's digestibility, neutral taste, and sustainability as major advantages. With consumers ever-increasingly looking for high-protein, low-allergen foods, the food and beverage sector is increasingly using rice protein in daily products.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of 43.2%. The rice protein market in the region is presently witnessing significant growth. Consumers are moving firmly toward plant-based diets that exclude dairy, soy, and various typical allergens. Rice protein is becoming a popular option due to its hypoallergenic nature and being free from gluten and lactose, features that cater well to the requirements of health-aware and diet-sensitive individuals. With the rise of vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian diets, rice protein is gaining popularity not just in specialized vegan shops but also in mainstream commercial outlets. Food and beverage producers are broadening their application of rice protein across an increasing variety of items. They are creating protein powders, ready-to-drink beverages, nutritional bars, and plant-based meat substitutes that utilize rice protein for its mild flavor, creamy consistency, and emulsifying properties. Rice protein is combined with other plant proteins like pea and hemp to provide comprehensive amino acid profiles, attracting fitness-oriented consumers and individuals looking for balanced nutrition.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Rice Protein Market Analysis

The United States market, holding a share of 85.0%, is primarily driven by the growing demand for plant-based, allergen-friendly, and hypoallergenic protein alternatives that cater to health-conscious consumers, fitness enthusiasts, and those with dietary restrictions. As awareness grows around lactose and gluten intolerance, soy allergies, and environmental sustainability, rice protein is gaining popularity as a clean-label option that addresses multiple consumer concerns simultaneously. According to industry reports, approximately 6% of individuals in the United States suffer from gluten intolerance. The wellness and fitness market's shift toward protein supplementation is also driving interest in high-quality, plant-derived proteins that offer complete amino acid profiles without the digestive issues commonly associated with other sources. Additionally, technological improvements in extraction and processing methods are enhancing the functional properties of rice protein, making it more versatile for use in beverages, snacks, meat analogues, and nutritional bars. Furthermore, consumer preferences for natural, non-GMO, and clean-label ingredients are reinforcing the appeal of rice protein in the health food and supplement sectors. Other than this, the inclusion of rice protein in functional foods and beverages is helping brands cater to a more targeted consumer base. The rise of personalized nutrition and consumer interest in clean, minimal-ingredient products with identifiable health benefits is further increasing the use of rice protein in innovative formulations.

Asia Pacific Rice Protein Market Analysis

The Asia Pacific market is expanding due to the region's robust rice production capabilities, which provide an abundance of raw materials for protein extraction and processing. Countries such as China, India, Thailand, and Vietnam have well-established rice farming industries, creating a reliable supply chain and lowering raw material costs for manufacturers. In FY 2022-23, production of rice in India reached 1357.55 Lakh Tonnes, recording an increase of 62.84 Lakh Tonnes in comparison to rice production in FY 2021-22 at 1294.71 Lakh Tonnes, as per the Press Information Bureau (PIB). This regional advantage supports local production and export opportunities, enabling manufacturers to offer competitively priced rice protein products both domestically and internationally. Increasing consumer demand for sustainable and cruelty-free protein sources is further boosting interest in rice protein, particularly among younger, urban populations who prioritize ethical consumption. Besides this, educational campaigns promoting the health benefits of plant proteins, combined with the expansion of product availability in pharmacies and health food stores, are further enhancing market penetration across diverse demographic groups.

Europe Rice Protein Market Analysis

The growth of the Europe market is largely fueled by the heightened demand for innovative, plant-based ingredients that align with regional food trends, dietary habits, and wellness initiatives. As more individuals adopt vegan or flexitarian diets for environmental, ethical, or health reasons, the demand for non-animal protein sources such as rice protein is rising significantly. According to a 2021 study, 38% of individuals in Europe follow a flexitarian, vegan, vegetarian, or pescatarian diet. Germany boasts the largest flexitarian population, at 40%. The growing interest in flexitarian formulations, which are products that blend rice protein with pulses or cereals, is also addressing rising concerns about nutrient quality, including protein quality and dietary fiber. In response, food technologists are optimizing the functional characteristics of rice protein to enable cleaner labels in European bakery, confectionery, dairy alternatives, and sports nutrition. Additionally, regulatory encouragement for plant-based innovation, including reduced meat consumption targets set forth by several EU countries, is driving research and development (R&D) investments into rice protein-enriched offerings. Consumers across Europe are also increasingly demanding transparency around origin, traceability, and ethical sourcing, prompting producers to highlight non-GMO certifications, rice provenance, and fair-trade standards. Other than this, rice protein's neutral allergen profile is also becoming important in institutional and school meal programs, where nut, soy, dairy, and gluten allergens must be avoided. These dietary program adoptions are opening B2B channels for the inclusion of rice protein, supporting industry expansion.

Latin America Rice Protein Market Analysis

Latin America's market is experiencing robust growth as regional consumers seek clean, plant-based protein solutions suited to local diets and culinary habits. A growing awareness about dietary allergies and intolerance to dairy and soy is prompting food brands to incorporate hypoallergenic rice protein into traditional snacks and beverages. Additionally, public health campaigns focused on reducing obesity and promoting healthy foods are boosting interest in protein-enriched fortified products. For instance, Brazil is the fifth most significant market globally for healthy foods, growing at a robust rate of 20% annually in comparison to the global average of 8%. Besides this, the rising demand for affordable nutrition is also encouraging manufacturers to innovate with cost-effective rice protein blends in both packaged foods and affordable supplement formats.

Middle East and Africa Rice Protein Market Analysis

The Middle East and Africa market is significantly influenced by the growing awareness about food allergens and intolerances among consumers seeking hypoallergenic, non-dairy, and non-soy protein options. As wellness trends gain popularity in urban centers, rice protein is being increasingly featured in clean-label nutritional products, including protein bars, drinks, and fortified snacks. The expansion of e-commerce is also enhancing product visibility and convenience. According to a report by the IMARC Group, the e-commerce market in the Middle East reached USD 1,888 Billion in 2024 and is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 21.58% from 2025-2033. Other than this, rising consumer interest in plant-based diets and sustainable sourcing is also supporting steady market expansion across the region.

Competitive Landscape:

Market participants in the global rice protein market are busily broadening product offerings, refining processing technologies, and building strategic alliances to address increased consumer demand. Firms are placing funds into sophisticated extraction methods in order to enhance protein purity, taste, and solubility, positioning rice protein more competitively against other plant-based proteins. Major producers are introducing new ranges, such as organic, non-GMO, and textured rice protein, to cover various uses in food, beverages, sports nutrition, and personal care. They are also forming joint ventures with rice growers to ensure raw material supply and improve traceability. As per rice protein market forecasts, companies are expected to emphasize sustainability by undertaking environment friendly production methods and encouraging clean-label attributes, which appeal to health-oriented and eco-conscious consumers globally.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the rice protein market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• AIDP Inc.
• Axiom Foods Inc.
• Bioway (Xi'an) Organic Ingredients Co. Ltd.
• Golden Grain Group Limited
• North Coast Naturals
• Nutribiotic
• RiceBran Technologies
• Rollins International Pvt. Ltd. (RHA Holdings Private Ltd.)
• Shafi Gluco Chem Pvt. Ltd.
• The Green Labs LLC
• Top Health Ingredients Inc.

Key Questions Answered in This Report

• 1.How big is the rice protein market?
• 2.What is the future outlook of the rice protein market?
• 3.What are the key factors driving the rice protein market?
• 4.Which region accounts for the largest rice protein market share?
• 5.Which are the leading companies in the global rice protein market?