Food packaging films are a crucial component of the food
industry as they protect food items from contamination, spoilage, and physical
damage. These films come in a variety of materials and forms, each with unique
properties and benefits.
One of the most popular types of food packaging films is
polyethylene, a plastic that is both lightweight and durable. Polyethylene
films are commonly used for food packaging applications such as wrapping
sandwiches, covering trays of fruit, and sealing frozen foods. These films are
resistant to water, oils, and chemicals, making them ideal for use with a
variety of different food products.
Another type of food packaging film is polystyrene, which is
commonly used to create disposable food containers and packaging materials.
Polystyrene is a lightweight plastic that is resistant to impact, making it an
excellent choice for protecting fragile food items such as baked goods and
delicate produce.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is another popular material used in
food packaging films. PVC is a versatile plastic that can be used in a variety
of different forms, including rigid containers and flexible films. PVC films
are often used to package meat products, as they provide an excellent barrier
against moisture and air.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards
using biodegradable and compostable materials in food packaging films. These
materials are designed to break down naturally over time, reducing waste and
minimizing the environmental impact of food packaging. Some examples of
biodegradable and compostable materials used in food packaging films include
cornstarch-based polymers, cellulose-based films, and even seaweed-based
materials.
While food packaging films provide a vital function in
protecting food items, there are also concerns about the environmental impact
of these materials. Many plastic films are not recyclable, and they can take
hundreds of years to break down in landfills. As a result, there is a growing
push towards more sustainable packaging options, such as biodegradable and
compostable materials.
In conclusion, food packaging films are a critical component
of the food industry, providing protection for food items from contamination,
spoilage, and physical damage. These films come in a variety of materials and
forms, each with unique properties and benefits. While there are concerns about
the environmental impact of plastic films, there are also promising
developments in more sustainable packaging options that are biodegradable and
compostable. As the food industry continues to evolve, it will be essential to
find new and innovative ways to package and protect our food products while
minimizing our impact on the environment.
Market Dynamics of Food Packaging Films Market
Drivers in Food
Packaging Films Market
One of the main drivers of the food packaging films market
is the rising demand for biaxially oriented films. These films have experienced
significant growth in demand from 2016 to 2021 and are expected to continue to
grow steadily in the forecast period. Packaging film manufacturers have
recognized this trend and are shifting their manufacturing efforts towards
biaxially oriented film packaging. Biaxial films are stretched in both machine
direction (MD) and transverse direction (TD) to provide better mechanical,
optical, and barrier properties, making them ideal for a wide range of
applications in food and non-food packaging industries. These films can be made
from various materials, including polypropylene (PP), polyethylene
terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide
(PA), and others.
Restraints in Food
Packaging Films Market
However, the growth of the food packaging films market is
restrained by volatile raw material costs. The costs involved in making food
packaging films are largely attributable to raw materials, which are derived
from petroleum. The fluctuating trend in crude oil prices and demand for
polymers for various applications put pressure on input costs. Fluctuation in
the prices of polymers and monomers used for producing polymers is a major
constraint to the growth of the food packaging films market. Raw material
prices are influenced by factors such as logistics (location of manufacturing),
labor cost, trading cost, and tariffs, all of which impact the growth of the
market for polymers and, in turn, the growth of the food packaging films
market.
In the tile and stone adhesives market, India offers
significant potential for growth. Currently, adhesives are used at a rate of
20-25% in the country, but this figure is expected to reach almost 50% in the
forecast period due to the increasing use of these adhesives in high-end
residential projects, commercial projects such as shopping malls, airports, and
metros, as well as the constantly upgrading hospitality industry.
Opportunities in Food
Packaging Films Market
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on
reducing environmental pollution and promoting eco-friendly solutions across
the world. Governments worldwide have implemented strict regulations to reduce
plastic waste, and the European Union has set a target of achieving 'zero
plastics to landfill' by 2025. Packaging companies are responding to these
concerns by developing sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging
solutions that adhere to the three 'R's of eco-friendly packaging: renew,
reuse, and recycle. Developing countries are also encouraging the use of
natural biopolymers, which offer greater flexibility than traditional plastic.
Challenges in Food
Packaging Films Market
One promising area of innovation in eco-friendly packaging
is food packaging films made from bioplastics, recycled papers, forest wood,
and palm leaf. However, manufacturers are also focused on reducing the amount
of packaging materials used, thus reducing waste. This trend of downsizing
packaging involves using an optimal combination of primary, secondary, and/or
tertiary materials to reduce the volume of primary materials used in the
initial production process. Manufacturers are using fewer materials and making
packaging sizes smaller and lighter. The Department of Environmental
Conservation of New York City recommends the use of a poly wrap or shrink wrap
over box packaging to reduce packaging size and bag packaging.
Overall, the drive towards sustainable packaging solutions
is a positive step towards reducing environmental pollution and waste. By using
eco-friendly materials and reducing the amount of packaging used, manufacturers
can play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability. Food
packaging films are one of the key areas where manufacturers can make a
difference by using innovative, eco-friendly solutions that are both functional
and environmentally responsible.
