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Sports Nutrition Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Product Type (Protein Supplements, Energy Drinks, Energy Bars, Others), By Formulation (Tablets/Capsules, Powder, Liquid), By Distribution Channel (Specialty Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Stores, Fitness Centres), and Regional Analysis, 2024-2031
Pages: 170 | Base Year: 2023 | Release: January 2025 | Author: Versha V.
Sports nutrition is a field of sports medicine that assists athletes engaging in physical activities to reach peak performance, enhance recovery, and maintain overall health through proper nutrition and tailored diet. These products are formulated to provide the right balance of vitamins, proteins, minerals, amino acids, and hydration to meet the energy demands of athletes.
Key products include protein powders, energy bars, sports drinks, supplements, ready-to-drink (RDT) protein beverages, and isotonic drinks powders, designed to optimize performance, reduce injury risk, and support recovery during and after physical activities.
Global sports nutrition market size was valued at USD 44.34 billion in 2023, which is estimated to be valued at USD 47.09 billion in 2024 and reach USD 76.22 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 7.12% from 2024 to 2031.
The market is experiencing significant growth, mainly due to the increasing awareness of diseases such as heart conditions, obesity, cancer, hypertension, and diabetes, which are often linked to sedentary lifestylea. Health-conscious individuals are increasingly seeking products that align with their fitness goals and promote overall well-being.
Major market participants include Glanbia Plc, PepsiCo Inc., Post Holdings Inc., Abbott Laboratories, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., GNC Holdings Inc., The Coca-Cola Company, Nestle SA, Clif Bar & Company, MusclePharm Corporation, Yakult, Quest Nutrition, Reckitt Benckiser Group plc, Hormel Foods Corp., and Z-Konzept.
With the growing adoption of fitness-centric lifestyles, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, who are increasingly prioritizing physical well-being, the demand for sports supplements is likely to grow. The surging consumer demand for nutritional products containing plant-based ingredients and immunity-boosting advantages is further contributing to this growth.
Regulatory frameworks, such as the FDA's Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) in the United States and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidelines, support innovation by ensuring that products meet safety and labelling requirements.
Market Driver
"Rising Sports Participation"
Rising sports participation is expected to propel the growth of the sports nutrition market, as an increasing number of individuals are engaging in physical activities recreationally and professionally. This trend has increased demand for products that enhance performance, recovery, and overall health.
Sports nutrition focuses on improving athletes' skills, strength, speed, endurance, and power, which requires a combination of physical training and proper nutrition to optimize results.
The growing participation of individuals, from beginners to fitness enthusiasts, has led to a higher demand for nutritional supplements, protein powders, energy bars, and hydration products.
As awareness of the importance of nutrition for optimal athletic performance grows, sports nutrition brands are capatalizing on opportunities to cater to a wider consumer base seeking to enhance their athletic performance and maintain an active lifestyle.
Market Challenge
"Consumer Sensitivity to Highly Priced Products"
A major challenge impeding the growth of the sports nutrition industry is consumer sensitivity to high-priced products. Premium sports nutrition products, despite offering superior quality, innovative formulations, or specialized benefits, are often perceived as unaffordable by several consumers.
Price-conscious buyers frequently choose cost-effective alternatives, even at the expense of quality, impacting premium brand sales. This sensitivity is particularly pronounced in developing markets, where disposable incomes are lower and consumers prioritize affordability over perceived value.
To address this challenge, balancing quality and cost by offering smaller packaging sizes, affordable product lines, or subscription discounts can appeal to price-sensitive segments. Additionally, aligning pricing strategies with product differentiation and targeted marketing can effectively address diverse consumer preferences.
Market Trend
"Demand for Vegan-Based Products"
The demand for vegan-based products has emerged as a significant trend in the sports nutrition market, supported by the growing adoption of plant-based diets for ethical, environmental, and health reasons. This trend is expected to continue as consumers increasingly prioritize sustainable, cruelty-free and ethical choices for their health and fitness goals.
With the rising popularity of veganism, plant-based nutrition is becoming a key focus within sports nutrition, prompting manufacturers to introduce plant-based versions of protein bars, powders, and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.
To address concerns over soy-related allergies and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), manufacturers are increasingly using alternative plant-based proteins such as pea, hemp, and rice. These innovations cater to a broader, health-conscious consumer base, positioning the sports nutrition industry for sustained growth.
Segmentation |
Details |
By Product Type |
Protein Supplements |
Energy Drinks | |
Energy Bars | |
Others | |
By Formulation |
Tablets/Capsules |
Powder | |
Liquid | |
By Distribution Channel |
Specialty Stores |
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets | |
Convenience Stores | |
Online Stores | |
Fitness Centers | |
By Region |
North America: U.S., Canada, Mexico |
Europe: France, U.K., Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe | |
Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific | |
Middle East & Africa: Turkey, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa | |
South America: Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America | |
Companies Profiled |
Glanbia Plc, PepsiCo Inc., Post Holdings Inc., Abbott Laboratories, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., GNC Holdings Inc., The Coca-Cola Company, Nestle SA, Clif Bar & Company, MusclePharm Corporation, Yakult, Quest Nutrition, Reckitt Benckiser Group plc, Hormel Foods Corp., and Z-Konzept. |
Market Segmentation:
Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.
The North America sports nutrition market accounted for a significant share of around 36.55% in 2023, valued at USD 16.21 billion. This dominance is reinforced by the strong fitness culture, a high prevalence of health-conscious consumers, and increasing awareness of active lifestyles.
Furthermore, higher disposable income contributes to the growing demand for nutritional supplements. The presence of key market players as Glanbia plc, Mondelēz International, Inc., The Coca-Cola Company, and Abbott Nutrition Inc, along with continuous innovation in product formulations, solidifies the position of the North America market.
Asia Pacific sports nuitrition market is poised to grow at a CAGR of 8.42% through the projection period. The increasing awareness of health and wellbeing, coupled withgovernment initiatives promoting sports activities, has boosted demand for sports nutrition in the region.
The Indian market has witnessed significant growth, largely attributed to the rising fitness consciousness among the youth and the growing popularity of sports as a viable career option.
Japan is contributing significantly to this growth, supported by high consumer engagement and a growing interest in fitness and wellness. The demand for protein supplements, sports drinks, and ready-to-drink protein beverages is particularly strong, driven by an active lifestyle trend and increased awareness of the benefits of sports nutrition.
Additionally, the region is witnessing a notable shift toward natural and organic products, with consumers prioritizing clean labels and functional ingredients. Collaborations between local and international brands and endorsements by prominent athletes are further propelling regional market growth, positioning Asia Pacific as a lucrative opportunity for sports nutrition businesses.
The global sports nutrition market is characterized by a number of participants, including both established corporations and rising organisations. Major companies, such as Nestlé, PepsiCo and Herbalife, dominate the market with their extensive product portfolios, expanded global reach, and strong brand recognition.
These companies invest heavily in research and development to stay ahead of trends such as plant-based nutrition, clean-label products, and functional foods, which align with evolving consumer demands for health, sustainability, and convenience.
Smaller, niche brands are targeting specific consumer segments such as vegan, organic, and allergen-free products. These companies leverage online platforms and direct-to-consumer models to build a loyal customer base and compete with larger players.
Brands constantly introduce new formulations, flavors, and delivery formats such as ready-to-drink products and protein snacks. Additionally, partnerships with athletes, fitness influencers, and sports organizations help boost brand visibility and credibility.
As consumer preferences evolve, competition in the sports nutrition industry remains fierce, with companies striving to offer products that meet diverse health, fitness, and lifestyle needs.
Recent Developments: