Global Marine-derived Protein Market Size, Share, Report Analysis By Source (Fish-based, Shellfish-based, Algae-based, Others), By Form (Concentrates, Hydrolysates, Isolates), By Distribution Channel (Direct sales, Distributors, Retail, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Marine-derived Protein Market size is expected to be worth around USD 17.2 Billion by 2034, from USD 7.6 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. In 2024, North America held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 37.4% share, holding USD 2.8 Billion revenue.

The marine-derived protein industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and nutritious alternatives to traditional animal-based proteins. Marine proteins, sourced from fish, algae, and crustaceans, offer a rich profile of essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and bioactive peptides, positioning them as valuable components in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and animal feed.

Governmental involvement plays a pivotal role, particularly in India, where the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) drives infrastructure, productivity, and stakeholder empowerment across fisheries. As of July 2025, fisheries development projects amounting to ₹21,274.16 crore have been approved under PMMSY, with ₹17,210.46 crore already allocated to infrastructure enhancements.

Additionally, the state of Odisha launched the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC) in August 2025. This landmark initiative—backed by the state’s science and technology department and the National Institute of Ocean Technology—aims to propel marine biotechnology and blue economy by fostering R&D, nutraceutical development, startup incubation, and marine stewardship along Odisha’s 574 km coastline

Several government initiatives and institutional actions further reinforce the industrial landscape. Under the Union Budget of 2019, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)—known as the Blue Revolution—with a commitment of ₹3,737 crore to modernize fish processing infrastructure, raise production, and align fisheries with farmer‑welfare schemes.

In 2025, the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT) initiated a pilot study—funded by the National Fisheries Development Board under PMMSY—to explore sustainable exploitation of deep‑sea mesopelagic resources. Estimates suggest approximately 2 million tonnes of such resources are available in Indian waters, potentially offering new avenues for fishmeal, nutraceuticals, and bioactive compound production

Key Takeaways

• Marine-derived Protein Market size is expected to be worth around USD 17.2 Billion by 2034, from USD 7.6 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%.
• Fish-based held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 57.2% share in the global marine-derived protein market.
• Concentrates held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 46.8% share in the global marine-derived protein market.
• Direct sales held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 38.9% share in the global marine-derived protein market.
• North America emerged as the leading region in the marine‑derived protein market, securing a substantial 37.4% share—equivalent to approximately USD 2.8 billion.

By Source Analysis

Fish-Based Proteins Dominate with 57.2% Share in 2024 Due to High Nutritional Value and Wide Availability

In 2024, Fish-based held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 57.2% share in the global marine-derived protein market. The strong performance of this segment is largely due to the high nutritional quality of fish protein, which is rich in essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and bioactive peptides. Consumers around the world are increasingly turning to fish-based protein products for health, fitness, and dietary support, especially as interest in clean-label and sustainable nutrition grows.

Fish-based protein is commonly sourced from species like cod, haddock, tuna, and salmon, which are widely available and easily processed into powders, hydrolysates, and isolates. This makes it a versatile option for functional foods, supplements, and sports nutrition. In 2024, the demand was particularly strong in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, where rising health awareness and aging populations are boosting the need for high-quality, digestible protein sources.

By Form Analysis

Protein Concentrates Dominate in 2024 with 46.8% Share Due to Versatility and Balanced Nutritional Profile

In 2024, Concentrates held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 46.8% share in the global marine-derived protein market. Their strong performance is tied to their balance of affordability, nutritional density, and adaptability across various industries, including food, beverages, and nutraceuticals. Marine protein concentrates typically contain a moderate-to-high level of protein—ranging from 50% to 80%—while retaining some of the natural fats and minerals, making them ideal for functional food products where both taste and nutrition matter.

The segment saw a sharp increase in demand throughout 2024, especially in sports nutrition and wellness-focused consumer products, where clean, easily digestible protein sources are becoming essential. Concentrates derived from fish and other marine organisms are being integrated into protein bars, energy shakes, soups, and elderly nutrition products. Their ability to blend well with other ingredients, combined with relatively mild flavor profiles, gives them a competitive edge over isolates or hydrolysates in many mainstream applications.

