Whey protein prices surge as weight-loss drug use drives global demand
8 reported
The growing popularity of weight-loss drugs has fueled global demand for whey protein, raising concerns among industry experts about a potential shortage. Prices for food-grade whey powder in north-west Europe have risen to approximately €1,700 per tonne, the highest on record, and have increased more than 50% since the start of the year, according to DCA Market Intelligence data. Data from commodity intelligence platform Vesper shows the price of a tonne of whey protein with 80% concentrate has risen from £4,302 in June 2023 to £23,751 in June 2026. The demand is driven by the use of GLP-1 drugs such as Mounjaro, which often require higher protein intake to preserve muscle mass, as well as broader health advice emphasizing protein consumption. Some suppliers are already sold out for the rest of 2026, and one manufacturer is expected to stop producing whey protein concentrate 34% after the summer, further reducing availability. Small businesses report struggling with soaring costs and limited supply, with one founder noting that prices have doubled compared to the previous quarter.
What’s reported
The price of whey has risen fivefold to record levels.
Food-grade whey powder in north-west Europe costs approximately €1,700 per tonne, the highest on record.
Prices have increased more than 50% since the start of 2026, per DCA Market Intelligence.
Vesper data shows whey protein concentrate 80% rose from £4,302 per tonne in June 2023 to £23,751 in June 2026.
GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro require higher protein intake to preserve muscle mass.
Some suppliers are sold out for the rest of 2026.
One manufacturer is expected to stop producing WPC 34% after the summer.
Small business founder Erika Tamayo reported buying whey at double the cost compared to the previous quarter.
Key figures
Jasper Endlich, analyst at Vesper
Erika Tamayo, founder of the protein brand Hermosa
Sources: The Guardian
