Protein craze sparks global whey supply crunch

Food companies are adding whey protein to everything from chips and waffles to coffee drinks as consumers continue to seek high-protein foods.

Popular products such as protein bars, shakes, snacks, and specialty beverages have driven demand for whey protein to record levels.

Whey has become a preferred ingredient because it contains all essential amino acids, mixes easily into foods, and is quickly digested.

Supply struggles
The surge in demand has created supply shortages and driven prices sharply higher. Some suppliers have already sold out of whey protein for the rest of the year, while prices for high-protein whey concentrates have risen more than 40% in recent months. 

Since whey is a byproduct of cheese production, manufacturers cannot easily increase output. Therefore, companies that rely on it are scrambling to secure supplies.

HelloAmino, a Canadian baking and beverage company, recently switched suppliers after its regular source ran out of whey protein. The new supply costs 50% more and even changed the texture of its products, forcing the company to consider new recipes.

As costs climb, many food companies are exploring alternatives such as milk protein concentrate, soy, and pea protein. Industry experts warn consumers may soon see higher prices for protein-enriched foods.

Products containing whey protein have already risen 32% in price over the past four years.