Packaged Food Market Size, Growth, and Trends 2025 to 2034

Packaged Food Market Size, Share and Growth Analysis 2034

The global packaged food market size was valued at USD 2.58 trillion in 2024 and is anticipated to increase from USD 2.69 trillion in 2025 to an estimated USD 3.93 trillion by 2034, witnessing a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. This market is fueled by urbanization, convenience-driven consumer lifestyles, and an increasing demand for sustainable and healthier options.

Key Highlights

• By region, North America dominated the global market with the largest share of 35% in 2024.
• By region, Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034.
• By product type, the snacks segment held the major market share of 23% in 2024.
• By product type, health & nutrition/functional foods segment is projected to grow at a CAGR in between 2025 and 2034.
• By packaging type, bottled segment contributed the biggest market share of 30% in 2024.
• By packaging type, flexible pouches & stand-up pouches segment is expanding at a significant CAGR in between 2025 and 2034.
• By distribution channel, supermarkets/hypermarkets/modern grocery segment dominated the market by holding the share of 40% in 2024. 
• By distribution channel, online grocery/e-commerce segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the projected period. 
• By end user, general adult consumers segment held the major market share of 65% in 2024.
• By end user, seniors/older adults’ segment is expected to grow at a CAGR in between 2025 and 2034.

Industry Coverage

What is Packaged Food Market?

The packaged food market comprises all branded and private-label food and beverage products that are processed, prepared, portioned, and packaged for retail sale to consumers and foodservice channels. It includes dry, frozen, chilled and shelf-stable items such as snacks, ready-to-eat meals, dairy & alternatives, bakery products, confectionery, culinary ingredients, processed meats, soups & sauces, and beverage concentrates; distribution channels include supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, e-commerce, and food service.

The market is driven by convenience, urbanization, longer shelf-life requirements, evolving consumer lifestyles (on-the-go consumption), and product innovation (clean label, functional/healthier formulations), while manufacturers also manage complexity from global supply chains, regulatory compliance, and packaging/ sustainability demands. 

Packaged Food Market Outlook

• Industry Growth Overview: The packaged food market is expanding swiftly in various areas, including convenience-driven items like ready-to-eat meals and snacks, health-centric choices such as organic and functional food, and essential staples like bakery goods. Main factors for growth include urbanization, evolving lifestyles that prioritize convenience, higher disposable income, and a global transition towards online retail channels, which are anticipated to be the rapidly expanding distribution segment. 
• Sustainability Trends: Conventional plastic packaging, while affordable and efficient, presents significant environmental hazards because it is non-biodegradable. This has triggered a surge in research on sustainable food packaging solutions. From compostable films to intelligent labeling systems, innovations in food packaging are changing how we safeguard, preserve, and convey our food. These developments tackle essential worldwide issues minimizing plastic waste, prolonging shelf life, and enhancing food safety. With rising environmental consciousness and the growing complexity of supply chains, brands and researchers are investigating sustainable materials, smart packaging, and designs aimed at reducing waste. 
• Startup Ecosystem: The packaged food market is experiencing a transformation, propelled by the dual drivers of innovation and consumer desire for healthier, more sustainable choices. In this rapidly changing environment, startups are pivotal in questioning the existing norms and transforming how we grow, produce, and consume food. For instance, Beanery Foods, a Hyderabad-based startup, has launched a range of lactose-free, no refined sugar, clean-label milkshakes, crafted for those with lactose intolerance, digestive sensitivities and the fast-growing community of health-conscious. 

Technological Shift in the Packaged Food Market

Food producers are reluctant to implement new technologies in their production processes for various reasons, such as rising costs, limited employee acceptance, or potential disruptions to their operations. Nonetheless, food producers that have embraced innovative technologies have experienced considerable benefits, like Nestlé. The brand adopted innovative IoT technology in its production line, enabling it to minimize downtime, enhance capacity, boost resource efficiency, and elevate the quality of products for the consumer. The creative combination of nanotechnology and smart packaging utilizes nanoscale materials and devices to create intelligent packaging systems capable of monitoring, safeguarding, and engaging with packaged food. Nanotechnology aids sustainable packaging options by reducing the need for excess materials and enhancing the recyclability of packaging.

