Whey Permeate Market Outlook (2024 to 2034)

The global whey permeate sales are estimated to be worth USD 497.1 million in 2024 and is projected to reach a value of USD 984.2 million by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 7.1% over the assessment period of 2024 to 2034

Whey permeate, often referred to as deproteinized, modified, or dairy product solids, is a byproduct that comes from the processing of whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate.

Whey permeate's affordability compared to other ingredients makes it particularly appealing to food and beverage manufacturers looking for cost-effective solutions without compromising over product quality. This economic advantage allows manufacturers to maintain competitive pricing while leveraging whey permeate's functional benefits, such as brightening and preserving color, providing a browning effect.

Its cost-effectiveness enables broader utilization across various food applications, and feed application maintaining efficient production capacity and strengthening profitability across the industry.

Whey permeate is gaining popularity because it is rich in lactose, which acts as a natural sweetener and enhances the flavor of various products. The mineral salts present in whey permeate contribute to its nutritional value, which provides essential nutrients like calcium and potassium. This makes it an attractive ingredient for manufacturers looking to improve the nutritional composition of their products like Pure Valley Dairy.

Attributes Description
Estimated Global Whey Permeate Industry Size (2024E) USD 497.1 million
Projected Global Whey Permeate Industry Value (2034F) USD 984.2 million
Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) 7.1%

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Key Industry Highlights

Increasing Demand for Functional Foods

As functional foods provide additional benefits beyond basic nutrition, such as improved digestion, enhanced immunity, and better overall health. Whey permeate, which is rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, is being included into these products to enhance their nutritional composition.

Its clean, sweet dairy flavor and cost-effectiveness makes it an appealing ingredient for manufacturers aiming to meet consumer demand for healthier, functional food options.

Enhancing Flavor and Reducing Sodium with Whey Permeate

It naturally contains minerals that can replace some of the sodium chloride usually used in food formulations. This allows manufacturers to lower the sodium content without compromising on flavor or functionality.

Additionally, whey permeate enhances the overall taste composition, making it an appealing option for health-conscious consumers and food producers aiming to meet regulatory requirements for reduced sodium levels while maintaining product quality and taste.

Expansion in Animal Feed

The use of whey permeate in animal feed is on the rise, especially for swine and cattle, due to its high nutritional value and cost-effectiveness. Whey permeate provides essential nutrients like lactose, vitamins, and minerals, which promote growth and improve overall health in livestocks.

Its affordability makes it an appealing alternative to more expensive feed ingredients. Additionally, its palatability ensures better feed intake, leading to enhanced productivity and efficiency in animal farming activities.

Rising Popularity in Bakery and Confectionery

Due to its multifunctional benefits, it is getting popular in bakery and confectionery industries. Its natural sweetness and clean dairy flavor enhance the taste composition of baked goods, chocolates, and milk beverages. Additionally, whey permeate acts as a browning agent, which improves the appearance and texture of baked products.

Its ability to blend seamlessly into sauces and ready meals adds to its versatility, providing a consistent and desirable texture.

Promoting Sustainability and Reducing Waste

Instead of discarding whey, it is reused into a useful ingredient, minimizing environmental impact. This does not only reduces waste but also maximizes resource utilization, further promoting a circular economy. By including whey permeate into various food and feed products, the dairy industry is improving its sustainability efforts, reducing its carbon footprint, and contributing to more eco-friendly production processes.

Incorporating Whey Permeate in Sports Nutrition Products

Whey permeate is being included into protein supplements and sports drinks as it provides essential nutrients like lactose, vitamins, and minerals, which support muscle recovery and overall performance. Whey permeate is becoming a key component in products aimed at athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Iso-Charge isotonic drink from The Protein Works, includes whey permeate to improve its nutritional composition and support muscle recovery.

Rivella, a Swiss beverage made from whey, herbs, and fruit essences, is another product that leverages the benefits of whey permeate . These products highlight the versatility and effectiveness of whey permeate in sports nutrition, providing essential nutrients and aiding in recovery.

