ADM Launches Eight New Functional Protein Ingredients

In May 2026, Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), a prominent global leader in human and animal nutrition, introduced eight new plant-based protein ingredients across North America and Europe.

This expansion utilizes advanced food science to enhance the texture, solubility, and overall nutritional profiles of alternative proteins, enabling commercial food manufacturers to satisfy the rising global consumer demand for clean-tasting and highly diversified protein options. The strategic rollout of products introduces specialized additions to ADM’s well-established ProFam and Arcon ingredient portfolios.

Among the key highlights is ProFam® 883, a highly soluble soy protein isolate specifically formulated to achieve a clean sensory profile in protein-dense beverages and powdered formulations. In conjunction with this, the company has unveiled ProFam® 894, an isolate designed to effectively replicate the mouthfeel and structural thickness required in high-quality dairy alternatives, including Greek-style plant-based yogurts and emulsified nutritional beverages.

In addition to innovations within the dairy and beverage sectors, this expansion addresses essential performance parameters in the savory and processed meat markets through the introduction of functional soy protein concentrates under the Arcon brand. Formulations such as Arcon® IH, Arcon® SB, and Arcon® 412 are optimized for water retention, juiciness, and cooking yields, particularly for intensive meat applications including sausages, deli meats, and meat alternative patties.

Complementing these soy-derived solutions, the multinational ingredients manufacturer has introduced a novel Pea Flour designed as a clean-label, allergen-friendly, and non-GMO texturizer suitable for cereals, batters, and industrial baked goods. For the European market, ADM has launched European-sourced Arcon® R and European-sourced Arcon® T soy protein concentrates, which target meat alternatives, bakery applications, and dry extrusion.

Impact on the Protein Ingredients Market

The global protein ingredients market size was USD 88.57 billion in 2025, estimated at USD 93.62 billion in 2026, and is expected to reach around USD 153.45 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 5.65% from 2026 to 2035.

According to precedence research, ADM’s launch of protein ingredients is positively impacting the protein ingredients industry. Demand for plant-based protein sources, including pea and soy protein, is growing due to rising adoption of vegan and flexitarian lifestyles. 

This massive commercial launch is supported directly by proprietary ADM consumer research showing that 66% of global consumers are increasing their protein intake, while 86% believe that taking protein from multiple, varied sources is basically healthier. By improving taste, texture and nutritional value, the company aims to enable its consumers to bring differentiated products to market more efficiently.

Impact on the Alternative Protein Market

The global alternative protein market size was calculated at USD 18.02 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach around USD 38.91 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 8% from 2026 to 2035.

According to precedence research, ADM’s launch of plant-based protein ingredients is benefiting the alternative protein industry. Various factors such as health advantages, environmental sustainability, ethical issues, and technical breakthroughs in food production are contributing to the rising popularity of these proteins.

Ongoing efforts in soy and pea protein development are created to offer functional, high-performing ingredients that help a wide range of applications, from meat alternatives, extensions and hybrids or blends to dairy alternatives, bakery items, beverages, snacks and specialized nutrition products. 

Greg Dodson, Vice President of Protein for North America at ADM, noted that the current nutritional landscape needs unprecedented variety, functionality, and formulation choices. With the launch of new ingredients and expanding capabilities in facilities across the world, ADM is uniquely positioned to not only meet that demand at scale, but also to help shape the future of protein innovation.

About Company

ADM harnesses the power of nature to enhance the quality of life. The company serves as a vital global agricultural supply chain manager and processor, ensuring food security by connecting local needs with global capabilities. As a premier provider of human and animal nutrition, ADM offers one of the industry’s most extensive portfolios of ingredients and solutions derived from nature. The organization is at the forefront of health and well-being, providing industry-leading products aimed at consumers seeking healthier lifestyle options. Furthermore, ADM is recognized as a cutting-edge innovator, guiding advancements toward new bio-based consumer and industrial solutions while spearheading sustainability efforts that support a robust agricultural sector, resilient supply chains, and an expanding bioeconomy. Globally, ADM's expertise and innovative approach are meeting critical needs from harvest to home.