Food Packaging Market Size, Companies, Growth Rate | 6.4%

Food Packaging Market Size (USD 659.80 Bn) by 2032

The report covers Food Packaging Market Size, Companies and Segments: By Material: Plastics, Paper & Paper-based, Glass, Metal, Others; By Type: Semi-rigid, Rigid, Flexible; By Application: Dairy Products, Bakery & Confectionary, Fruits & Vegetables, Sauces & Dressings, Meat, Poultry & Seafood, Others; By Regional Outlook: North America (U.S., Canada), Europe (U.K., Germany, France), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, South Korea), Rest of the World. The report offers the value (in USD Billion) for the above segments.

The global food packaging market size was valued at USD 356.5 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 659.80 Billion by 2032 and is poised to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% during the forecast period 2023 to 2032.

Food Packaging Market Statistics 2023 To 2032

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Food packaging has evolved into a crucial and integral part of our daily lives, especially in light of the global trend of urbanization. A simple rationale drives this phenomenon. As the urban population comprises approximately half of the world's population, cities cannot provide the necessary land and environment for agricultural development. Consequently, food must be processed, packaged, and available on supermarket shelves for urban dwellers to conveniently purchase. This convenient choice aligns well with the fast-paced lifestyles of city residents, facilitating their access to food amidst their busy routines.

Adequate food packaging plays a pivotal role in enhancing the cleanliness and freshness of food while also providing valuable branding opportunities for food manufacturers. Furthermore, it serves as a crucial tool in preventing food spoilage and extending the shelf life of products, thereby minimizing food waste. It is disheartening to note that approximately 1.3 billion tons of food is wasted annually globally, which could otherwise be utilized to feed the 1 billion people experiencing food scarcity. Implementing efficient food packaging strategies can significantly reduce this wastage and address food security challenges worldwide.

As per data provided by the World Packaging Organization (WPO), the global packaging industry generates a turnover exceeding $500 billion, with food packaging being a significant sector. However, food packaging is influenced by local food preferences and cultural norms in different regions and countries.

In the case of Japan, consumers have a strong aversion to inadequate packaging, where even minor creases or flaws on the packaging can result in the rejection of supermarket food products. The importance of fish and seafood in the Japanese diet makes ensuring these items remain fresh and protected from spoilage crucial. Food packaging typically includes a small bag of starch polymer or silica gel to absorb moisture and preserve product quality. This practice aligns with Japanese consumer expectations.

On the other hand, European consumers hold a different perspective. They tend to be sceptical about the use of moisture absorption agents within food packaging, and the presence of such agents might raise suspicions about the food itself. European consumers may perceive it as an unnecessary addition and question packaged food's need for moisture control.

These divergent preferences highlight the importance of understanding and adapting to local consumer preferences regarding food packaging. Packaging strategies must consider cultural nuances and consumer expectations specific to each region to ensure product acceptance and success in the market. Customizing packaging solutions to align with local preferences is vital for establishing trust, meeting consumer demands, and effectively marketing food products in different countries and regions.

The food packaging industry has witnessed the introduction of several new and high technologies that are revolutionizing the field. One notable advancement is the development of the Internet of Things (IoT), which enables the integration of chips, sensors, and electronic label printing into traditional packaging practices.

In the coming years, "intelligent" or "active" packaging will be crucial in reducing food waste. These innovative packaging solutions are a response to global efforts by experts to devise new methods of informing customers about the perishability of food and protecting against spoilage. Such systems can display the current state of a product and simultaneously extend its shelf life through oxygen absorbers or specialized acids.

  • For instance, Sonoco, an American company, is currently working on packaging designs that incorporate microchips capable of collecting vital information about the condition of a product, including moisture and temperature levels. When pre-programmed thresholds are exceeded or fall below the target, these intelligent packages raise the alarm, notifying consumers or relevant stakeholders about potential issues with the product.

Integrating IoT technologies and intelligent packaging holds immense potential for enhancing food safety, reducing waste, and improving the overall consumer experience. By providing real-time data on product condition and implementing active measures to maintain freshness, these advancements contribute to better supply chain management and more informed consumer decision-making.

As technology evolves, the food packaging industry can leverage these advancements to create sustainable packaging solutions prioritizing food quality, safety, and waste reduction.

The Asia-Pacific region has captured the largest market share in the global food packaging industry, demonstrating its dominant position and significant contribution to the overall market.

The Indian food packaging market is projected to experience a steady growth rate of 12.60% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2022 to 2027. This growth can be attributed to the rising demand for food packaging from processed food, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. The industry plays a crucial role in driving technological advancements and innovation, benefiting multiple manufacturing sectors. Factors such as a growing population, increasing disposable income levels, and evolving lifestyles are expected to boost consumption across various industries, consequently driving the demand for packaging product solutions.

