Plastic-Free Smart Food Packaging Market Size, Share, and Industry Analysis By Material (Paper & Paperboard, Glass, and Others), By Technology (Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), Active Packaging, and Intelligent Packaging), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global plastic-free smart food packaging market is a subcategory of the packaging market that sees innovation in solutions for the packaging of food products without the use of conventional plastic materials. These solutions often use biodegradable or recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, glass, and biodegradable polymers. Additionally, advanced technologies such as smart sensors and indicators may be integrated into the packaging to monitor food quality, shelf life, and environmental conditions during the storage and transportation of food products.

• According to Metal Packaging Europe, each year, some 98 billion units of metal packaging products of many shapes and sizes are produced for the beverage, food, health & beauty, household, and industrial markets. This means that, on average, every EU citizen consumes four units weekly.

The market for plastic-free smart food packaging is driven by several factors, including increasing consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly products, stringent regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste, and the rise of sustainable packaging initiatives by food manufacturers and retailers. Moreover, advancements in material science, packaging design, and smart technology contribute to the rapid growth and innovation within this market.

The main restricting factor of plastic-free smart food packaging often involves the use of alternative materials and advanced technologies, which can be more expensive than conventional plastic packaging. Manufacturers and consumers may be reluctant to adopt these solutions if they significantly increase production costs or retail prices.

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic brought about unprecedented changes in consumer behaviors, supply chains, and the food packaging industry as a whole. The initial stages of the pandemic witnessed major disruptions in the global supply chains which led to slower production and distribution. Some product categories experienced fluctuations in demand during the pandemic. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, there has been continued investment in research and development of innovative packaging solutions.

SEGMENTATION

KEY INSIGHTS

The report covers the following key insights:

• Recent Advancements in the Plastic-Free Smart Food Packaging Market


• Key Industry Trends


• Regulatory Landscape for the Plastic-Free Smart Food Packaging Market


• Key Industry Developments (Mergers, Acquisitions, and Partnerships)


• Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

ANALYSIS BY MATERIAL

Based on material, the market is segmented into paper & paperboard, glass, and others.

The paper & paperboard segment dominated the global plastic-free smart food packaging market. Paper and paperboard are biodegradable and compostable materials, making them environmentally friendly alternatives to plastics. Technological advancements have enhanced the functionality and versatility of paper-based packaging. Smart packaging solutions, such as those incorporating RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags or QR codes for tracking and tracing products, can now be seamlessly integrated into paper and paperboard packaging, making them attractive options for brands looking to adopt smart packaging solutions.

ANALYSIS BY TECHNOLOGY

Based on technology, the market is segmented into modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), active packaging, and intelligent packaging.

The MAP segment dominates the market and helps maintain the quality, freshness, and nutritional value of packaged food items throughout their shelf life. By controlling factors such as temperature, humidity, and gas composition, MAP minimizes oxidative reactions and microbial growth that can degrade food quality. Continuous advancements in MAP technology have led to innovations such as active packaging materials, intelligent sensors, and automated packaging systems. These innovations enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of MAP solutions, further driving their adoption in the plastic-free smart food packaging market. This ensures that consumers receive products that meet their expectations, fostering brand reliability and positive consumer experiences.

REGIONAL ANALYSIS

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The plastic-free smart food packaging market has been studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Asia Pacific is the leading region of the global plastic-free smart food packaging market. Rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes in countries such as China, India, and Japan drive the demand for packaged foods.

North America is the second-dominating region in the global plastic-free smart food packaging market. High consumer awareness about environmental issues drives the demand for plastic-free packaging. Convenience, portability, and innovative designs drive demand in this segment.

Mature and well-established food and beverage industries characterize the plastic-free smart food packaging market in Europe. The European Union has implemented strict regulations to reduce plastic waste, promoting the adoption of plastic-free packaging.

The plastic-free smart food packaging market in Latin America is projected to rise rapidly owing to the utilization of packaging liquid dietary supplements, vitamins, and wellness shots in Latin American markets.

The Middle East & Africa market is poised to witness moderate growth over the upcoming years as smart packaging technologies offer opportunities to enhance product safety and quality, catering to the region's growing food industry.

KEY PLAYERS COVERED

The report includes the profiles of key players such as International Paper, O-I Glass, Inc., DS Smith, Envasos Boixados SL, Stora Enso Oyj, WestRock Company, Smurfit Kappa Group plc, R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company, Mondi Group, and Packaging Corporation of America.

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• In November 2023, Smurfit Kappa launched its new SupplySmart digital solution, which helps businesses intelligently adapt their packaging to increase efficiency and reduce emissions across their supply chains.


• In July 2023, International Paper developed an innovative technology (OHMEGA) to interact with consumers through packaging. OHMEGA delivers advertisements, sweepstakes, coupons, and more to consumers by using a unique code printed in conductive ink on the package.


• In September 2021, Heinz partnered with WestRock to remove 550 tonnes of plastic packaging from multipacks in U.K. supermarkets, replacing the shrink-wrapped multipacks of Heinz beanz, Heinz soups, and Heinz pasta varieties on supermarket shelves.