Meat Packaging Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Material (Plastic {Polyethylene (PE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polystyrene (PS), and Others}, Paperboard, and Others), By Technology (Vacuum Skin Packaging, Thermoforming, Modified Atmosphere Packaging, and Others), By Product Type (Bags & Pouches, Films & Laminates, Trays, and Others), By Meat Type (Beef, Pork, Chicken, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global meat packaging market size was valued at USD 49.19 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 51.95 billion in 2024 to USD 85.49 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.42% during the forecast period. Moreover, the meat packaging market in the U.S. is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated value of USD 14.02 billion by 2032, driven by the developing new packaging such as smart and active packaging.

The meat packaging industry relies on high-quality materials and machines to safeguard the products and maintain the shelf life and freshness of meat items. The meat packaging designs also allow consumers to freeze, refrigerate, microwave, or oven-heat food in its packaging. The food packaging industry uses highly developed technologies to store perishable foods for a longer time while maintaining their taste, freshness, consistency, and scent. Thus, the use of innovative technologies in meat packaging is enhancing the growth of the market.

The market witnessed negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic as there was a decline in the prices of meat products. Logistical hurdles and reduced spending by people temporarily curtailed the demand for these products. Restrictions on the import and export of meat also negatively impacted the market growth.

Meat Packaging Market Trends

Integration of Smart Packaging in Meat Products to Emerge as Major Market Trend

Nowadays, developing new packaging with better performance, such as active and smart packaging, has become increasingly important in response to consumer demand and market trends. A smart packaging system is capable of performing intelligent functions, such as increasing safety, extending shelf life, and improving product quality.

In recent times, numerous types of packaging systems have become available for meat products, particularly fresh, cooked, and processed meat. Since meat products are highly perishable, monitoring their safety and quality in the supply chain is quite crucial.

Smart packaging offers numerous advantages, such as antioxidant & antimicrobial properties and extended shelf life at the industrial processing level compared to traditional packaging. Therefore, this type of packaging is being used to improve the shelf life and textural properties of meat and meat products. Such packaging also allows for the live tracking of products, provides their quality status during transportation, and helps reduce meat waste. The usage of time indicator devices, RFIDs, and QR codes will drive the adoption of meat packaging products.

Meat Packaging Market Growth Factors

Use of Different Technologies in Meat Packaging to Augment Market Growth

Chilled meat is a popular form of fresh meat consumption in developed nations due to its good taste, juiciness, and tenderness during low-temperature ripening. With the constant upgrade in people’s living standards in countries around the world, cold meat will be consumed as fresh meat in the future. At present, the foremost fresh meat packaging solutions in the market are modified atmosphere packaging and vacuum packaging.

These technologies are widely used in the preservation of fresh meat. They can prevent the growth and proliferation of microorganisms, improve tenderness, prevent secondary pollution, inhibit protein oxidation, increase water holding capacity, and boost the color of fresh meat products. They can also obstruct the fat oxidation of fresh meat and reduce storage and dripping losses, thus improving the quality and flavor of meat.

The use of VSP, MAP, vacuum thermoformed, and other technologies, such as pallet oxygen-permeable packaging in the packaging of meat products to increase their shelf life and protect them during transportation will enhance the meat packaging market growth.

Higher Consumption of Meat Due to Increasing Population to Enhance Market Growth

The dramatic rise in global population has increased the consumption of meat products, such as chicken, port, and beef. Rising urbanization, growing income, and shifting dietary patterns, specifically in developing countries, have boosted the demand for nutritious food. The high population growth in countries, such as China and India has surged the production and consumption of meat. In 2019, the production of meat in China and India was 78.40 MT and 10.03 MT, respectively, and increased to 92.95 MT and 10.64 MT in 2022, respectively.

The growth of the middle class population and robust economic development are other factors that are responsible for the high consumption of meat. Income growth enables the purchase of meat, which is usually a costlier source of proteins and calories. The rising interconnectivity among countries and easy access to meat has boosted the use of meat packaging products. For instance, according to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the global consumption of meat proteins over the next decade is forecasted to rise by 14% by 2030 in comparison to the average of the base year 2018-2020. This rise is mainly driven by population and income growth. In addition, accessibility to proteins from beef, poultry, sheep, and pork meat is projected to grow by 5.9%, 17.8%, 15.7%, and 13.1%, respectively, by 2030.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Diseases Caused by Animals to Hamper Market Growth

With the initiation of industrial animal farming, the production of meat has multiplied in the last five decades, and presently, the world produces more than 350 million tons of meat every year. The global consumption of chicken and pork has increased significantly.