2019 to 2023 Global Whey Permeate Sales Analysis Compared to Demand Forecasts for 2024 to 2034

Global Whey Permeate sales increased at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2019 to 2023. For the next ten years (2024 to 2034), projections are that expenditure on whey permeate will rise at 7.1% CAGR

The versatile application of Whey permeate is momentously increasing its demand. Its ability to substitute for multiple dairy ingredients such as sweet whey powder, lactose, and skimmed milk powder. This makes it a valuable ingredient across various applications.

In the food industry, it enhances the texture and flavor of baked goods, chocolates, and sauces. In beverages, it provides a clean, sweet dairy flavor while improving solubility. For animal feed, whey permeate offers essential nutrients, promoting growth and health in livestock. Its multifunctional properties make it a cost-effective and efficient choice for manufacturers.

Further, as a free-flowing bulking agent, it dissolves rapidly, which ensures smooth integration into various formulations. Its high wettability means it absorbs moisture quickly, making it perfect for instant soups, sauces, and powdered beverages where quick dissolution is crucial.

Additionally, its ability to flow easily prevents clumping, ensuring consistent texture and quality in seasonings and other dry mixes. These characteristics make whey permeate an ideal ingredient for enhancing the functionality and convenience of a wide range of food products and pushing global Whey Permeate sales growth.

Nandini Roy Choudhury
Nandini Roy Choudhury

Principal Consultant

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Market Concentration

Tier 1 companies comprise industry leaders with market revenue of above USD 50 million capturing significant sales domain share of 50% to 60% in the global sphere. These business leaders are characterized by high production capacity and a wide product portfolio.

These trade leaders are distinguished by their extensive expertise in manufacturing and reconditioning across multiple packaging formats and a broad geographical reach, underpinned by a robust consumer base. Prominent companies within tier 1 include Lactalis Ingredients, Arla Foods Ingredients Group P/S, Agro Complex, Agropur, and Milk Specialities Global.

Tier 2 companies include mid-size players with revenue of USD 10 to 50 million having presence in specific regions and highly influencing the local retail space. These are characterized by a strong presence overseas and strong consumer base knowledge.

These industry players have good technology and ensure regulatory compliance but may not have advanced technology and wide global reach. Prominent companies in tier 2 include Arion Dairy Products, Eurial Ingredients & Nutrition, Proliant Dairy Ingredients, ANCHAL DELIGHT FOODS PVT LTD, Numidia, and Pure Valley.

Tier 3 includes the majority of small-scale companies operating at the local presence and serving niche demand space having revenue below USD 10 million. These companies are notably oriented towards fulfilling local marketplace demands and are consequently classified within the tier 3 share segment.

They are small-scale players and have limited geographical reach. Tier 3, within this context, is recognized as an unorganized field, denoting a sector characterized by a lack of extensive structure and formalization when compared to organized competitors.

  • Lactalis Ingredients is expanding its presence in emerging markets, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, to tap into the growing demand for processed foods and nutritional products.
  • Agropur is diversifying its product offerings, including new formulations for functional foods, beverages, and animal feed.
  • Hoogwegt Group invests in advanced processing technologies to improve the quality and functionality of whey permeate, which makes it more versatile for various applications.

Country-wise Insights

The table below highlights revenue from product sales in key countries. The United States and Germany are predicted to remain top consumers, with estimated trade valuations of USD 140.7 million and USD 102.4 million, respectively, by 2034.

Countries Market Value (2034)
United States USD 140.7 million
Germany USD 102.4 million
UK USD 53.1 million
China USD 47.2 million
India USD 24.6 million

The following table shows the estimated growth rates of the top five sales domain. China and India are set to exhibit high Whey Permeate consumption, recording CAGRs of 7.4% and 8.0%, respectively, through 2034.

Countries CAGR 2024 to 2034
United States 6.3%
Germany 4.6%
UK 5.3%
China 7.4%
India 8.0%

United States to Retain Dominance in Whey Permeate Sales

The industry for Whey Permeate in the United States is projected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.3% during the assessment period. By 2034, revenue from the sales of Whey Permeate in the country is expected to reach USD 140.7 million.

