Key facts
- The 'proteinmaxxing' trend and demand for GLP-1 weight-loss drugs are increasing whey protein prices.
- Whey protein concentrate 80 prices have more than doubled in the past year.
- The average price of baby formula in the UK has increased by 4.8% over the last year.
- Experts warn that infant formula manufacturers may need to pass higher ingredient costs onto consumers.
- A UK public health charity highlights concerns about formula affordability and harmful coping strategies used by families.
- High profit margins in the infant formula industry have been previously noted by the Competition and Markets Authority.
Experts are warning that the growing trend of 'proteinmaxxing,' where individuals aim to consume maximum protein, could lead to increased prices for infant formula. This trend, combined with the rising popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss medications that suppress appetite, has significantly boosted demand for whey protein, a key ingredient in infant formula.
Whey protein concentrate 80, a vital component used to mimic human breast milk in infant formula, has seen its price more than double, reaching €25,875 per metric tonne. This surge in ingredient costs is putting pressure on infant formula manufacturers, who have historically passed on such increases to consumers, as noted by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
The average price of baby formula in the UK has already climbed by 4.8% in the past year. Dr. Vicky Sibson of the First Steps Nutrition Trust expressed concern, stating that significant price hikes in whey protein risk making formula unaffordable for many families. She highlighted that some families already struggle and resort to potentially harmful practices like watering down feeds.
To mitigate costs, some manufacturers are reformulating products to use more demineralised whey powder (D90), which has also seen a sharp rise in demand and price. Industry insiders report that current whey protein prices are becoming economically unsustainable at existing retail price levels, suggesting further consumer price increases are likely unless raw material costs decrease.