Edible Packaging Market Size & Forecast

The Edible Packaging Market is projected to reach $1.98 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period 2024–2031. The growth of the edible packaging market is primarily driven by the rising need to reduce packaging waste, the growing consumption of processed foods, and the increasing demand for eco-friendly alternatives to traditional packaging materials. However, the high costs of edible packaging materials and stringent regulatory requirements restrain the growth of this market. Moreover, advancements in packaging technologies and innovations & new product development in the edible packaging industry are expected to generate significant growth opportunities for the stakeholders in this market. However, handling, taste, and texture issues are a challenge in the edible packaging market. Additionally, functional edible packaging and sustainable packaging are the latest trends in the edible packaging market.

Edible Packaging Market Growth Drivers

Rising Need to Reduce Packaging Waste

Growing environmental concerns are increasing awareness about the adverse effects of traditional packaging materials, such as plastics. Food packaging waste is a significant environmental issue, contributing to the growing problem of plastic pollution and waste management challenges.

Edible packaging offers a sustainable alternative by providing packaging solutions that are not only biodegradable but also edible, reducing the amount of waste generated from packaging materials. Edible packaging also includes packaging films made of milk proteins, vitamins, proteins, and probiotics, which contain essential nutrients, can provide an oxygen barrier, and prevent the contamination of food.

Furthermore, governments and regulatory bodies are implementing policies and regulations aimed at reducing single-use plastics and promoting the use of eco-friendly packaging materials. In response, companies in the food & beverage industry are exploring edible packaging options as part of their sustainability strategies. Thus, the rising need to reduce packaging waste is increasing the adoption of edible packaging, driving the growth of this market.

Growing Consumption of Processed Foods

Processed foods come in various forms, such as snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and convenience foods, and require efficient & innovative packaging solutions to maintain freshness, extend shelf life, and ensure convenience for consumers. Edible packaging offers a unique solution by not only providing functional packaging but also adding value to the product. Nowadays, consumers are increasingly attracted to the novelty and sustainability aspects of edible packaging, as it aligns with their preference for convenient yet eco-friendly products.

Additionally, rapid urbanization and busy lifestyles have increased consumers’ reliance on processed foods. This trend has created a demand for packaging that not only meets functional requirements but also resonates with modern consumer preferences for sustainability and innovation. Edible packaging addresses these demands by offering a sustainable alternative to traditional packaging materials, making it an attractive option for both consumers and food manufacturers. Thus, the increasing consumption of processed foods, coupled with consumer demand for novelty and sustainability, is driving the adoption of edible packaging.

Edible Packaging Market Trends

Functional Edible Packaging Emerging as a Key Market Trend

Functional edible packaging serves a dual purpose of not only protecting the food product but also providing additional value to the consumer. For instance, edible packaging can be infused with vitamins, minerals, or other nutritional additives, offering a health benefit when consumed along with the food or beverage. This added functionality appeals to health-conscious consumers looking for innovative ways to incorporate nutrition into their daily routines.

Moreover, functional edible packaging with improved barrier properties extends the shelf life of perishable goods. It is also used to minimize plastic use, largely due to growing awareness regarding the negative environmental impacts of single-use plastics. Companies are exploring a variety of natural ingredients such as seaweed, rice, and potato starch to create packaging that is not only edible but also capable of preserving the quality and safety of products. The dual benefits of reducing the environmental footprint of F&B products and enhancing product functionality position functional edible packaging as a transformative trend poised to reshape the future of the global edible packaging industry.

Adoption of Sustainable Packaging Gaining Traction

Nowadays, with increasing awareness regarding environmental issues and the impact of traditional packaging materials on ecosystems, consumers and businesses are actively seeking sustainable alternatives. Edible packaging has emerged as a promising solution as it not only reduces waste but also eliminates the need for disposal, offering a truly eco-friendly option. This trend is fueled by consumers’ preference for products that align with their values of environmental stewardship, encouraging food & beverage companies to invest in sustainable packaging solutions, such as edible packaging.

The adoption of sustainable packaging has been accelerated by regulatory pressures and industry initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting circular economy practices. Governments and organizations across the globe are implementing policies and guidelines to encourage the use of sustainable packaging materials, driving the demand for edible packaging solutions.

Edible Packaging Market Opportunities

Advancements in Packaging Technologies

The edible packaging market is still in a nascent stage. There have been several advancements in the development of edible films and coatings focused on offering enhanced barrier properties, ensuring food safety, and extending the shelf life of products. These technological improvements allow edible packaging to effectively protect products from moisture, oxygen, and microbial contamination, maintaining freshness and quality throughout storage and distribution.

Furthermore, advancements in printing and customization technologies are enabling market players to create visually appealing and branded edible packaging solutions. Digital printing techniques and edible ink formulations allow for intricate designs, logos, and information to be printed directly onto edible packaging materials. This level of customization not only enhances product visibility and brand recognition but also contributes to a more engaging and interactive consumer experience. Therefore, advancements in packaging technologies are generating growth opportunities for market stakeholders.

Edible Packaging Market Analysis: Key Findings

By Source: The Plant Segment to Dominate the Edible Packaging Market in 2024

Based on source, the edible packaging market is segmented into plant and animal. In 2024, the plant segment is expected to account for the larger share of 67.0% of the edible packaging market. The large market share of this segment can be attributed to rising concerns over single-use plastics, the growing adoption of veganism and vegetarianism, and governments’ & regulatory bodies’ implementation of increasingly stringent regulations and policies to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices.

