Meat Packaging Market - Forecasts from 2023 to 2028

The meat packaging market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 2.83% during the forecast period.

Meat packaging refers to the process of wrapping and sealing meat products to ensure their freshness, safety, and presentation. It typically involves the use of specialized materials such as vacuum-sealed plastic bags, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), or trays with absorbent pads. The packaging serves multiple purposes, including protecting the meat from contamination, extending its shelf life, preventing spoilage, and providing convenient handling and storage for consumers. Properly packaged meat also allows for effective labelling, including nutritional information, product identification, and handling instructions. Overall, meat packaging plays a vital role in preserving the quality and integrity of meat products from farm to table.

Introduction:

The meat packaging market refers to the industry involved in the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of packaging materials and solutions specifically designed for meat products. It encompasses a wide range of products and services, including various types of packaging materials like films, trays, vacuum-sealed bags, and containers. The market is driven by factors such as increasing demand for packaged and processed meat, growing concerns regarding food safety and hygiene, and the need for extended shelf life and convenience. Companies within the meat packaging market strive to develop innovative and sustainable packaging solutions to meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements while maintaining product quality and integrity throughout the supply chain.

Drivers:

Increasing Demand for Packaged Meat:

The rising consumer preference for convenience and ready-to-eat meat products drives the demand for effective packaging solutions that ensure product freshness, safety, and ease of use.

Growing Global Meat Consumption:

As the global population continues to grow, so does the demand for meat. This increasing demand creates opportunities for the meat packaging market to cater to the packaging needs of a larger consumer base.

Food Safety and Hygiene Concerns:

Consumers are becoming more conscious about food safety and hygiene. Proper meat packaging plays a crucial role in protecting meat from contamination, ensuring its quality, and preventing the spread of food-borne illnesses.

Extended Shelf Life:

Packaging materials and technologies can help extend the shelf life of meat products, reducing food waste and enabling longer distribution and storage periods. This aspect is essential for both retailers and consumers.

Regulatory Compliance:

Stringent regulations and standards govern meat packaging to ensure product safety, labeling accuracy, and traceability. Companies must adhere to these regulations, driving the demand for packaging solutions that meet compliance requirements.

Product Differentiation and Branding:

Packaging allows meat manufacturers to differentiate their products and enhance brand recognition. Eye-catching designs, labeling, and branding elements on packaging can influence consumer purchasing decisions.

Sustainability and Environmental Concerns:

Increasing awareness of environmental issues has led to a demand for sustainable packaging solutions. The meat packaging market is exploring eco-friendly materials, recyclable packaging options, and reduced packaging waste to meet these concerns.

Convenience and Portability:

Consumers seek convenient and portable meat packaging options for on-the-go consumption or smaller households. Packaging solutions that offer portion control, resealability, and easy handling meet these consumer demands.

E-commerce and Online Retail:

The growth of e-commerce and online retail has expanded the market for meat packaging. Online sellers require packaging solutions that protect meat during transit, maintain freshness, and provide an attractive presentation upon delivery.

Technological Advancements:

Advances in packaging technologies, such as modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), active and intelligent packaging systems, and antimicrobial films, provide enhanced product preservation, quality assurance, and extended shelf life.

Products offered by key companies:

• Volpi Foods launched a new line of premium cured meats packaging that reduces plastic use by 80%. The new packaging is made from a paper material that is curbside recyclable once separated from its thin liner.
• Nandu's, a hyperlocal and omni-channel meat brand in India, launched innovative eco-friendly packaging for all its home delivery orders that are made from a non-plastic virgin food-grade material that is fully recyclable.
• Chiola, a family-owned brand in Italy, launched a line of meat products in packaging with 80% less plastic. The new packaging is made from a combination of Amcor's VAC™ and ICE™ custom-engineered forming films, combined with a paperboard exterior wrap.

Positive growth in the sustainable and eco-friendly segment:

The segment of sustainable and eco-friendly meat packaging is experiencing rapid positive growth within the meat packaging market. This growth can be attributed to the increasing consumer demand for environmentally responsible packaging solutions. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of packaging waste, they seek out sustainable alternatives. Companies are responding to this demand by developing packaging materials and solutions that are recyclable, biodegradable, and made from renewable resources. The focus on sustainability aligns with consumer values and enhances brand reputation, leading to the rapid growth of this segment within the meat packaging market.

The Asia-pacific region is expected to hold a significant share:

The Asia-Pacific region is poised to dominate the meat packaging market due to rising meat consumption, a focus on food safety and quality, and the presence of major meat processing companies. Factors such as a growing middle class, urbanization, and awareness of health benefits are driving the demand for meat products. To meet stringent food safety regulations, there is a need for innovative and sustainable packaging solutions. Key markets in the region include China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia.

Key developments:

• In July 2023, Volpi Foods, a charcuterie producer, launched new packaging called Eco-Pack that reduces plastic use for its premium cured meats. The packaging utilizes a curbside recyclable paper material, maintaining the same shelf life as the previous packaging.
• In January 2022, Tekni-Plex a consumer-based product producer is introducing foam polypropylene (FPP) food trays to provide packaging options for fresh meat and produce. These FPP trays serve as a sustainable alternative to conventional foam polystyrene (FPS) trays, as they are readily recyclable in existing polypropylene (PP) sorting processes.

Key Segments:

By Packaging Material Type:

• Plastic
• Metal
• Aluminum
• Steel
• Others
• Others

By Product Type:

• Flexible
• Pouches
• Bags
• Films and Wraps
• Others
• Rigid

By Type of Meat

• Fresh and Frozen
• Processed

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