The Food Packaging Market Report is Segmented by Material Type (Plastics, Paper, Metal, Glass), Format (Rigid, Flexible), Product Type (Cans, Bottles, and More), Technology (MAP, Vacuum, Hot-Fill, and More), Distribution Channel (Direct, Indirect), Application (Dairy, Meat, Produce, Bakery, Seafood, Ready Meals, Frozen), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, South America). Market Forecasts in Value (USD).

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Food Packaging Market Size 2025-2029

The food packaging market size is forecast to increase by USD 79.6 billion, at a CAGR of 4.1% between 2024 and 2029. Prevention of food counterfeiting will drive the food packaging market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 42% growth during the forecast period.
By Product - Flexible plastic segment was valued at USD 153.30 billion in 2023
By Application - Bakery and confectionery segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 43.91 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 79.60 billion 
CAGR : 4.1%
APAC: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market is a dynamic and evolving industry, driven by various factors that shape its growth trajectory. Core technologies such as active and intelligent packaging, biodegradable materials, and nanotechnology continue to revolutionize the market, offering enhanced food preservation, safety, and convenience. Applications in food processing, retail, and foodservice sectors are witnessing significant growth, with the e-commerce segment experiencing a surge due to increasing sales of food products online. However, challenges persist, including volatility in raw material prices and the need to prevent food counterfeiting.
According to recent reports, the active packaging market is projected to account for over 30% of the overall the market share by 2025. As related markets such as the pharmaceutical packaging and beverage packaging industries continue to expand, the market is poised for continued innovation and growth in the forecast period.

What will be the Size of the Food Packaging Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Food Packaging Market Segmented and what are the key trends of market segmentation?

The food packaging industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Flexible plastic
  Rigid plastic
  Glass
  Metal
  Others


Application

  Bakery and confectionery
  Dairy products
  Poultry meat and sea food
  Fruits and vegetables
  Others


Packaging

  Bags and pouches
  Bottles and jars
  Films and wraps
  Boxes and cartons
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The flexible plastic segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is a dynamic and evolving industry, with ongoing advancements in technologies and materials shaping its growth. Flexible plastic packaging, which includes bags, pouches, liners, wraps, and sachets, currently holds the largest market share at approximately 37% due to its numerous advantages. These benefits include customizable shapes and sizes, reusability, lightweight nature, and a wide range of printing options. Moreover, the industry anticipates significant growth in the coming years, with the modified atmosphere packaging segment projected to expand by 21% and high-pressure processing expected to increase by 18%. The adoption of biodegradable packaging materials, such as those made from plant-based sources, is also on the rise, with a projected growth of 15%.

Shelf life extension, food preservation techniques, and packaging cost reduction are key drivers in the market. Packaging material selection, sourcing, and optimization play crucial roles in ensuring product freshness and safety. Technologies like intelligent packaging, seal integrity testing, and leak detection systems contribute to improving product quality and consumer perception. High-pressure processing, e-beam sterilization, and microwave sterilization are essential food safety regulations-compliant preservation techniques. The market also prioritizes sustainability through the use of compostable packaging options, recyclable designs, and waste reduction strategies. Packaging line efficiency, thermal processing effects, and antimicrobial packaging films are other significant trends. Oxygen scavenging packaging and UV sterilization packaging further enhance food preservation and safety.

Quality control systems and aseptic packaging techniques ensure consistent product quality and safety throughout the supply chain. In conclusion, the market is a continuously evolving industry, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and consumer demands. The integration of various technologies, materials, and regulations shapes the market's future growth and trends.

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The Flexible plastic segment was v

The food packaging market is projected to grow from USD 391.5 billion in 2025 to USD 661.2 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period. Sales in 2024 reached USD 371.7 billion, indicating a steady demand trajectory.

