Growth Opportunities in Active and Modified Atmosphere Packaging
20 August 2009
Leatherhead, UK, 20 August, 2009. The active and modified atmosphere packaging market is forecast to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for 2009-14 of 7.5% and is forecast to reach close to $3.5 billion in 2014, according to a new study by Pira International.
Based on primary research and expert analysis, The Future of Active and Modified Atmosphere Packaging, breaks down the global market by technology, end-use sector, region and country, with five-year forecasts to 2014. The study also provides an up-to-date overview of the latest technology developments, analysis of the competitive landscape and identifies specific market opportunities for raw material and technology suppliers, converters and brand owners.
Active packaging is packaging that performs an active function after the contents are packaged by interacting with the contents to deliver improvements in quality, shelf life, safety and usability. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) is used to prolong the shelf life of processed or fresh food by changing the composition of the atmosphere surrounding the food in the package. MAP is used for different products, so the atmosphere in the package depends on the product type, the temperature and the packaging materials.
The study covers protective atmosphere packaging (PAP) and active packaging. PAP is divided into vacuum packaging and MAP. Active packaging is breaks down into oxygen scavengers, carbon dioxide scavengers and emitters, ethylene scavengers, antibacterial films, ethanol emitters, moisture scavengers, flavour or odour absorbers, antioxidants, selfventing, susceptor laminates, and temperature control.
End-use sectors examined in the study include: beer, fruit drinks, hot beverages, ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, fresh and processed meat, fresh fish and fish products, fresh fruit and vegetables, ready meals and dishes, dairy products, bakery products, snack foods, dried foods and frozen foods.
According to the study, active packaging technologies were initially considered to offer huge market potential and benefits for producers and consumers. Undoubtedly, there has been good growth in active packaging technologies over the past five years, but several factors have restrained market growth: its relatively high cost, consumer resistance and restrictions imposed by food safety legislation, particularly in the EU.
However, Pira has identified a number of specific opportunities for active and modified atmosphere packaging.
PET beer bottles will be a major driver for oxygen scavengers, particularly in Japan and central and eastern Europe. The growing dominance of major supermarket chains in developed countries and the development of a more advanced retail infrastructure in developing markets will be a key driver for MAP and vacuum packaging. The trend for consumers to demand more convenient packaged foods will drive sales of MAP and active packaging, including use of moisture scavengers, self-venting films and microwave susceptors. The growing demand for organic food has encouraged development of MAP solutions that suit an extended distribution chain. Finally, consumer demand for environment-friendly packaging is driving the introduction of MAP packaging using
renewable resources.
The Future of Active and Modified Atmosphere Packaging is available now for £3,500. For more information, please contact Stephen Hill on +44 (0) 1372 802025 or contact us online
Press contact: For editorial queries, details of the report or an expanded article please contact: Rebecca Leigh +44(0)1372 802207 rebecca.leigh@pira-international.com
Pira International
Pira International - the worldwide authority on packaging, paper and print industry supply chains.
Established in 1930, Pira provides market research, strategic and technical consulting, testing, publications and events to help clients understand market trends, identify opportunities, evaluate product performance, meet compliance requirements, network and develop strategies to grow their business.