  • In November 2021, the Indian government introduced the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme to encourage local manufacturing and boost exports in ten sectors, including packaging. This scheme aims to provide financial incentives and support to domestic manufacturers, fostering their competitiveness in the global market. By incentivizing local production, the government seeks to enhance the packaging industry's manufacturing capabilities and export potential, driving economic growth and promoting self-sufficiency in the sector. The PLI scheme is expected to attract investments, promote technological advancements, and create employment opportunities, thereby strengthening the packaging industry in India.

Implementing Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) initiatives and strategic structural reforms is anticipated to enhance significant growth opportunities within the packaging industry in India. These measures aim to bolster domestic production capabilities, reduce import dependence, and create a favourable business environment. As a result, the industry is poised to experience significant expansion, attracting domestic and international investments. The focus on self-sufficiency and the implementation of streamlined reforms will contribute to the overall growth trajectory of the packaging sector in India, fostering increased competitiveness and driving sustainable development.

According to the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP), there has been a substantial surge in packaging consumption in India, with a remarkable growth rate of nearly 200% over the past decade. This data highlights the increasing demand for packaging solutions across various industries within the Indian market. The significant rise in packaging consumption can be attributed to several factors, including the expansion of e-commerce, urbanization, changing consumer preferences, and the economy's overall growth. This upward trend presents significant opportunities for businesses operating in the packaging industry, as they can tap into this burgeoning market and develop innovative packaging solutions to cater to the evolving needs of Indian consumers.

The rapid proliferation of internet and television media in rural areas significantly contributes to the surge in demand for packaged products. This increasing connectivity has led to greater exposure and information access, influencing consumer preferences and purchasing behaviour. Rural residents, now more than ever, have access to a plethora of product choices through online platforms and television advertisements, resulting in a heightened demand for conveniently packaged goods. This trend presents a lucrative opportunity for businesses in the packaging industry to capitalize on the growing rural market. By aligning their strategies with the evolving media landscape, companies can effectively market and promote their packaged products to rural consumers, thus tapping into this expanding market segment and driving further growth.

In recent years, the food packaging industry in India has undergone significant transformations driven by various trends and innovations. One notable trend is adopting environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging solutions, including bioplastics, paper-based packaging, and compostable materials.

Another emerging trend in the food packaging industry is the rising demand for convenience and ready-to-eat food products. This shift in consumer preferences has sparked the development of innovative packaging solutions, including microwavable pouches, resealable trays, and shelf-stable packaging. Furthermore, intelligent packaging technologies like RFID tags, QR codes, and smart labels are gaining popularity. These technologies enable consumers to access valuable information about the product, including its origin, ingredients, and nutritional value, enhancing transparency and consumer engagement.

Although the food packaging industry in India offers substantial growth prospects, it also encounters various challenges. These include the need for standardized packaging materials, insufficient recycling, waste management infrastructure, and the high expenses associated with packaging equipment and technology. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted global supply chains, leading to increased raw materials and transportation costs. These circumstances present additional hurdles for the industry to overcome.

However, amidst the challenges, several opportunities await players in the food packaging industry in India. Firstly, a growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions presents a chance for companies to capitalize on this market trend. Additionally, the rapid expansion of e-commerce and online food delivery services opens up avenues for innovative packaging solutions that cater to the specific needs of these channels. Moreover, consumers' rising disposable income and evolving lifestyles provide an opportunity to develop packaging designs that align with their preferences and convenience. By leveraging these opportunities, businesses can position themselves for success in the dynamic Indian food packaging market.

Innovative Solutions Driving Growth in the Paper and Paperboard Packaging Segment of the Food Packaging Market

The paper and paperboard market can be segmented into various categories based on materials, such as corrugated boxes, boxboard, rigid boxes, folded boxes, trays, flexible packaging, paper bags, shipping bags, and sachets/pouches. The choice of packaging materials varies depending on the food and beverage served.

Paper and paperboard are widely preferred in the food and beverage industry due to their degradable nature and recyclable properties. They are considered environmentally friendly packaging options. Ready-to-eat meals, on-the-go snacks, and frozen or fresh foods are increasingly being packaged and transported in paperboard packaging to address environmental concerns.

Regarding transportation, rigid boxes are commonly favoured for their sturdiness and durability. However, when serving fresh products, flexible and molded paper or paperboards are often utilized to meet specific packaging requirements.

  • Instance, The Paper & Packaging Industry in India is attracting significant investor interest, as recent developments demonstrate. Mayur Uniquoters Private Limited, a prominent corrugated box manufacturer, secured a substantial investment of $10 million from SIDBI Venture Capital Ltd. and Edelweiss Financial Services Ltd. This infusion of funds highlights the opportunities available for new entrants in the industry. However, it's not just newcomers who are benefiting from this trend. Established players like Amcor Ltd. are also experiencing increased merger and acquisition (M&A) activities. Amcor, for instance, has already completed four acquisitions this year alone. These developments underscore the overall attractiveness of investing in India's Paper & Packaging Industry.