Whey permeate is a highly cost-effective ingredient, making it an appealing choice for food and beverage manufacturers. This allows them to reduce production costs without compromising on quality. By replacing more expensive dairy ingredients like sweet whey powder, lactose, and skimmed milk powder, whey permeate helps manufacturers maintain product quality while achieving significant cost savings.

This economic advantage is a key factor in its growing popularity. Further, Whey permeate is rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, and is being included into these products to enhance their nutritional composition. Consumers are seeking foods that offer additional health benefits, such as improved digestion and enhanced immunity, making whey permeate a preferred ingredient for manufacturers aiming to meet this demand.

Demand Outlook for Whey Permeate in Germany

Whey Permeate demand in Germany is calculated to rise at a value CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period (2024 to 2034). By 2034, Germany is expected to account for 17.4% of Whey Permeate sales in Europe.

Recent advancements in processing technologies have revolutionized the production of whey permeate. Enhanced filtration methods, such as ultrafiltration and nanofiltration, have improved the purity and consistency of whey permeate, making it more suitable for a wide range of applications.

Additionally, modern drying techniques, like spray drying, ensure that the final product retains its nutritional value and functional properties. These technological improvements not only boost the quality of whey permeate but also increase production efficiency, reducing costs and making it a more attractive ingredient for food and beverage manufacturers.

New Regulations are increasing the market share of Whey Permeate in China

Consumption of whey permeate in China is projected to increase at a value CAGR of 7.4% over the next ten years. By 2034, the business size is forecasted to reach USD 47.2 million, with China expected to account for a domain share of 57.3% in East Asia.

China’s recent adoption of new import standards for whey permeate has highly impacted the market. These regulatory changes have streamlined the import process, allowing for the entry of high-quality whey permeate products that meet stringent safety and quality criteria. This has opened up opportunities for international suppliers to access the Chinese market more easily, ensuring a steady supply of premium whey permeate.

Consequently, manufacturers in China can now include this ingredient into their products, enhancing nutritional value and meeting consumer demand for healthier options. This regulatory shift has thus played an important role in boosting whey permeate usage in China.

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Category-Wise Insights

Sustainable and Digestible: The Rise of Whey Permeate in Pet Food

Segment Pet Food (End Use)
Value Share (2024) 24.%

Sales of Whey Permeate for pet food are projected to register a CAGR of 4.2% from 2024 to 2034.

The demand for whey permeate in pet food is rising due to its numerous benefits. Nutritionally, it is rich in lactose, minerals, and vitamins, enhancing the overall health profile of pet food. This appeals to pet owners who are increasingly focused on providing high-quality diets for their pets.

Economically, this is a cost-effective ingredient that improves the flavor and texture of pet food without significantly raising production costs. Its digestibility is another key factor, as the lactose content aids in the digestive health of pets, particularly young animals.

Additionally, whey permeate is a sustainable option, being a by-product of cheese production, which helps reduce waste and promotes efficient use of dairy resources. Advances in processing technologies have further improved the quality and consistency of whey permeate, making it a reliable ingredient for pet food manufacturers. These combined factors are driving the increased inclusion of whey permeate in pet food formulations.

Economic and Environmental Advantages of Bulk Whey Permeate Packaging

Segment Big Bulks (Packaging)
Value Share (2024) 64.3%

The big bulks segment is anticipated to advance at 6.3% CAGR during the projection period.

Economically, big bulks reduces packaging and handling costs, which makes it more cost-effective for large-scale manufacturers. Efficiency is another advantage, as bulk packaging streamlines the supply chain and simplifies storage and transportation logistics.

Additionally, big bags are ideal for high-volume production facilities, which ensures a steady supply of whey permeate without frequent reordering. This packaging option also minimizes waste and environmental impact, aligning with sustainability goals.

Competition Outlook

The Whey Permeate market encompasses a diverse and dynamic competitive landscape. Leading Whey Permeate manufacturing companies are focusing on research and development, sustainable sourcing, and new formulations. They are also emphasizing environment-friendly practices and product certifications to satisfy the increasing demand for natural and sustainable ingredients.

