Whey Protein Prices Hit $13 a Pound as Global Shortages Deepen on Surging Demand

3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 14

U.S. whey protein concentrate with 80% protein now trades above $13 per pound, up 250% from a year ago, as food makers and supplement brands compete for limited supply.
38,708 U.S. supermarket products now advertise protein content, and demand has been further boosted by GLP-1 users seeking nutrient-dense foods that help preserve muscle during weight loss.
47% fewer U.S. exports of 80% whey concentrate and whey isolate went to China from January through April, leaving China to seek more European supply and tightening that market as well.
Consumer prices are already rising: U.S. whey concentrate powder is up about 15% over the past year, while Europe’s 80% concentrate hit a record 26,450 euros per metric ton in late May.
New capacity from Glanbia and Agropur is planned, but meaningful relief is unlikely before 2027, leaving weaker retail demand as the main near-term path to easing shortages.