Edible Packaging Market Report by Material Type (Lipids, Polysaccharides, Proteins, Surfactants, and Others), Source (Plant, Animal), End User (Food and Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, and Others), and Region 2024-2032

The global edible packaging market size reached US$ 963.8 Million in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 1,565.2 Million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.4% during 2024-2032. The growing global concern about environmental issues, increasing awareness among individuals about the benefits offered by edible packaging over traditional packaging, and rising collaboration between edible packaging manufacturers and culinary experts are some of the major factors propelling the market.

Edible packaging, also known as food-grade packaging, is usually made from natural ingredients like starches, proteins, or plant-based materials. It has moisture-resistant properties to protect the food from moisture and extend its shelf life. It reduces plastic waste and contributes to a more sustainable packaging solution. It is widely used in individual servings of snacks like chips and candies and can be applied to encapsulate liquid products, such as juice or alcohol.

The expansion of hotels, restaurants, fast-food chains and the rise of takeout and food delivery services is catalyzing the demand for edible packaging solutions. Apart from this, the increasing use of edible packaging in catering services for sustainability-focused events, reducing waste and showcasing their commitment to eco-friendly practices is strengthening the growth of the market. Furthermore, collaboration between edible packaging manufacturers and culinary experts is promoting innovation in the development of creative and gourmet edible packaging solutions. Moreover, leading industry players and research institutions are investing in research and development (R&D) activities to improve the taste, texture, and functional properties of edible packaging.

Edible Packaging Market Trends/Drivers:

Rising environmental concerns

The growing global concern about environmental issues and the rising need for sustainable packaging solutions represent one of the key factors positively influencing the market. Additionally, the increasing awareness among individuals about the benefits offered by edible packaging over traditional packaging solutions is offering a favorable market outlook. Edible packaging materials are made from natural ingredients and are biodegradable and compostable, which generates less harmful emissions, plastic waste, and promotes circular economies. Apart from this, the widespread adoption of edible packaging to attract environmentally conscious consumers and promote environmental health is strengthening the growth of the market. Furthermore, governments of various countries are undertaking initiatives to promote the use of biodegradable packaging materials.

Technological advancements

Continuous progress in food technology and material science is enabling the development of edible packaging materials with enhanced properties and versatility and expanding their applicability across various industries. Additionally, the introduction of edible packaging materials with improved barrier properties, moisture resistance, and shelf stability is creating a positive outlook for the market. Apart from this, innovation in edible packaging technology is allowing customization in terms of color, flavor, and design and offering lucrative opportunities to brands for creating unique and durable packaging solutions. Furthermore, collaborations between food companies, material scientists, and packaging manufacturers are favoring the market growth. These partnerships facilitate the development of cutting-edge solutions and drive adoption across various sectors, including food and pharmaceuticals.

Convenience and functional benefits

The convenience and functional benefits offered by edible packaging are driving its adoption in various industries. It eliminates the need for separate utensils and tools to access the enclosed product and allows people to simply consume the packaging along with contents, which makes it ideal for on-the-go consumption. Additionally, packing food products in edible materials minimizes the risk of spills, contamination, and damage during transport and storage. This results in fewer instances of food spoilage and waste, contributing to cost savings for consumers and businesses. Moreover, rapid urbanization and the busy lifestyles of individuals are offering a favorable market outlook.

Edible Packaging Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global edible packaging market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels from 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on material type, source, and end user.

Breakup by Material Type:

Lipids

Polysaccharides

Proteins

Surfactants

Others

Lipids dominate the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the material type. This includes lipids, polysaccharides, proteins, surfactants, and others. According to the report, lipids hold the largest market share as they are versatile ingredients used in numerous dishes. They are widely utilized in the food and beverage (F&B) industry to prepare salad dressings, margarine, chocolate, and pastries. Apart from this, the widespread utilization of lipids in the pharmaceutical industry is driving its demand worldwide. Additionally, lipids are used in the production of nutraceuticals, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which offer various health benefits. Furthermore, the increasing use of lipids in the formulation of cosmetics and personal care products is catalyzing their demand. They provide moisturization, emollient properties, and stability to products like lotions, creams, and lip balms. Moreover, ongoing research into lipid-based technologies, such as lipid nanoparticles for drug delivery or lipid-based emulsions for food products, is favoring the market growth.

