Global Fava Bean Protein Market Size, Share, And Business Benefit By Product (Fava Bean Protein Isolate, Fava Bean Protein Concentrate, Textured Protein), By Type (Conventional, Organic), By Application (Human Nutrition, Food Processing, Nutraceutical, Animal Feed, Others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Fava Bean Protein Market is expected to be worth around USD 1,149.7 million by 2034, up from USD 624.1 million in 2024, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2025 to 2034. Growing demand for sustainable nutrition continues to strengthen Europe’s 42.10% market share in 2024.

Fava bean protein is a plant-based protein derived from the seeds of the broad bean (also called fava or faba bean). It is rich in essential amino acids and offers a high-quality protein source—studies report protein contents in the bean itself of around 22–38% of the dry seed weight. Because of this, when fractionated and processed into concentrates or isolates, fava bean protein can reach protein levels around 60% or more in ingredient form. It is allergen-friendly (free from dairy, often gluten-free), and displays good functional properties (solubility, foaming, emulsification), making it attractive for incorporation into baked goods, dairy alternatives, meat substitutes, snacks, and cereals.

One of the key growth drivers is rising consumer demand for plant-based proteins, driven by health, environmental, and ethical concerns. As more people adopt vegetarian, vegan, or flexitarian diets, ingredients like fava bean protein offer an appealing alternative to traditional animal proteins. In parallel, advances in extraction and processing technologies are improving the performance (taste, texture, solubility) of fava bean ingredients, making them more suitable for mainstream food and beverage applications. For example, fava bean protein is being used for dairy-free shakes, bakery enrichment, and meat substitutes thanks to its functional and nutritional profile.

In this context, there has been notable funding flowing into the sector: Canada has invested $24 M into a project to create fava bean & mycelium protein ingredients; there’s a non-GMO plant protein ingredient venture that recently raised $35 M; researchers were awarded a US $2.7 million grant to develop the faba bean as a sustainable crop; a fava-bean-based chocolate brand raised US $1.5 M; a plant-based cheese company raised US $20 M in Series A; and a plant protein project lab secured US $500 K in funding. These funding events reflect the growing momentum and industry confidence in fava bean protein.

Demand is being fuelled by food manufacturers seeking clean-label, allergen-friendly, and sustainable protein ingredients. Fava bean protein meets many of these criteria: it comes from a legume that fixes nitrogen (reducing fertilizer need), offers a non-dairy protein source, and supports the trend towards high-protein snacks, bars, bakery, and plant-based meat alternatives. Its favorable amino acid profile and functional performance also make it desirable for formulators. As consumers increasingly look for healthier and more sustainable ingredients, the demand for fava bean protein has grown globally.

The market offers several promising opportunities: one lies in geographic expansion—many regions are still under-penetrated when it comes to fava bean crops, processing infrastructure, and ingredient adoption. Developing local supply chains can open new value chains. Additionally, value-added product innovation (such as high-protein breads, dairy-free yogurts, and meat analogues) presents an opportunity for differentiation in the crowded plant-protein space. Given the funding and research support (including grants and venture capital), there is an opportunity for ingredient suppliers to scale, refine processing (improving taste, texture, and cost-efficiency), and enter new applications, and for food brands to leverage fava bean protein in novel, consumer-friendly formats.

Key Takeaways

• The Global Fava Bean Protein Market is expected to be worth around USD 1,149.7 million by 2034, up from USD 624.1 million in 2024, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% from 2025 to 2034.
• In 2024, fava bean protein isolate held 53.2%, driven by high purity and nutritional value.
• The conventional segment dominated with 87.3%, supported by established cultivation and cost-effective processing advantages.
• The human nutrition segment captured 64.8%, owing to rising adoption in food and beverage formulations.
• The regional market value reached USD 262.7 million, highlighting strong consumer preference for plant proteins.

By Product Analysis

In 2024, fava bean protein isolate dominated 53.2% of the fava bean protein market.