Metric	Value
Market Size (2025E)	USD 391.5 billion
Market Value (2035F)	USD 661.2 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	5.3%

Country-wise Outlook

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
United States	5.1%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
United Kingdom	4.6%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
European Union	4.8%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
Japan	4.7%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
South Korea	5.0%

The Europe Food Packaging Market Report is Segmented by Material Type (Plastic, Paper and Paperboard, Metal, Glass, Bioplastics), Product Type (Bottles and Containers, Cartons and Pouches, Cans, and More), End-User (Fruits and Vegetables, Meat, Poultry and Seafood, and More), Packaging Technology (Modified-Atmosphere Packaging, Aseptic Packaging, and More), Country. The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Food Packaging Market size was USD 485614.5 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.20% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 194245.80 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 145684.35 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 111691.34 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 24280.73 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 9712.29 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2024 to 2031.
The Rigid category is the fastest growing segment of the Food Packaging industry

Market Dynamics of Food Packaging Market

Key Drivers for

Food Packaging Market

Growing Demand for Convenience Foods: The increase in hectic lifestyles and urban development has led to a rise in the consumption of ready-to-eat meals, frozen foods, and snack items. This trend requires packaging that guarantees an extended shelf life, ease of handling, and portability. Manufacturers are concentrating on lightweight, resealable, and microwave-safe packaging to meet consumer demands. Increasing Focus on Food Safety & Hygiene: Strict regulations imposed by food safety authorities (such as the FDA and EFSA) require the use of contamination-resistant packaging. Advanced materials such as antimicrobial films and vacuum-sealed packs are effective in preventing spoilage and prolonging freshness. The COVID-19 pandemic has further amplified consumer awareness regarding hygienic packaging solutions. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions: Both consumers and governments are advocating for biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable packaging materials to mitigate environmental impact. Innovations such as plant-based plastics, edible packaging, and reusable containers are becoming increasingly popular. Brands that embrace sustainable packaging also enjoy enhanced corporate image and adherence to regulatory standards.

Key Restraints for

Food Packaging Market

High Expense of Sustainable Materials: Although there is a growing demand for eco-friendly packaging, materials such as PLA (polylactic acid) and recycled paper tend to be pricier than standard plastics. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) encounter difficulties in implementing these solutions due to financial limitations, which hampers broader adoption. Regulatory Hurdles and Compliance Challenges: Various countries impose different packaging regulations, complicating the ability of global food brands to achieve consistency. Regular changes in policies concerning plastic prohibitions and recycling requirements further complicate matters, resulting in increased compliance expenses for manufacturers. Limited Barrier Characteristics in Biodegradable Materials: Numerous sustainable packaging alternatives do not possess the same durability and moisture resistance as conventional plastics, resulting in reduced shelf lives for perishable items. This drawback limits their applicability for specific food categories, such as meat and dairy, where robust barrier protection is crucial.

Key Trends for

Food Packaging Market

Smart and Active Packaging Technologies: Intelligent packaging utilizing QR codes, NFC tags, and freshness indicators improves consumer interaction and enhances food safety. Active packaging, which includes oxygen absorbers and moisture regulators, aids in preserving product quality. These advancements are especially favored in the premium food market. Rise of Flexible Packaging Solutions: Pouches, stand-up bags, and shrink films are increasingly supplanting rigid packaging due to their cost-effectiveness, lightweight characteristics, and reduced carbon footprint. Flexible packaging also provides improved shelf visibility and customization options, which a...

The eco-friendly food packaging market is set to reach $522.55B by 2035, growing at a 7.9% CAGR. Explore trends in sustainable packaging

The rigid food packaging market is anticipated to achieve massive growth with projected market size of USD 150.3 billion in 2025 and the amount will reach USD 230.7 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 4.4%. The market has experienced a remarkable jump in sales in 2024 which totalled USD 145.2 billion, showing its solid performance and the ongoing development.

Metric	Key Insights
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 150.3 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 230.7 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	4.4%

Semi-annual Update

Particular	Value CAGR
H1	4.6% (2024 to 2034)
H2	4.2% (2024 to 2034)
H1	4.0% (2025 to 2035)
H2	4.8% (2025 to 2035)

Country-wise Insights

Countries	Value CAGR (2025 to 2035)
The USA	5.9%
India	7.3%
Germany	4.2%
China	6.0%
Brazil	3.8%
The UK	4.5%
Canada	4.2%

Category-wise Insights

Material Type	Share (2025)
Plastic Rigid Packaging	53.4%

Packaging Type	Share (2025)
Trays & Containers	42.7%

The Fresh Food Packaging Market is estimated to be valued at USD 96.6 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 133.6 billion by 2035, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.3% over the forecast period.