Case Study- Nestlé: Aiming for Fully Recyclable Packaging

Nestlé has committed that by 2025; all of its packaging will be either recyclable or reusable. For instance, the company has transitioned to using entirely recycled PET for its Gerber baby food containers, demonstrating a dedication to circular economy values. This shift not only satisfies consumer demands for sustainability but also demonstrates how companies can grow environmentally conscious while ensuring effective product performance.

Trade Analysis of Packaged Food Market: Export and Import Statistics 

• On a global scale, the leading three exporters of Packaged Food are the United States, Vietnam, and China. The United States tops the globe in Packaged Food exports with 29,754 shipments, followed by Vietnam with 24,309 shipments, and China in third place with 16,759 shipments. 
• India shipped 764 consignments of Packaged Food from Nov 2023 to Oct 2024. A total of 65 Indian exporters sold to 69 buyers, resulting in a growth rate of 39% compared to the previous year. Most India's Packaged Food exports are directed to the United States, Vietnam, and Russia. (Source: Volza)
• The World imported 28,592 shipments of Packaging Food from Nov 2023 to Oct 2024. These imports came from 2,266 exporters to 1,561 global buyers, indicating a growth rate of 43% compared to the previous year.  
• Most of the world's Packaging Food is imported from the United States, Vietnam, and China. Worldwide, the leading three importers of Food Packaging are Vietnam, the United States, and Switzerland. Vietnam tops the global market in Packaging Food imports with 12,507 shipments, the United States follows closely with 11,716 shipments, while Switzerland ranks third with 6,662 shipments. (Source: Volza)

Value Chain Analysis of Packaged Food Market

Raw Material Procurement

• Raw material procurement for packaged foods involves forecasting, sourcing from approved suppliers, negotiating contracts, and managing the supply chain to ensure timely delivery of high-quality, safe ingredients.

Processing of Packaged Food

• Key processes include washing, cutting, mixing, heating (like pasteurization or canning), drying, fermentation, and freezing to prepare the food and packaging.

Logistic and Distribution

• The logistics and distribution of packaged foods involve managing the transportation, storage, and delivery of products from the production line to the point of sale, while prioritizing safety, quality, and efficiency.

Packaged Food Market  Regional Insights

Why did the North America Dominated the Packaged Food Market?

North America held the largest share of the packaged food market in 2024. North America has a growing population residing in urban regions noted for their rapid lifestyles. This demographic change has resulted in an increase in the demand for packaged foods, especially ready-to-eat dishes. E-commerce has become a significant influence on the food packaging market, altering packaging designs to satisfy safety standards during shipping. As online grocery shopping continues to increase each year after the pandemic, the demand for robust and efficient packaging options has escalated. Technological progress in packaging is becoming prominent, with innovations like smart packaging solutions improving product freshness and safety. 

U.S. Packaged Food Market Trends

The busy work and personal routines of consumers nationwide, along with the increasing desire for convenience, have been fueling the market over time. Moreover, the rapid growth of e-commerce in the U.S. increases product sales across the country. Moreover, advancements in food packaging, plant-based items, intense flavors, and nutritious components have played a role in the expansion of the U.S. in the coming years.

What Factors are Influencing the Packaged Food Market of the Asia Pacific?

Asia Pacific expects the significant growth during the forecast period. The packaged food market in the Asia-Pacific region is expanding rapidly because of higher consumer demand for convenient foods, swift urban growth, a broadening retail industry, and increasing disposable income. Moreover, robust government programs advocating for sustainability and environmentally friendly packaging materials enhance regional development. Businesses are concentrating on innovative products and broadening their selections to align with changing consumer demands for healthier alternatives. 

India Packaged Food Market Trends

The packaged food market in India has experienced significant growth lately, driven by changing consumer habits, urban development, and a rising need for convenience. The growth of this market can be linked to reasons including increasing disposable incomes, evolving dietary choices, and a rise in dual-income families, which have caused a change in consumer habits favoring ready-to-eat and convenient food products. Additionally, in a diverse nation like India, characterized by various culinary traditions, the packaged food sector has adjusted by providing a selection of products that address local preferences. 

