Potato Protein Market: The vegan protein

What is potato protein?

Potatoes are a staple food for most of the world and are a major source of carbohydrates. Every 100 grams of potato contains 2 grams of protein which can be extracted. Proteins are now consumed as a source of energy and for muscle building. It also helps in weight loss as it has almost no fat content. This makes it a favorite food ingredient to bodybuilders and dieters. As consumers are health-conscious, they are eating foods that are having no or very low fat and are rich in fibers and proteins. Compared to proteins from other plant sources, potato proteins have much more potential as a food ingredient because of its higher nutritional quality and its ability to regulate cholesterol levels. Potato protein is made after the potato starch is separated from potato juice in the processing plant. It has been identified to be good for digestion, and the amino-acids present makes it suitable for feed manufacturing as well. Also, such vegetable proteins are a vegan alternative for animal proteins. Humans are increasingly influencing pet lifestyle and eating habits. They are being given protein-rich feed to balance their nutritional requirements. 

Different Types & Applications

Potato proteins are available as isolates and concentrate. Isolates are the isolated pure protein higher percentage of proteins. They undergo more stages of processing after being extracted from the potato juice. Isolates are ideal for those who are limiting their fat, carbs, and lactose intake Protein isolation technology is in the developing stage, and the processing is costly. Hence the product is also more expensive compared to concentrates. Whereas, concentrates have lesser protein compared to isolates and cost less. As concentrates are unprocessed, they also contain fibers and fat. Concentrates dominate potato protein market as they are more economical and serve the same purpose.

Potato proteins are also used for applications like food and beverages like meat, dairy, confectionery, processed food, and others. It is also used to make animal feed as proteins are a major source of animal nutrition. Major demand for potato protein is from the animal feed industry. It also has a growing demand for sports nutrition and supplements.

Europe is the largest market for bulk food ingredients

Europe has the largest share in the potato protein market as it is the largest consumer in for potato and its products. Rising demand for plant proteins has been observed in the European market. Preference for unprocessed and natural food products is also driving the market here. Research in European Poultry Science, it was found that potato protein concentrate was increasingly being used as a protein supplement to feed pigs, fish, and other livestock because of the presence of well-balanced amino acids. The fastest-growing market is, however, the Asia Pacific with a country like China being the largest producer of potatoes.

Market Drivers

Advances in food technology and rising demand for plant-based proteins is driving the market. With rising health awareness, consumption of carbohydrates and fats is decreasing. People are preferring proteins as a source of energy and consuming low-fat foods. As animal protein has cholesterol content, consumers are switching to potato protein. This has contributed to rising demand for potato protein. Plant-based proteins are gaining popularity for weight management and sports nutrition. They can also be used as snack and meal replacements.

It has been observed that, since 2014, a 500% increase has occurred in veganism at a global level. There has been reducing in consumption of animal-sourced food products. And consumers have started to eat plant-based alternatives. This intolerance toward animal protein and trend of veganism has again driven the potato protein consumption.

Also, with pet owners being more aware of the nutritional needs of their pets, there has been a rise in demand for plant proteins. Thus, potato proteins are finding increasing use in the manufacturing of pet food. Potato protein being rich in fibers and amino acids greatly benefit pets health.

Bulk Food Ingredients industry outlook

Customer concerns about clean-label products and food allergens are motivating companies to offer different potato protein products. They are bringing out products that are non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free. Some companies are also focusing on offering halal and kosher protein products. Potato proteins can be easily mixed with water and are used as a substitute for gluten in confectioneries. Being a healthy food additive, it is also being used by many food companies as an alternative for egg whites. It can also be easily blended with various food types and beverages. This makes it a favorable alternative for diet-conscious consumers. Companies like Avebe group are bringing out unique food applications by using the potato proteins in making sports drinks and vegetarian ice creams.

Top 10 potato protein manufacturers are Solanic BV (AVEBE Group), Roquette, Agrana, Omega Protein Corporation, E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Kerry Group plc, Archer Daniels Midland Company, Cargill, KMC Ingredients, AKV Langholt, Peppes Group, Emsland Group, and Meelunie.