Metric	Value
Fresh Food Packaging Market Estimated Value in (2025 E)	USD 96.6 billion
Fresh Food Packaging Market Forecast Value in (2035 F)	USD 133.6 billion
Forecast CAGR (2025 to 2035)a	3.3%

The Hot-fill Food Packaging Market is Segmented by Material (Plastic, Glass), Product Type (Bottles, Jars, Pouches, Cups & Tubs), Application (Sauces & Condiments, Juices, Processed Food & Vegetables), and Geography. The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD million) for all the above segments.

US Food Packaging Market, US Food Packaging Market Size, US Food Packaging Market Trends, US Food Packaging Market Forecast, US Food Packaging Market Risks, US Food Packaging Market Report, US Food Packaging Market Share

The global food packaging market, valued at $367.04 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing demand for convenient and ready-to-eat meals fuels the need for innovative and efficient packaging solutions. Consumer preferences are shifting towards sustainable and eco-friendly packaging materials, such as biodegradable and compostable options, prompting manufacturers to adapt their product offerings. Furthermore, advancements in packaging technology, including modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and active packaging, are extending shelf life and enhancing food safety, contributing significantly to market expansion. The rising e-commerce sector and the associated need for durable and tamper-evident packaging further bolster market growth. Competition among major players like Amcor PLC, Smurfit Kappa Group PLC, and Mondi Limited is driving innovation and efficiency improvements across the value chain. This competitive landscape encourages the development of cost-effective yet high-quality packaging solutions that meet diverse consumer and industry requirements. Despite this positive outlook, the market faces certain challenges. Fluctuations in raw material prices, particularly for plastics and paper, pose a significant risk to profitability. Stringent environmental regulations regarding packaging waste are also impacting manufacturing practices and material choices. Companies are increasingly investing in research and development to address these challenges by developing sustainable and recyclable packaging alternatives. Geographic variations in regulations and consumer preferences necessitate tailored strategies for regional market penetration. The long-term outlook remains positive, however, with the continued growth of the food and beverage industry and increasing emphasis on food safety and sustainability. The market is expected to witness significant expansion through 2033, fueled by consistent innovation and adaptation to evolving consumer and regulatory landscapes. Recent developments include: March 2024: Researchers at Panjab University's Institute of Forensic Science were granted an Indian patent for their biodegradable food packaging film. This innovative film, designed to replace conventional plastic packaging, is made from renewable, environmentally friendly materials. This patent encompasses the creation of a biodegradable food packaging film crafted from renewable, environmentally friendly materials designed for the storage and preservation of food items., November 2023: SIG launched its Packaging Development Center in Europe, located at its packaging plants in Linnich, Germany, with an investment of USD 10.93 million. This initiative aims to accelerate the development of innovative and sustainable packaging solutions, providing added value to its customers. The new center is equipped with state-of-the-art extrusion and finishing technologies, along with advanced quality measurement systems and testing equipment. It will significantly enhance packaging processability in serial production, system validation, and capacity for future digital technologies. As per company officials, alongside its existing co-creation and test-filling facilities for food and beverage products, the company can now produce carton sleeves, fill products in compliance with food hygiene regulations, and pack them on pallets. This end-to-end capability effectively transforms the company into a mini factory for packaging and the production of food and beverages.. Key drivers for this market are: Demand for Convenience Foods in Developing Economies, Increasing Demand for Shelf-Life Extension of Foods Accelerating the Food Packaging Market; Trend of Small Households. Potential restraints include: Demand for Convenience Foods in Developing Economies, Increasing Demand for Shelf-Life Extension of Foods Accelerating the Food Packaging Market; Trend of Small Households. Notable trends are: Poultry and Meat Products Expected to Drive Market Growth.

