The global ready-to-eat packaging market size has witnessed remarkable growth, soaring from USD 361.0 billion in 2022 to a projected USD 700.23 billion by 2032. This robust expansion, with a notable 6.9% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), reflects the dynamic nature of consumer preferences and the evolving landscape of the packaging industry.
Ready-to-eat is a food category that does not need to be cooked or heated before eating, consumer can open the package and consume it directly
Ready-to-Eat Packaging Market Trends
| Sustainable Packaging | Eye Catching-Designs |
| The emphasis on sustainability in ready-to-eat food packaging is one of the most noticeable trends. Customers want firms to be responsible as they grow more conscious of environmental challenges. | A key factor in gaining customers’ attention is packaging design. Brands must differentiate themselves from the many products vying for store space. |
| Consequently, there is an increasing need for environmentally friendly packaging materials. Using recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable materials is part of this. | Designs that capture the eye with vivid colours, strong typography, and imaginative patterns are becoming more and more common. Still, an eye-catching design is insufficient on its own. |
| To limit waste, brands are also choosing smaller packing sizes. By following this trend, businesses support the broader effort to combat pollution while also appealing to environmentally concerned consumers. |
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| Personalised for Consumers | Transparency In Packaging |
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In an era where health and safety are paramount concerns, transparency in packaging has become crucial. Consumers want to know what they are consuming and expect accurate information. |
Meeting the Dynamic Demand for Ready-To-Eat Packaging Market Delights in North America’s Rapidly Growing Market
A significant increase in demand, stimulated by a dynamic consumer culture and an increasing preference among consumers for easy meal solutions, has taken place in the North American ready-to-eat food market, notably within the United States. Major retailers like Wal-Mart, Kroger and Albertsons dominate the retail market in the United States which has made it much more challenging for manufacturers to come up with innovative product concepts as well as packaging.
In the U.S., which is a key component of the ready-to-eat sector, strong growth could be expected from this market in flexible food packaging. North America represents about 30 per cent of the global consumption of flexible packaging. A key factor underpinning this upward trajectory is expected to be the increase in demand for on-the-go and cartons of ready-to-eat food. The need for packaging solutions that are in line with the lifestyles of on-the-go consumers is stimulated by their evolving habits based on a preference for fast and simple meal options.
Consumer preference for ready-to-eat foods is growing with the fast pace of modern life, giving priority to convenience as a key criterion when making their purchase decisions. In response to these trends, the North American packaging industry has been adapting and is providing new solutions that are suited to the specific needs of ready-to-eat food within the US.
The concept of single-serve packaging for breakfast cereals has made a very strong impression on the North American market. Demand for part-controlled individually packaged cereal, fruits, and meat packages has increased due to the crowded schedules of consumers. It is not just the convenience that improves, but also concerns relating to overcapacity and wastefulness are addressed in these simple serve packages. The packaging sector’s ability to adapt to changing consumer demand and its commitment to providing solutions that meet the practical needs of today’s households are illustrated by how it responds to these demands.
Packaging innovations will play a key role in shaping the North American market for ready-to-eat food, as it continues to grow. To exploit packaging solutions that meet both convenience requirements as well as sustainability goals and environmental consciousness, manufacturers and retailers are going to have to stay on top of changing consumer behaviour and preferences. In future, the evolution of ready-to-eat food packaging in a dynamic North American market will probably be driven by an intersection between convenience and sustainability.
China has established itself as the dominant player in the global market for ready-to-eat packaging market materials. The country is the largest supplier of this industry due to its extensive production capabilities, technological progress, and robust supply chain. To meet the different needs of the ready meals sector, China’s packaging industry is taking advantage of a large variety of materials, which includes plastic, paper and metal. Notably, Chinese manufacturers have been investing in innovative packaging solutions and sustainable materials to align with global trends and environmental concerns.
- For Instance, In Aug 2023, A global materials science company has entered a partnership with Mengniu, one of China’s largest dairy companies, to launch an all-polyethylene yogurt pouch designed to be recyclable. The commitment of both companies to achieve the Circular Economy in China will be further strengthened by this innovation.
