Edible Food Packaging Market - By Type, By Product, By Distribution Channel, By Application, Forecast 2025 - 2034

Edible Food Packaging Market Size

The global edible food packaging market size was valued at USD 929.7 million in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% to reach USD 1.9 billion by 2034. The growth of the market is attributed to growing sustainability concerns among youth, increasing government regulation on packaging, and overall rising eco-consciousness.
 

Stringent global environmental regulations are transforming the market by pushing for the removal of non-biodegradable materials and encouraging sustainable innovations. As a result, manufacturers are increasingly developing edible films from renewable resources. For instance, in response to the EU's Green Deal, many companies operating in the European economic zone have increased their investments in sustainable packaging research by 30% in 2023. These regulations have both promoted technological advancements and reduced environmental damage while improving consumer confidence in eco-friendly options.
 

Similarly, the rise of eco-consciousness among consumers is driving growth in the edible food packaging market, as more shoppers seek sustainability alongside convenience in their purchases. Recent studies show that over 55% of consumers favour eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic packaging. This notable change in consumer behaviour is prompting companies to innovate with natural polymers and edible coatings, resulting in reduced waste and increased product attractiveness.
 

Many new brands are now emerging with eco-friendly principles, effectively distinguishing themselves and gaining market share among environmentally conscious consumers. Moreover, The alignment with circular economy and zero-waste principles is revolutionizing the edible food packaging industry by enhancing resource efficiency and encouraging innovative material reuse. Companies are implementing closed-loop systems by converting food by-products into edible packaging films, which directly helps in waste reduction.
 

Edible Food Packaging Market Trends

• The rising use of plant-based packaging is emerging as a new trend in the market. A survey held in 2023 indicated that food and beverage products are most likely to feature sustainable packaging in the future. The consumers globally ranked the compostable and plant-based packaging as most sustainable, and over 90% of young population were willing to pay a premium for sustainable packaging labeled as recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable.
   
• The trend highlights that young population will have a huge influence on the overall packaging industry, and more companies will invest in innovative edible packaging solutions that will reshape and expand the market in the coming years.
   
• The application of IoT sensor-based technologies in the packaging sector is expected to transform the scope for smart edible packaging. The edible packaging sector is set to deploy IoT sensors that allow monitoring of product freshness and waste minimization in real time. According to Statista, the global food packaging industry is expected to account for 512 billion by 2028. The increase in Tetrak’s sales composition will improve operational effectiveness, reduce environmental harm, and promote consumer needs, resulting in intelligent sustainable packaging, which will bring about significant transformation to the market.
   

Edible Food Packaging Market Analysis

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C).
 

The business-to-business segment is currently leading the market with an estimated valuation of USD 600 million in 2024. In the B2C market, brands are using edible packaging as a promotional strategy by providing films that can be infused with nutrients and subsequently enhance brand loyalty. For instance, Nourish Ingredients has partnered with Nestlé to produce probiotic-infused sachets that aid in gut health through AI 3D printing.
 

The business-to-consumer segment is currently valued at USD 330 million in 2024. The business-to-consumer distribution channel is driven by the growing awareness of consumers towards eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging. Such shift towards sustainable alternatives the demand for plant-based or edible packaging is rising for dairy, snacks, beverages, and confectionary. For example, BASF is developing AI-optimized seaweed films that offer better moisture retention for frozen food logistics.
 

Based on application, the edible food packaging market is segmented into bakery & confectionery, dairy products, meat, poultry, and seafood, fruits & vegetables, ready-to-eat meals, beverages, and others.
 

The bakery & confectionery segment is currently leading the market with an estimated market share of 21.23% in 2024. Major beverage brands are venturing into the bitter and flavoring edible films and coatings that hold baked products, increase their flavors, and preserve their freshness. The pastry shops are implementing edible wraps on the cakes and confectioneries, which further supported by local initiatives and government programs that seek to promote environmentally friendly packaging. The movement within this segment will affect the edible packaging market towards integrating culinary art and environmental responsibility, achieving sustainable growth.
 

The beverages segment is rapidly growing in market at a CAGR of 9.2%. In the beverages segment, edible packaging is changing the way customers receive and consume products. There has been a shift towards the capsules and films that can protect beverages and integrate themselves into the consumption experience. Several beverage brands has switched plastic single-serve drink wrappers for edible ones. This transition is supported by legislation that favors innovation aimed at diminishing plastic waste. The initiative improves interaction between the consumer and the product while strengthening environmental commitments.
 

Based on type, the edible food packaging market is segmented into polysaccharides-based packaging, protein-based packaging, lipid-based packaging, and composite packaging.
 

The protein-based packaging market accounts for USD 310 million in 2024. The growing outstanding biocompatibility and film-forming potential of protein-based edible films and coatings make them an alternative non-synthetic, biodegradable, and non-toxic class of materials to traditional synthetic packaging, thereby contributing to reducing the environmental plastic pollution problem. For example, companies such as Xampla are at the forefront of creating biodegradable plastic feedstocks derived from plant proteins, including peas and soybeans.
 

