Fish Protein Hydrolysate Market Opportunity, Growth Drivers, Industry Trend Analysis, and Forecast 2025 - 2034

The Global Fish Protein Hydrolysate Market, with a market value of USD 244.7 million in 2024, is projected to expand at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2034. The market expansion is driven by the increasing demand for high-quality, protein-rich ingredients in animal nutrition, spurred by growing awareness of the nutritional advantages these hydrolysates provide. Rich in essential amino acids, peptides, and omega-3 fatty acids, fish protein hydrolysates enhance digestibility and support faster growth, better immune function, and overall well-being in animals and pets. The global push for more sustainable and eco-friendly protein sources has led to a greater focus on utilizing fish by-products for hydrolysate production, further boosting the market's momentum.

The rising demand for fish protein hydrolysates across multiple industries-including animal feed, aquaculture, and pet food-is a key factor driving this growth. These hydrolysates, known for their high nutritional content, have proven to be highly beneficial in improving growth performance and immune health in animals. As the global population continues to prioritize health and wellness, the market's value is being further fueled by the increasing preference for clean-label and sustainably sourced ingredients, particularly within the pet food and functional food sectors. The growing emphasis on environmental sustainability is encouraging industries to adopt alternative, eco-friendly protein sources, which plays a significant role in enhancing the adoption of fish protein hydrolysates worldwide.

The fish protein hydrolysate market is segmented by production technology, with key methods including acid hydrolysis, enzymatic hydrolysis, and autolytic hydrolysis. Enzymatic hydrolysis is the fastest-growing segment, as it allows for the production of superior-quality hydrolysates with targeted functional and nutritional properties. This method, which utilizes natural enzymes, provides more control over the process, yielding peptides with enhanced bioactivity and digestibility, making it a preferred choice across various sectors.

In terms of form, fish protein hydrolysates are available in powder, liquid, and paste variations, with the powdered segment dominating the market in 2024, accounting for over 90.1% of the total revenue share. This popularity is largely due to its versatility, ease of storage, and extended shelf life. Powdered hydrolysates are especially favored in animal feed, pet food, and functional food formulations owing to their concentrated protein content and compatibility with diverse applications. The reduced risk of spoilage further increases their appeal to manufacturers and end-users alike.

The U.S. fish protein hydrolysate market reached USD 50.7 million in 2024, driven by the demand for premium protein ingredients in the growing animal nutrition and aquaculture sectors. The strong aquaculture industry in the U.S. is fueling growth, with fish protein hydrolysates increasingly used in functional foods and dietary supplements. As consumers and businesses alike continue to prioritize sustainability and quality, the U.S. market for fish protein hydrolysates is expected to see sustained expansion in the coming years.