By Distribution Channel Analysis

Direct Sales Lead Marine Protein Market with 38.9% Share in 2024 Thanks to Bulk Buying and Strong B2B Relationships

In 2024, Direct sales held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 38.9% share in the global marine-derived protein market. This distribution channel gained strong momentum due to its ability to serve bulk orders, establish long-term relationships, and offer customized solutions directly to food manufacturers, supplement brands, and contract formulators. Direct sales allow suppliers to offer tailored pricing, technical support, and product samples—critical factors in industries where formulation accuracy and ingredient reliability matter.

Large-scale buyers such as sports nutrition brands, functional beverage producers, and pharmaceutical companies often prefer direct procurement of marine proteins, especially concentrates and hydrolysates. It not only streamlines the supply chain but also ensures quality control, documentation, and direct communication on product specifications. In 2024, many marine protein suppliers also invested in building specialized sales teams and digital B2B platforms to enhance their direct outreach to clients across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

Key Market Segments

By Source

• Fish-based
• Shellfish-based
• Algae-based
• Others

By Form

• Concentrates
• Hydrolysates
• Isolates

By Distribution Channel

• Direct sales
• Distributors
• Retail
• Others

Emerging Trends

Growth of Marine-Derived Proteins in 2024

This upward trend is driven by the increasing consumer demand for high-quality proteins rich in essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and bioactive compounds. Marine proteins, sourced from fish, shellfish, and algae, are gaining popularity in health-conscious markets due to their nutritional benefits and sustainable sourcing.

Government initiatives are also playing a pivotal role in this growth. For instance, the United States has been actively investing in sustainable aquaculture practices through the National Aquaculture Development Plan, which supports research and development in marine protein extraction technologies. Similarly, Germany allocated €38 million in 2024 to promote sustainable protein transitions, including investments in marine-derived proteins .

Drivers

Government Initiatives Driving the Growth of Marine-Derived Proteins

In India, the government’s commitment to boosting the fisheries sector is evident through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), launched in 2019. This initiative focuses on increasing fish production, enhancing aquaculture productivity, and improving the overall infrastructure of the fisheries sector. The scheme aims to increase fish production to 22 million metric tons by 2024-25 and enhance aquaculture productivity to 5 tons per hectare. Additionally, the PMMSY seeks to increase the Gross Value Added (GVA) contribution of the fisheries sector to 9% by 2024-25.

Further supporting the sector, the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry plays a pivotal role in promoting seafood exports. MPEDA facilitates exporter registration, sets quality standards, liaises with importers, and organizes capacity-building programs, trade fairs, and exhibitions to enhance the global reach of Indian marine products.

The government’s focus on the blue economy is also reflected in initiatives like the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC). Launched in 2025, OMBRIC aims to foster marine biotech research, support startups, and promote sustainable development along Odisha’s coastline. The initiative focuses on areas such as gene discovery, bioremediation, and nutraceuticals, aligning with national development visions and positioning Odisha as a leader in marine biotechnology.

Collectively, these government initiatives provide a conducive environment for the growth of the marine-derived protein industry. By investing in infrastructure, supporting research and development, and promoting exports, the government is facilitating the sector’s expansion and its contribution to sustainable food sources. These efforts not only enhance the availability of marine-derived proteins but also contribute to the overall economic development of coastal regions.

Restraints

Regulatory Challenges and Overfishing

The marine-derived protein industry faces significant challenges stemming from overfishing and complex regulatory landscapes. Overfishing occurs when fish are harvested at rates faster than they can reproduce, leading to the depletion of fish stocks and disruption of marine ecosystems. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in 2017, 34% of global fish stocks were classified as overfished .

This depletion of fish stocks has direct implications for the marine-derived protein industry, which relies heavily on fish and other marine organisms as primary sources. As fish populations decline, the cost and scarcity of raw materials increase, affecting the production and pricing of marine proteins. For instance, the price of Pacific bluefin tuna has seen astronomical increases, with a 278-kilogram tuna selling for over $3 million in January 2019, highlighting the economic pressures caused by overfishing .

Regulatory frameworks aim to manage fish stocks sustainably, but enforcement remains a challenge. The Magnuson–Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act in the United States, for example, has faced criticism for inadequate enforcement and transparency, leading to continued overfishing in certain regions. Similarly, the European Union’s Common Fisheries Policy has been scrutinized for failing to prevent overfishing, despite its objectives to restore fish populations to sustainable levels .

