Sustainable Packaging For Food Market To Reach $139.14 Billion By 2033

Sustainable Packaging For Food Market Growth & Trends

The global sustainable packaging for food market size is anticipated to reach USD 139.14 billion by 2033 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The global push for a circular economy is driving the sustainable packaging market in food industry. Companies are increasingly focusing on using post-consumer recycled (PCR) content in their packaging to meet both regulatory and customer expectations. This approach not only reduces the demand for virgin materials but also promotes the recycling of existing resources, contributing to a more sustainable packaging ecosystem.

Furthermore, the development of biodegradable and compostable packaging materials is gaining momentum. Innovations in material science have led to the creation of packaging solutions that decompose more quickly under the right conditions, leading to less waste and a cleaner environment. These materials offer comparable performance to traditional plastics while reducing environmental impact. In February 2024, Sealed Air launched the CRYOVAC compostable protein tray, the first biobased, industrial compostable tray compatible with existing food processing lines. Made from 54% renewable wood cellulose, it matches EPS trays in performance but is biodegradable in soil and marine environments. Certified by BPI and TÜV Austria, the tray withstands manufacturing and distribution stresses while supporting customers’ sustainability goals.

The increasing consumer awareness of environmental issues is also driving the demand for sustainable packaging. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions and are actively seeking products with eco-friendly packaging. This shift in consumer behavior is prompting brands to adopt sustainable packaging materials and practices to meet these expectations.

Moreover, the collaboration between food manufacturers, packaging companies, and technology firms is fostering innovation in sustainable packaging. For instance, in July 2025, Nestlé partnered with IBM Research to develop an AI-powered tool that speeds up the discovery of sustainable, high-barrier food packaging. Using advanced chemical modeling and AI, the platform suggests innovative materials that protect food, reduce waste, and are recyclable and cost-effective. This collaboration aims to cut research time, reduce virgin plastic use, and promote circular economy practices in packaging.

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Sustainable Packaging For Food Market Report Highlights

• The paper segment recorded the largest market revenue share of over 38.0% in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period.

• The flexible segment recorded the largest market share of over 46.0% in 2024 and is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period.

• North America dominated the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of over 33.0% in 2024.

• Asia Pacific is witnessing strong growth as it is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period.

Sustainable Packaging For Food Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global sustainable packaging for food market based on material, type, and region:

Sustainable Packaging For Food Material Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Plastic

• Paper

• Glass

• Metal

• Others

Sustainable Packaging For Food Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Rigid

• Flexible

• Semi-rigid

Sustainable Packaging For Food Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• North America

  • U.S.

  • Canada

  • Mexico

• Europe

  • Germany

  • France

  • UK

  • Italy

  • Spain

• Asia Pacific

  • China

  • India

  • Japan

  • Australia

  • South Korea

• Latin America

  • Brazil

  • Argentina

• Middle East & Africa

  • South Africa

  • Saudi Arabia

  • UAE

List of Key Players in the Sustainable Packaging For Food Market

• Amcor plc

• Sealed Air

• Sonoco Products Company

• Huhtamaki

• ProAmpac

• Graphic Packaging International, LLC

• Smurfit Westrock

• Mondi

• Stora Enso

• Tetra Pak

• SIG

• Constantia Flexibles

• Greiner Packaging

• Mayr-Melnhof Karton AG

• Pactiv Evergreen Inc.