The primary application of food packaging films is in the
packaging of meat products. There has been a surge in demand for food packaging
in this segment due to growing concerns about health and awareness regarding
the nutritional values of meat products. Packaging plays a crucial role in
preventing contamination caused by bacteria, pathogens, and other
microorganisms, thereby ensuring that consumers receive safe and healthy meat
products. Additionally, the rising awareness about airborne diseases has also
contributed to the increased demand for safely packaged food items.
Polypropylene is a rapidly growing segment in the food
packaging industry, both in terms of volume and value. This material is
resistant to changes in humidity and has moderate permeability to gases and
odors. Furthermore, it has a higher barrier to water vapor, making it an ideal
choice for a wide range of food and beverage packaging solutions, such as salad
dressing bottles, margarine tubs, and yoghurt containers. Polypropylene is
relatively stiff, but it is less brittle than some other plastics.
Additionally, it is lightweight, which makes it easy to transport, and requires
minimal storage space.
Single-use packaging has become a popular topic in the food
industry, with different sub-industries such as meat, seafood, poultry,
ready-to-eat meals, dairy, bakery, and confectionery all utilizing multi-layer
film packaging as an alternative to hard packaging materials like PET.
While packaging films continue to be the preferred solution
for many industries due to their affordability, safety, convenience, and
sustainability, several alternatives such as gluten films, crab shell and tree
fiber films, silk fibroin, and mango waste edible films are becoming
increasingly popular, which may hamper the growth of the packaging film market.
Polyethylene (PE) is the most commonly used material for
packaging film manufacturing, accounting for a significant share of 35% in
2021, and is expected to remain the leading segment throughout the forecast
period. The food industry, in particular, has seen significant growth due to
the emergence of direct-to-customer delivery eCommerce platforms, which have
solved logistical issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Technology is also playing a crucial role in the growth of
the food industry, which indirectly impacts the packaging film industry. In
2021, the food industry contributed 43% of the global market share, indicating
the significant potential for the packaging film industry to expand.
China is the largest player in the packaging film industry
due to the growing demand for convenience and diverse packaging solutions
caused by busy lifestyles and cultural factors. While health consciousness is a
general trend, the availability of various sustainable and healthy packaging
options may lead to a decrease in demand for plastic films. Nevertheless, the use
of recycled materials for packaging film manufacturing and the surge in demand
for pocket-friendly packaging will keep the demand for packaging films high in
China.
The food packaging market is expected to grow due to several
factors, including an increase in disposable income, a rising population, and a
demand for organic and high-quality foods with a longer shelf life. Sustainable
packaging is becoming popular as it addresses food wastage and loss, reduces
illnesses and contaminants, and preserves food quality.
Convenience foods, such as snacks, finger food, chocolate,
and beverages, are in high demand due to their ease of transport, longer shelf
life, and quick preparation time. The rise in disposable income, coupled with a
growing working population, is expected to drive the market forward.
Additionally, fast-paced lifestyles have led to a demand for easily digestible
foods, further driving the need for food packaging.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a smaller impact on the food
industry than other manufacturing sectors. Flexible packaging companies serving
the food industry are expected to do well during the pandemic. Consumers in
developing countries, such as India, have shifted their preference from
unpackaged to packaged food due to the higher food safety crisis during the
pandemic. The rise in e-commerce shopping has also increased domestic
convenience food sales and packaging materials for packaged foods.
However, import tariffs and supply chain disruptions are
restricting global market growth. To counter this, packaged food suppliers are
taking mitigation actions, and governments are offering relief packages to help
economic growth recover, which is expected to increase market growth.
Prominent packaging producers are making strategic
investments to strengthen their positions in the expanding food packaging
industry. For instance, Coveris Group acquired Four04 Packaging, a UK-based
innovative packaging manufacturer, in May 2021. Four04 Packaging was known for
its groundbreaking work in preserving the freshness of bakery products and
fresh food. Coveris plans to utilize the acquisition to bolster its growth
across the United Kingdom by expanding its product offerings and increasing
production capacity.
In August 2022, H.I.G. Capital, a leading alternative
investment firm with $50 billion in capital reserves under management,
announced that its portfolio company, Dazpak Flexible Packaging, had completed
the acquisitions of Atlapac Corporation and the Inno-lok Division of
Polyethylene Packaging. These strategic investments are fueling industry growth
by providing new opportunities for companies to expand their capabilities and
offerings.
Moreover, Green Packaging is gaining popularity as an
eco-friendly option for achieving sustainability. Green Packaging offers
several benefits such as reducing plastic usage, increasing recycling,
conserving energy, and facilitating efficient transportation. As a result, the
use of Green Packaging is contributing to the growth of the food packaging
industry.
The rigid packaging sector has the highest market share in
packaged foods due to its extensive use in vegetables, fruits, and other
delicate foods. The industry's growth will be driven by changes in consumer
lifestyles and increased consumption of bread, sausage rolls, and snacks in
China, India, and the United Kingdom.