Moreover, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing exacerbates the problem. It is estimated that IUU fishing accounts for up to 30% of the global catch for some high-value species, undermining conservation efforts and depleting fish stocks further . The lack of transparency and traceability in seafood supply chains complicates efforts to combat IUU fishing and ensure sustainable sourcing of marine-derived proteins.

Opportunity

Government Initiatives Fueling Growth in Marine-Derived Proteins

The marine-derived protein industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by a combination of rising consumer demand for sustainable and nutritious food sources and robust government initiatives aimed at enhancing the sector’s infrastructure and capabilities. These proteins, sourced from fish, shellfish, algae, and other marine organisms, are rich in essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and bioactive peptides, making them valuable in human nutrition, animal feed, and industrial applications.

Further supporting the sector, the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry plays a pivotal role in promoting seafood exports. MPEDA facilitates exporter registration, sets quality standards, liaises with importers, and organizes capacity-building programs, trade fairs, and exhibitions to enhance the global reach of Indian marine products. These efforts contribute to the growth of the marine-derived protein industry by expanding market access and ensuring product quality.

The government’s focus on the blue economy is also reflected in initiatives like the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC). Launched in 2025, OMBRIC aims to foster marine biotech research, support startups, and promote sustainable development along Odisha’s coastline. The initiative focuses on areas such as gene discovery, bioremediation, and nutraceuticals, aligning with national development visions and positioning Odisha as a leader in marine biotechnology.

Regional Insights

North America Leads the Marine‑Derived Protein Market with 37.4% Share and USD 2.8 Billion Value in 2024

In 2024, North America emerged as the leading region in the marine‑derived protein market, securing a substantial 37.4% share—equivalent to approximately USD 2.8 billion—of the global market. This strong position is driven by a combination of rising health-consciousness and a demand for sustainable, high-quality protein sources like fish-based concentrates and hydrolysates. Consumers across the U.S. and Canada increasingly seek products rich in omega‑3s and bioactive peptides, not just in supplements but also in functional foods, beverages, and even skincare applications.

Key Regions and Countries Insights

• 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

Aker BioMarine is a global leader in krill-derived marine ingredients. In 2024, it generated USD 199 million in revenue, with krill protein (INVI) gaining traction in sports nutrition and functional foods. The company owns the full supply chain—from Antarctic harvesting to U.S. processing—ensuring sustainability and quality. Its Human Health Ingredients segment grew 25% year-over-year, highlighting strong demand for eco-friendly, marine-based protein alternatives. Aker’s model balances science, traceability, and innovation with responsible marine resource use.

Cargill brings its global scale into the marine protein space, focusing on functional proteins for aquafeed, pet food, and wellness products. Though not solely marine-focused, its vast supply chain and R&D capacity allow it to support fish-based protein innovation. With revenues exceeding USD 170 billion across sectors in 2024, Cargill leverages partnerships and sustainable sourcing strategies to expand its marine-derived protein offerings in North America and beyond, addressing rising consumer interest in sustainable and functional nutrition.

Corbion leads in algae-based marine alternatives, offering omega-rich proteins via fermentation. In 2024, its Health & Nutrition division recorded €290.2 million in revenue—growing 18.5% organically—driven by high demand for algae oils and sustainable proteins. With over 2,300 employees and global operations, Corbion’s marine portfolio supports clean-label and vegan protein trends. Their solutions, like AlgaPrime DHA, are used in food, supplements, and aquafeed, positioning Corbion as a key innovator in plant-based marine-derived protein alternatives.

Top Key Players Outlook

• Aker
• Cargill
• Cellulac
• Corbion
• FMC Corporation
• Biomega
• Corbion NV
• Epax
• SOPROPECHE
• Symrise
• Scanbio Marine Group AS

Recent Industry Developments

As of 2024, FMC Corporation, a global agricultural sciences company, has not publicly disclosed specific involvement in the marine-derived protein sector. Their annual revenue for 2024 was $4.25 billion, a 5% decrease from the previous year, with a net income of $342 million, down 74% from 2023.

Aker BioMarine, a Norwegian biotechnology company, has been a prominent player in the marine-derived protein sector, particularly through its innovative krill-based products. In 2024, the company achieved a revenue of USD 199 million, marking a 1% increase from the previous year.

Report Scope