For instance

  • In 2021, Friesland Campina DMV expanded its production capacity for permeates at its facility in Veghel, the Netherlands.
  • In 2020, Lactalis Ingredients introduced a new whey permeate product with high solubility, suitable for various food and beverage applications.
  • Proliant’s new plant in St. Johns, Michigan, opened in 2020, is the world’s largest permeate drying facility, capable of processing 400,000 pounds of whey permeate per day.

Leading Whey Permeate Brands

  • Lactalis Ingredients
  • Arla Foods Ingredients Group P/S
  • Agro Complex
  • Agropur
  • Milk Specialities Global
  • Arion Dairy Products
  • Eurial Ingredients & Nutrition
  • Proliant Dairy Ingredients
  • ANCHAL DELIGHT FOODS PVT LTD
  • Numidia
  • Pure Valley
  • Others

Key Segments of Market Report

By End Use:

As per end use, the market has been categorized into Food and Beverage (fermented products, milk beverages, desserts, cheese spread, dairy industry, bakery industry, chocolate and confectionary industry, instant soups and sauces, seasoning and snacks, vending mix and powder beverages, dry mixes), and Feed Application (pigs feed, pet food, as a filler for milk substitutes for calves, others)

By Packaging:

This segment is further categorized into 25 Kg Bag, and Big Bags (In Bulk)

By Region:

Industry analysis has been carried out in key countries of North America, Latin America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East & Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current value of the Whey Permeate market?

The global Whey Permeate market is estimated at a value of USD 497.1 million in 2024.

At what rate did the market for whey permeate grow between 2019 and 2023?

Sales of whey permeate increased at 5.8% CAGR between 2019 and 2023.

Who are the leading manufacturers of native whey proteins?

Lactalis Ingredients, Arla Foods Ingredients Group P/S, Agro Complex, Agropur, and Milk Specialities Global are some of the leading players in this market.

Which region will garner a significant value share by 2034?

The North America market is projected to hold a revenue share of 36.8% over the forecast period.

What share does Europe account for in the global whey permeate market in 2024?

Europe holds a 31.6% share of the global market for whey permeate.

Table of Content

1. Executive Summary

2. Industry Introduction, Including Taxonomy and Market Definition

3. Market Trends and Success Factors, Including Macro-economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments

4. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections

5. Pricing Analysis

6. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034

    6.1. End Use

    6.2. Packaging

    6.3. Region

7. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by End Use

    7.1. Food and Beverage

        7.1.1. Fermented products

        7.1.2. Milk Beverages

        7.1.3. Desserts

        7.1.4. Cheese Spread

        7.1.5. Dairy Industry

        7.1.6. Bakery Industry

        7.1.7. Chocolate and Confectionary Industry

        7.1.8. Instant soups and sauces

        7.1.9. Seasoning and Snacks

        7.1.10. Vending mix and Powder Beverages

        7.1.11. Dry Mixes

    7.2. Feed Application

        7.2.1. Pigs Feed

        7.2.2. Pet food

        7.2.3. As a filler for milk substitutes for Calves

        7.2.4. Others

8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Packaging

    8.1. 25 Kg Bag

    8.2. Big Bags (In Bulk)

9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Region

    9.1. North America

    9.2. Latin America

    9.3. Europe

    9.4. East Asia

    9.5. South Asia

    9.6. Oceania

    9.7. Middle East and Africa

10. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

11. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

12. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

13. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

14. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

15. South Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

16. Oceania Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

17. Middle East and Africa Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries

18. Sales Forecast 2024 to 2034 by End Use, and Packaging for 30 Countries

19. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard

20. Company Profile

    20.1. Lactalis Ingredients

    20.2. Arla Foods Ingredients Group P/S

    20.3. Agro Complex

    20.4. Agropur

    20.5. Milk Specialities Global

    20.6. Arion Dairy Products

    20.7. Eurial Ingredients & Nutrition

    20.8. Proliant Dairy Ingredients

    20.9. ANCHAL DELIGHT FOODS PVT LTD

    20.10. Numidia

    20.11. Pure Valley

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