Produce Packaging Market Size, Share, and Industry Analysis By Material (Paper & Paperboard, Plastic {Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Others}, and Others), By Product Type (Boxes & Cartons, Bags & Pouches, Films & Liners, Trays & Containers, and Others), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

Produce packaging is used to bundle, label, pack, or sleeve fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables. During storage and transportation, produce packaging protects them from rotting & being damaged. The produce packaging also guarantees air circulation and maintains the products fresh for longer, further thriving the market growth. The rising exports and imports of produce also contribute to market growth.

• For instance, in 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the value of U.S. fresh fruit and vegetable exports to the world reached USD 7.2 billion, a 4% increase from the prior year. Canada remained the top U.S. market, accounting for 52% of total exports valued at USD 3.7 billion.

The rising demand for ready-to-eat (RTE) salads and pre-cut produce, such as melon spears, and carrot sticks, apple slices that are sold in containers, tubs, cups, and other formats is a major factor boosting the global produce packaging market growth. Moreover, the rising demand for fruits & vegetables owing to their potential health benefits also contributes to the global market growth.

Despite the significant benefits of producing packaging solutions, several factors limit the global market growth. The imposed ban on plastic packaging and rising consumer awareness regarding the harmful effects of plastic packaging on the environment are major factors hindering market growth.

During the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for fresh fruits and vegetables increased. Owing to key benefits such as better skin, improved digestion, more energy, and a relatively low risk of cardiovascular diseases, the consumers highly preferred fresh fruits & vegetables and the market witnessed potential growth.

SEGMENTATION

ANALYSIS BY MATERIAL

Based on material, the market is segmented into paper & paperboard, plastic, and others. The  paper & paperboard segment leads the global produce packaging market. The material is a low-carbon, renewable, and non-fossil-based substitute to other materials with one of the highest recycling rates. It also offers an extra layer of support to the produce during storage and transit. Therefore, it is in high demand for produce packaging worldwide.

ANALYSIS BY PRODUCT TYPE

Based on product type, the market is segmented into boxes & cartons, bags & pouches, films & liners, trays & containers, and others. The boxes & cartons segment dominates the market and is estimated to grow significantly over the forecast period. The paperboard boxes are cost-effective, sustainable, customizable, and offer valuable protection to the fresh produce, further contributing to the segmental growth.

KEY INSIGHTS

The report covers the following key insights:

• Recent Advancements in the Produce Packaging Market


• Key Industry Trends


• Regulatory Landscape for the Produce Packaging Market


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


• Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

REGIONAL ANALYSIS

By region, the produce packaging market has been studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific is the dominating region of the global produce packaging market. According to the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority in India (APEDA), India is the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables worldwide. Moreover, India's Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) continuously focuses on investing in the food processing industry. The well-established industry enhances the growth of the produce packaging market in the Asia Pacific region.

North America is the second-largest region of the produce packaging market. The rapidly growing demand for fresh fruits and vegetables, coupled with the rising focus of manufacturers on providing cost-effective packaging solutions, drive the market growth in this region. The European produce packaging market is set to experience remarkable growth over the forecast period. The region's rich culinary tradition, which mainly comprises a variety of vegetables in its dishes, enhances the demand for fresh vegetables, further boosting the market growth in Europe.

The Latin American market will grow significantly due to the rising investments and developments in the region's food processing sectors. The Middle East & Africa produce packaging market is studied to foresee moderate growth over the upcoming years.

KEY PLAYERS COVERED

The report includes the profiles of key players such as Amcor, Mondi, Berry Global Inc., International Paper Company, Sonoco Products Company, Sealed Air, Georgia-Pacific LLC, Graphic Packaging International, Packaging Corporation of America, and Pactiv LLC.

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• In November 2023, Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. partnered with Arena Packaging and launched Reusable Plastic Containers for Bananas, which will result in enhanced airflow and improved shelf life.


• In January 2023, Cascades introduced a new closed basket developed with recycled and recyclable corrugated cardboard for the fresh produce sector. The product uses known eco-design principles and maintains a circular economy approach.


• In June 2022, Mondi declared the expansion of its sustainable packaging product range with ‘Grow&Go’. It is a collection of packaging products enhanced for farm-to-shelf delivery in a market-leading variety of sizes.


• In May 2021, AR Packaging announced the launch of a barrier carton board tray made from 95% of paper fiber for packaging fruits & vegetables. The packaging is recyclable in the paper recycling streams.


• In February 2021, Graphic Packaging International launched a sustainable paperboard packaging solution for fresh produce, ProducePack. The new product range is available in several configurations and structures that can provide comfortable carrying handles.