The market size may be driven by the growing number of food
retail locations introducing innovative products. Flexible packaging is
becoming more popular due to technological advancements and innovative design
solutions. Compared to rigid containers, flexible packaging requires less
material and energy during product formation.
Moreover, the production process of flexible packaging
generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions, leading to a cleaner environment. The
adoption of packaging that preserves nutrients and flavor will boost market
revenue. Stringent government regulations and increased consumer awareness of
hygiene and food safety will promote industry growth, driving the market
forward.
Bakery and confectionery products require packaging that can
protect them from moisture and maintain their shelf life. Flexible packaging is
commonly used for this purpose due to its lightweight, ease of processing, and
cost-effectiveness compared to paper cardboard boxes and tins. Additionally,
attractive packaging of confectioneries is expected to drive growth in this
segment.
The bakery and confectionery segment is projected to expand
during the forecast period, with the convenience of ready-to-eat baked goods
making them a popular choice for dual-income families and students. As a
result, the increasing acceptance of packaged food is expected to boost growth
in this segment.
The packaging industry is constantly evolving to meet
changing consumer needs. Lifestyle changes, particularly among the working
urban population, have played a significant role in the growing demand for
packaged food and beverage products.
The introduction of ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat food and
beverages has led to sustained demand growth. These factors have contributed to
the increased demand for food packaging in this segment. Additionally, growing
awareness about the nutritional value of food and concerns about respiratory
infections have further fueled the demand for safely packaged food.
Increasing disposable income and a growing middle class
population are significant factors driving demand for high-barrier packaging
applications in sectors such as food and beverage, consumer products, and
manufacturing equipment.
Food and beverage packaging consume the most packaging film,
followed by pharmaceutical and medical packaging. However, the healthcare
industry is expected to offer significant growth opportunities for the packaged
food film market during and after the forecast period.
Key Players in Food Packaging Films Market
- BERRY GLOBAL
- INNOVIA FILMS LTD
- NOVOLEX
- DUPONT TEIJIN FILMS
- MONDI GROUP
- DS SMITH PLC
- GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING COMPANY
- COVERIS
- GEORGIA PACIFIC
- CHARTER NEXT GENERATION
- AMCOR PLC
- WESTROCK COMPANY
- SEALED AIR CORPORATION
- JINDAL POLY FILMS
- RKW SE
- TAGHLEEF INDUSTRIES
- WIPAK GROUP
- CLEARWATER PAPER CORP
- NOVAMONT
- CONSTANTIA FLEXIBLES
- PLASTIPAK
- TETRA PAK
- PRINTPACK INC.
- HUHTAMÄKI OYJ
Recent Developments in Food Packaging Films Market
The food packaging films market has seen several recent developments
that are driving growth and innovation. For instance, Novolex introduced the
RollStar EZ Open Produce Bags in June 2022. These bags use a proprietary recipe
that makes them easy to open, and they come in a wide range of sizes and
gauges, including versions that are certified as compostable by the
Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI).
Berry Global also collaborated with Poly-Ag Recycling and
Clean Farms to launch a recycling initiative in Canada in May 2022. The
initiative aims to recover used agricultural films, process recovered grain bag
material, and produce new products with recycled content. This is a significant
step towards creating a more sustainable food packaging industry.
In August 2021, Sika acquired Bexel International S.A. de
C.V., a leading manufacturer of tile adhesives and stuccos in Mexico. The
acquisition helped strengthen Sika's position in the fast-growing Mexican
construction market and expand its manufacturing footprint.
Innovia also announced the opening of a new multi-layer
co-extrusion line in May 2022. The state-of-the-art line, located in Poland,
will manufacture low-density polyolefin shrink film for shrink sleeve labels
and tamper-evident applications.
Furthermore, in January 2019, a company acquired Europac, a
large paper and packaging business listed on the Spanish stock exchange and
operating in Iberia and France. This acquisition has helped drive growth and
expansion in the food packaging industry.
The food packaging films market has seen several recent
developments in response to changing consumer needs and environmental concerns.
One notable development is the shift towards sustainable and biodegradable
packaging materials. Manufacturers are increasingly using plant-based materials
such as cellulose and starch to create packaging films that can decompose
naturally, reducing the environmental impact of food packaging.
Another trend in the food packaging films market is the use
of smart packaging technology. Smart packaging films incorporate sensors and
indicators that can monitor the condition of the food inside, such as
temperature and freshness. This technology helps to ensure that food remains
safe to consume and can help to reduce food waste.
In addition to sustainability and smart technology, the food
packaging films market is also seeing an increased focus on convenience and
ease of use. Packaging films that are easy to open and resealable are becoming
more popular, as consumers look for packaging that is both functional and
convenient.
Overall, these recent developments in the food packaging
films market reflect a growing emphasis on sustainability, technology, and
convenience. As consumers become more conscious of their environmental impact and
demand more convenient packaging solutions, manufacturers are working to
innovate and create new products that meet these needs.