Breakup by Source:

Plant

Animal

Plant represents the largest market segment

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the source has also been provided in the report. This includes plant and animal. According to the report, plant holds the largest market share due to the rising adoption of veganism and vegetarianism. Additionally, the rising awareness among individuals about the importance of maintaining health and wellness is offering a favorable market outlook. Plant-based diets provide various health benefits, such as reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Apart from this, the growing concerns about the environmental impact of animal agriculture, including greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage, are encouraging consumers to choose plant-based alternatives. Moreover, continuous advancements in food technology are enabling the development of highly realistic plant-based meat and dairy alternatives and attracting a wider consumer base.

Breakup by End User:

Food and Beverages

Pharmaceuticals

Others

Food and beverages account for the largest market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end user. This includes food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and others. According to the report, food and beverages account for the majority of the market share as edible packaging is well-suited for food products. It is made from edible ingredients, such as starches, proteins, and plant-based materials and contributes to the reduction of food waste by extending the shelf life of perishable products. Additionally, the rising awareness among the masses about environmental issues and the growing preference for sustainable products are promoting the adoption of edible packaging in the F&B industry. Apart from this, the increasing use of edible packaging for enhancing the presentation of food and beverages is augmenting the market growth. It can be used for decorative purposes, such as edible wrappers for chocolates or garnishes for cocktails to make them visually appealing and unique.

Breakup by Region:

North America

United States

Canada

Asia-Pacific

China

Japan

India

South Korea

Australia

Indonesia

Others

Europe

Germany

France

United Kingdom

Italy

Spain

Russia

Others

Latin America

Brazil

Mexico

Others

Middle East and Africa

North America exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest edible packaging market share

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America accounted for the largest market share since the region has a thriving F&B industry with diverse product offerings. This economic strength attracts investment and drives market dominance. Additionally, the United States is home to numerous multinational corporations and has a robust food and beverage industry. This economic strength provides ample opportunities for investment and growth in the edible packaging sector. Apart from this, people in North America increasingly favor eco-friendly and innovative packaging solutions, which drives the demand for edible packaging. Furthermore, regulatory bodies in North America provide support for sustainable packaging initiatives, including edible packaging. Moreover, collaboration between food manufacturers, packaging companies, and research institutions in North America drives innovation in edible packaging.

Competitive Landscape:

Edible packaging companies are investing heavily in R&D to develop new materials, formulations, and technologies. They focus on improving the taste, texture, and functional properties of edible packaging while ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, they are providing customization options for edible packaging, allowing brands to print logos, messages, or branding directly onto the packaging. Apart from this, many companies are collaborating with food manufacturers, restaurants, and beverage companies to integrate their products into existing packaging processes. These partnerships promote the adoption of edible packaging across different sectors. Furthermore, they are actively engaged in educational campaigns to inform people and businesses about the benefits of edible packaging.

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

Devro plc

Glanbia plc

Ingredion Incorporated

JRF Technology LLC

MonoSol LLC (Kuraray Co. Ltd.)

Nagase & Co. Ltd.

Notpla Limited

Safetraces Inc.

Tate & Lyle Plc

TIPA Corp Ltd.

Recent Developments:

In February 2021, JRF Technology LLC launched an edible film strip with BerryShield Elderberry from INS Farms, a grower, producer, and supplier in North America of black elderberry (Sambucus nigra).

In October 2020, Notpla Limited, a London-based firm developed edible seaweed packaging as a replacement for traditional plastic packaging.

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global edible packaging market performed so far, and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global edible packaging market?
• What is the impact of each driver, restraint, and opportunity on the global edible packaging market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive edible packaging market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the material type?
• Which is the most attractive material type in the edible packaging market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the source?
• Which is the most attractive source in the edible packaging market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the end user?
• Which is the most attractive end user in the edible packaging market?
• What is the competitive structure of the global edible packaging market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global edible packaging market?