PUBLISHER: Market Xcel - Markets and Data | PRODUCT CODE: 1592790
PUBLISHER: Market Xcel - Markets and Data | PRODUCT CODE: 1592790
Global post-harvest treatment market is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.66% during the forecast period 2024-2031, growing from USD 1.93 billion in 2023 to USD 3.23 billion in 2031. The market is growing due to the rising concern about food waste and the need to extend the shelf life and increase the quality of agricultural products. The rising number of people around the world has led to an increase in demand for efficient post-harvest management practices within the industry. Post-harvest processes attempt to maintain or enhance the quality and extend the storage of fresh produce like fruits, vegetables, grains, and other perishable products.
The escalating focus on food safety and quality norms by consumers and retailers has catalyzed the market. In addition to this, agriculture-dependent regions, especially Asia-Pacific, are embracing technology and practices geared towards reducing loss during storage and transport, all of which entail significant expenditures. In addition, the sustainability trend aims to encourage the development of greener treatment options that decrease the use of chemicals and encourage the use of natural solutions instead.
On the contrary, technological improvements contribute to the efficiency of post-harvest activities. Other than minimizing losses, these innovations have made it possible to transform supply chain management. Retailers and producers are increasingly geared towards providing consumers with high-quality and safe products, and the post-harvest treatment market is expected to grow enormously. To summarize, the market is significant in ensuring food security, strengthening agricultural economies, and providing a more sustainable food system across the globe.
In April 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture in Ethiopia reviewed its National Post-harvest Management Strategy. It expanded its scope to encompass perishable agricultural goods such as livestock products (meat, poultry, dairy, and fish) and horticultural crops, apart from grains which were already included. In 2023, a thorough post-harvest management plan was created by the government, covering grains, vegetables, fruits, fish, and livestock, which was endorsed in April 2024.
Growing Recognition of Food Waste Catalyzes Market Expansion
Growing food waste awareness has proved to be one of the major factors for the growth of the post-harvest treatment market. It has been estimated that around one-third of the food produced in the world is wasted. Thus, the introduction of better ways to preserve harvested crops is crucial. This rise in food waste consciousness has led to the development of awareness campaigns whereby individuals, corporate entities, and even the governments take steps to curb it since it has consequences for the environment and food security. In fact, in September 2024, through the Ministry of Agriculture, the Tanzanian government established a strategic tax exemption plan aimed at helping farmers of cereal and horticulture crops lower post-harvest losses. The program is a part of the larger Feed the Future Tanzania, Tuhifadhi Chakula project, which is led by the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) and sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). As part of its commitment to the USD 18,269,117.50 project, the government is exempting essential items from import duties.
Thus, the shareholders of the food supply chain are developing interests in post-harvest improvement technologies to store and preserve perishables for a longer period. This transformation solves the moral concern of food wastage and enhances economic viability by minimizing losses during storage and transportation.
Sustainability Concerns to Influence Market Growth
The market for post-harvest treatment is under the growing influence of sustainability concerns, especially as consumers and businesses look for ways to cut the level of environmental impact of the processes. Eco-friendly solutions that eliminate the use of artificial chemicals are in great supply, leading to a rise in the popularity of the development of natural and harmless treatments. These alternatives tend to maintain the quality of the produce and suit the needs of consumers who want to use sustainable products. Biodegradable packages and treatments limit the use of harsh conventional materials, thereby establishing a circular economy. Aligning with the trend, in October 2024, Sanifruit, owned by SANICITRUS SL, introduced SaniBlues, a unique, cutting-edge, and distinctive product for the treatment of pesticide-free blueberries worldwide. The online blueberry treatment is a biodegradable composition made from food-grade ingredients. It serves as a coating to shield the fruit from changes brought on by outside factors, extending its shelf life and lowering dehydration while it is being transported and sold.
In addition, the emphasis on sustainability reaches out to the aspects of procurement and resource management in the process of food production, encouraging activities that are friendly to the soil and biodiversity. While regulatory frameworks are focused on sustainability, the market is experiencing a transition towards more innovative, environmentally friendly approaches. Thus, making post-harvest practices contribute to a more sustainable food system.