The plant-based food packaging market is projected to register a CAGR of 12.60% from 2024 to 2034. In 2024, the market is valued at US$ 10.02 billion and is predicted to reach US$ 32.85 billion by 2034. The development of the demand for plant-based food packaging is fueled by eco-friendly, environmentally friendly, and recyclable packaging.

Attributes	Details
Market Value for 2024	US$ 10.02 billion
Market Value for 2034	US$ 32.85 billion
Market Forecast CAGR for 2024 to 2034	12.60%

2019 to 2023 Historical Analysis vs. 2024 to 2034 Market Forecast Projection

Attributes	Details
Market Historical CAGR for 2019 to 2023	9.30%

Category-wise Insights

Attributes	Details
Top Material	Bioplastic
Market share in 2024	35%

Attributes	Details
Top Packaging Type	Biodegradable and Compostable Packaging
Market share in 2024	40%

Country-wise Insights

Countries	CAGR from 2024 to 2034
South Korea	11.8%
Thailand	13.3%
China	12.4%
India	13.5%
Japan	12.0%

Food Packaging Market was valued at USD 11.44 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 14.18 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 3% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Food Packaging Market: Definition/ Overview

Food packaging encompasses the materials and procedures used to encapsulate and protect food products from external influences and contamination, assuring its safety, quality, and freshness during storage, transportation, and presentation. It consists of a range of materials, including plastics, glass, metal, and paper, all chosen based on the specific needs of the food item. Food packaging has three basic functions: it protects against physical, chemical, and biological risks, it preserves nutritional content, and it allows for easy distribution and consumption.

It is critical for extending the shelf life of perishable foods such as fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products by creating an airtight or modified environment that prevents rotting. Packaging also plays a significant part in branding and marketing by providing visually appealing designs that attract customers while conveying important product information such as ingredients, nutritional value, and expiration dates. Furthermore, food packaging is critical for assuring food safety and cleanliness, preventing pathogen contamination, and facilitating safe handling and transit from manufacturing facilities to retail outlets, and finally to customers.

Food packaging is expected to be pushed by advancements in sustainability, smart technologies, and increased consumer convenience. To lessen environmental effect, eco-friendly packaging materials that are biodegradable, recyclable, or manufactured from renewable resources are increasingly being developed. Smart packaging technologies, such as sensors that check freshness and signs that change color when food spoils, are projected to gain popularity, giving consumers with real-time information and reducing food waste. Furthermore, developments in active packaging, which interacts with food to maintain or improve quality, such as releasing preservatives or absorbing oxygen, are expected to increase food safety and shelf life.

The Food Packaging Market size was valued at USD 456.00 USD Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 678.89 USD Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.85 % during the forecast period. Recent developments include: March 2023 – SIG enabled Casalasco Società Agricola introduced its food products in aseptic carton packs with its signature full-barrier packaging material., January 2023 – Cascades announced the launch of eco-friendly packaging designed especially for fresh fruits and vegetables. The company developed a closed basket with recycled and recyclable corrugated cardboard for the produce sector., April 2022 – Mondi declared the introduction of new packaging solutions, specifically for the food industry, at Anuga FoodTec in Cologne, Germany. The launch of two new tray packaging products offers recyclable choices for fresh food manufacturers, helping reduce food waste., July 2020 – Austrian meat producer Hütthaler joined forces with Mondi to develop an entirely recyclable thermoforming film tailored to their sausages and meat products. Crafted from a mono-material solution, this cutting-edge film can be fully recycled and offers a protective barrier to enhance food preservation and extend its shelf life., July 2019 – Berry Global Group, Inc. announced its acquisition of RPC Group Plc. This strategic move created a leading global supplier of protective solutions, allowing the company to serve a diverse customer base with high-quality, protective, innovative solutions and an extensive manufacturing footprint.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Demand for the Product in the E-commerce Industry to Foster Market Expansion. Potential restraints include: Rapid Changing Technologies and Rising Cost of Raw Materials May Impede Market Growth. Notable trends are: Increasing Adoption of R-LDPE for Product Packaging is Booming the Market Growth.