In 2024, Fava Bean Protein Isolate held a dominant market position in the By Product segment of the Fava Bean Protein Market, with a 53.2% share. The isolate form gained strong traction due to its high protein concentration, superior solubility, and excellent functional characteristics in food and beverage formulations. It is widely preferred for its clean taste and ability to blend easily in plant-based meat, dairy alternatives, and nutritional supplements.

The product’s versatility and nutritional density made it a popular choice among manufacturers seeking premium protein sources for high-performance applications. Its rapid adoption reflects the growing demand for refined plant protein ingredients supporting sustainable and high-protein diets globally.

By Type Analysis

The conventional type held a dominant 87.3% share in 2024.

In 2024, Conventional held a dominant market position in the By Type segment of the Fava Bean Protein Market, with an 87.3% share. The dominance of conventional fava bean protein is primarily due to its wider availability, lower production costs, and established supply chains. It is extensively used in bakery, snacks, and plant-based food formulations where cost efficiency and consistent quality are key priorities.

The segment also benefits from large-scale farming practices and easier processing compared to organic variants. Manufacturers prefer conventional fava bean protein for its stable yields and accessibility, enabling large-volume applications across diverse industries focused on affordable and nutritious plant protein solutions.

By Application Analysis

Human Nutrition led the Fava Bean Protein Market with a 64.8% share.

In 2024, Human Nutrition held a dominant market position in the By Application segment of the Fava Bean Protein Market, with a 64.8% share. The segment’s leadership is driven by increasing adoption of fava bean protein in functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements. Its rich amino acid profile, digestibility, and allergen-free nature make it ideal for health-conscious consumers.

The demand for clean-label and sustainable protein sources continues to rise, positioning fava bean protein as a preferred ingredient in high-protein snacks, meal replacements, and plant-based diets. Its role in improving muscle health, satiety, and overall nutrition has further strengthened its integration into human nutrition formulations across global markets.

Key Market Segments

By Product

• Fava Bean Protein Isolate
• Fava Bean Protein Concentrate
• Textured Protein

By Type

• Conventional
• Organic

By Application

• Human Nutrition
• Food Processing
• Nutraceutical
• Animal Feed
• Others

Driving Factors

Rising Demand for Plant-Based Nutrition Globally

A key driving factor for the Fava Bean Protein Market is the surging global demand for sustainable, plant-based nutrition. Consumers are increasingly shifting towards clean-label and eco-friendly protein alternatives that support health and environmental goals. Fava bean protein fits this demand with its rich amino acid profile, digestibility, and allergen-free benefits. Recent funding activities highlight strong industry momentum.

ARTAH Nutrition secured £2.85 million to expand its dietary supplement business, focusing on natural protein formulations. Similarly, nutraceutical startup Laurik raised INR 37 million, boosting research and commercialization of innovative plant-based nutrition products. These investments reflect a growing trend of capital flow into sustainable protein ventures, strengthening the market outlook for fava bean protein as a premium and scalable ingredient choice.

Restraining Factors

High Processing Cost Limits Market Expansion

One major restraining factor for the Fava Bean Protein Market is the high cost of processing and extraction. Producing high-quality fava bean protein isolates or concentrates requires advanced technology, energy-intensive steps, and costly separation equipment. These factors increase overall production costs, making the final product less competitive compared to other plant proteins like soy or pea. Limited large-scale processing facilities also restrict supply and scalability, especially in emerging regions.

Despite growing demand, these economic constraints slow down adoption among food manufacturers. However, new funding in related nutraceutical and functional ingredient sectors — such as Zeus Hygia’s $2.5 million and KÄÄPÄ’s €900k for biotech expansion — shows rising investor confidence that may indirectly improve cost efficiency and technology access for plant-based proteins like fava bean.

Growth Opportunity

Expansion into Emerging Regions and Novel Applications

A major growth opportunity for the fava bean protein market lies in expanding into under-penetrated regions and developing novel applications for the ingredient. With increasing interest in plant-based nutrition, there is a chance to introduce fava bean protein into new geographies and product formats. Highlighting this momentum, an Indian nutraceutical firm raised $30 million for expansion, and a supply-chain platform secured $500,000 in seed funding to scale product development and commercialization.

