Edible Packaging Materials Market Highlights

• Global edible packaging materials market revenue is poised to garner USD 1.75 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 5.9% from 2024 to 2032
• North America edible packaging materials market value occupied around USD 392.2 million in 2023
• Asia-Pacific edible packaging materials market growth will record a CAGR of more than 6.6% from 2024 to 2032
• Among material type, the protein sub-segment generated 46% of the market share in 2023
• Based on end-users, the food and beverages sub-segment generated 80% market share in 2023
• Advancements in the research and development of biodegradable and edible materials is an edible packaging materials market trend that fuels the industry demand

Plastic Smart Cities states that edible packaging constructed from natural, biodegradable, plant-based materials can be consumed on the move, eliminating the need for waste collection, processing, recycling, or disposal. These materials strive to reduce plastic waste and increase package sustainability by providing a safe, environmentally friendly alternative. Edible packaging consisting of seaweed and other natural biodegradable materials does not require collection, processing, recycling, or disposal; it is just consumed.

The growing adoption of seaweed-based and other biodegradable edible packaging, which eliminates the need for collection, recycling, or disposal, is anticipated to drive significant growth in the edible packaging materials market during the forecast period.

Global Edible Packaging Materials Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

• Increasing environmental concerns and demand for sustainable packaging solutions
• Rising government initiatives to reduce plastic waste and promote eco-friendly materials
• Growing consumer preference for biodegradable and edible products in food packaging

Market Restraints

• High production costs compared to traditional packaging materials
• Limited shelf-life and durability of edible packaging under certain conditions
• Regulatory challenges and varying food safety standards across regions

Market Opportunities

• Development of innovative materials such as seaweed and algae-based packaging
• Expansion in emerging markets with rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions
• Collaboration with food and beverage industries to integrate edible packaging into mainstream applications

Edible Packaging Materials Market Report Coverage

Edible Packaging Materials Market Insights

Increasing environmental concerns and demand for sustainable packaging solutions drives demand for edible packaging materials market. For instance, Wins Solutions Organization states that the main advantage of sustainable packaging materials is their low environmental impact. Traditional packing materials can lead to landfill trash and ocean contamination. Additionally, according to the FoodPrint Organization, the environmental impact of food packaging is increasing. Packaging sent to landfills, particularly when made of plastics, does not degrade quickly or, in some cases, at all, and chemicals from packaging materials, such as inks and dyes from labeling, can leach into groundwater and soil. As a result, as edible packaging materials provide a biodegradable, non-toxic alternative that reduces environmental impact and prevents harmful chemicals from contaminating ecosystems enhance market growth.

The limited shelf-life and durability of edible packaging materials, especially under varying environmental conditions, can restrict their effectiveness in preserving products. This challenge makes it difficult for edible packaging to compete with more robust and long-lasting traditional packaging options, impeding its widespread adoption in certain markets.

Development of innovative materials such as seaweed and algae-based packaging becomes opportunity for edible packaging materials market. For instance, Notpla Ltd.'s goal for 2022 was to maximize the substitution of plastic components with eco-friendly alternatives generated from natural seaweed. By doing so, they actively encouraged the blooming seaweed sector while tackling the urgent issue of climate change. This commitment to sustainable seaweed-based alternatives, which contribute to reducing plastic waste and promoting environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Growing consumer preferences for biodegradable and edible products in food packaging further enhance edible packaging materials industry’s growth. Earth Organization states that the food sector is experiencing a transformation focused on discovering sustainable solutions to minimize its environmental impact and satisfy the growing demand for eco-friendly products from consumers. Overall, this shift in consumer behavior is propelling the growth of the edible packaging materials market, as companies seek to meet these eco-friendly expectations.

Edible Packaging Materials Market Segmentation

The worldwide market for edible packaging materials is split based on source, type, packaging process, end-user, and geography.

Edible Packaging Material Market By Source

• Animal
• Plant

According to the edible packaging materials industry analysis, the plant sector held the greatest market share in 2023. This increase is attributable to the growing demand for environmentally friendly and plant-based packaging options. Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of traditional packaging materials and are looking for alternatives made from renewable sources. Plant-based edible packaging is a possible solution since it incorporates elements like seaweed, starches, proteins, and other plant-derived substances. The growing popularity of plant-based diets and lifestyles is a major driver of the plant segment's growth. As more people embrace plant-based diets, there is a growing desire for packaging materials that reflect their ideals. Plant-based edible packaging offers a natural and environmentally friendly option that appeals to this customer category.

