Ambient Food Packaging Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Material (Plastic, Paper & Paperboard, Glass, and Others), By Product Type (Flexible Packaging Products and Rigid Packaging Products), By Application (Sauces & Condiments, Bakery & Confectionery, Pet Food, Fruits & Vegetables, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global ambient food packaging market was valued at USD 78.26 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 81.54 billion in 2024 to USD 122.15 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.18% during the forecast period. Asia Pacific dominated the ambient food packaging market with a market share of 39.06% in 2023. Moreover, the ambient food packaging market in the U.S. is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated value of USD 31.90 billion by 2032, driven by the increasing consumer preference for convenience foods with extended shelf life.

The ambient food packaging market refers to the industry that produces packaging solutions specifically designed for ambient or non-refrigerated food products. Ambient food items are those that can be stored at room temperature without the need for refrigeration, such as dry snacks, canned goods, and certain beverages. The packaging for these products plays a crucial role in maintaining the freshness, quality, and safety of the food while ensuring a longer shelf life. One significant market driver is the growing demand for convenience foods and on-the-go snacks, particularly in urban settings where consumers seek portable and easy-to-consume products.

With increased concerns about food product safety and hygiene during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a surge in demand for packaged and processed foods, including ambient products that do not require refrigeration. However, while the impact of the pandemic has been overwhelmingly negative in many areas, the food industry experienced both ups and downs throughout the crisis.

Ambient Food Packaging Market Trends

Integration of Smart Packaging Technologies to Propel Market Growth

The market is witnessing a transformative shift with the integration of smart packaging technologies. These innovations leverage the capabilities of the Internet of Things (IoT), sensors, and data analytics to enhance the functionality, safety, and convenience of packaging for non-refrigerated food products. Moreover, smart packaging technologies often incorporate intelligent sensors that monitor various parameters such as temperature, humidity, and freshness. For ambient food products, maintaining optimal conditions is critical to ensure product quality and safety. These sensors provide real-time data to both consumers and producers, allowing for better inventory management, quality control, and reduced food waste.

Ambient Food Packaging Market Growth Factors

Growing Demand for Convenience Food to Fuel Market Growth

The increasing pace of modern lifestyles and the demand for on-the-go consumption have been driving the ambient food packaging market growth. Consumers, especially in urban areas, are seeking convenient and easily accessible food options that do not require refrigeration. Ambient packaging provides a solution for a variety of ready-to-eat snacks, meals, and beverages that can be stored at room temperature, offering convenience and portability. The preference for on-the-go consumption is a prominent aspect of the convenience food trend. Consumers, especially in urban areas, are looking for easily accessible snacks, meals, and beverages that can be consumed without the need for extensive preparation.

Rise in E-Commerce and Online Grocery Shopping to Drive Market Growth

The surge in e-commerce and online grocery shopping has had a profound impact on the packaging industry, including ambient food packaging. The demand for convenience foods is not limited to a specific category; it spans a wide range of products, including snacks, ready meals, soups, sauces, and beverages. This diversity in product offerings requires versatile packaging solutions that can cater to different food types and sizes.

With more consumers opting for online purchases, there is a growing need for packaging solutions that ensure the safe and secure delivery of ambient food products. Packaging that enhances product protection, prevents spoilage, and maintains the quality of items during transportation becomes crucial in this context.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Increasing Waste Caused by Single-use Plastic May Hinder Market Growth

The increasing awareness of environmental issues and the push toward sustainability pose a significant challenge for the market. Traditional packaging materials, such as plastic, are often criticized for their environmental impact and contribution to pollution. The prevalence of single-use plastic packaging in the ambient food sector raises concerns about its impact on the environment. Governments and consumers are increasingly advocating for reduced plastic usage and the adoption of more sustainable alternatives. The market is pressured to invest in research and development to create packaging that is both functional and environmentally friendly.

Ambient Food Packaging Market Segmentation Analysis

By Material Analysis

Barrier Properties Offered by Plastic to Contribute to the Segment Growth

Based on material, the market is segregated into plastic, paper & paperboard, glass, and others. The plastic segment dominates the market as plastic packaging has excellent barrier properties to protect the food items from bacteria, moisture, gases and other environmental factors. Plastic materials, such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and PP (polypropylene), often exhibit excellent barrier properties against moisture, gases, and external contaminants. These barrier properties help extend the shelf life of food products, maintaining their freshness and quality over time.

The paper & paperboard is the second-largest and fastest-growing segment in this market. Paper packaging, as an eco-friendly alternative, is gaining traction due to its biodegradability, recyclability, and renewable nature. Brands and manufacturers are increasingly exploring paper-based solutions to address environmental concerns and meet the increasing demand for sustainable packaging.

