Protein Crisps Market Size and Trends

The Protein Crisps Market size was valued at US$ 2.59 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 5.90 Billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5% from 2023 to 2030. Protein crisps are crispy snack foods that are a good source of protein. They provide extra protein, making them ideal snacks for health-conscious consumers or fitness enthusiasts looking to build muscle and manage hunger. The high protein content makes protein crisps more filling and keeps consumers fuller for longer compared to regular potato chips. The protein crisps market is driven by the rising popularity of protein-rich foods, growing health and fitness trends, and increasing demand for nutritious on-the-go snacks.

Protein Crisps Market Trends

Innovative and premium packaging: Premium and standout packaging is emerging as a major trend in the protein crisps market to attract modern consumers. Brands are innovating packaging with features like high-quality printing, clean designs, convenient resealable bags, and pouches. The packaging visually communicates the premium, healthy positioning of the product inside. Tactile textures and matte finishes are also being used to elevate the unboxing experience. See-through packaging enables consumers to view and trust the quality of the crisps. Recyclable and sustainable materials are being adopted to appeal to eco-conscious consumers. Outstanding packaging can boost product visibility on crowded store shelves.
Clean label ingredients: Growing consumer demand for clean label foods is driving the use of simple, natural ingredients in protein crisp production. Consumers want to recognize and trust all the ingredients listed on the label. Protein crisps made with non-GMO ingredients, minimal processing, and natural seasonings appeal strongly to label-scrutinizing consumers. Transparency in the sourcing of ingredients is also valued. Clean label claims like gluten-free, preservative-free, and non-GMO project-verified can enable brands to stand out. A 2022 study by Kerry found over 50% of consumers will switch brands to avoid artificial ingredients. Using real, quality ingredients will thus be critical for protein crisp brands.
Increased snacking occasions: Protein crisps are benefiting from increased snacking occasions beyond the traditional mid-morning or mid-afternoon snacks. Busy, time-starved consumers are snacking more throughout the day to fulfill convenience and nutrition needs. Protein crisps are being consumed early in the morning as an on-the-go breakfast, as pre-workout fuel, a mid-morning hunger fix, an evening hunger pang reliever, and even as evening indulgence snacks. Manufacturers are introducing smaller pack sizes, like single-serve pouches, to cater to different dayparts. According to Mondelez’s State of Snacking survey, 95% of consumers globally snack multiple times a day.
Creative protein sources: The protein crisp category is witnessing innovation in the protein ingredients used beyond the commonly used whey and soy proteins. Crickets, nuts, seeds, legumes, and eggs are emerging as unconventional protein sources for crisps. For instance, Chapul cricket protein crisps, Tros protein cashew crisps, Barebells egg white crisps etc, These creative ingredients cater to adventurous foodies and sustainability-conscious consumers. Combining plant and animal-based proteins also offers unique nutritional profiles. Emerging protein bases allow brands to differentiate with unique value propositions.