Overall, the paper and paperboard packaging market offer a range of options to cater to the diverse needs of the food and beverage industry. These materials provide practical and sustainable solutions for packaging and transporting various food and beverage products, aligning with the industry's increasing focus on environmental responsibility.

  • Instance, JUN 13, 2023, Fres-co System USA's NextPak flexible coffee packaging has reached a noteworthy milestone by becoming the first ultra-high-barrier package to receive approval for NexTrex store drop-off recycling. This achievement highlights the innovation and sustainability focus of the NextPak packaging solution, as it meets the stringent requirements for recyclability through the NexTrex program. This recognition positions Fres-co System USA as a pioneer in sustainable packaging solutions, contributing to advancing environmentally friendly practices in the packaging industry.

Optimizing Efficiency and Gaining Competitive Edge: Unveiling the Power of Automation in the Food Packaging Industry

As technology advances, industries across various sectors have shifted from manual processes to integrating new machines and automation. The food packaging industry is no exception and has greatly benefited from the scientific advancements of our time.

Almost every food product, except for fruits and vegetables, is packaged in today's food industry using automated food packaging machines. These machines have revolutionized packaging by streamlining operations, increasing efficiency, and ensuring consistent and hygienic packaging.

  • Instance, Mar 7, 2022, Sealed Air, a leading packaging solutions provider, has successfully implemented meat packaging automation, revolutionizing the industry by enhancing predictability. This innovative automation technology streamlines the meat packaging process, improving efficiency, accuracy, and reliability. By automating various stages of the packaging workflow, Sealed Air ensures consistent and precise packaging outcomes, minimizing errors and variability. This advancement enables meat producers to achieve higher productivity, cost-effectiveness, and customer satisfaction. Sealed Air's commitment to continuous improvement and cutting-edge technology reinforces its position as a trusted partner for the meat industry, delivering solutions that optimize operations and drive positive business outcomes.

Automated food packaging machines offer various capabilities, including weighing, filling, sealing, labelling, and inspecting product quality. They can handle multiple packaging formats, such as pouches, containers, bottles, and cans, depending on the specific needs of the food product. By utilizing automated food packaging machines, manufacturers can achieve higher production volumes, improved accuracy in portion control, enhanced product safety and hygiene, and reduced labour costs. These machines are designed to meet strict quality and regulatory standards, ensuring that food products are packaged efficiently and meet the required standards for shelf life, freshness, and consumer satisfaction.

The integration of automation in food packaging has significantly contributed to the industry's ability to meet the demands of consumers, retailers, and regulatory authorities. It has also played a crucial role in ensuring product integrity, extending shelf life, and reducing food waste. Utilizing automated industrial robots in the food industry offers several advantages, particularly regarding worker safety, productivity, scalability, cost-effectiveness, consistency, and traceability.

One significant benefit is that automated systems increase workplace safety by reducing the risk of worker injuries. For instance, in the processing and packaging meat items, robots can handle tasks that would otherwise require manual labour with sharp knives, minimizing the potential for accidents and harm. Moreover, automation enhances production line productivity significantly. While a human worker may process one product at a time, machines can handle tens of products simultaneously, increasing output and overall efficiency. The performance and output of automated food packaging robots can be adjusted according to manufacturers' requirements, providing flexibility in meeting production demands.

Automation offers scalability to food packagers. If there is a need to double the output, another food packaging machine can be installed, eliminating the need to scale up every aspect of the business. Automated food packaging operations generally have lower operating costs compared to manual processes. The machines primarily require electricity to function, while other running costs are minimal, making them cost-effective in the long run. Consistency in product quality is another advantage of automated food packaging. Machines handling the packaging process eliminate human errors, resulting in products with identical dimensions, weight, and visual appearance.

Automated food packaging enables end-to-end traceability of the entire production line. Manufacturers can use codes on automated labels to track and document the facilities and packaging processes that a food product has undergone, ensuring transparency and quality control. Integrating automated industrial robots in the food packaging industry offers numerous benefits, ranging from increased worker safety to improved productivity, cost-effectiveness, consistent product quality, and enhance traceability throughout the production process.

Enhancing Freshness and Reducing Food Waste: The Role of Innovative Packaging

Packaging has the potential to significantly impact food preservation and reduce waste, particularly if consumers better understand its benefits and functions. As food waste continues to be a pressing issue, especially in the United States, improved packaging solutions could offer substantial environmental and economic benefits.

The Food Waste Crisis

According to recent data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), food waste in landfills has doubled from 1990 to 2020, contributing to 58% of methane emissions from municipal solid waste landfills. Alarmingly, researchers have found that approximately 40% of the food supply is wasted each year, with 43% of this waste occurring at the consumer or household level.

