Will Protein Powder Prices Go Up in 2025?

Dairy Based Protein Has Been Skyrocketing

PUBLISHED: 12/12/2024

AUTHOR: ProBody Warehouse ™

Protein powder prices have been climbing steadily over the past few years, leaving many fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers wondering: What’s causing the spike beyond general inflation? To answer this, we need to dig into the root of the issue—starting with the raw material itself.

The Source Of Whey Protein


Whey protein, the most popular and widely used protein in the supplement industry, is a byproduct of dairy. As the second-largest supplier of dairy in the world, the U.S. plays a major role in the global whey protein market. This should, in theory, create stability in pricing. So, what’s the real problem?

1. Supply & Demand Of Protein Powder

Demand Whey protein, categorized as a “dry good,” is in incredibly high demand—not just domestically, but globally. International markets have driven demand to new heights, especially as fitness trends and health consciousness expand worldwide. As demand grows, supply struggles to keep up, pushing prices higher.

2.Market Manipulation Of Protein Powder

Like any commodity, whey protein prices can be influenced by large investors who manipulate supply to control prices. This is similar to what happens in the oil and gas industry. Dry dairy products, including whey protein, are particularly attractive for investors due to their long shelf life and central role in the booming supplement market. This adds another layer of volatility to prices.

3. Export Of Protein Powder

The U.S. is one of the largest producers of whey protein and dry dairy products. Many countries depend on U.S. exports due to the high quality and consistent production standards. This global competition for U.S. whey protein creates upward pressure on prices domestically, as suppliers prioritize the highest bidders in the international market.
Whey protein exports are reducing the available supply for U.S. consumers, leading to higher prices.

4. Other Industries Buying Up Protein Powder

industries outside of the sports nutrition market, including infant formula and medical food producers are offering top dollars to get first dips in the supply, which tightens the supply further. Many of these industries are subsidized by the government, through government assistance or other government funded programs. They will pay top dollar for the protein supply, as they operate on larger profit margins.

Baby formula usually uses Whey Protein Concentrate & Micellar casein in their formulas. They will pay top dollar, but will charge astronomical prices in return.

How To Save On Protein Powder?

With prices climbing, it’s more important than ever to shop smart and make informed decisions. Here are some tips to help you stretch your dollar while still getting quality protein powder:


1. Skip the Big Brands: Big brands may offer credibility, but they also come with a hefty price tag due to large marketing budgets that are factored into the product cost. Smaller, lesser-known brands can often provide the same quality at a lower price.


2. Shop Around: The general price for whey protein (isolate and concentrate blends) is around $10 per pound. If you see it for significantly less, it could either be a great deal or a sign of cheaper, lower-quality protein sources being mixed in. Always compare prices across different retailers.

Side Note: Did you know that during the pandemic the U.S had excess dairy because exports abruptly stopped, this drove protein price down significantly, as many brands were getting the raw material at a lower price. BUT, the only brands that did NOT go down in price were big brands like Optimum Nutrition and Dymatize (which is owned by the cereal tycoon Post). In fact, they went up in price by 12%, while all the other brands (smaller) based on the savings.

Amazon has significantly changed their business model in the sports nutrition category. Get Discounts

3. Choose What Works for You: The best protein is the one your body tolerates well. For example, whey isolate may be highly rated, but if you can’t digest dairy comfortably, it’s not the right choice for you. It might seem like common sense, but many people stick with a product that doesn’t suit them because it was recommended by someone else.

4. Hunt for Deals: Keep an eye out for promotions and specials at supplement stores near you and online retailers. There is always an overstock sale, sales on short dated items, or items that are going through re-branding. Our store locations will usually have monthly specials and weekend specials that we negotiate in advance with the suppliers.

**Pro Tip: Although Amazon is convenient, it’s often not the cheapest source for protein powder. Explore smaller retailers and outlets for better deals.

Rival Whey has been taken more and more market share, without pouring millions in advertising, which kept their price very stable and affordable.

In Conclusion


As 2025 approaches, it’s likely that whey protein prices will continue to rise due to increasing demand and market influences. However, by being an informed shopper and prioritizing quality over branding, you can still find ways to save without sacrificing your fitness goals. Whether it’s skipping the big names, finding protein that works for you, or actively hunting for deals, there are strategies to keep your supplement expenses under control. Start shopping smart today and keep fueling your fitness journey without breaking the bank!


Unfortunately there is no sight of relief, but we are always committed to offering you the most competitive and fair pricing out there. We’ve absorbed once price increase after another, but at some point something has to give. We understand the challenges that these increases present, we truly value your business and appreciate your understanding. Just like yourself, we hope things will improve and things will readjust to something that is more reasonable.

Save Money Every Month With Our Monthly Specials. View Specials

© 2024 ProBody Warehouse - All Rights Reserved.

**These Statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Text Us Today If you have Questions