MARKET REPORT 66 Alternative Proteins Magazine October 2025 es, including the lack of cold-chain or drying infrastructure, insufficient distribution networks, and limited integration with mainstream feed production systems. These supply chain gaps may restrict market access, particularly in developing regions. 7. Competition from Alternative Inputs Alternative protein sources must compete with other performance-enhancing feed inputs such as feed proteins, amino acid supplementation, enzyme technologies, and plant extract-based functional additives. These can limit the share of protein in certain formulations by offering cheaper or more targeted solutions for animal growth. Despite promising growth projections, the global animal feed protein market faces numerous structural and operational challenges that could limit or delay progress. Overcoming these challenges will be critical to unlocking the full potential of new and sustainable protein sources and ensuring the longterm resilience of global livestock systems. MARKET STATUS BY ANIMAL TYPE The global animal feed proteins market is shaped by the nutritional needs of different animal types, which in turn determine the market's current structure and future opportunities. Each segment— poultry, ruminants, swine, aquaculture, and pet animals—has its own unique production systems and protein requirements. The poultry feed segment holds the largest share of the global animal feed proteins market. This is due to the increasing consumption of chicken meat and eggs worldwide. The most commonly used protein sources in poultry nutrition include soybean meal, corn gluten meal, fish meal, and synthetic amino acids (especially lysine and methionine). In recent years, innovative solutions have emerged with the inclusion of insect meal and fermentation-derived proteins in feed formulations. The high feed conversion ratio of poultry has increased the demand for protein-rich and cost-effective feeds. Both the broiler and layer sectors are increasingly focusing on optimized protein mixtures to enhance growth and egg production. Asia-Pacific (especially China and India), Latin America (especially Brazil), the US, and Europe are the main production and consumption regions in this segment. Ruminant feed is a major consumer of protein sources derived from crops and by-products. Ruminants are able to efficiently utilize lower quality Photo: Aedka Studio | ShutterStock
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