Coatings Holds a Significant Market Share
The market for post-harvest treatment demonstrates coatings as one of the most important products, as they are very effective in increasing the shelf life of perishable commodities. These coatings form a densified shield that limits moisture loss, gas exchange, and microbial growth, thus preserving freshness and quality. There is a growing trend towards the use of various types of coatings, such as edible films, which are composed of environmentally safe materials such as cellulose and chitosan. Such coatings protect fruits and vegetables from damage during transport and storage and help reduce the use of chemical preservatives. Fresh, less processed food is more in demand these days, with most consumers avoiding foods containing chemical additives. Thus, the need for such coatings is continuous.
Further, improvements in coating technology have enabled the emergence of coatings with a combination of several functions, such as antimicrobial properties and controlled release of preservatives. Coatings are expected to continue to be an important factor when it comes to achieving quality standards as well as fulfilling the sustainability requirements of the market.
In February 2023, DECCO IBERICA POST-HARVEST, SAU, introduced its latest coating, Citrashine N Pyr, which was the first coating in the market containing Pyrimethanil. By effectively and sustainably guaranteeing the quality and safety of post-harvest products, using Citrashine N Pyr with Pyrimethanil marks a technical breakthrough in citrus protection. It serves as a vital tactic in the battle against food waste.
North America to Dominate Market Share
The post-harvest treatment market is led by North America owing to advanced agricultural systems and greater emphasis on food safety and quality. The region's infrastructural development includes significant investments in technology and innovation, the main purpose of enhancing effective preservation methods in the food supply chain to curb food waste. With its advanced supply chain management practices and modern farming methods in place, North America has positioned itself as a leader in the provision of post-harvest solutions.
Furthermore, the rising consumer awareness concerning food quality and safety and the craving for quality food is boosting market growth. Retailers widely embrace post-harvest treatment measures to improve the product's freshness and increase shelf life. Attitudes towards food safety in the region are supported by strict food safety legislation in most countries, which is increasing the market potential. As concern for the environment increases, the desire for sustainable solutions grows, which cements the position of North America as the most prominent region in the global post-harvest treatment market.
In March 2024, AgroFresh Solutions, Inc. acquired the domestic and overseas operations of Pace International LLC. By acquiring Pace, AgroFresh strengthened its position in important fruit-growing regions of North America. AgroFresh can now offer a wider range of post-harvest technology, services, and digital solutions in both the conventional and organic produce categories, enhancing its capacity to assist clients in fulfilling their goal of preserving the quality and freshness of produce throughout their journey from harvest to home.
Future Market Scenario (2024 - 2031F)
The rising trend of consumers leaning towards environmentally friendly and organic goods will stimulate the demand for eco-friendly and non-toxic solutions.
The rise in research and development attempts will result in finding unique, innovative solutions for solving specific crop-related issues.
As the focus on managing food waste persists, the need for efficient solutions addressing the post-harvest stages is expected to grow.
Key Players Landscape and Outlook
The market for post-harvest treatments is characterized by a competitive environment, with several players stimulating development and sustainability to satisfy the need for preservation solutions. Several firms are focusing on forming strategic alliances and entering into partnerships with other players in the agriculture sector and research bodies to expand their product offerings and improve their presence in the market. There is a strong focus on research and development, resulting in the development of new treatments such as innovative biodegradable coatings and smart packaging solutions. In October 2023, Lytone Enterprise, Inc. added two new products to its post-harvest solutions portfolio, LytoGreen and AnsiP-M. While LytoGreen provides fresh-cut suppliers a one-size-fits-all solution by combining antibacterial and antioxidant properties, AnsiP-M stops mold spores from spreading in berries or tender produce and regulates them if they germinate, extending the product's shelf life.
The market forecast is favorable given an increase in consumers' cognizance of food safety, sustainability, and the need to minimize food loss and waste. With the increasing globalization and evolution in agriculture, the regulatory standards are becoming stringent, and businesses keen on producing eco-friendly health solutions and embracing technology have a competitive advantage. Given these concerns, the post-harvest treatment market is expected to witness healthy development shortly.
All segments will be provided for all regions and countries covered
Companies mentioned above DO NOT hold any order as per market share and can be changed as per information available during research work.