Meat Packaging Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Poultry, Beef, Pork, Seafood), By Material Type (Polyethylene (PE), Polyamide (PA), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH), Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene Films (BOPP)), By Technology (Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP), Vacuum Thermoformed Packaging (VTP)) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2024-2032

Market Overview

The global meat packaging market size was valued at USD 15.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach a value of USD 22.9 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period (2024-2032).

Growing consumption of protein-rich products, rising demand for packaged food items, and increased focus on enhancing the shelf life of meat products are just a few of the significant reasons driving the global meat packaging market growth.

Meat packaging is an essential aspect of the food industry, encompassing wrapping and safeguarding meat products to guarantee their quality, safety, and longevity while being transported, stored, and sold. The meat business utilizes a range of packaging materials, methods, and forms to cater to the different requirements of the industry and customer tastes.

The benefits of meat packaging and rising demand for processed and small-portion food items have increased demand for high-quality meat packaging. Along with this, several governments are taking steps to protect food safety, and an increase in meat consumption is likely to drive up demand for meat packaging. However, the preference for freshly cooked meat challenges the meat packaging market share. Aside from that, the lack of adequate logistical solutions for the efficient preservation and quality control of raw, chilled fresh meat may limit the expansion of the meat packing business.

Highlights

• Poultry accounts for the largest share of the market based on type.
• Polyethylene (PE) generates the most revenue in the market based on material type.
• Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) occupies the maximum share of the market based on technology.

Market Dynamics

Global Meat Packaging Market Drivers

Convenience and On-the-Go Lifestyle

Changing consumer lifestyles, defined by hectic schedules, dual-income households, and a need for convenience, have substantially impacted the demand for meat packaging solutions that cater to on-the-go consumption habits. Packaging is important in satisfying their changing needs as consumers seek time-saving solutions and simple meal preparation. Dual-income households with no children earn an average of USD138,000 a year, but dual-income families with children earn USD129,000. DINKs contribute almost 9% more to retirement savings than DIWKs each year. 

Convenience-focused packaging for ready-to-eat and pre-packaged beef dishes appeals to customers seeking quick and easy solutions. Individually wrapped deli slices, pre-marinated meats, and completely cooked meal kits are all examples of products that make cooking easier. According to the Specialty Food Association's (SFA) Trendspotter Panel, convenience will be a major trend in 2023. Portion-controlled packaging also meets the desire for convenience by supplying pre-portioned beef products. Single-serving packages or packages with clearly defined servings appeal to customers who prefer simple meal preparation and less food waste.

The increased demand for meal kits, which frequently include pre-portioned and pre-packaged meat components, reflects a desire for easy cooking options. According to Statista, the meal kit industry is predicted to reach over USD17 billion in 2023 and USD25 million by 2027, demonstrating that these quick meal options are becoming increasingly popular.

Packaging that supports changes in consumer behavior, such as the rise of remote work and the demand for at-home meals, is gaining popularity. This includes packaging that keeps products fresh during storage in home refrigerators. Meat Department sales in the United States were more than USD122 billion in 2023, up 0.7% from the previous year. Consumers are increasingly willing to buy meats from other cultures, such as Middle Eastern lamb or Asian pork. For example, chorizo sales are up 11% yearly, and online sales are up 55.9%.

Market trends demonstrating the growth of convenience foods, consumer preferences for easy-to-use items, and the impact on packaging designs support convenience as a driver in meat packaging. The Meat Packaging Market trend continues to respond to consumer demand for convenience by developing innovative packaging solutions compatible with on-the-go lifestyles.

Global Meat Packaging Market Restraints

Environment Concerns and Sustainability

The growing global concern about environmental sustainability and the impact of plastic waste has become a major constraint on the meat packaging sector. Consumers, regulatory entities, and environmental organizations increasingly call for sustainable packaging solutions to lessen the industry's environmental impact. More than 175 countries agreed in March 2022 to establish a legally enforceable convention to prevent plastic pollution. Since 2017, the United Nations has been looking into ways to reduce plastic waste. The United Nations Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee met in Paris in May 2023 to complete discussions by 2024. 

Governments worldwide are putting measures in place to reduce the use of single-use plastics. For example, the European Union's Single-Use Plastics Directive seeks to limit the environmental impact of specific plastic items, such as food and beverage packaging. Similarly, as of January 1, 2023, India's minimum thickness of plastic bags is 120 microns. The Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2021 also prohibit the production, importation, stockpiling, distribution, sale, and use of plastic bags less than 120 microns thick. 