More worryingly, increasing meat consumption is putting direct pressure on biodiversity and increasing the possibility of people coming into contact with animal-borne pathogens and viruses. These viruses and pathogens also pass from animals to humans through markets that supply fresh meat to rapidly growing urban populations around the globe.

To meet the increasing demand for meat, food production has encroached on land set aside for wild habitats, opening the way for viruses to spread to domesticated animals and humans. In this way, industrial animal husbandry breeds diseases, such as avian and swine flu. In addition, farm animals are injected with antibiotics to keep them alive and accelerate their growth to meet the growing demand. Due to the widespread use of antibiotics, harmful bacteria have become resistant, leading to the emergence of “superbugs,” which are pathogens that are resistant to antibiotics.

The surge in diseases caused by the consumption of meat in humans and animals is restricting the growth of this market.

Meat Packaging Market Segmentation Analysis

By Material Analysis

Growing Demand of Polyvinyl Chloride and Polystyrene Material Due to Its Moisture Resistant Properties is Surging the Segment Growth

Based on material, the market is segmented into plastic {polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), others}, paperboard, and others.

Plastic holds the leading position in the market as it is light, flexible, transparent, tough, cost-effective, and safe. It has outstanding organoleptic properties that do not affect the packed food and requires minimal fuel to produce and transport compared to other packaging materials, such as metal or glass, such features are helping in the growth of this segment. Furthermore, it also safeguards against contamination by inhibiting the spread of bacteria during production, distribution, and demonstration, particularly in the form of high-barrier cling films. It has high moisture-resistant properties, and the increasing use of PVC and PS in particular, in the manufacturing of vacuum skin packaging films and trays, is expected to enhance the segment’s growth.

Paperboard is the second-dominating segment of this market. The growing demand for sustainable materials in packaging is boosting this segment’s growth.

By Technology Analysis

Protection of Organoleptic Properties by MAP Boosts Its Use in Meat Packaging

Based on technology, the market is segmented into vacuum skin packaging, thermoforming, modified atmosphere packaging, and others.

The Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) segment holds the largest meat packaging market share. MAP is helpful in extending the shelf life of chilled meat. Preservation of fresh beef, pork, and mutton requires keeping their original flavor and color, and avoiding decay. In addition, fresh meat packaged with the help of this technology, under the action of fresh-keeping gas, can maintain the color of fresh meat well, thereby enhancing its visuals and attracting more customers. This factor will also augment the demand for this technology.

Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP) is the second-dominating segment of this market. VSP helps in extending the shelf life of meat products by protecting them from the external environment. It is also resistant to freezer burns, thus contributing to the segment’s growth.

By Product Type Analysis

Use of Advanced Technologies in Production of Packaging Films & Laminates Fuels Their Demand

Based on product type, the market is segmented into bags & pouches, films & laminates, trays, and others.

Films & laminates are the dominating segment of this market. The growing demand for fresh meat and frozen meat products globally has boosted the demand for films and laminates to provide a barrier against oxygen, vapor, and harmful microorganisms. Moreover, the films manufactured using technologies, such as Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) and Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP) are bolstering the growth of this segment.

Trays are the second-dominating segment of this market. Trays are the most suitable option for packing meat as they offer the convenience of sealing it with films. The development of paperboard trays to provide a more sustainable option is enhancing the growth of this segment.

By Meat Type Analysis

Surging Demand for Nutritious and Protein-Rich Diet Augments Consumption of Chicken Meat

Based on meat type, the market is segmented into beef, pork, chicken, and others.

The chicken segment holds the largest share of this market. Chicken is an excellent low-sodium, low-calorie, and low-fat source of protein, provides important nutrients, promotes heart health, and helps in building muscles. It is the best source of protein that is more affordable than other meat products, thus enhancing the growth of this segment. Furthermore, the lowest carbon footprint of chicken in comparison to other meat products is driving the demand for chicken meat.

Pork is the second-dominating segment of this market. The surging awareness of the importance of consuming a nutritious and balanced diet has accelerated the demand for pork meat as it is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and proteins.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

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

Asia Pacific dominated the meat packaging market, with a market share of 40.25% in 2023. The growing population is one of the major market drivers. The increasing consumption of chicken and other proteinaceous meats is enhancing the market's growth in this region.

North America is also experiencing significant growth. Higher income in the region and strong rate of urbanization have increased meat consumption. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the average meat consumption in the U.S. between 1961 and 2018 has increased with its production, and the annual meat production raised by over 30 million tons, representing a growth of 184%.

Europe is expected to experience lucrative growth during the forecast period. Rise in the consumption of fresh and frozen meat products due to increasing health risks is augmenting the market’s growth in the region.

Latin America will witness moderate growth due to factors, such as changing lifestyle, growing middle-class population, and large-scale urbanization.

