Rising demand for whey protein may push infant formula prices higher
Experts warn that the surge in whey protein consumption, driven by high-protein diets and weight-loss drugs, could raise the cost of baby formula.
A growing trend of consuming large amounts of protein, combined with the expanding use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, is driving up demand for whey protein concentrate, an essential ingredient in infant formula. Market intelligence firm Expana reports that the price of whey protein concentrate 80 has risen from €11,733 per tonne in July 2025 to €25,875 per tonne. This cost increase is already reflected in a 4.8% rise in the average price of a 750-gram box of formula over the last year.
Dr Vicky Sibson of the First Steps Nutrition Trust cautioned that higher whey prices risk making formula unaffordable for families, noting past evidence of manufacturers passing on input costs. Jose Saiz of Expana added that some producers are reformulating with demineralised whey powder (D90) to manage costs, but demand for that ingredient is also climbing, putting further pressure on prices.
Why it matters
Higher whey costs could make infant formula less affordable for families that rely on it.
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