Protein Ice Cream Market: Current Analysis and Forecast (2024-2032)

Protein ice cream is an innovation of conventional ice cream to provide the taste of normal ice cream and additional protein. This frozen delight contains quality proteins, and sources like whey, casein, or plant protein to make the protein enhanced. The product prepared based on the concept of this ice cream is typically synonymous with less amount of sugar and fat than ordinary ice cream making it a favorite by fitness freaks and all those who are looking for some healthy dessert. Featuring a versatile taste profile and a moist and cold mouthfeel, protein ice cream is an ideal high-protein dessert to help muscles build and keep the body healthy.

The Protein Ice Cream Market is expected to grow at a steady rate of around 8.8% owing to the rising company expansions. For instance, in December 2022, Sky Gate Hospitality, the parent company of Biryani By Kilo, acquired a majority share in healthy dessert startup, Get-A-Way to diversify its product portfolio. Moreover, the rising health & wellness trends, the rise in popularity of fitness and active lifestyles, and continuous innovation in flavors, textures, and formulations.

Based on the protein source, the market is segmented into whey protein, casein protein, milk protein, plant-based proteins, and others. The whey protein segment is expected to grow at a significant rate in the forecast period due to its high-quality complete protein that is readily assimilated by the body and assists in muscle rebuilding and recovery. Due to the speedy rate of its digestion and a high content of amino acids whey protein attracts consumers who are interested in muscle building and tasty snacks in one product. The growth of this segment can be attributed to the enhancement of public awareness of the post-workout recovery and improved health benefits of whey protein and also technological improvements in the food industry especially in the course of incorporating whey protein in ice cream. This reveals that with such benefits and as more brands adapt this ingredient to their products, whey protein is progressively becoming popular among the health-conscious and active population.

Based on flavor, the market is segmented into vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and others. The chocolate segment held the majority share of the market in the year 2023. The chocolate segment holds a dominant position in the protein ice cream market due to its widespread popularity and in-demand among consumers. Flavors related to chocolate are loved by consumers due to their intense taste which inspires most people to go for them as a tasty snack and at the same time a good source of protein. This segment is further strengthened by the malleability of chocolate which can be used to hide the gritty feel of protein content in the product. Also, advancement in flavor creations and the inclusion of quality cocoa and chocolate products help to sustain consumers' interest and hence satisfaction. Thus, the chocolate segment held a majority share of the market in the year 2023 among the flavors.

Based on the distribution channel, the market is bifurcated into online and offline. The online segment of the protein ice cream market has witnessed robust growth due to its more convenient and easy means of home delivery. Most protein ice cream brands are available on online platforms, both in different flavors and various people's preferences and diets, which increases convenience and options. These include the ease of comparing products, reading and checking on the reviews, and the increased use of subscriptions. Also, the use of specific digital advertising and discounts has helped in reaching marketing-conscious clients and those into fitness and exercise boosting online sales. Thus, the online segment is expected to grow at a significant rate in the forecast period among the distribution channels.

For a better understanding of the market adoption of protein ice creams, the market is analyzed based on its worldwide presence in countries such as North America (U.S., Canada, and the Rest of North America), Europe (Germany, U.K., France, Spain, Italy, Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Rest of World. North America held the majority share of the market in the year 2023 as people are becoming increasingly more conscious of their health and fitness. There is a shift among consumers to seek innovation involving healthier indulgence products and, therefore, protein ice cream can be seen as a solution that utilizes this protein-enriched indulgence to meet the consumers' needs. The increase in the number of people paying for gym services, health enthusiasts, and the preference for increased protein consumption has boosted demand. Also, such factors as the diversification of products improved taste in these products, and the market penetration in supermarkets and online platforms have also aided in the growth of this market. For instance, in February 2024, U.S.-based Perfect Day partnered with Unilever's Breyers to launch Breyers Lactose-Free Chocolate ice cream made with Perfect Day's dairy protein from fermentation. Thus, amongst areas, North America held a significant share of the market in the year 2023.

Some of the major players operating in the market include Wells Enterprises, Inc.; Wheyhey; Beyond Better Foods, LLC; Danone North America; ARCTIC ZERO, Inc.; Unilever; NADAMOO!; MANGO MENUS; Eden-Peak; Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream, Inc.