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Sourcing Playbook
Nutrition & Supplements

Plant-Based Protein

Complete sourcing guide for Plant-Based Protein including supplier directory, FOB pricing, product specifications, and market validation.

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FOB Price Range

$5.51 - $63.49

Verified Suppliers

5

Sourcing Strategies

2

Product Preview

AI-generated product visualizations for Plant-Based Protein

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Sourcing Playbook: Wholesale Sourcing Overview for Plant-Based Protein

A quick preview of supplier standards, production requirements, and sourcing intelligence from our verified network.

High-density nylon or PU faux leather with reinforced bar-tack stitching
Low-VOC materials, factory airs out products 48 hours before packing
Smooth vegan PU with durable, non-fading finish
Value: 500–1,000 pcs/style, $5.51-$35.2 FOB, 25–35 days
Premium: 200–500 pcs/style, $16.88-$63.49 FOB, 30–45 days
Custom labels/prints may add 7–14 days
Verify label + packaging compliance before ordering
Compare pre-production samples to references
Consider 3rd-party inspection for first-time suppliers

Factory Intelligence

Verified suppliers with years of experience and quality strengths

5 suppliers foundAvg. Response: 1%Avg. Years: 0+
SupplierImagesTierYearsResponseFavoritesKey StrengthsProduct ExpertiseShop RatingsContact
Lutong Youpin (Beijing) Food Co., Ltd.
No. 3, Building 1, Xingfu West Street, Beifang Town, Huairou District, Beijing, Beijing.
Tier 45+0.8%136
Excellent QualityLow ReturnsGood DisputeGood Service
Composite Health ProductsGummiesDog Health Products
Quality
5.0
Returns
5.0
Logistics
4.6
Consult
5.0
Dispute
5.0
Overall
4.5
View contact
Shaanxi Yunhe Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
No. 737, East Section of North Second Ring Road, Weiyang District, Xi'an, Shaanxi.
Tier 45+0%2k
Excellent QualityGood Service
Quality
5.0
Returns
3.7
Logistics
3.7
Consult
4.0
Dispute
3.0
Overall
4.5
View contact
Jiangxi Zhongteng Health Industry Co., Ltd.
Zhangjiashan North Industrial Park, Zhangshu, Yichun, Jiangxi.
Tier 45+0.84%1.2k
Excellent QualityGood DisputeGood Service
Composite Health ProductsProtein Powder Amino AcidsGummies
Quality
5.0
Returns
3.7
Logistics
3.3
Consult
3.0
Dispute
5.0
Overall
4.5
View contact
Hainan Huayan Collagen Technology Co., Ltd.
No. 12, Meifeng Road, Meian Science and Technology New City, Xiuying District, Haikou, Hainan.
Tier 45+0.95%13.8k
Good QualityLow ReturnsGood DisputeGood Service
Protein Powder Amino AcidsOther Instant DrinksOther Biochemicals
Quality
4.3
Returns
4.3
Logistics
3.7
Consult
3.5
Dispute
5.0
Overall
4.5
View contact
Shaanxi Qingya Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
No. 15, Gaoxin 2nd Road, Gaoxin District, Xi'an, Shaanxi.
Tier 45+1%756
Excellent QualityLow ReturnsGood DisputeGood Service
Plant ExtractsIndustrial Plant ExtractsOther Biochemicals
Quality
5.0
Returns
5.0
Logistics
4.1
Consult
5.0
Dispute
5.0
Overall
4.0
View contact

Supplier Intelligence for Plant-Based Protein

0 verified suppliers across 3 manufacturing hubs

Clusters3
Suppliers0
Super Factories0

Average Ratings Across All Suppliers

0.0

Quality

0.0

Logistics

0.0

Returns

0.0

Disputes

0.0

Support

0.0

Overall

Regional Price Comparison

FOB pricing by manufacturing cluster, compare costs across regions

RegionSuppliersMin FOBAvg FOBMax FOB
Bozhou, Anhui1¥75¥75¥75
Jiaozuo, Henan1¥2¥39¥149
Jining, Shandong1¥28¥28¥28

Cluster Intelligence

Analysis reveals Shandong, Jining as a key location for plant-based protein, situated within a broader provincial powerhouse for soy and pea protein production. Other locations such as Henan, Jiaozuo and Anhui, Bozhou represent individual supplier data points that suggest emerging or niche sourcing opportunities outside of established industrial zones.

Shandong, Jining

Best For: Sourcing specialized plant-based proteins like soy and pea isolates. Offers potentially competitive pricing due to the established ecosystem.

