New benchmark prices for whey proteins launched

DCA Market Intelligence has launched two new weekly benchmark prices for the European dairy ingredients market: Whey Protein Concentrate 80 (WPC80) and Whey Protein Isolate 90 (WPI90). The new benchmarks are being introduced at a time when whey protein markets are attracting increased attention across the dairy supply chain, it says.

Demand for WPC80 remains strong, prices have continued to rise, and buyers in many cases are also facing longer lead times. Producers, for their part, sometimes have to take precautions against overselling. Against that background, the need for reliable and broadly supported benchmark prices has become more urgent.

In the latest assessment on 8 April 2026, WPC80 was priced at €20,250 per metric tonne, while WPI90 was assessed at €25,750 per metric tonne. The benchmarks reflect prevailing price levels for whey protein powders traded within the European market.

Market prices continue to trend upwards, particularly for WPC80. WPI90 is lagging somewhat, as demand is primarily focused on WPC80, which is also the preferred product for dairies due to its higher value per unit. Overall demand remains stronger than supply, driven by the increasing use of high whey protein content in a growing range of products.

At the same time, companies are actively working to expand the global market for whey proteins, for example by targeting growth opportunities in China. The broader trend towards high-protein products is further supported by the rise of GLP-1 related dietary shifts.