The Middle East & African is anticipated to record a steady growth rate during the forecast period due to the surging consumption of halal meat.

List of Key Companies in Meat Packaging Market

Key Participants in Market to Witness Significant Growth Opportunities

The global meat packaging market is highly fragmented and competitive. In terms of market share, a few major players are dominating the market by offering innovative packaging solutions. These players are constantly focusing on expanding their customer base across regions through innovation.

Some of the major players in the market include Amcor, Berry Global, Sealed Air, Sonoco Products Company, and others. Numerous other players operating in the industry are focused on delivering advanced packaging solutions.

List of Key Companies Profiled:

• Amcor plc (Switzerland)


• Berry Global (U.S.)


• Winpak Ltd. (Canada)


• Sealed Air (U.S.)


• Amerplast (Finland)


• Faerch A/S (Denmark)


• Sonoco Products Company (U.S.)


• Stora Enso (Finland)


• Constantia Flexibles (Austria)


• Bolloré Packaging Films (France)


• Foster International Packaging (South Africa)


• Specialty Polyfilms India Pvt. Ltd. (India)


• PLASTOPIL (Israel)


• Pactiv Evergreen Inc. (U.S.)


• Trivium Packaging (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• March 2024 - Aptar – Food Protection, part of AptarGroup, was granted the North American license to produce and distribute the Halopack Tray system. The system is designed to augment packaging sustainability for a variety of fresh, reheatable, frozen, grab-and-go, and oven-able foods.


• August 2023 - Amcor launched curbside-recyclable AmFiber™ Performance Paper packaging, a high-barrier laminated paper that is recyclable in most paper recycling streams. The AmFiber portfolio of paper-based packaging is available across a wide variety of markets, including produce, dairy, meat, seafood, poultry, ready meals, lawn & garden, and personal care.


• February 2023 - Amcor introduced new recycle-ready forming films for fish, meat, and cheese, with 80% carbon footprint reduction by improving the circularity of packaging. The new packaging is heat resistant up to 100°C and has low EVOH content without compromising on protection and the shelf-life for perishable foods.


• October 2021 - Coveris introduced a barrier pouch for Tesco's ready-to-eat chicken. The new MonoFlexBE pouch delivers a plastic weight saving of 55% to offer a lighter, more convenient format for cooked meats.


• July 2021 - Faerch Group acquired MCP Performance Plastics to enter the U.S. market. Faerch Group is the leading European supplier of sustainable rigid packaging solutions for the food industry and the world’s first integrated tray recycler. The acquisition is anticipated to expand Faerch’s geographical footprint beyond Europe and establish a presence in the all-important U.S. market.

REPORT COVERAGE

The 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, it offers insights into the market trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the above-mentioned factors, the report encompasses several factors that have contributed to the market's growth in recent years.

REPORT SCOPE & SEGMENTATION

ATTRIBUTE	DETAILS
Study Period	2019-2032
Base Year	2023
Estimated Year	2024
Forecast Period	2024-2032
Historical Period	2019-2022
Growth Rate	CAGR of 6.42% from 2024 to 2032
Unit	Value (USD Billion)
Segmentation	By Material Plastic Polyethylene (PE) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Polystyrene (PS) Others Paperboard Others
By Technology Vacuum Skin Packaging Thermoforming Modified Atmosphere Packaging Others
By Product Type Bags & Pouches Films & Laminates Trays Others
By Meat Type Beef Pork Chicken Others
By Region North America (By Material, By Product Type, By Meat Type, and Country) U.S. (By Meat Type) Canada (By Meat Type) Europe (By Material, By Product Type, By Meat Type, and Country) Germany (By Meat Type) U.K. (By Meat Type) France (By Meat Type) Italy (By Meat Type) Spain (By Meat Type) Russia (By Meat Type) Poland (By Meat Type) Romania (By Meat Type) Rest of Europe (By Meat Type) Asia Pacific (By Material, By Product Type, By Meat Type, and Country) China (By Meat Type) India (By Meat Type) Japan(By Meat Type) Australia (By Meat Type) South Korea (By Meat Type) Southeast Asia (By Meat Type) Rest of Asia Pacific (By Meat Type) Latin America (By Material, By Product Type, By Meat Type, and Country) Brazil (By Meat Type) Mexico (By Meat Type) Argentina (By Meat Type) Rest of Latin America (By Meat Type) Middle East & Africa (By Material, By Product Type, By Meat Type, and Country) Saudi Arabia (By Meat Type) U.A.E. (By Meat Type) Oman (By Meat Type) South Africa (By Meat Type) Rest of Middle East and Africa (By Meat Type)