Why Strong: Located in Shandong province, a major powerhouse for plant-based protein manufacturing, particularly soy and pea proteins. The region has a strong industrial base and numerous established producers, s...

⚠️ As a single data point within a large province, buyers should verify this specific supplier's capabilities align with the region's strong reputation.

Henan, Jiaozuo

Best For: Exploring alternative or potentially lower-cost sourcing options for general plant-based protein, away from the more concentrated coastal hubs.

Why Strong: Represents a single-supplier data point in a province not widely cited as a primary protein powder hub. This could indicate a niche or specialized producer operating outside of the main industrial clu...

⚠️ Significant price variability was observed, indicating a wide range of product quality, specifications, or formulations. Requires careful vetting and ...

Anhui, Bozhou

Best For: Buyers looking for unique or niche plant-based protein products who are willing to engage with suppliers outside of established clusters.

Why Strong: This is a single data point, suggesting a specialized or emerging supplier. It is not located in a well-known protein manufacturing zone, which could mean a focus on a specific ingredient or formulati...

⚠️ Lack of a surrounding industrial ecosystem means buyers must conduct thorough due diligence on supplier capacity, quality control, and supply chain re...

Verified Suppliers

Top-tier verified manufacturers with quality ratings and capabilities

CompanyTierYearsQualityLogistics
Lutong Youpin (Beijing) Food C...TIER 40+5.04.6
Shaanxi Yunhe Biotechnology Co...TIER 40+5.03.7
Jiangxi Zhongteng Health Indus...TIER 40+5.03.3
Hainan Huayan Collagen Technol...TIER 40+4.33.7
Shaanxi Qingya Biotechnology C...TIER 40+5.04.1
Supplier
Yrs
Rating
Actions

Tip: Click on a supplier row to see detailed ratings breakdown. Ratings above 4.0 indicate reliable suppliers.

Pricing levers and strategies to cut down production cost for Plant-Based Protein Powder

The most significant cost drivers are the protein source (organic/specialty vs. conventional), the complexity of the functional ingredient blend, and third-party certifications. To manage costs, start by optimizing the protein base, then simplify the 'add-in' matrix before considering packaging changes.

Confidence: High
Pricing LeverCost ImpactQuality RiskMOQ ImpactLead TimeNotes
Switch from Organic/Fermented protein to Conventional↓ HighMedium↓ Low↓ LowLoses a key premium marketing claim. Must ensure non-GMO and heavy metal testing.
Use a standard Pea/Rice blend instead of a multi-source blend (e.g., with Pumpkin)↓ MediumLow- None↓ LowSimplifies supply chain. Pea/Rice is a well-accepted, cost-effective complete protein.
Reduce or remove functional ingredients (probiotics, enzymes, adaptogens)↓ Medium–HighMedium- None- NoneReduces product differentiation and perceived value. Start by removing the most expensive add-in.
Opt for standard flavor profiles (e.g., Chocolate, Vanilla) over gourmet versions↓ Low–MediumLow- None↓ LowGourmet flavors often use more expensive raw materials and have higher development costs.
Forego premium certifications (e.g., NSF Certified for Sport)↓ MediumMedium- None↓ HighReduces cost and time-to-market but limits appeal to professional athletes.
Use gusseted pouches instead of rigid canisters↓ MediumMedium- None- NoneLower unit cost and shipping weight, but perceived as less premium. Risk of zipper failure.
Increase MOQ (e.g., from 1k to 5k units)↓ MediumLow↑ High- NoneUnlocks significant price breaks on raw materials and custom-printed packaging.

Key Takeaways

  • Protein source and grade (e.g., Organic Pea Isolate) can account for over 50% of the raw material cost.
  • Each functional ingredient (probiotics, enzymes, vitamins) adds a distinct cost layer.
  • Premium certifications like NSF Certified for Sport significantly increase both initial and ongoing costs.
  • Packaging format (pouch vs. canister) and customization level are major secondary cost drivers.

Ready to formulate your perfect plant-based protein? Submit your project brief and we'll connect you with certified manufacturers that meet your cost and quality targets.

Plant-Based Protein Powder quality risks and defects to look out for

The biggest customer complaints are poor taste, gritty texture, and faulty packaging. These are followed by concerns over ingredient safety (heavy metals) and label accuracy (protein content).

Confidence: High

Gritty / Chalky Texture

Root Cause

Large particle size of protein powders; lack of advanced processing.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require micronized or agglomerated powders. Request a benchmark sample for texture and mouthfeel.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Mix one serving in a shaker with water. Let sit for 1 min. No sediment at the bottom and a smooth (not sandy) mouthfeel.