• Data from the 2022–2023 National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) consumer expenditure survey shows that 96.55% of households utilized packaged processed food (PPF), a notable rise from 82.17% in 2011–12. (Source: CGIAR)

Expanding Packaged Food Market of Europe

Packaged food market of Europe is growing at a notable rate. Major factors consist of rising consumer appetite for convenient and packaged fresh foods, an increased focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging, and the necessity to prolong food shelf life. Flexible packaging is now the biggest and quickest-growing segment, showing robust performance in areas such as ready meals, chilled and frozen food, and breakfast cereals. The European Commission has programs such as the "5 R's" (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Renewable) to encourage a more sustainable packaging value chain. 

UK Packaged Food Market Trends

The packaged food market in the United Kingdom is expected to grow throughout the forecast period. The market is growing because of heightened health awareness, greater demand for convenient food options, and government efforts to minimize food waste and enhance nutritional labeling. A significant trend in the market is the increasing demand for gluten-free, low-sugar, and fortified packaged foods, especially in breakfast products, baby food, and functional snacks. The UK's robust private label sector is fostering innovation, providing cost-effective premium-style packaged food options on both grocery and e-commerce platforms. 

Growing Packaged Food Market of Latin America

Latin America packaged food market is growing rapidly. Different factors, including shifts in lifestyle, rising disposable income, and swift urbanization in developing nations particularly the expanding middle-income demographic are boosting the need for bags for frozen food. The rise in population density has boosted the demand for packaged food overall, with Millennials playing a role in this expansion. Millennial consumers typically influence the demand for frozen food packaging items, and they represent 30% of the overall Latin American population. These individuals have a strong liking for single-serving and convenient food and beverage items. 

Brazilian Packaged Food Industry Trends

The Brazilian packaged food industry is an important and expanding field, fueled by a considerable urban population and a rising middle class in search of convenient and health-oriented choices. The sector reconciles the consumer desire for cost-effectiveness with the drive for advancements in high-quality, nutritious, and eco-friendly products. A rising demand for health-oriented options exists as consumers gain greater awareness of nutrition and wellness. This has resulted in an increase in organic and natural items, with numerous brands adjusting their products to align with this trend. 

Middle East and Africa Packaged Food Market

The packaged food market in the Middle East and Africa is seeing considerable expansion, fueled by various elements that demonstrate evolving consumer tastes, increased urbanization, and a growing need for convenient and ready-to-eat meal choices. With the economic development and urbanization of the region, lifestyles are noticeably changing, as an increasing number of consumers prefer packaged foods for their convenience and time-saving benefits. The market for packaged foods encompasses a variety of items, including snacks, prepared meals, and easily accessible foods, addressing the changing demands of a society with hectic lifestyles and a growing emphasis on convenience.

Saudi Arabia Packaged Food Market Trends

Packaged food market in Saudi Arabia growing at notable rate. Increasing demand in the booming F&B sector is benefiting the market. With the industry's growth in processed, ready-to-eat, and convenience food items, producers persist in depending on efficient packaging to maintain freshness, prolong shelf life, and guarantee product safety. Increased use of automation is providing a positive market perspective. Automated systems assist manufacturers in accelerating production lines, minimizing manual mistakes, and upholding hygiene standards, which are crucial for managing food products. The rising use of sustainable and recyclable packaging materials is driving market expansion.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

Which Product Type Dominated the Packaged Food Market?

The snacks segment led the packaged food market in 2024, due to factors like convenience, evolving consumer habits, and urban growth. Snacks are simple to transport, easy to eat, and quite delicious. As a result, they are eaten by individuals from various age groups several times daily. Because of busy consumer lifestyles, many opt for a meal replacement as a snack when time is limited.

The Health & Nutrition/Functional Foods Segment is Observed to Grow at the Fastest Rate During the Forecast Period. 

This expansion has been fueled by a broad consumer emphasis on gut health and its connection to immunity, energy, and mental wellness. Businesses in the food and beverages industry are progressively allocating resources toward functional formulations, backed by scientific evidence and growing consumer demand for clean-label ingredients.