Consumer Insights on Packaging

A survey of over 1,000 U.S. consumers aimed to explore how packaging could help reduce household food waste and gauge consumer awareness of packaging technologies. The survey sought to understand consumers' perceptions of different packaging formats and their willingness to invest in packaging that minimizes food waste.

Key findings from the study revealed that whole fruits and vegetables, such as bananas and lettuce, are among the most wasted food items. Dairy products, prepared packaged foods, and leftovers also contribute significantly to household food waste. Notably, half-eaten packaged food products and food that spoiled before consumption are major contributors to waste, suggesting a need for better packaging designs to extend shelf life and enhance usability.

Current Packaging Challenges

Consumers reported that packaging types such as “no packaging,” “bag/pouch,” and “tray with wrap, film, or snap-fit lid” are associated with higher levels of food waste. The study highlighted that while consumers' current understanding of packaging technologies is limited, there is a willingness to pay more for packaging that improves freshness and extends shelf life.

Opportunities for Innovation

The researchers concluded that certain food products, particularly produce, would benefit greatly from advanced packaging technologies designed to prolong shelf life and reduce waste. Many of the wasted produce items in the study lacked packaging altogether, underscoring the need for packaging solutions that address this gap.

The Role of Intelligent Packaging

Intelligent packaging, which can monitor and indicate the freshness and shelf life of food products, is identified as a promising solution. Effective education about these technologies could be targeted strategically to specific population segments to maximize impact.

The study emphasizes the importance of developing innovative packaging solutions to address food waste challenges. Improved packaging designs, especially for produce and other high-waste items, can play a crucial role in extending shelf life and reducing waste. Consumer education on these advancements will be key to achieving broader acceptance and implementation of effective packaging technologies.

Comparative landscape

The food packaging market is a highly competitive and rapidly evolving industry that plays a pivotal role in the safe and efficient delivery of food products. To succeed in this dynamic market, businesses must navigate the competitive landscape and understand the key players, market trends, and strategic developments. This comparative landscape analysis provides insights into major companies' market positioning, product offerings, and competitive strategies.

Major key players in the food packaging market include: Berry Plastics Group, Amcor Plc, Sigma Plastics Group, Sealed Air Corporation, DS Smith PLC, American Eagle Packaging, Ball Corporation, Crown Holdings, Inc., Huhtamaki Oyj., and Ardagh Group

Recent Developments

  • June 13, 2023, according to Amcor, the AmFiberTM Performance Paper packaging line will be expanded across Europe, a significant participant in the global market for developing and producing sustainable packaging solutions. These will include instant coffee, spices, drink powders, seasonings, dried soups, and heat-seal sachets created especially for various dry culinary and beverage applications. This tactical decision aligns with Amcor's dedication to meeting the changing demands of the market while focusing on ethical and sustainable packaging solutions.
  • February 1, 2023, Amcor, a renowned industry leader, has emerged as the third consecutive winner of the prestigious Lift-Off program. This accomplishment paves the way for Amcor to introduce an innovative concept called "Packaging as a Service" within reusable food packaging. By adopting this novel approach, Amcor aims to revolutionize the packaging landscape by providing a comprehensive and sustainable solution that encompasses physical packaging and a service-oriented model.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Material

  • Plastics
  • Paper & Paper-based
  • Glass
  • Metal
  • Others

By Type

  • Semi-rigid
  • Rigid
  • Flexible

By Application

  • Dairy Products
  • Bakery & Confectionary
  • Fruits & Vegetables
  • Sauces & Dressings
  • Meat, Poultry & Seafood
  • Others

By Regional Outlook

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Europe
    • U.K.
    • Germany
    • France
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • South Korea
  • Rest of the World
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  • Insight Code: 5056
  • No. of Pages: 150
  • Format: PDF/PPT/Excel
  • Published: June 2024
  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2022
  • Base Year: 2023
  • Estimated Years: 2024-2033

Meet the Team

Saurabh Bidwai is a market research expert with 4+ years in food and beverage packaging, specializing in sustainability, consumer insights, market trends, and competitive analysis to drive innovative packaging solutions.

Learn more about Saurabh Bidwai

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in packaging market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards Packaging 's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

The global food packaging market was valued at USD 356.5 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 659.80 Billion by 2032.

Berry Plastics Group, Amcor Plc, Sigma Plastics Group, Sealed Air Corporation, DS Smith PLC, American Eagle Packaging, Ball Corporation, Crown Holdings, Inc., Huhtamaki Oyj., and Ardagh Group

Asia-Pacific region let the global food packaging market.

McKinsey & Company, Deloitte, Indianlocalfoods, Packagingworldinsights, and White papers, articles, news