Edible Packaging Material Market By Type

• Polysaccharides
• Lipids
• Proteins
• Others

According to the edible packaging materials industry analysis, the protein category is predicted to increase significantly in the future years. Edible packaging materials are made with proteins derived from plant-based sources (e.g., soy, pea) or animal-based sources (e.g., gelatin). These proteins have multiple advantages, including biodegradability, excellent barrier characteristics, and versatility in building different packaging shapes. One of the primary drivers of protein segment growth is rising customer interest in plant-based and alternative protein products. Plant-derived proteins, such as soy and pea proteins, are used to create edible packaging that appeals to ecologically aware consumers.

Edible Packaging Material Market By Packaging Process

• Nanotechnology
• Antimicrobial
• Coatings
• Microorganisms
• Electro hydrodynamic

According to the edible packaging materials industry analysis, the coatings segment is likely to increase significantly in the next years. This rise is attributed to its versatility and the demand for improved food preservation and quality. Edible coatings are thin layers added to food goods to increase shelf life, improve appearance, and protect against moisture loss and microbial spoilage. These coatings can be created using a variety of edible components, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and natural polymers. The increased emphasis on food safety and quality is a major driver of the coatings segment's growth. Edible coatings are a natural and ecological alternative to typical synthetic coatings, which reduces the need for chemical additives and preservatives.

Edible Packaging Material Market By End-User

• Food and Beverages
• Pharmaceuticals

According to the edible packaging materials market forecast, the food and beverage category is likely to maintain its growth rate in the next years. This increase is driven by the industry's growing desire for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging solutions. As customers become more aware of the environmental impact of packaging waste, there is an increasing demand for food and beverage goods packaged with sustainable materials. Edible packaging presents a possible answer by providing a natural and biodegradable alternative to traditional packaging materials. The increased consumer knowledge and desire for sustainable packaging choices is a fundamental driver of the food and beverage segment's growth. Food and beverage makers are reacting to this demand by implementing edible packaging materials sourced from natural sources, such as plant-based materials or proteins.

Edible Packaging Materials Market Regional Outlook

North America

• U.S.
• Canada

Europe

• U.K.
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific

• India
• Japan
• China
• Australia
• South Korea
• Rest of Asia-Pacific

Latin America

• Brazil
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

The Middle East & Africa

• South Africa
• GCC Countries
• Rest of the Middle East & Africa (ME&A)

Edible Packaging Materials Market Regional Analysis

For several reasons, North America dominates the edible packaging industry for a variety of reasons, including consumer awareness, regulatory compliance, and technical improvements. North America has a high level of customer awareness and demand for environmentally friendly products. According to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. is focusing on eco-friendly packaging by applying sustainable materials management principles to reduce environmental impacts and recover lost economic revenue, encouraging the use of lightweight and efficient materials to help companies save money and minimize waste.

Consumers in the region are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of traditional packaging materials and are actively looking for greener alternatives. Because of this increased awareness, edible packaging choices are now more widely accepted and used in the market. Furthermore, the regulatory environment in North America facilitates the expansion of the edible packaging market. The region has enacted stringent restrictions and policies to limit plastic waste and encourage environmentally friendly packaging options. Government programs and laws have played an important role in encouraging firms to use environmentally friendly packaging strategies. This regulatory backing has created a favorable climate for the growth and expansion of the edible packaging sector.

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing significant growth in the edible packaging materials market, driven by increasing consumer awareness of sustainable packaging and strict regulations on plastic waste. For instance, the production, import, storage, distribution, sale, and usage of specified single-use plastic items will be banned in India starting July 1, 2022. Additionally, the Sikkim Tourism Board (India) has announced a ban on single-use plastics, including packaged water, starting New Year 2022. As a result, the rise in demand for eco-friendly solutions in the food and beverage industry further fuels market expansion in the region.

Edible Packaging Materials Market Players

Some of the top edible packaging materials companies offered in our report includes Apeel Sciences, Notpla Ltd., BluWrap, Loliware LLC, Do Eat, MonoSol LLC, Tipa Corp., Incredible Foods, JRF Technology LLC, and Evoware.