Moreover, the plant segment is also expected to record the highest growth rate during the forecast period 2024–2031. The growth of this segment is driven by the rising demand for plant-based foods due to their health benefits, such as the reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Also, growing concerns over the environmental impacts of animal agriculture, including greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage, are encouraging consumers to choose plant-based alternatives.

By Raw Material: The Seaweed & Algae Segment to Dominate the Edible Packaging Market in 2024

Based on raw material, the edible packaging market is segmented into seaweed & algae, polysaccharides, lipids, and other raw materials. In 2024, the seaweed & algae segment is expected to account for the largest share of 44.3% of the edible packaging market. The large market share of this segment can be attributed to the advantages of seaweed & algae, including their abundance, renewable nature, and sustainability. In addition, seaweed & algae are rich sources of natural polysaccharides, such as carrageenan, agar, and alginate, which possess excellent gelling, film-forming, and barrier properties. These properties make them ideal for producing edible packaging materials.

However, the polysaccharides segment is projected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period 2024–2031. The growth of this segment is driven by the desirable properties of polysaccharides, such as biodegradability, cost-effectiveness, and non-toxicity.

By Packaging Process: The Antimicrobial Segment to Dominate the Edible Packaging Market in 2024

Based on packaging process, the edible packaging market is segmented into antimicrobial, nanotechnology, electrohydrodynamic, coatings, and microbial. In 2024, the antimicrobial segment is expected to account for the largest share of the edible packaging market. Antimicrobial packaging processes help inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, thereby extending the shelf life of perishable foods and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. The increased focus on food safety drives the demand for antimicrobial packaging solutions in the edible packaging market.

By End Use: The Pharmaceuticals Segment to Witness the Fastest Growth During the Forecast Period

Based on end use, the edible packaging market is segmented into food & beverages and pharmaceuticals. In 2024, the food & beverages segment is expected to account for the larger share of 78.1% of the edible packaging market. Edible packaging is widely used in the food & beverage industries to package products, including fresh food, functional foods, baby food, dairy products, and bakery & confectionery products. The rising demand for processed foods and consumers’ changing lifestyles support the segment's expansion. Also, the increasing use of edible packaging to enhance the presentation and visual appeal of food & beverage products supports the growth of this segment. Edible packaging can be used for decorative purposes, such as in the form of edible wrappers for chocolates or garnishes for cocktails, to make them visually appealing and unique.

However, the pharmaceuticals segment is projected to witness the higher growth rate during the forecast period 2024–2031. The growth of this segment is driven by the increasing emphasis on patient compliance and convenience. Edible packaging offers a user-friendly and easy-to-administer method for delivering medications, especially for individuals who may have difficulty swallowing pills or tablets. This innovative approach not only enhances the patient experience but also improves medication adherence, leading to better treatment outcomes. In addition, the increasing demand for capsules for packaging pharmaceutical and nutraceutical ingredients is driving the growth of this segment.

Geographic Analysis

By Geography: North America to Dominate the Edible Packaging Market in 2024

In 2024, North America is expected to account for the largest share of 42.5% of the edible packaging market, followed by Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. The edible packaging market in North America is estimated to reach $513.7 million in 2024. North America’s significant market share can be attributed to the region’s well-established food processing industry, the presence of several key players in the region’s edible packaging sector, increased R&D related to edible packaging, and government funding to develop eco-friendly packaging projects.

However, Asia-Pacific is slated to register the highest growth rate during the forecast period. The growth of this regional market is driven by consumers’ changing lifestyles, increasing disposable incomes, growing awareness about the benefits of edible packaging, and government efforts to ban single-use plastics in the region.

Edible Packaging Market: Key Companies

The report offers a competitive analysis based on an extensive assessment of the leading players’ product portfolios, geographic presence, and key growth strategies adopted in the last 3–4 years. Some of the key players operating in the edible packaging market are Notpla Limited (U.K.), Xampla Limited (U.K.), JRF Technology, LLC (U.S.), MonoSol, LLC (U.S.), Evoware (Indonesia), Nagase America LLC (U.S.), Devro Limited (U.K.), TIPA Corp. Ltd. (Israel), Lactips (France), Mantrose-Haeuser Co., Inc. (U.S.), Do Eat (Belgium), Amtrex Nature Care Pvt. Ltd. (India), Glanbia plc (Ireland), and Pace International, LLC (U.S.).

Edible Packaging Industry Overview: Latest Developments from Key Industry Players

• In January 2024, TIPA partnered with cannabis product company Wyld (U.S.) to use TIPA’s 608 home compostable laminate in individual wrapping for edibles, as well as in pouches and bags for outer parcels, in the U.S. and Canada.
• In September 2023, Xampla launched a remarkable consumer brand, Morro, to develop bio-based and edible packaging solutions that can compete with plastics. The launch of this brand will enable food brands to make an easy switch from single-use plastics to the company’s breakthrough material.
• In September 2021, Pace International introduced PrimaFresh 60 Organic (OR), a premium organic edible plant-based coating brand. The company developed the product specifically to enhance the fresh appeal of stone fruits through better management of dehydration.

Edible Packaging Market Research Summary

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