Revolutionizing Packaging in the Ready-to-Eat Snack Industry with the Rise of Retort Pouches
Ready-to-eat snacks like dosas, idlis, pav bhaji, etc., are marketed over the counter and boast a brief shelf life. Consequently, their packaging requirements differ significantly from those of other ready-to-eat products, such as upma, curry rice, and vegetable biryani, which undergo retort processing for extended shelf life. Retort processing is applied to products like Dal fry, Palak paneer, Curry rice, vegetable biryani, Upma, etc., as they fall under the category of low-acid food with a moderate to large particle size, facilitating the removal of oxygen from the headspace through gas flushing.
The selection of polymers or combinations is carried out with careful consideration of the barrier properties needed. The retort pouch serves as a specialized packaging solution, employing physical and chemical methods to preserve perishable food items. This flexible laminate can withstand thermal processing, combining the benefits of a metal can and a boil-in-bag, ensuring the product’s longevity and quality.
For Instance,
- May 2, 2022, the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) introduced a range of ‘Millet in Minutes’ products in the ready-to-eat category. This product line includes offerings like upma, Pongal, khichadi, noodles, and biryani, aiming to address the needs of the fast-paced lifestyle by providing convenient and healthy food options. The launch reflects APEDA’s commitment to promoting millets as nutritious and time-efficient choices for consumers seeking quick and wholesome meals.
Ready-to-use Retort pouches are flexible packaging composed of many plastic layers, either containing or lacking an aluminium foil layer. Unlike typical flexible packaging, these plastics can withstand heat and can be processed in retorts at temperatures reaching as high as 121°C. These retort pouches typically need to be robust and puncture-resistant for any flexible packaging. It can also withstand the demanding conditions of processing and distribution. The pouches are printed in eye-catching colours. The retort pouch is a compact package in terms of design. Since it does not require adding brine to the food, it is a good alternative to tinplate cans. There will undoubtedly be a market for retort pouches in the future.
In the coming years, retort packs will become as acceptable as, if not better than, metal glass or containers. Additionally, the retort pouch can save about 60% of the energy used during processing. given that the product is sterilised and does not require refrigeration for storage.
For Instance,
- In April 2022, ProAMpac, the Flexible Packaging Leader announced the launch of a unique PROACTIV PCR Retort Pack due to increased market demand for Postconsumer RecycledPCP packaging solutions. The ProActive PCR Retort pouches have been specially formulated for the packaging of animal and edible products.
- In October 2021, Mondi launched the Retort Pouch recyclable, which is a high-barrier pouch to be used for wet pet food and feeding stuff.
Leveraging Innovative Packaging Solutions for Health-Conscious Consumers and Sustainable Practices
Breakfast, which is typically consumed by 79% of global consumers, continues to be the most frequent eating occasion for cereals. However, the opportunity for manufacturers to refine their messaging, flavour profile and even package to be more focused on that occasion is emerging due to the increasing popularity of snack cereals. Consumers are reaching for cereal as a morning (28%), afternoon (25%), and evening (19%) snack, as well as for lunch and dinner.
23% of consumers globally reported consuming more cereal over the past year, and more than half of them attributed this increase to the health of the countries with the biggest recent increases in consumption—Vietnam (47%), India (39%), Saudi Arabia (36%), and Thailand (35%)—the majority of which are in Asia, suggesting an emerging opportunity in this sector.
Packaging of ready-to-eat breakfast cereal or pulses plays a crucial role in the market due to its shelf-life concern and protection of food content, there are various food packaging available in the market for breakfast cereal as an attractive and protective means for instance, resealable packaging, single serving packs, cereal boxes, and flexible laminated pouches.
Introducing a cutting-edge resealable packaging solution in the cereals market, this innovation not only offers enhanced convenience for consumers but also contributes to a significant reduction in environmental impact compared to conventional boxed packaging. The use of polypropylene as the primary material in these resealable bags ensures durability and sustainability, aligning with evolving consumer preferences for eco-friendly alternatives.
Single-serve package in breakfast cereals is designed to meet contemporary, on-the-go lifestyles and offers a convenient portable solution for consumers. By preventing overpouring and maintaining freshness, these individualised pieces not only make the use of them easier but also reduce waste. Single Serve Cereal Packaging ensures quick, easy consumption in a time of busy schedules and changing consumer habits, making it the preferred breakfast option for those who seek to avoid headaches and hassles by controlling portions.
For Instance,
- In September 2023, Tribe launched a new protein muesli instant breakfast oat blend, which is packaged in Greiner Packaging’s sustainable K3 container.
