By Jamie Martin
The rise of plant-based proteins is reshaping the global food economy and creating new possibilities for agriculture. The plant-based protein sector is expected to grow to $43 billion by 2034, nearly doubling its current market size. Pea protein shows especially rapid expansion, with forecasts suggesting annual growth of almost 20% and a market value exceeding $15 billion by 2034. This increase is driven by consumers who want protein sources that support both sustainability and affordability.
“Plant-based demand is no longer a niche trend; it’s a structural transformation in how the world sources and consumes protein,” said Kurt Haarmann, President and CEO of Columbia Grain International (CGI), a leading U.S. originator and processor of grains, pulses, oilseeds, and specialty crops serving global food and feed markets. “As the market matures, quality, traceability, and logistics are replacing novelty as the competitive edge. That’s where our network and infrastructure provide real value.”
This shift is encouraging many farmers and processors to explore pulse crops as a reliable alternative to traditional row crops. Industry leaders observe that plant-based demand has moved beyond short-term interest and has become a major global trend. As markets grow, companies now focus on quality, supply consistency, and strong logistics to meet consumer expectations. These priorities help ensure that American-grown pulses reach food manufacturers efficiently.
Long-term agricultural projections show gradual declines in planted acres for several major field crops. Only soybeans are expected to show slight growth after the 2025–2026 crop year. This signals expanding opportunities for pulse crops, which fit well into sustainable crop rotations and offer markets with steady demand.
Consumer interest in plant-based foods continues to increase. Recent reports show that plant-based food sales in the United States are growing faster than overall grocery sales, reflecting broader acceptance of plant-based options. Global research predicts that plant-based foods could make up nearly 8% of the total protein market by 2030. These trends are contributing to new investments in pulse processing facilities, technology, and transportation systems.
With strong production capacity, experienced farmers, and established export routes, the United States is well-prepared to play a leading role in the plant-based protein economy. Companies involved in grain and pulse processing note that this moment marks an important shift for the industry. By expanding processing networks and continuing to work closely with growers, pulse suppliers are helping to shape a modern, sustainable, and diverse protein supply chain that meets global needs.
Photo Credit: pixabay-ruslanababenko
Categories: National