Danone is introducing a high-protein variation of its Silk brand in an effort to reignite interest in plant-based dairy and address a gap in the market, according to the food giant.
Protein has become a popular ingredient in the U.S., with companies incorporating it into a variety of products. However, only a small percentage of protein-focused innovations are in the plant-based drinks category, presenting an opportunity for Silk, as noted by Danone.
Silk Protein offers 50% more protein per serving and half the sugar compared to traditional dairy milk. It contains 13 grams of complete plant protein, the highest among refrigerated plant-based milk options, along with 3 grams of fiber and no artificial sweeteners.
Wendy Nunnelley, president of plant-based for Danone North America, stated that a large percentage of consumers are increasing their protein intake, while many are already consuming plant-based dairy alternatives regularly. This overlap created an ideal opportunity for Silk Protein to enter the market.
“We see a gap in the market for a high-quality plant-based, protein-rich offering that meets consumer demand,” Nunnelley explained. “Consumers are increasingly prioritizing protein in their diets.”
The functional benefits of the drink, combined with the limited options in the market, are expected to boost Silk Protein and revitalize the struggling plant-based milk sector.
U.S. retail sales of plant-based milk in 2024 totaled $2.5 billion, experiencing a 5% decline from the previous year. Despite this, recent price increases have mitigated the decline in unit sales, which have been decreasing annually.
During its third-quarter earnings report, Danone acknowledged that the plant-based sector in North America is still evolving. Economic pressures and other factors have intensified challenges in the plant-based space, although the percentage of U.S. households using dairy alternatives has increased.
Silk Protein will launch regionally this month in original and chocolate flavors, with a national rollout planned for early 2026.
Danone’s focus on protein extends beyond Silk Protein, with recent introductions including an Oikos yogurt drink targeted at GLP-1 users and high-protein shakes.
A Danone executive mentioned challenges in meeting demand for high-protein yogurts due to manufacturing constraints in the U.S.