Extruded protein crispies market seen reaching $0.46 billion by 2031

MarketsandMarkets put the extruded protein crispies and inclusions market at $0.46 billion by 2031, a forecast that tracks protein as a texture play as much as a nutrition claim. The July 23, 2026 release pegged the market at $0.29 billion in 2026, with a 9.9% compound annual growth rate through 2031. These are not finished snacks or bars; they are the crunchy building blocks folded into bars, cereals, baked goods, granola, breakfast foods and dessert-style snacks.

The report, cataloged as FB 10576 and published in July 2026, fits a broader shift in food and beverage formulation. MarketsandMarkets says the consumer F&B industry is seeing a paradigm shift as manufacturers respond to changing consumer interests and lifestyles, and protein is now expected in more enjoyable, snackable formats rather than only powders and shakes. In that context, extruded crispies do more than add protein. They help brands make products feel lighter, crunchier and more premium while keeping a protein-forward label.

That function matters because high-protein products often fight dryness, chalkiness and aftertaste. Crispies and inclusions give formulators another route around those problems, especially in layered bars, clusters and other multi-component systems where mouthfeel can make or break repeat purchase. The ingredient also helps with shelf stability and visual interest, two qualities that matter when a bar or cereal has to look as good as it tastes.

Suppliers are leaning into that role. PGP International says its extruded grain and protein crisps can provide up to 90% protein fortification, along with clean flavor profiles, added crunch, visual differentiation and customization for nutritional, manufacturing and labeling requirements. Balchem describes its protein crisps as a capability-driven portfolio of extruded protein inclusions built to deliver crunch, structure and consumer-friendly texture. MarketsandMarkets’ company insight snippet names PGP International of the United States and Glanbia plc of Ireland as leading players, while a report-associated company list also names ADM, Balchem Corp., Actus Nutrition and Fontterra. The forecast suggests the next round of protein growth is being built ingredient by ingredient, not just brand by brand.