The Fresh Food Packaging Market Report is Segmented by Material Type (Plastics, Paper and Paperboard, and More), Packaging Type (Flexible Packaging, Rigid Packaging), Application (Fruits and Vegetables, Meat/Poultry/Eggs, Seafood, and More), Technology (MAP, Vacuum Skin Packaging, Active and Intelligent Packaging, Edible and Antimicrobial Coatings), and Geography. The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

In North America Food Packaging Market, Rising demand for packaged food products across the globe is a prominent factor driving the worldwide food packaging industry.

The size of the Fresh Food Packaging Market was valued at USD 18980.55 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 28127.67 Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 5.78% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: A one-piece barrier carton board tray that can be used for fresh fruits and vegetables, mushrooms, seeds, and herbs was introduced in March 2021 by AR Packaging, a Sweden-based company.In 2020, Amcor PLC partnered with Moda; this is a New Zealand based company in order to provide innovative packaging solutions in North and Latin American regions.Amcor PLC successfully merged with Bemis Company Inc.in2019. The acquisition of Bemis was expected to enhance the scale of operations as well as capabilities so that Amcor could boost its market position.The first packaging product made from the company’s revolutionary, more sustainable high-barrier polyolefin film, called Amite Ultra Recyclable,wasislaunchedbyAmcorin April 2019. It can reduce a pack’s carbon footprint by up to 64%.According to data published by the Produce Marketing Association in October 2020, fresh produce sales in the US increased by $4.5 billion between January and August 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.A survey conducted in July 2020 showed that most modern customers prefer fresh food, which they are ready to pay extra price for it thus leading to an increase in demand for high quality eco-friendly packaging in fresh food packaging market sector.West Coast Paper Mills Ltd (India) entered into a share purchase agreement on May 2019 to acquire about 51%-60 % stakes of International Paper’s(IP) Indian unit International Paper APPM Ltd.In February 2018, International Paper Company said that it would put over $500 million towards upgrading its plant at Selma Alabama due to increased need for their products.Amcor introduced a container bottle with a volume of 1-liter for fresh milk in March, 2021. From which they used about 20% oftransparent Post-consumer Recycled (PCR) Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET); it increased the sustainability of the product.Sealed Air acquired MGM’s flexible packaging company in 2019 to expand its market presence and range of products. The significant players in this market are listed below..

The size of the Food Packaging Market was valued at USD 380.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 561.33 billion by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 5.7 % during the forecast period.

The snack food packaging market size is estimated to be worth USD 19.5 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to reach a value of USD 28.5 billion by 2035. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 4.3% over the forecast period between 2025 and 2035. The revenue generated by snack food packaging in 2024 was USD 18.0 billion.

Attributes	Key Insights
Historical Size, 2024	USD 18.0 billion
Estimated Size, 2025	USD 19.5 billion
Projected Size, 2035	USD 28.5 billion
Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035)	4.3%

Semi Annual Market Update

Particular	Value CAGR
H1	4.1% (2024 to 2034)
H2	4.5% (2024 to 2034)
H1	4.0% (2025 to 2035)
H2	4.6% (2025 to 2035)

Country-wise Insights

Countries	Value CAGR (2025 to 2035)
USA	3.2%
Germany	3.6%
China	5.2%
UK	3.8%
Spain	3.2%
India	5.9%

Category-wise Insights

Packaging Type	Flexible Packaging
Market Share (2035)	78.9%

Material	Plastic
Market Share (2035)	53.4%

Pet Food Packaging Market size was valued at USD 11.8 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 19.4 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2026 to 2032. The pet food packaging market is driven by the rising demand for premium and organic pet food, which necessitates high-quality, durable, and sustainable packaging. Pet owners increasingly seek convenient, resealable, and portion-controlled packaging solutions to ensure freshness and ease of use.Sustainability concerns and stringent regulations are also pushing manufacturers toward eco-friendly materials like biodegradable films and recyclable packaging. Additionally, the growth of e-commerce in the pet food sector is fueling demand for protective and lightweight packaging to enhance shelf life and reduce shipping costs.