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Optical Sorter Market Size To Reach $5,726.6Mn By 2033

Optical Sorter Market Size To Reach $5,726.6 Million By 2033

October 2025 | Report Format: Electronic (PDF)

Optical Sorter Market Growth & Trends

The global optical sorter market size is anticipated to reach USD 5,726.6 million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 9.1% from 2025 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is mainly driven by the growing need for automation and precision in sorting applications across sectors like food, recycling, and mining. As industries focus on enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving product quality, optical sorting systems equipped with cameras, lasers, and sensors enable high-speed, real-time sorting based on color, shape, size, and material composition.

The optical sorter industry is characterized by a strong wave of innovation, fueled by rapid progress in AI, machine learning, hyperspectral imaging, and robotics. These advancements significantly improve sorting speed, accuracy, and adaptability across a wide range of materials. Ongoing R&D efforts continue to broaden application areas, enabling smarter, more efficient systems tailored to evolving industry demands such as food processing, mining, and recycling.

Mergers and acquisitions are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the optical sorter industry. Key players are strategically acquiring regional companies and technology startups to diversify their product offerings, expand geographic reach, and integrate next-generation technologies. These activities are not only strengthening market presence but also accelerating innovation and helping companies meet rising global demand for high-performance automated sorting solutions.

Regulatory frameworks focused on food safety, waste reduction, and environmental protection are significantly shaping the market. Governments around the world are enforcing stricter standards for contamination control and material recovery. As a result, industries are increasingly adopting high-precision optical sorters to meet compliance goals. These regulatory pressures are driving technological innovation and influencing the design and adoption pace of advanced sorting systems.

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Optical Sorter Market Report Highlights

Based on type, the cameras segment led the market in 2024, driven by its extensive application in industries such as food, recycling, and packaging. These systems provide precise color and shape recognition, enabling efficient high-speed sorting. Their cost-effectiveness, dependability, and continuous improvements in image processing technology are boosting adoption in both mature and developing markets.
Based on platform, the belt segment led the market in 2024, accounting for 42.1% share, due to its fast processing capabilities, consistent material handling, and effectiveness in bulk sorting. Commonly used in food and recycling sectors, belt-based systems support continuous operations and are easily compatible with advanced imaging technologies, making them ideal for large-scale applications requiring accuracy and high throughput.
Based on application, the food & beverage segment led the market in 2024, fueled by growing emphasis on product quality, food safety, and adherence to hygiene standards. Optical sorters effectively detect foreign objects, defects, and contaminants, improving product consistency while minimizing waste. The rising trend of automation in food processing facilities further accelerates segment expansion
In September 2025, Tomra Food launched the Tomra 4C, its advanced AI-powered optical sorter, designed for nut and IQF food processors. The system enhances product quality and operational efficiency through precise sorting, using advanced sensors and AI to detect defects and foreign materials.