The dairy & frozen segment is expanding at a notable rate. Dairy items like individual yogurt, convenient milk and frozen items, instant meals, and pre-chopped vegetables provide fast, easy options that conserve time and energy. Freezing and sophisticated dairy processing methods, such as UHT and aseptic packaging, greatly increase product longevity compared to fresh options.

Packaging Type Insights

Why did the Bottled Segment Dominated the Packaged Food Market?

Bottled segment held the dominating share of the packaged food market in 2024. The rising need for dairy drinks is boosting the demand for bottles within the food packaging sector. Health trends encouraging hydration and unique beverages enhance the bottle segment. Developments in lightweight, sustainable bottle designs and the emergence of biodegradable alternatives also contribute to market expansion.

Flexible Pouches & Stand-Up Pouches Segment is Seen to Grow at a Notable Rate During the Predicted Timeframe. 

The growth of urbanization and evolving lifestyles are driving up the need for convenient packaging solutions, where flexible printed plastic pouches stand out because of their lightweight and portable characteristics. Additionally, they are lightweight, convenient to carry, attractive on shelves, and simple to re-seal and store; moreover, pouch nozzles enhance their usability. 

The canned/metal packaging sector is experiencing substantial growth throughout the forecast timeline. Metal packaging, especially in cans, is commonly utilized in numerous sectors because of its strength, light weight, and ability to be recycled. Cans are mainly located in the food and drink industry, where they act as vessels for items like soft drinks, beer, and canned goods. 

Distribution Channel Insights 

Which Distribution Channel Dominated the Packaged Food Market?

Supermarkets/hypermarkets/modern grocery segment dominated the market with the largest share in 2024. Their superiority stems from a wide range of products, attractive pricing, and a robust brand image. Thanks to promotional deals, in-store tastings, and improved packaging, the shopping experience has enhanced consumer convenience, leading to increased purchases of convenience foods at retail outlets.

Online Grocery/E-Commerce Segment is Expected to Grow at the Fastest Rate in the Market During the Forecast Period. 

Fueled by a strong desire for convenience stemming from contemporary, fast-moving lifestyles, along with significant rises in internet access and smartphone adoption.

Traditional/independent retail/mom-and-pop segment growing at notable rate. These retailers provide services customized for local demands, including home delivery and interest-free financing, which their customers greatly appreciate. In contrast to large corporations, small family-owned shops can swiftly adjust their products and operating hours to meet local demands without dealing with corporate red tape. 

End-User/Consumer Type Insights

Which End User Segment Dominated the Packaged Food Market?

General adult consumers segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. Many adults, especially in city settings and two-income families, face hectic job demands and have little time for conventional meal cooking. The overall adult demographic is becoming more health-aware and is actively looking for packaged foods that provide nutritional advantages, including organic, low-sugar, gluten-free, or protein-enhanced choices.  

Seniors/Older Adults Segment is Observed to Grow at the Fastest Rate During the Forecast Period. 

Currently, numerous older individuals desire a vibrant and healthy way of living. As a result, they largely favored convenient and nutritious packaged food choices. Consequently, a more active lifestyle and altered dietary habits have boosted the need for packaged foods, propelling market expansion. 

The children's segment is expected to expand notably throughout the forecast period. The rise in demand from parents for nutritious, functional, and clean-label products that meet children's nutritional needs fuels growth. The increasing need for easy baby food packaging is mainly fueled by hectic lifestyles. Urbanization and increasing disposable income allow parents to opt for premium baby food products.