However, a Nielsen survey shows that 73% of worldwide customers are willing to adjust their buying habits to lessen their environmental effects. This includes a preference for brands committed to sustainability, which influences purchase decisions in the food and packaging industries.

Global Meat Packaging Market Opportunity

Increasing Trend of Online Meat Purchases

The fast expansion of e-commerce in the meat business creates a considerable potential for packaging innovation. As more people buy meat online, adapting packaging solutions to the specific needs of e-commerce can improve the overall customer experience while ensuring product integrity throughout shipment. E-commerce platforms frequently have longer travel durations and changing environmental conditions during delivery. Temperature-controlled packaging ensures that meat products, particularly perishable items, stay at the appropriate temperature throughout delivery. In the United States, online meat sales have increased from 0% to 2% by 2023. Licious is a Bengaluru-based meat delivery service offering meat, seafood, cold cuts, and ready-to-eat options. In 2022-23, Licious's operating revenue increased 9.5% to INR 748 Cr from INR 682.5 Cr the previous fiscal year.

Sustainable packaging is gaining traction in the e-commerce industry. According to a McKinsey survey, more than 60% of global consumers prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions. Companies can capitalize on the potential by investing in sustainable e-commerce packaging materials, aligning with customer preferences for environmentally friendly solutions, and contributing to a positive brand image.

Adapting packaging solutions to meet the specific requirements of e-commerce in the meat business, such as temperature control, protection, personalization, and sustainability, represents a considerable market potential opportunity. As online meat sales continue to increase, fixing these issues can improve the consumer experience and contribute to meat firms' success in the digital marketplace.

Regional Analysis

North America Dominates the Global Market

The global meat packaging market analysis is conducted in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

North America is the most significant global meat packaging market shareholder and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% over the forecast period. North America's meat packaging market is predicted to grow rapidly during the forecast period due to rising demand and consumption of meat products. According to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), meat consumption in this region is high due to low prices and increased chicken eating. Another reason likely to drive meat packaging growth is the desire for small portions of meat items and the trend toward convenience products due to busy lifestyles. The figure below depicts meat consumption by region.

Additionally, the expanding consumption of meat products, the increased focus of meat manufacturing and processing industries on extending product shelf life, and the significant presence of major packaging giants all contribute to growth in the US meat packaging market. According to the USDA Economic Research Service, consumers in the United States of America had access to around 224.6 pounds of red meat and poultry per capita retail weight. This benefits the country's meat-packing business positively, and the trend is predicted to continue during the assessment period.

Similarly, according to the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), meat and poultry consumption in the United States is expected to increase by less than 1% annually through 2023. The increased consumption of meat and poultry products will drive up meat packaging sales.

Europe is anticipated to exhibit a CAGR of 5.0% over the forecast period. Europe is predicted to proliferate over the projection period. The rising production and export of meat products such as beef and pork and an increasing emphasis on adopting sustainable packaging options are driving the meat packaging business in the United Kingdom. According to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), the United Kingdom produces approximately 900,000 tonnes of beef each year, with 148,000 tonnes exported to other nations worldwide.

As a result, the country ranks fifth in the world for sheep meat production and third in exports. It exports approximately 88,000 tonnes of sheep meat each year. Companies utilize various meat packing materials to protect this large quantity of meat from contamination while increasing its shelf life during storage and transit. This will continue to drive demand for meat packaging in the United Kingdom during the evaluation period.

Asia-Pacific is likely to have a moderate share during the projection period. Consumers in this region now have more purchasing power thanks to rapid industrialization. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Asia-Pacific area is predicted to expand by 4.6% in 2023, up from 3.9% in 2022. The World Bank predicts 5% growth in developing East Asia and the Pacific in 2023, dropping to 4.5% in 2024. This has boosted demand for meat and meat products, benefiting regional market growth throughout the projection period.

Segmental Analysis

The global meat packaging market is segmented based on type, material type, and technology

The market is further segmented by type into Poultry, Beef, Pork, and Seafood.

Poultry accounts for the largest share of the market.

Poultry

The poultry component of the meat packaging market includes packaging solutions specifically designed for chicken, turkey, duck, and other poultry products. Poultry packaging must handle the unique qualities and issues connected with these meats, such as contamination risk, sufficient ventilation, and leak-proof packing. Vacuum-sealed pouches, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) trays, customized packaging for various cuts, and processed poultry products are among the most common packaging options. Furthermore, given the consumer need for freshness and convenience, chicken packaging developments frequently emphasize easy-to-open designs and portion control.