These investments signal growing support for upstream and downstream innovation, which can help drive adoption of fava bean protein in new food segments like meat analogues, functional snacks, and plant-based dairy. Leveraging this financial backing, manufacturers and ingredient suppliers have an opportunity to build fresh supply chains, improve processing efficiency, and reach new consumer markets globally.

Latest Trends

Growing Focus on Functional and Nutraceutical Products

A key trend in the Fava Bean Protein Market is the growing focus on functional and nutraceutical product innovation. Manufacturers are developing fava bean protein ingredients tailored for dietary supplements, fortified foods, and wellness formulations. Consumers are increasingly seeking functional proteins that support immunity, digestion, and muscle health, driving the integration of fava bean protein into gummies, powders, and bars. This trend is supported by strong funding momentum in the nutraceutical space.

Power Gummies, a leading nutraceutical startup, secured $6 million to expand its product line, followed by an additional $1.2 million investment to scale new health-focused offerings. Such funding highlights the accelerating shift towards functional nutrition, where fava bean protein plays a vital role as a clean, sustainable, and high-quality plant-based ingredient.

Regional Analysis

In 2024, Europe dominated the Fava Bean Protein Market with a 42.10% share.

In 2024, Europe held a dominant position in the Fava Bean Protein Market, capturing a 42.10% share with a market value of USD 262.7 million. The region’s growth is supported by rising consumer demand for sustainable, allergen-free, and plant-based protein ingredients in food, beverage, and nutraceutical applications. European consumers’ strong preference for clean-label and eco-friendly nutrition products has encouraged manufacturers to invest in fava bean processing facilities and functional protein innovations.

North America continues to show steady progress, driven by growing awareness of plant-based diets and high protein consumption trends. The Asia Pacific region is witnessing increasing adoption due to expanding food manufacturing industries and urban dietary shifts toward plant protein sources.

Meanwhile, the Middle East & Africa and Latin America markets are gradually emerging as new growth avenues, supported by dietary diversification and sustainability initiatives promoting alternative protein ingredients across multiple product categories.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

In 2024, AGT Foods and Ingredients maintained a strong position in the global Fava Bean Protein Market through its advanced pulse processing expertise and vertically integrated operations. The company continues to expand its protein ingredient portfolio with a focus on fava bean concentrates and isolates used in bakery, beverage, and meat-alternative applications. Its robust global supply chain, along with investments in sustainable pulse farming, has strengthened its ability to deliver consistent, high-quality protein ingredients meeting clean-label and allergen-free demands.

Alberta Pulse Growers has played a significant role in supporting fava bean production and market development across Canada. The organization promotes research collaborations and farmer education programs to improve crop yields, protein extraction efficiency, and value-added processing. Its efforts in advancing pulse innovation and sustainability are vital in building a reliable raw material base for fava bean protein production in the region.

Cargill, Incorporated, continues to leverage its global food ingredient capabilities to enhance fava bean protein development and applications. With deep expertise in plant-based formulations and protein blending technologies, Cargill focuses on expanding product functionality and sensory appeal in plant-based foods. The company’s investment in innovation centers and sustainable sourcing practices has positioned it as a key enabler in accelerating market adoption of fava bean protein. Collectively, these players are shaping the market through technology integration, sustainability-driven operations, and expanding product portfolios that meet the evolving needs of food, beverage, and nutrition industries worldwide.

Top Key Players in the Market

• AGT Foods and Ingredients
• Alberta Pulse Growers
• Cargill, Incorporated
• Prairie Fava
• Roquette Frères
• Vestkorn Milling AS
• Others

Recent Developments

• In September 2025, APG published its Fall 2025 Pulse Crop News edition, which includes features on field-scale trials of faba beans and emphasises the crop’s role in plant-based protein systems.
• In August 2025, Prairie Fava was awarded a CAD $1.5 million investment from the Canadian federal government via PrairiesCan to support optimization of its processing operations and expand their grower network to meet rising demand for fava-bean ingredients.
• In April 2025, Cargill published its “2025 Protein Profile” report, noting that 61% of consumers reported increasing their protein intake in 2024, up from 48% in 2019.

Report Scope