Recent Developments in the Packaged Food Market 

UFlex Ltd

• Launch: In June 2025, UFlex Ltd, a prominent provider of flexible packaging and solutions, launched a single-pellet solution compliant with FSSAI for incorporating recycled PET in food and beverage packaging. The solution combines recycled PET and virgin PET into one pellet, eliminating the necessity for manufacturers to blend various materials when creating packaging for the food and beverage industry. (Source: Flexible Packaging Strategies)
• Collaboration: In August 2024, Pakka, a producer of compostable packaging options, revealed its second partnership with Brawny Bear, a nutrition brand recognized for its date-based nutritious food items. With this collaboration, the brand has introduced Date Energy Bars, the first energy bar in India featuring compostable flexible packaging. (Source: Food Tech Biz)

Top Companies in the Packaged Food Market 

Nestlé

Corporate Information

• Founded: 1866 (Henri Nestlé developed infant formula); Nestlé as a company established in 1905 through a merger with Anglo-Swiss Condensed Milk Company.
• Headquarters: Vevey, Switzerland
• CEO: Mark Schneider (as of 2025)
• Employees: ~310,000 globally
• Revenue: ~CHF 95-100 billion (food and beverage segment)

History and Background

• Started as a company producing infant formula to combat malnutrition in infants.
• Grew through mergers and acquisitions, expanding into dairy, chocolate, coffee, and later pet care.
• Focused on nutrition, health, and wellness, diversifying beyond traditional packaged foods.

Key Developments and Strategic Initiatives

• Focus on Health & Nutrition: Shifting portfolio towards infant nutrition, medical nutrition, and plant-based alternatives.
• Sustainability Goals: Aiming for zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and sustainable sourcing for cocoa, coffee, and palm oil.
• Digital Transformation: Investing in e-commerce, data analytics, and supply chain automation.
• Premiumization: Expanding premium brands in coffee (Nespresso) and bottled water (Perrier, San Pellegrino).

Mergers & Acquisitions

Key Acquisitions

• Purina (2001): Strengthened pet food portfolio.
• Gerber (2007): Expanded infant nutrition.
• Atrium Innovations (2018): Nutritional supplements and vitamins.
• Blue Bottle Coffee (2017): Premium coffee expansion.
• Divestitures: Sold U.S. confectionery business to Ferrero in 2018 to focus on health and nutrition.

Partnerships & Collaborations

• Collaborates with Universities & Research Institutes for nutrition science.
• Partners with UNICEF & WHO for infant nutrition programs globally.
• Works with startups and tech companies on sustainability solutions, e.g., blockchain for supply chain transparency.

Product Launches/Innovations

• Plant-Based Products: Expanding offerings under Garden Gourmet and plant-based protein lines.
• Health-Focused Foods: High-protein, low-sugar options, fortified infant formulas, medical nutrition products.
• Sustainable Packaging: Biodegradable and recyclable packaging innovations across multiple product lines.

Key Technology Focus Areas

• Food Science & Nutrition Innovation: optimizing nutrient density, flavor, and texture.
• Digital & AI in Supply Chain: predictive analytics for demand forecasting and reducing waste.
• Sustainable Agriculture Technologies: improving water usage efficiency, soil health, and climate-resilient crops.

R&D Organisation & Investment

• R&D Centers: Over 30 global R&D centers (Europe, USA, Asia).
• Focus Areas: Nutrition, taste & sensory science, food safety, and sustainability.
• Investment: ~2-3% of annual revenue invested in R&D (~CHF 2.5-3 billion).

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

• Largest global food and beverage company with diverse portfolio
• Strong brand equity and trust
• Robust distribution network in 190+ countries

Weaknesses

• High dependence on European markets for revenue
• Complex supply chain management across multiple categories

Opportunities

• Growth in plant-based and health-focused products
• Expansion in emerging markets (Asia, Africa)
• Digital retail and e-commerce opportunities

Threats

• Increasing raw material costs (cocoa, coffee, dairy)
• Regulatory pressures on health, sugar, and plastic packaging
• Competition from local and regional brands

Recent News & Strategic Updates

• Sustainability: Announced acceleration of net-zero emissions plans and expanded use of recyclable packaging.
• Health & Nutrition Focus: Strengthened portfolio in medical nutrition with new product launches in Europe and Asia.
• M&A Activity: Increased investment in plant-based brands and functional nutrition startups.
  Digital Expansion: Partnerships with e-commerce platforms to boost online grocery sales.