Artificial / Bad Aftertaste

Root Cause

Low-quality flavorings or sweeteners (e.g., high-rebaudioside A stevia); poor flavor masking of raw ingredients.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Provide a competitor product as a flavor benchmark. Specify sweetener type (e.g., monk fruit/stevia blend).

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Sensory panel tasting of pre-production sample vs. benchmark. Aftertaste should be minimal and not linger.

Heavy Metal Contamination

Root Cause

Raw materials (especially rice and some botanicals) sourced from contaminated soil.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require heavy metal limits (Pb, As, Cd, Hg) compliant with target market (e.g., Prop 65). Ask for raw material CoAs.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Review 3rd-party lab test results for each batch. Ensure levels are below specified maximums.

Inaccurate Protein Content

Root Cause

Low-quality raw materials; poor batch blending; intentional 'protein spiking' with cheaper amino acids.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify protein content per serving (e.g., 22g) with tolerance (±5%). Prohibit amino acid spiking.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Send a sample from each production run to a 3rd-party lab to verify protein content via an official method (e.g., Dumas).

Packaging Zipper Failure

Root Cause

Low-quality, thin plastic zipper tracks on pouches that misalign or break.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify a high-quality press-to-close or slider zipper. Request samples of the exact packaging for testing.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Open and close the zipper on 10 sample bags 20 times each. The zipper should remain functional and aligned.

Microbial Contamination

Root Cause

Poor hygiene during manufacturing (non-GMP); contaminated raw materials; moisture in packaging.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Require manufacturing in a GMP-certified facility. Specify limits for TPC, yeast, mold, E.coli, Salmonella.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Review the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for each batch, ensuring all microbial counts are within acceptable limits.

Clumping / Poor Mixability

Root Cause

Ingredient properties (electrostatic charge); lack of flow agents or instantizing process.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Specify 'instantized' powder and a mixability standard (e.g., 'fully dissolves in 30 seconds in a shaker').

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

Shake one serving with cold water in a clear shaker. No large, dry clumps should remain after 30 seconds.

Missing Scoop

Root Cause

Human error or machine malfunction on the filling line.

What to Specify / Ask Supplier

Scoop must be included in every unit. Ask about their QC process for ensuring scoop inclusion.

QC Check (What "Good" Looks Like)

During an inline production inspection, check a random sample of units post-filling to confirm scoop presence.

Don't leave quality to chance. Source with us and we'll help you build a comprehensive QC checklist and testing protocol to protect your brand and delight your customers.

Ready to Start Sourcing?

Use this data to create your product specifications, reach out to suppliers, and validate your pricing strategy. Start with small sample orders to test quality.

Product Examples from 1688

Real product samples with pricing, MOQ, and supplier ratings

ProductTitleMOQPrice (CNY)Price (USD)
Sale QuantityHow many units sold
OrdersHow many orders in Alibaba/1688
RatingTiered PricingKey FeaturesLinkAction
Soy Protein Isolate Gel Type Meat Products Shansong Soy Protein Isolate SD100 Soy Protein Isolate

Soy Protein Isolate Gel Type Meat Products Shansong Soy Protein Isolate SD100 Soy Protein Isolate

¥18$3.024,1006225.0
  • N/A
ShansongCool and dry place200 mesh
Source Item
American ginseng Reishi mushroom protein nutrition powder 600g double ginseng protein zero sucrose middle-aged and elderly calcium, iron, and zinc nutrition protein

American ginseng Reishi mushroom protein nutrition powder 600g double ginseng protein zero sucrose middle-aged and elderly calcium, iron, and zinc nutrition protein

¥18.98$3.1910,0004315.0
  • 1-47桶: ¥18.98
  • 48-499桶: ¥16.8
  • 500桶-: ¥14.8
JiangxiNo2 years
Source Item
cod collagen peptide raw material small molecule collagen deep sea fish bovine bone soybean collagen peptide raw material

cod collagen peptide raw material small molecule collagen deep sea fish bovine bone soybean collagen peptide raw material

¥99.96$16.798007645.0
  • N/A
BeijingNo2 years
Source Item
Selenium Protein 100Ppm Water-Soluble Food Grade Plant Extract Selenium-Rich Protein Peptide Multi-Specification Manufacturers Supply from Stock

Selenium Protein 100Ppm Water-Soluble Food Grade Plant Extract Selenium-Rich Protein Peptide Multi-Specification Manufacturers Supply from Stock

