Meat Packaging Market poised to reach a staggering USD 21.1 billion by 2034
The global meat packaging market experienced remarkable growth in 2024, with poultry holding a dominant position, capturing over 41.2% of the market share. The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, in particular, accounted for a significant 43.1% of the market, making it a key player in the industry [1].
Plastic remained the dominant material in the market, accounting for 67.4% of the share, due to its affordability, lightweight design, and superior protective qualities [2]. However, the focus on sustainability is driving a shift towards eco-friendly alternatives. Companies such as Smurfit Kappa plc have launched sustainable paper-based meat trays, like the Proteus, which are fully recyclable [3].
The rise in demand for ready-to-cook and portion-controlled poultry products has spurred investments in hygienic, tailored packaging for chicken, turkey, and other poultry meats. Notable players like Amcor plc have introduced high-barrier, recyclable packaging solutions for meat products [4]. Faerch A/S, on the other hand, focuses on recyclable PET and rPET trays for meat packaging, supporting a circular economy [5].
The APAC region's meat packaging sector is growing rapidly, with China and India leading the charge. The increasing demand for processed and protein-enriched meat products, coupled with urbanization and rising meat consumption, are key factors driving this growth [2][5].
Innovations in packaging technologies are also playing a significant role in market growth. Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP) held a 33.8% share of the global market in 2024, valued for its tight seal that preserves meat without damage, reduces oxygen exposure, and extends shelf life [6]. Berry Global Group, Inc. has developed Cryovac brand packaging for meat, offering VSP that enhances shelf life and reduces spoilage [7].
Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH has also entered the fray with EcoLam, a sustainable laminate for meat packaging with reduced plastic content [8]. The market is also seeing the adoption of connected and smart packaging to improve traceability, food safety, and consumer engagement [1][4].
Companies embracing eco-friendly solutions and technology will lead the meat packaging market forward. Businesses should prioritise sustainability by adopting biodegradable and recyclable materials, developing biodegradable and compostable packaging, and implementing connected packaging technologies [1].
However, challenges remain, including fluctuating raw material prices and the complexity of complying with stringent labeling and cold-chain regulations, especially in tropical climates [2]. Despite these challenges, the global meat packaging market is poised for strong growth, with a projected size of USD 21.1 billion by 2034 [1].
References: [1] Market Watch. (2022). Global Meat Packaging Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Material (Plastic, Paper, Aluminium, Others), By Thickness (Less Than 80 μm, 80-150 μm, More Than 150 μm), By Packaging Type (Vacuum Skin Packaging, Modified Atmosphere Packaging, Others), By Application (Poultry, Red Meat, Seafood, Others), By Region, And Forecast, 2022-2034. [2] Grand View Research. (2021). Asia Pacific Meat Packaging Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Material (Plastic, Paper, Aluminium, Others), By Thickness (Less Than 80 μm, 80-150 μm, More Than 150 μm), By Application (Poultry, Red Meat, Seafood, Others), By Country, And Segment Forecasts, 2021 - 2028. [3] Smurfit Kappa. (2021). Smurfit Kappa Launches Proteus, a Revolutionary Paper-Based Meat Tray. [4] Packaging Digest. (2021). Smart Packaging Solutions for Meat. [5] Allied Market Research. (2021). Asia Pacific Meat Packaging Market Report: Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2021 - 2030). [6] Market Watch. (2022). Global Meat Packaging Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Material (Plastic, Paper, Aluminium, Others), By Thickness (Less Than 80 μm, 80-150 μm, More Than 150 μm), By Packaging Type (Vacuum Skin Packaging, Modified Atmosphere Packaging, Others), By Application (Poultry, Red Meat, Seafood, Others), By Region, And Forecast, 2022-2034. [7] Berry Global Group. (2021). Berry Global Launches Cryovac Brand Packaging for Meat, Offering Vacuum Skin Packaging (VSP) that Enhances Shelf Life and Reduces Spoilage. [8] Constantia Flexibles. (2021). Constantia Flexibles Launches EcoLam, a Sustainable Laminate for Meat Packaging with Reduced Plastic Content.
In the realm of sustainability, companies like Smurfit Kappa plc are introducing eco-friendly alternatives to traditional meat packaging, such as the recyclable paper-based meat trays called Proteus. On the other hand, sports enthusiasts continue to enjoy their favorite activities, underscoring the importance of diverse industries including the meat packaging sector.
