U.S. whey protein demand rises as cheese byproduct supply tightens

U.S. producers of whey protein concentrate report shortages and unfilled orders as demand has risen sharply over the past five years. The increase coincides with wider use of protein supplements and the popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound. A 2025 survey of 3,000 U.S. adults found 71 percent trying to eat more protein, up from 59 percent in 2022.

Supply constraints and price changes Whey is the liquid that separates from curds during cheesemaking. It was previously used as animal feed or fertilizer and is now filtered, purified and dried into powder. Dean Sommers, a cheese and food technologist at the University of Wisconsin’s Center for Dairy Research, said there are shortages and that demand exceeds available supply.

Some manufacturers are installing new equipment and building additional facilities. Prices of whey protein concentrates have risen as much as fivefold in recent years and increased as much as 83 percent in the last two years.

, said whey protein now accounts for a larger share of farmer revenue than before. Stable cheese demand alongside rising whey demand could lead to excess cheese output. Dairy boards have increased exports to Latin America, China and Pacific Islands to balance production.

Some manufacturers are shifting from cheddar to cottage cheese and yogurt production. Alex Sullivan, a 41-year-old taking Tirzepatide, said he increased protein intake to limit muscle loss while using the medication. Ian Neeland, a Cleveland cardiologist, said muscle synthesis plateaus after roughly 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.