Rigid Food Containers Industry on Track for Strong Growth Driven by Demand for Convenient and Sustainable Packaging

The global rigid food containers industry is expected to grow steadily from an estimated USD 179.8 billion in 2024 to USD 217.2 billion by 2034, driven by increasing demand for packaged, ready-to-eat, and disposable food packaging solutions. Over the next decade, the market is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.9%, according to the latest report by Future Market Insights (FMI).

Key Drivers of Growth: Rising Demand for Packaged and Ready-to-Eat Foods

The shift in consumer preferences toward packaged foods and the growing popularity of ready-to-eat meals are major drivers of the rigid food containers market’s expansion. Factors such as busy lifestyles, increased disposable income, and a growing working population are leading consumers to opt for convenient, pre-cooked food options. According to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, 90% of consumers now prefer ready-to-eat meals, with 15.3% of consumers choosing them for evening snacks and 5.9% opting for them at lunchtime.

As the packaged foods market continues to expand, the demand for rigid food containers is also rising to ensure that food products are safely stored and transported. The need for packaging that can protect food from external contaminants, moisture, and temperature fluctuations is crucial, particularly for preserving the freshness and integrity of food during long-distance distribution.

Plastic Rigid Food Containers Lead the Market

Plastic rigid food containers dominate the market, accounting for over 46% of the global market share in 2023. The segment’s growth is attributed to the numerous benefits that plastic offers, including durability, lightweight properties, resistance to barriers, and its cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, plastic containers are available in various sizes and shapes, catering to the increasing demand for diverse portion sizes and packaging types for different food categories.

Restaurants and Food Delivery Services Driving Market Demand

The demand for rigid food containers is also increasing in the restaurant and food delivery sectors, as these industries prioritize safe and effective packaging to preserve food quality. The convenience of takeaway and delivery services, combined with the necessity to prevent leakage or contamination of liquid and semi-liquid food items such as gravies, smoothies, and soups, is fueling growth in this market segment.

Disposable Rigid Food Containers Gain Popularity Due to Hygiene Concerns

The growing awareness of hygiene, along with concerns over disease transmission through contaminated food, is driving the increased demand for disposable food containers. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that one in ten people globally suffers from foodborne illnesses, with children under five years of age making up 30% of this statistic. As a result, the preference for disposable, single-use food containers has risen. These containers are perceived as safer and more hygienic, as they are not reused, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination and providing a convenient, cost-effective packaging solution.

Key Segments Covered

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