By Product Type Analysis

Product Protection and Stability Offered by the Solution to Rigid Packaging Products to Spur Segment Growth

Based on product type, the market is divided into flexible packaging products and rigid packaging products. The rigid packaging products segment accounts for the largest ambient food packaging market share. The dominance of this segment over the flexible packaging products segment in certain product categories can be attributed to various factors, each playing a role in shaping the market dynamics. While both rigid and flexible packaging have their unique advantages, the choice between them often depends on the specific requirements of the products being packaged. Rigid packaging, such as bottles, jars, and cans, provides excellent protection and stability for ambient food products. Those products which are more sensitive to external factors such as light, moisture, or air especially benefit from the sturdy and protective nature of rigid packaging.

The flexible packaging products is the second most dominant segment in this market. This segment has been growing, driven by advancements in materials and technologies, sustainability considerations, and changing consumer preferences.

By Application Analysis

Bakery & Confectionery Segment Dominates Due to Portable Options Offered by the Solution  

Based on application, the market is segmented into sauces & condiments, bakery & confectionery, pet food, fruits & vegetables and others.

The bakery & confectionery segment holds the largest share of the market. The bakery and confectionery category encompasses a wide range of products with diverse shapes, sizes, and consistencies. The ambient food packaging market caters to this diversity by offering packaging solutions that can accommodate various product types, from delicate pastries to solid chocolates. Versatile packaging designs contribute to the attractiveness and functionality of the overall packaging for these goods. Many bakery and confectionery products are popular choices for on-the-go consumption. Ambient food packaging enables convenient and portable options for consumers who want to enjoy pastries, cookies, or candies without the need for refrigeration.

The sauces & condiments is the second dominating segment in the market. Many sauces and condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, and salad dressings, can be stored at room temperature for extended periods. Ambient packaging helps preserve the quality and flavor of these products without the need for refrigeration, leading to the growth of this segment.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

The market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Asia Pacific holds the largest share of global ambient food packaging industry. China, Japan, and India represent a rapidly growing market for the product. Increased disposable income and changing lifestyles are driving the demand for convenience foods and, subsequently, ambient food packaging.

North America is the second leading region in the market. The region has well-established packaging practices and stringent regulatory standards. The demand for convenient, on-the-go food options is high in the region, influencing the demand for the product. Sustainable packaging is also gaining importance in the region, driven by environmentally conscious consumers.

Europe is also one of the dominating regions and is expected to attain substantial growth over the coming years. The region has strict regulations regarding food packaging safety and environmental impact. This has led to a strong emphasis on sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions in the ambient food packaging sector.

Latin America is experiencing economic development and changes in consumer preferences, contributing to the demand for ambient food packaging.

List of Key Companies in Ambient Food Packaging Market

Top Companies Emphasize Customer Base Expansion to Gain a Competitive Edge

The global market for ambient food packaging has high competitiveness and fragmentation. In terms of market share, the few major market players dominate the market by offering innovative packaging in the packaging industry. These major players in the market are constantly focusing on expanding their customer base across the regions and innovation.

Major players in the market include Tetra Pak, Mondi, Constantia Flexibles, Amcor Limited, DuPont, Ampac Packaging, and others. Numerous other players operating in the industry are focused on delivering advanced packaging solutions.

List of Key Companies Profiled

• Huhtamaki Oyj (Finland)


• Tetra Pak (Switzerland)


• Mondi (U.K.)


• Constantia Flexibles (Austria)


• Amcor Limited (Switzerland) 


• DuPont (U.S.)


• Ampac Packaging (U.S.)


• SIG Group AG (Switzerland)


• Berry Global Inc. (U.S.)


• KM Packaging (U.K.)


• Crown Holdings Inc. (U.S.)


• Sealed Air (U.S.)


• Clondalkin Group (Netherlands)


• Sonoco (U.S.)


• Coveris Group (Austria)


• Stora Enso (Finland)


• O-I Packaging Solutions (U.S.)


• Silgan Holdings Inc. (U.S.)


• COEXPAN (Spain)


• WINPAK LTD. (Canada)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• August 2023 - Amcor launched curbside-recyclable AmFiber™ high-barrier performance paper packaging in North America to deliver the right barrier, shelf-life, and machine performance to meet brand and product needs.


• July 2023 - Melodea launched MelOx NGen, a barrier product for recyclable food packaging. It is a high-performance barrier product that is designed to allow the recyclability of plastic food packaging and beyond.


• July 2023 - Cascades announced the launch of a new closed basket made of recycled and recyclable corrugated cardboard for the produce sector. An alternative to food packaging that is easy to recycle, this new product is the latest addition to Cascades' line of eco-friendly packaging.


• February 2023 - Pactiv Evergreen and AmSty launched circular polystyrene food packaging products to help major food brands achieve important sustainability goals. Pactiv Evergreen offers customers innovative foam polystyrene packaging products with AmSty’s post-consumer recycled content derived from advanced recycling technologies.


• August 2020 - Cosmo Films launched a Bi-axially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) based transparent film aptly suited for large packs and pouches used in the fresh food packaging Industry.

REPORT COVERAGE

The research report provides a detailed analysis of the market and focuses on key aspects such as leading companies, competitive landscape, product/service types, Porter’s five forces analysis, and leading end-use industries of the product. Besides this, it offers insights into the market trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the above factors, the report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the market growth in recent years.

Report Scope and Segmentation