The polysaccharides-based packaging is currently the fastest growing segment with a CAGR of 9.7%. Nanotechnology, when integrated with the edible polysaccharide packaging films, improves both the mechanical and barrier properties. For instance, nanoscopic composites containing cellulose have been found to have higher tensile strength and lower gas permeability. These improvements also aid in safekeeping the food for longer periods without compromising the quality.
 

The U.S. edible food packaging market accounts for USD 230 million in 2024. The edible packaging market in the United States is being influenced by a consumer base that prioritizes health, favoring organic and natural components in packaging materials. Companies are developing innovative edible films and coatings that not only minimize waste but also enhance nutritional content, especially within the snack and confectionery industries. This trend signifies an increasing awareness of environmental issues and a rising demand for sustainable, health-focused products, compelling brands to stand out through eco-friendly initiatives.
 

The Germany market is growing at a CAGR of 8.9%. In Germany, the edible packaging sector is progressing due to substantial government backing and funding aimed at sustainable packaging research. A prominent trend in the region is the addition of edible packaging within the bakery and dairy sectors, with items such as cheese and bread being wrapped in edible films to prolong shelf life and reduce plastic consumption.
 

In China, the edible food packaging market is projected to reach at USD 290 million in 2034. China's edible packaging market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by government regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste and strong manufacturing capabilities. A significant trend is the integration of edible packaging in the e-commerce food delivery sector, with major platforms collaborating with innovators to provide sustainable options. Increasing consumer awareness and demand for environmentally friendly products are propelling this transition, capitalizing on China's vast market potential.
 

The Japan market is experiencing significant growth at a CAGR of 6.5%. The Japan edible packaging market is characterized by a commitment to innovation and premium consumer experiences. A notable trend is the incorporation of edible packaging in luxury confectionery and gift items, where the packaging enhances the overall product appeal.
 

The South Korea market is expanding at a CAGR of 10.2%. In South Korea, the edible packaging market is shaped by health and wellness trends, with a rising demand for packaging that incorporates functional ingredients such as probiotics or vitamins.
 

Edible Food Packaging Market Share

The market exhibits high competition, with players such as SIG Group, WikiCell Designs Inc., Tipa Corp Ltd., Evoware, Notpla Limited, and Tsukioka Film Pharma collectively accounting for a share of 23.7% in 2024.
 

These players are also identifying new opportunities by focusing on proprietary niche applications and novel patents for formulations in emerging economies. Notpla and Tipa have been working on partnerships with food delivery companies like Uber Eats or Just Eat in order to get their edible solutions incorporated into the delivery process. Evoware and Tsukioka are also developing humidity-resistant films to tap the tropical and medical sectors. New players such as Xampla and Mori, which make seaweed and mushroom mycelium-based films and silk-dervied coatings, are disrupting the game, compelling existing players to boost their R&D activities. For example, to enhance their degree of customization, WikiCell recently acquired a 3D-printed edible packaging company.
 

Edible Food Packaging Market Companies

List of prominent players operating in the edible food packaging industry includes:

• SIG Group
• WikiCell Designs Inc.
• Tipa Corp Ltd.
• Evoware (PT. Evogaia Karya Indonesia)
• Notpla Limited
• TSUKIOKA FILM PHARMA CO. LTD.
   

SIG Group is the leading company for food and beverage packaging innovation with fully integrated and sustainable solutions like nutrient preserving aseptic cartons, bag-in-box systems, and spouted pouches that do not require cold chain storage. SIG’s innovation milestones in 2024 include a long-life probiotic drink in an aseptic package, made through a partnership with AnaBio Technologies, which reduces food waste while increasing convenience. They also joined MISTA for collaboration towards next generation sustainable packaging design innovation.
 

WikiCell Designs Inc. focuses on providing striking solutions with edible membranes for the food industry to actively participate in the reduction of single-use plastics. Their editor product allows for yogurt or juices to be sealed in natural membranes that can be consumed along with the product eliminating the need for traditional packaging strawberry yogurt. These plastic free alteratives have allowed them to position as global leaders in sustainable packaging innovation as part of their corporate social responsibility efforts.
 

Edible Food Packaging Industry News:

• In November 2024, Walki has formed a partnership with Lactips to develop fully biodegradable, plastics-free food packaging from natural polymers. Walki has been involved in the development of a broad range of biopolymer materials and is in partnership with various companies that specialize in natural polymer-based coatings. These natural polymer-based coatings developed from cellulose, algae and even chitin from insects and crustaceans can be employed as an alternative to fossil-based plastics.
   

The edible food packaging market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Type

• Polysaccharides-based packaging
• Protein-based packaging
• Lipid-based packaging
• Composite packaging 

Market, By Product

• Films & wraps
• Coatings
• Capsules & sachets
• Bags & pouches

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Business-to-business (B2B)
• Business-to-consumer (B2C)

Market, By Application

• Bakery & confectionery
• Dairy products
• Meat, poultry, and seafood
• Fruits & vegetables
• Ready-to-eat meals
• Beverages
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
• Middle East and Africa 
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa