Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market Forecasts from 2023 to 2028

The modified atmosphere packaging market was valued at US$13.182 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.98% during the forecast period.

The modified atmosphere packaging market involves a packaging technique that alters the composition of the air surrounding a product to extend its shelf life. It typically involves removing oxygen and replacing it with gases like nitrogen or carbon dioxide. This process helps to slow down the growth of bacteria and the oxidation of food, thereby preserving its freshness and quality. Modified atmosphere packaging is widely used in the food industry to extend the shelf life of perishable products, reduce food waste, and maintain product safety.

The Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market-Drivers:

The modified atmosphere packaging market is influenced by key drivers that contribute to its growth. One driver is the increasing demand for extended shelf life and freshness of perishable products in the food industry. The ability of modified atmosphere packaging to inhibit bacterial growth and delay food oxidation aligns with consumer preferences for high-quality, longer-lasting food products. Additionally, the focus on reducing food waste and enhancing product safety further drives the adoption of modified atmosphere packaging solutions.

Increasing Demand for Extended Shelf Life:

Modified atmosphere packaging is a technique that alters the composition of the atmosphere within a package to extend the shelf life of perishable products. By reducing oxygen and controlling carbon dioxide and nitrogen levels, MAP inhibits microbial growth, reduces spoilage, and increases product freshness. This drives its adoption in industries like food and beverages, minimizing waste and improving profitability. MAP meets consumer demands for longer shelf life and natural preservation methods. It benefits products with short shelf lives, maintaining their quality and nutritional value. Overall, MAP helps enhance product quality, customer satisfaction, and supply chain efficiency.

Growing Focus on Food Safety is driving the market growth:

Modified atmosphere packaging is an effective solution for ensuring food safety by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, molds, and other pathogens. By adjusting the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen, MAP creates a modified atmosphere within the packaging that hampers the proliferation of harmful microorganisms. This helps maintain the safety and quality of packaged products, reduces the risk of contamination, and extends their shelf life. MAP aligns with regulatory requirements, enhances consumer confidence, and contributes to reducing food waste.

Rising Demand for Convenience acts as a market driver:

Modified atmosphere packaging offers convenience to consumers by providing ready-to-eat or ready-to-cook packaged products that require minimal preparation. This appeals to busy lifestyles and addresses the need for quick and hassle-free meal solutions. MAP saves time and effort, especially for on-the-go consumers, and aligns with the demand for fresh and healthy food options. Its popularity in the food industry reflects the changing preferences and needs of consumers seeking convenient yet nutritious meals.

Innovation in Packaging Technologies:

Continuous advancements in packaging technologies, such as modified atmosphere packaging systems and barrier materials, have enhanced the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of MAP. These innovations have led to improved product preservation, reduced waste, and created new opportunities for market growth. Advanced MAP systems provide precise control over oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen levels, extending shelf life and maintaining product quality. The development of high-performance barrier materials enhances packaging efficiency and reduces material usage. These advancements contribute to sustainability efforts and drive innovation in the packaging industry, expanding the applications of MAP across various end-use sectors.

Environmental and Sustainability concerns also act as market drivers:

Modified atmosphere packaging contributes to the reduction of food waste by extending product shelf life and minimizing spoilage. It aligns with global sustainability efforts to reduce the environmental impact of food production and consumption. MAP creates a modified atmosphere that inhibits the growth of microorganisms, preserving the freshness and quality of packaged goods. By prolonging the storage and distribution periods, MAP minimizes the risk of products becoming unsellable. This reduces waste, conserves resources, and promotes responsible consumption and resource management, supporting a more sustainable and efficient food supply chain.

Changing Consumer Preference and Lifestyle:

Modified atmosphere packaging offers convenience to consumers by providing ready-to-eat or ready-to-cook packaged products that require minimal preparation. It saves time and effort, especially for on-the-go consumers, and aligns with the demand for fresh and healthy food options. Its popularity in the food industry reflects the changing preferences and needs of consumers seeking convenient yet nutritious meals.

Expansion of E-commerce and Retail Sector is driving the market growth:

The expansion of e-commerce and the retail sector has driven the demand for modified atmosphere packaging. It ensures the quality and freshness of products during storage, transportation, and delivery, particularly in the context of online grocery shopping. By creating a controlled atmosphere, MAP extends the shelf life of perishable goods, addresses temperature fluctuations, and enhances product integrity. It helps retailers meet consumer expectations, build manufacturer's reputation, and improve customer satisfaction in a competitive market.

Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the market:

The Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the modified atmosphere packaging market for several reasons. The region's large and rapidly growing population leads to increased demand for packaged food and beverages. Additionally, there is a growing awareness of food safety and quality, driving the adoption of modified atmosphere packaging to extend product shelf life. The presence of strong manufacturing hubs and well-established supply chain infrastructure in countries like China and India supports the production and distribution of modified atmosphere packaging solutions. Furthermore, governments and regulatory bodies in the region are implementing stringent standards for food packaging, further driving the growth of the modified atmosphere packaging market in Asia Pacific.

Recent Development:

• In June 2023 ProAmpac, a leading player in the flexible packaging and material science industry, launched its fiber-based modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) RAP Sandwich Wedge in the North American market. Specifically designed for sandwiches and wraps, this innovative packaging solution introduces the concept of modified atmosphere packaging in a fiber-based format.
• In Feb 2023, C-P Flexible Packaging and Northwest Frozen collaborated to develop new packaging techniques for hermetically sealed meals. The packaging employs a low-oxygen atmosphere to preserve food freshness. Preferred Packaging provided a lidding film that ensures effective sealing on high-speed machines, including crystallized polyester trays and in the presence of sauces. Maintaining seal integrity is vital during distribution.

Key Segment:

By Packaging Gas

• Oxygen
• Nitrogen
• Carbon-dioxide
• Others

By Packaging Material

• Polyvinylchloride (PVC)
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Others

By Application

• Fruits and Vegetables
• Poultry, Seafood, and Meat Products
• Bakery and Confectionery
• Others

By Geography

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Others
• Europe
• United Kingdom
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Others
• Middle East and Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Others
• Asia Pacific
• Japan
• China
• India
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Indonesia
• Others