Other Top Companies

• PepsiCo: PepsiCo is among the biggest and most powerful food and beverage firms worldwide and stands as a top contender in the packaged food industry. PepsiCo provides a diverse selection of packaged food items, including Frito-Lay (Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos), Quaker Foods (oatmeal, cereals), as well as other offerings like snacks, cereals, rice, and pasta. 
• JBS: JBS is a significant international force in the packaged food sector, boasting a varied portfolio that encompasses numerous meat products, ready-to-eat meals, and an expanding range of plant-based and dairy offerings. 
• Tyson Foods: Tyson Foods is a leading international force in the packaged food sector, with substantial participation in packaged meats and enhanced protein offerings. The business has been expanding its portfolio to shift from a commodity meat processor to a packaged food company that adds value. 
• Mondelez International
• The Kraft Heinz Company
• Danone
• Unilever 
• General Mills
• Kellogg Company 
• Mars, Incorporated
• Conagra Brands
• Grupo Bimbo
• Campbell Soup Company
• Hormel Foods
• Coca-Cola Company (food & beverage portfolio)
• Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
• CJ CheilJedang
• Smithfield Foods (WH Group)
• National Beef

Segments Covered in the Report

By Product Type

• Snacks (chips/crisps, savory snacks, snack bars)
  
  • Potato & corn snacks 
  • Extruded snacks 
  • Snack bars & bites 
• Beverages Non-alcoholic (soft drinks, juices, ready-to-drink tea/coffee) 
  
  • Carbonated beverages 
  • Juices & nectars 
  • RTD tea/coffee 
• Dairy & Frozen (milk, yogurt, cheese, ice cream, frozen meals) 
  
  • Yogurt & fermented dairy 
  • Ice cream & frozen desserts 
  • Frozen ready meals 
• Bakery & Confectionery (bread, cakes, biscuits, chocolate) 
  
  • Packaged bread & rolls 
  • Biscuits & cookies 
  • Confectionery & chocolate 
• Meat & Poultry (ready meals, processed meats)
  
  • Packaged processed meats 
  • Ready-to-eat meat products 
• Health & Nutrition/Functional Foods (fortified, protein, organic)
  
  • Fortified/functional snacks & meals 
  • Protein bars/powders in packaged formats 
• Canned & Ready Meals (soups, canned meals, retort pouches)
  
  • Canned vegetables/meats 
  • Retort ready meals 
• Confectionery (candies, sugar confectionery)
  
  • Hard candies & gummies 
  • Toffees & chews 
• Sauces, Dressings & Condiments
  
  • Cooking sauces & meal bases 
  • Salad dressings & condiments 
• Oils & Fats (cooking oils, spreads)
  
  • Vegetable & blended oils 
  • Spreads & margarines 
• Baby Food (jarred/pouched infant foods)
• Others (ethnic specialties, niche)

By Packaging Type

• Bottled (PET/glass beverages, sauces in bottles)
  
  • PET beverage bottles 
  • Glass bottles for premium/health SKUs 
• Flexible pouches & stand-up pouches
  
  • Reclosable pouches (snacks, purees) 
  • Retort pouches (ready meals) 
• Canned / Metal packaging
  
  • Beverage cans 
  • Food cans (vegetables, soups) 
• Rigid plastic tubs & trays
  
  • Yogurt tubs, deli trays 
• Aseptic cartons / Tetra Pak
  
  • Shelf-stable milk & juices 
• Frozen bags / film wraps
  
  • Frozen meal bags & film-wrapped trays 
• Glass jars
  
  • Jams, pickles, sauces 
• Sachets & stick packs
• Bulk/industrial packaging (BIB, drums)
• Other / Mixed formats

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets / Hypermarkets / Modern Grocery
• Online Grocery / E-commerce
• Traditional / Independent Retail / Mom-and-Pop
• Convenience Stores / C-stores 
• Cash & Carry / Wholesale Clubs
• Foodservice / HoReCa (packaged goods for foodservice)
• Direct-to-Consumer / Subscription Boxes
• Other channels

By End-User/Consumer Type

• General adult consumers (household grocery buyers) 
• Seniors / Older adults
• Children (0–12) 
• Teenagers (13–17)
• Infants (0–2; baby food)
• Other / Institutional consumers

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• MEA
• Latin America