Edible Packaging Market - By Raw Material (Seaweeds & Algae, Polysaccharides, Lipids), By Packaging Process (Antimicrobial, Nanotechnology, Electro Hydrodynamic, Coatings, Microorganisms), By End Use (Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals) & Forecast 2023 - 2032

Edible Packaging Market Size

Edible Packaging Market was valued at over USD 620 million in 2022 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 6% between 2023 and 2032. Rising environmental awareness and the need to reduce plastic waste and non-biodegradable packaging materials are major drivers for edible packaging. Consumers and businesses are seeking sustainable alternatives to traditional packaging. Government regulations and policies aimed at reducing plastic usage and encouraging sustainable practices are pushing companies to adopt edible packaging solutions to comply with environmental standards. Increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly, biodegradable, and sustainable packaging options is a significant driver. Consumers are more conscious of the environmental impact of packaging and prefer products with edible packaging.
 

The edible packaging industry refers to the industry segment that focuses on the development, production, and distribution of packaging solutions for food products that are environmentally sustainable and minimize their impact on the planet. These Edible packaging options are designed to reduce waste, lower carbon footprints, and enhance overall sustainability while providing safe and effective packaging for various food items. This market is characterized by the increasing consumer demand for environmentally responsible packaging solutions and a growing emphasis on reducing single-use plastics. Companies and manufacturers are innovating and adopting materials and practices that align with environmental goals.
 

Edible packaging materials can be more expensive to produce than traditional packaging options. This cost factor can be a restraint, particularly for businesses looking to transition to edible packaging on a large scale. Edible packaging must provide a good taste and texture experience, which can be challenging to achieve consistently. Variability in taste or texture can deter consumer adoption. Edible packaging materials are generally less durable than conventional packaging, making them unsuitable for certain applications where longer shelf life or robust protection is required.

COVID-19 Impact

During the pandemic, there were heightened concerns about the safety of reusable and sustainable packaging due to the potential for virus transmission. Some businesses suspended or restricted the use of reusable containers, impacting the adoption of Eco-Friendly packaging. Lockdowns, restrictions, and disruptions in global supply chains affected the availability of Eco-Friendly packaging materials and products. Delays in production and transportation impacted the industry's ability to meet growing demand.
 

Edible Packaging Market Trends

The edible packaging industry is a segment within the broader food packaging industry that focuses on the development and production of packaging materials and solutions that are safe for human consumption. These edible packaging materials can be consumed along with the food or beverage they encase, reducing waste and providing innovative and sustainable alternatives to traditional packaging. The market is driven by environmental concerns, government regulations, consumer demand for sustainability, innovation, and customization, among other factors. However, it also faces restraints related to cost, taste and texture issues, and regulatory challenges. Despite these challenges, the edible packaging market is on the rise as more businesses and consumers prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly packaging options.
 

The use of edible packaging is expanding beyond food and beverages. The market is diversifying to include pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and other industries seeking sustainable packaging solutions. Compliance with food safety and regulatory standards remains a crucial focus. Companies are working to ensure that their edible packaging materials meet the necessary safety and quality standards for human consumption. The growth of e-commerce and online food delivery services has created opportunities for edible packaging. These materials are being adapted for use in these delivery services, catering to the changing consumer landscape.
 

Edible Packaging Market Analysis

Based on packaging process industry, the market is divided into antimicrobial, nanotechnology, electro hydrodynamic, coatings, microorganisms. The nanotechnology was the fastest growing segment in the market and registered a market share of over 28% in 2022.
 

• Nanotechnology allows for the development of edible packaging materials with enhanced barrier properties. Nanoscale materials and coatings can effectively block moisture, oxygen, and other environmental factors, extending the shelf life of packaged products. This is especially valuable for preserving the freshness of food and beverages.
   
• Nanocomposites and nanoparticles can be added to edible packaging to improve its mechanical strength and durability. This makes the packaging more robust, reducing the risk of damage during transportation and handling.
   
• Nanotechnology enables the incorporation of active ingredients (e.g., antimicrobials, antioxidants, or flavor enhancers) into edible packaging materials. These active components can help extend the freshness and safety of the enclosed food or beverage products.

Based on material, the market is segmented into seaweeds & algae, polysaccharides, lipids. the seaweeds & algae segment dominated the global market with a CAGR of over 7% in 2022.
 

• Seaweeds and algae are renewable resources that can be harvested without depleting natural ecosystems. Their use in edible packaging aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions, reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.
   
• Seaweeds and algae-based materials are biodegradable, meaning they naturally break down in the environment, reducing the impact of packaging waste. This aligns with the global push for reducing plastic waste and pollution.
   
• Seaweed and algae-based packaging can help extend the shelf life of products by providing a protective barrier against moisture, oxygen, and other environmental factors. This can reduce food waste and enhance product quality.
   
• Ongoing research and technological advancements have improved the properties of seaweed and algae-based materials, making them more suitable for use in edible packaging. This includes enhancing their texture, taste, and functionality.

Asia Pacific dominated the global edible packaging market with a CAGR of over 7% in 2022. Growing environmental consciousness among consumers in the Asia-Pacific region is driving the demand for Edible packaging. The growth of e-commerce and online food delivery services in the Asia-Pacific region is creating opportunities for edible packaging. These materials are adapted for packaging food products for home delivery. Edible packaging can offer convenience to consumers by eliminating the need to remove and dispose of packaging materials. This convenience factor is especially appealing in busy urban environments. Research and development efforts in material science are leading to innovative edible packaging materials. These materials are designed to be not only safe for human consumption but also to have desirable taste, texture, and functional properties.
 

Edible Packaging Market Share

Players in the industry focus on implementing different growth strategies to strengthen their offerings and expand their market reach. These strategies involve new product developments & launches, partnerships & collaborations, mergers & acquisitions, and customer retention. These players also heavily invest in research & development to introduce innovative and technologically advanced solutions in the market. Some of the major players operating in the edible packaging industry are:

• Billerudkorsnas
• Canfor
• CTI Paper USA
• Daio Paper Construction
• Fujian Qingshan Paper Co., Ltd.
• Gascogne Papier
• Genus Paper and Boards Limited
• Georgia-Pacific
• Glatfelter
• Glatfelter Corporation
• Goodwin Robbins Packaging Company Inc.
• International Paper
• Klabin SA
• Mondi
• Nordic Paper
• Oji Holdings Corporation
   

Edible Packaging Industry News

• In 2021, ProAmpac, a US-based company engaged in offering creative and sustainable packaging products, acquired Ultimate Packaging Ltd., a UK-based company involved in offering creative solutions, for an undisclosed amount. Through this acquisition, ProAmpac widens its sustainable product portfolio, expands its reach across the U.K., and improves its position in creative food packaging. The company gives its support all over the supply chain with numerous innovative eco-friendly packaging products.
   

Edible packaging market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) from 2018 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Raw Material

• Seaweeds & Algae
• Polysaccharides
• Lipids

Market, By Packaging Process

• Antimicrobial
• Nanotechnology
• Electro hydrodynamic
• Coatings
• Microorganisms

Market, By End-User Industry

• Food and beverages
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others

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

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