Beef

The beef area of meat packaging includes packaging solutions for various cuts of beef, such as steaks, roasts, ground beef, and processed beef products. Freshness preservation, contamination protection, and correct labeling for consumer information are among the elements that must be considered while packaging beef. Vacuum packing and MAP are standard methods for extending the shelf life of fresh cuts, while ground beef can be packaged in vacuum-sealed pouches or trays.

By material type, the market can be further bifurcated into Polyethylene (PE), Polyamide (PA), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH), Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene Films (BOPP).

Polyethylene (PE) generates the most revenue in the market.

Polyethylene (PE)

Polyethylene (PE) is a versatile and widely used material for meat packaging. It is renowned for its flexibility, durability, and moisture resistance. PE films are commonly utilized in various packaging applications, including vacuum-sealed pouches and bags. In meat packaging, PE helps to provide a barrier against external contaminants, avoiding rotting and extending the shelf life of meat products. Its flexibility makes it ideal for wrapping various kinds of meat, ensuring the packaging fits the product's shape. Furthermore, PE is frequently chosen for its low cost and ease of processing, making it an attractive option for various meat packing applications.

Polyamide (PA)

Polyamide (PA), sometimes known as nylon, is used in meat packaging due to its superior barrier qualities. PA films provide a high oxygen barrier and are frequently used in multilayer packaging designs to extend the shelf life of meat products. PA's gas barrier properties prevent oxidative reactions and preserve the freshness and color of meat. PA is widely used in vacuum packing and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) to produce a condition that reduces meat degradation caused by exposure to air. Its strength and puncture resistance make it ideal for packing applications requiring durability.

Based on technology, the market is fragmented into Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP), and Vacuum Thermoformed Packaging (VTP).

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) occupies the maximum share of the market.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is a meat packaging technology that extends product shelf life by changing the composition of the surrounding environment within the packaging. This approach involves modifying the quantities of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen to slow the oxidation and microbial development processes, keeping the meat fresh. MAP is useful for keeping fresh meat's color, texture, and flavor. It is often used to package a variety of meats, including poultry, beef, and shellfish. MAP improves the overall quality and visual attractiveness of meat products, and it is frequently used in the industry to suit consumer demand for fresh, minimally processed meat.

Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP)

Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP) is a meat packaging process that uses a transparent film to wrap the meat product tightly, eradicating any air between the film and the product. This procedure produces a secure seal by conforming the film firmly to the contours of the meat, improving product visibility and presentation. VSP has excellent clarity and a skin-tight look, making it ideal for displaying fresh pieces of meat. This packaging approach increases shelf life by decreasing exposure to oxygen and improves the product's visual attractiveness on the retail shelf. VSP is often used to preserve quality cuts of meat, seafood, and other fresh products while providing an appealing presentation.

Impact of covid-19

Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, the logistics companies have been on the front line with fully-stocked warehouses and ongoing trade. However, the global supply chain disruption due to the lockdown imposed in the majority of the world further narrowed down the merchandise trade growth in the said logistics segment. But one thing which was notably remarkable in this Covid outbreak was the immense growth of the e-Commerce sector which introduced the consumers to digital business models and smart and safe logistics parameters. There has been a significant rise in the instant or same-day delivery patterns in online purchases with the increase in Covid-19 cases worldwide. Consumers feel safe ordering things online and getting them delivered to their doorstep without visiting a crowded place. In the meantime, follow the Covid guidelines given by the governing authorities.

Some reports say that the e-Commerce sales have grown by 30% in the first and second quadrant of 2020, during which the Covid outbreak was humongous. The said period saw a significant rise in daily parcels globally which reached 9 million parcels a day from 5.3 million parcels a day in the pre-pandemic times. The only positive thing the covid-19 pandemic did was to the e-Commerce industry. They generated a lot of revenue through the online selling portals and gained the consumers' trust by delivering their goods safely to their doorstep.

The global market of last mile delivery has seen a noteworthy increase in revenue with a sudden rise in delivery services during the pandemic. Many key players in the industry are planning to improvise and connect to more customers through safe and efficient delivery services. Even after the Covid-19 outbreak, the online sales and e-Commerce platforms are expected to keep their rising momentum in the global last mile delivery market growth with the increase in the online shopping trends and safe and sound fast delivery options.

Recent Developments

November 2023 - Amcor and NOVA Chemicals announced an arrangement to source mechanically recycled polyethylene.

September 2023 - SEE collaborated with Sparck Technologies to bring 3D automated packaging solutions to Asia Pacific markets.

February 2024 - Coveris will present fresh, sustainable packaging solutions at Angua FoodTec 2024.

July 2023 - Graphic Packaging and ABP collaborated on fiber-based meat packaging.