- In September 2022, With the introduction of Quaker Muesli, PepsiCo India decided to venture into the ready-to-eat oat cereals segment. This is at a time when volume growth has been registered in the overall breakfast cereal and muesli categories.
Tech Innovations and Strategic Insights of Ready-to-Eat Packaging Market in the Business Landscape
By extending the shelf life and maintaining the freshness of every food group, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) eliminates the need for chemical additives or preservatives. MAPs accomplish this by filling the packing with a blend of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and pure oxygen. As such, the term “MAP” is also used to refer to the reduction in oxygen packaging. By keeping products from spoiling, MAP helps to avoid product degradation and is also economical because it saves money. Additionally, packaged food has gained market share and customer loyalty due to its seeming purity and better flavour and scent.
For ready-to-eat meals, food can also be kept fresher longer by using vacuum skin packaging, or VSP. The ready meal can be contained using the VSP film technology so that it is secure, and the container is not distorted or damaged in any way. The film and tray entirely seal together when it is time to eat, ensuring a ready-to-eat, fresh meal. Give customers whole, fresh food that is free of deterioration and damage.
Comparative Assessment of Ready-to-Eat Packaging Market
In ready-to-eat (RTE) packaging, the competitive landscape is shaped by prominent players such as Amcor Plc, Berry Global Group Inc., CCL Industries Inc., Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH, FLAIR Flexible Packaging Corp., Mondi Group and ProAmpac Intermediate Inc. stands out with its global reach and commitment to sustainable packaging and variations in their packaging technology convenient for the consumers, while Amcor Limited positions itself with comprehensive packaging solutions and a focus on eco-friendly materials, Flair is continuously innovating to develop solutions that do more, with less material & impact. The market dynamics reflect regional consumer preferences and regulations variations, with companies adapting strategies accordingly.
Investments in safe and sustainable E-commerce solutions are being driven by the impact of electronic commerce on packaging design and durability. The importance of resilient supply chains has become clear from recent global disruptions, which will lead companies to reconsider their business strategies for increased adaptability. Finally, the market balance between sustainability, innovation and adaptability to local dynamics is crucial for success in ready-to-eat packaging market. Companies that navigate these factors adeptly are poised to lead in this competitive landscape.
Major Key Players in the Ready-to-Eat Packaging Market Include:
- Amcor Plc
- Mondi Group
- Berry Global Group Inc.
- Sonoco Products Co
- ProAmpac Intermediate Inc.
- Sealed Air Corp.
- FLAIR Flexible Packaging Corp.
- CCL Industries Inc.
- Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH
- Reynolds Group Holdings Ltd
Recent Developments:
- In June 2023, Haldiram initiated a campaign to provide health-conscious consumers in India with a diverse range of ready-to-eat (RTE) food options. The offerings include popular curries like dal makhani, instant cups like poha and upma, and combos such as rajma and rice, among others. These products are available for packaging both offline from physical stores and online platforms. Haldiram asserts impressive shelf-life durations for these pouches, with claims of 360 days for pouches, 3 months for ovenable boards, and 9 months for cups. The packaging for these products is characterized by features such as low water vapour and oxygen permeability, resistance to odours and grease, and robust physical strength, ensuring the preservation of quality and freshness over the specified durations.
- In November 2022, Sealed Air Corp revealed its strategic move to acquire Liquibox, a leading innovator and manufacturer specializing in sustainable Bag-in-Box solutions for packaging and dispensing fluids and liquids. Liquibox is recognized for its contributions to fresh food, beverage, consumer goods, and industrial markets. This acquisition aligns seamlessly with Sealed Air Corp’s core business operations, particularly in the thriving sector of Cryovacs & Liquids, which represents a significant growth area for the company. Through this acquisition, Sealed Air Corp aims to further strengthen its presence in the market and enhance its capabilities in providing sustainable and innovative packaging solutions across various industries.
- In November 2021, ProAmpac announced that it had acquired Irish Flexible Packaging and Fipak, which is a pioneer in the field of flexible packaging. The company is engaged in the sectors of sustainable, inclusive packaging business for bakeries, dairy products, meat, cheeses, and fish markets across Ireland and around the globe.
Segments Covered in the Report
By Application
- Cereal & Pulses
- Fruits & Vegetables
- Meat, Fish & Poultry
By Material
- Retort Pouches
- Foil Pouches
- Flow Packs
- Form to Fill
By Region
- North America
- Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- META
- Rest of Global