According to the latest research study released by Technavio (technavio.com), the global fresh food packaging market is expected to reach close to USD 89 billion in revenue by 2020.

This research report titled ‘Global Fresh Food Packaging Market 2016-2020’ provides an in-depth analysis of market growth in terms of revenue and emerging market trends. This market research report also includes up to date analysis and forecasts for various market segments and all leading regions.

“Pouch packaging is currently gaining traction in the global fresh food packaging market. Pouch packaging maintains product safety and freshness and is convenient to use because of its compact and lightweight feature. Pouches are made of multi-level laminates that maintain sterile packaging of different foods and beverages. Similar to packaging used for juices, milk, and ready-to-eat food products, these pouches do not carry caps or closures,” says Sharan Raj, one of Technavio’s lead analysts for packaging research.

“It is anticipated that many fresh food packaging companies will shift to retort pouch packaging, as it offers customization and provides immense scope to create new designs. Also, sustainable stand-up pouches are eco-friendly as they are non-toxic and biodegradable. Therefore, growing adoption of these pouches will positively impact the market over the next four years,” says Sharan.

Global fresh food packaging market by material 2015

Flexible plastic 39.98 %
Paper and paperboard 18.24 %
Rigid plastic 26.49 %
Other materials 15.29 %
Source: Technavio research

Top three segments of the global fresh food packaging market:

Flexible plastic segment
Paper and paperboard
Rigid plastic

Flexible plastic packaging: largest segment of the fresh food packaging market

The global fresh food packaging market by flexible plastic was valued at over USD 29 billion in 2015. Flexible packaging includes films and sheets, pouches, and bags. It offers down-gauging options and protection from contamination and deterioration.

The global fresh food packaging market by flexible plastics is characterized by innovative offerings such as BoPET, which is made from stretched PET and has high tensile strength, chemical stability, and reflectivity. In addition, ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) and PA are commonly used as oxygen barriers in fresh food packaging. They are known for their weather, oil, and solvent-resistant properties. In addition, they exhibit flexibility, moldability, recyclability, and thermoform properties.

Paper and paperboard: second largest segment of the fresh food packaging market

The paper and paperboard segment of the global fresh food packaging market is anticipated to grow at a steady rate during the forecast period. Different grades of paperboard packaging include bleached paperboard or solid bleached sulfate (which contains 80% virgin bleached wood pulp and clay natural kraft) and solid unbleached sulfate (which consists of 80% virgin unbleached, natural wood pulp). Paperboard packaging solutions are particularly used in industries such as F&B, healthcare and beauty aids, and tissues and papers.

Global fresh food packaging market by rigid plastics

The global fresh food packaging market by rigid plastics will grow moderately during the forecast period. Rigid packaging includes containers, plastic jars and bottles, and plastic trays. These products are gaining popularity, as they are lightweight, microwavable, and can be customized according to customer requirements. There is a growing demand for these products from retail stores for packaging of poultry and other meat products.