¥95$15.96501275.0
  • 1-24千克: ¥95
  • 25-49千克: ¥90
  • 50千克-: ¥70
RuimaoOff-white powderKjeldahl method
Source Item
Wheat Hydrolyzed Protein Is Available in Stock, Water-Soluble Plant Protein, Solid Beverage Wheat Hydrolyzed Protein Powder

Wheat Hydrolyzed Protein Is Available in Stock, Water-Soluble Plant Protein, Solid Beverage Wheat Hydrolyzed Protein Powder

¥24$4.038,9001445.0
  • 1-499千克: ¥24
  • 500-999千克: ¥23.5
  • 1000千克-: ¥23
TaithaoCool and dry place100 mesh
Source Item
Pumpkin Seed Protein Qiyuan Bio Spot Free Shipping Pumpkin Seed Extract Water Soluble Pumpkin Seed Protein

Pumpkin Seed Protein Qiyuan Bio Spot Free Shipping Pumpkin Seed Extract Water Soluble Pumpkin Seed Protein

¥108$18.14015.0
  • N/A
Off-white fine powderQiyuan BioHPLC
Source Item
Hainan Huayan walnut peptide powder small molecule oligopeptide raw material powder factory direct wholesale collagen

Hainan Huayan walnut peptide powder small molecule oligopeptide raw material powder factory direct wholesale collagen

¥246$41.33903154.3
  • 1-99kg: ¥280
  • 100-999kg: ¥255
  • 1000kg-: ¥240
HainanNo24 months
Source Item
Soy Protein, Shredded Protein, in a Crumbly State, Can Be Used for Dumpling Fillings, Sausages, and High-Quality Food Grade

Soy Protein, Shredded Protein, in a Crumbly State, Can Be Used for Dumpling Fillings, Sausages, and High-Quality Food Grade

¥15$2.524,800915.0
  • N/A
DomesticDry and ventilated placeSpot supply
Source Item
Cross-Border Oem Customized Protein Powder Protein Powder Whey Protein Powder Amino Acid Pea Protein Powder

Cross-Border Oem Customized Protein Powder Protein Powder Whey Protein Powder Amino Acid Pea Protein Powder

500¥0.3$0.0550015.0
  • N/A
Mainland ChinaNoSc11337050000022
Source Item
Supply Soy Protein Isolate Food Grade Nutritional Strengthening Agent Sd100/Sd300 Mountain Pine Soy Protein Isolate

Supply Soy Protein Isolate Food Grade Nutritional Strengthening Agent Sd100/Sd300 Mountain Pine Soy Protein Isolate

¥26$4.372,30095.0
  • N/A
See ReportMountain PineCool and dry place
Source Item

Sourcing Strategies

Choose from 2 pricing strategies based on your target market

Sourcing Plant-Based Protein: Quality Checklist & Import Guide

This sourcing playbook provides actionable guidance for importing Plant-Based Proteinproducts. Our data-driven approach combines supplier intelligence with market validation to help you make informed purchasing decisions and minimize sourcing risks.

Pre-Order Quality Checklist

  • Request and evaluate product samples
  • Verify factory certifications and audit reports
  • Confirm sizing specifications with measurement charts
  • Review care instructions and labeling requirements
  • Agree on defect tolerance and QC process

📋 Documentation Requirements

  • HS code classification for customs
  • Commercial invoice and packing list
  • Certificate of Origin (COO)
  • Care label compliance documentation
  • Test reports (as required by product type)

🚢 Sea Freight

  • Transit: 25-35 days to US ports
  • Cost-effective for bulk orders over $3,000
  • Include moisture protection for textiles

✈️ Air Freight

  • Transit: 5-7 days door-to-door
  • Best for samples and urgent orders
  • Higher cost per kg but faster to market

Related Archetypes in Protein Powder

Frequently Asked Questions

What payment terms are typical for first orders?

First orders typically require 30-50% deposit with balance before shipment (T/T). As relationships develop, suppliers may offer 30/70 splits or even open terms for established buyers. Letter of Credit (L/C) is available for larger orders but involves additional fees.

How do I handle quality issues after receiving goods?

Document issues with photos immediately upon receipt. Most suppliers offer replacement or credit for legitimate defects within agreed AQL limits. Having clear quality specifications in your purchase order strengthens your position in disputes.

Should I use a third-party inspection service?

Third-party inspection is recommended for first orders and orders over $10,000. Services like SGS or Bureau Veritas cost $200-400 per inspection and can prevent costly quality issues. Pre-shipment inspection is most common; in-line inspection adds additional assurance.

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