Leading Top 20 Companies in the Wheat Protein Market in 2025

Protein powders are becoming more popular as a means to maintain a healthy lifestyle, controlling weight, and reaching fitness objectives. Lactose intolerance and worries regarding the environmental effects of the dairy sector have spurred a shift towards plant-based substitutes. Wheat has served as a significant protein source for humans since our ancestors transitioned from a hunter-gatherer way of life to agriculture. Wheat protein, mainly extracted from wheat gluten, is extensively utilized in food, beverages, animal feed, and personal care items because of its functional attributes and elevated protein levels.

As consumer interest in vegan and vegetarian diets rises, the market is experiencing consistent growth. This blog explores the major trends influencing the wheat protein market, its uses, and the top firms leading innovation and growth in this field.

What Is Wheat Protein?

Wheat protein, also referred to as wheat gluten, is a plant-derived protein that originates from the seeds of the wheat plant. It is a crucial component in various foods, such as baked items, meat substitutes, and snacks. Wheat protein is obtained from wheat flour by combining it with water to create a dough, which is then washed to eliminate the starch. The gluten, which is high in protein and left after washing, can be dried and utilized in several uses. Wheat protein is utilized in noodles, Chinese appetizers, Japanese and Western sweets, processed meat products, and baked items to enhance dough elasticity and volume.

Different Types of Wheat Protein

1. Wheat Gluten

Wheat gluten is a protein found in wheat that is used as a binding agent and flavoring in many foods. It's also known as seitan. Gluten is used in many foods, including bread, pasta, cereals, sauces, gravies, and baked goods. It also helps bind processed foods together and gives them shape. Wheat gluten is high in protein and low in carbs and fat and is a good source of minerals, especially selenium and iron.

2. Wheat Protein Isolate

Wheat protein isolate (WPI) is a protein powder made from wheat flour that has been processed to remove other components like starch, fat, and fiber. It's used in many foods, including breads, tortillas, and baby food. Commercial WPI powders usually have a protein content of at least 90% and a moisture content of around 6%.

3. Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein

Hydrolyzed wheat protein is a broken-down form of wheat protein that's used in cosmetics and food. It's also known as HWP. In cosmetics, it's used in hair care products like shampoos and conditioners and skin care products like moisturizers and serums. In food, it's used as a functional ingredient because of its emulsifying and foaming properties.

4. Textured Wheat Protein

Textured wheat protein (TWP) is a plant-based protein that's used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan recipes. It's a dry, shredded, unflavored ingredient that mimics the texture of meat when rehydrated. TWP is used in plant-based meat alternatives to mimic the texture and mouthfeel of real meat. It plays a crucial role in vegan and vegetarian food formulations.

Major Companies Producing Wheat Protein

1. Cargill, Incorporated

Founded: 1865

Headquarters: Minnetonka, Minnesota, USA

Cargill is a global producer and distributor of agricultural products. It is a global leader in wheat protein and other plant-based proteins. The company provides wheat protein ingredients to food and beverage manufacturers. Cargill's wheat protein is used in bars, beverages, bakery products, and meat alternatives. Cargill's wheat gluten is used to boost protein levels in flour and to stabilize dough in sweet baked goods.

2. Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)

Founded: 1902 (Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA)

Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, USA

ADM is a multinational food processing and commodities trading corporation. It produces a variety of wheat proteins, including isolates, concentrates, and powders. These proteins are used in many applications, such as meat alternatives, baked goods, and cereal products. Some of its products include Prolite 100, Prolite 200, SmartBind, and Nutriance.

3. Roquette Frères

Founded: 1933

Headquarters: Lestrem, France

Roquette Frères is a company that supplies wheat protein and other plant-based proteins. They have a registered trademark for their wheat protein, VITEN. Roquette operates in more than 100 countries. Roquette’s wheat protein is high in protein, highly digestible, has good binding and textural properties, and has a high water absorption capacity.

4. Manildra Group

Founded: 1952

Headquartered: Gladesville, New South Wales, Australia

The Manildra Group is a worldwide leader in manufacturing wheat proteins and essential wheat gluten. They utilize wheat proteins in numerous applications, such as baking, food production, and pet nutrition. Manildra Group's vital wheat gluten is used in commercial fish feed and pet food. Manildra Group's vital wheat gluten is used in weight management bars, beverages, and nutritional beverages. It also helps dough retain gas, which improves the texture of baked goods.

5. MGP Ingredients, Inc.

Established: 1941

Headquarters: Atchison, Kansas, USA

The company is a public company in the food and beverage industry. MGP Ingredients specializes in whiskey, rye whiskey, wheat protein, bourbon, wheat starch, plant-based textured protein, fiber, gin, and GNS. The list of their products includes FP 600, Arise Wheat Protein Isolates, Proterra Wheat, and Pea Proteins. It has a team of food and grain science experts. Their focus on research and development ensures premium-quality wheat protein products.

Major Trends in Wheat Protein Market

• Expansion of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: The increasing popularity of plant-based diets has led to a surge in demand for textured wheat protein in meat substitutes. Companies are innovating to improve the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of wheat-based meat alternatives.
• Rising Consumer Awareness of Sustainable Ingredients: Consumer awareness of the sustainability and health benefits of plant-based proteins has led to a rise in demand for wheat protein. Wheat protein is a popular meat substitute that's versatile and nutritious.
• Growth in Sports Nutrition and Functional Foods: Wheat protein isolates and hydrolyzed wheat proteins are increasingly used in protein bars, shakes, and functional beverages. The demand for clean-label protein sources in the fitness industry is driving new product development.

Conclusion

The wheat protein market is witnessing substantial growth, fueled by the demand for plant-based proteins, clean-label ingredients, and sustainable food solutions. With its diverse applications in food, beverages, personal care, and sports nutrition, wheat protein is becoming a key ingredient in various industries. Although challenges exist, ongoing technological advancements and the rising popularity of plant-based diets will continue to drive the market forward.