Lentil Protein a Healthy Option for Health-Conscious People

The Lentil Protein market was valued at US$15.801 million in 2020. Lentils are a member of the legume family and are regarded as an important protein source. Lentils have a high protein and fibre content but a low-fat content. The growing awareness of protein-rich food products is driving up demand for plant protein and, as a result, the growth rate of various types of protein ingredients. Furthermore, in order to achieve economies of scale, food processing companies are increasingly investing in product innovations that necessitate the use of plant-based protein, such as lentil protein. These strategic initiatives not only allow them to expand their product portfolio, but also allow them to expand their regional presence, thereby augmenting the projected growth of the lentil protein market over the next few years. Moreover, the growing awareness of the benefits of vegan products over animal-based products in developed countries is fueling a surge in demand for this product. Consumers are looking for healthier, lower-cost protein sources that will improve their health. Other plant-based protein ingredient sources, such as soy and wheat, are also acceptable protein sources, but they contain gluten and other potentially harmful compounds that may not be suitable for all consumers. Intolerance of soy and protein sources, as well as the prohibition of animal protein in diets, are among the primary factors expected to influence the growth of this market.

Types of Lentils:

Lentils are of two types organic and inorganic. Organic lentils are legumes famous for their ease of preparation, earthy flavour, and high protein content. It is produced using processes without synthetics such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Inorganic lentils, on the other hand, are produced using synthetics. Rising global awareness of organic lentils is one of the factors that is expected to accelerate the growth of the organic food market. Furthermore, rising public concern about the use of hazardous chemicals in agriculture and farming, as well as their negative health effects on consumers, has led to an increase in global demand for organic lentils.

Application of Lentil Protein

Based on application, the lentil protein is divided into animal feed, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and nutraceutical.  Lentil protein powder is high in nutrients and is thought to have numerous health benefits. This powder can also help build muscles, which can be used in conjunction with resistance training. Having a large muscle mass is a popular trend among modern consumers. The highly popular body-building culture has created a market for various supplements, which invariably boosts market growth prospects. Lentil protein is an excellent source of post-workout nutrition for athletes who may struggle to consume other types of protein. Lentil protein producers are eyeing lucrative opportunities in the sports nutrition market. Lentil protein has made its way into the sports nutrition and supplement market as a result of the growing emphasis on health and fitness.

In the global animal feed industry, quality has become increasingly important. Until recently, the industry paid little attention to feed quality; however, the tide has now turned. The industry has been compelled to invest in higher quality feed due to increased awareness of the importance of livestock health and changing consumer perceptions of the quality of food derived from livestock. As a result, the demand for high-quality, nutrient-dense protein ingredients is increasing. Lentils are regarded as an excellent source of protein for livestock, assisting in their proper development and yield. As a result, demand for lentil protein for livestock consumption is expected to increase.

Increasing Consumer Health Awareness:

Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about their health. Synthetic colours and additives add exciting tastes and flavours to food products but have a long-term negative impact on the body. As consumers become more aware of these additives and preservatives, they are choosing healthier food products that will assist them in maintaining good health. The majority of consumers consume functional foods, dietary supplements, and other nutritional supplements. As their consumer bases become more proactive, developed regions such as Europe and North America are increasingly moving toward health consciousness. Because health consciousness is a growing consumer trend, the demand for it is increasing globally.

Consumers prioritise the prevention of chronic diseases, which influences their consumption of health-promoting foods. It is regarded as an important source of nutrients such as protein, vitamins, carbohydrates, and so on. It also has disease-fighting properties.

Regional and Geographical Insights:

On a Geographical note, The European region is expected to hold a significant market share during the forecast period, facilitating subsequent lentil protein market growth. The European Commission acknowledged in its communication titled A Farm to Fork Strategy for a Fair, Healthy, and Environmentally Friendly Food System, published in May 2020, that agriculture is responsible for 10.3% of the EU's GHG emissions, with livestock farming accounting for nearly 70% of those emissions (animal sector). These are non-CO2 GHG emissions (methane and nitrous oxide). Furthermore, animal agriculture consumes 68% of the total agricultural land. To help reduce the environmental and climate impact of animal production, avoid carbon leakage through imports, and support the ongoing transition to more sustainable livestock farming, the Commission will reportedly facilitate the market inclusion and utilisation of sustainable and innovative feed additives. It will reportedly examine EU rules to aid in the reduction of reliance on critical feed materials, such as soy grown on deforested land, by fostering EU-grown plant proteins as well as other alternative feed materials. Furthermore, the commission reportedly proposes to spend EUR 10 billion on research and innovation (R&I) to accelerate the transition from primary production to consumption of sustainable, healthy, and inclusive food systems. One of the key research areas has been reported to include, among other things, increasing the availability and source of alternative proteins based on plants. As a result, such an international initiative will unquestionably create a favourable environment for the growth of the lentil protein market during the forecast period.