Active Packaging Market Size

Active Packaging Market size was valued at USD 29.5 billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 31.39 billion in 2024 to USD 51.56 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period (2025-2032).

The global active packaging market growth is primarily fueled by rising consumer demand for improved food quality and shelf life, compelling manufacturers to look for innovative, cutting-edge packaging technology. Rising concern for food safety and avoiding food spoilage has been a major driver for the trend, with active packaging technology playing a critical role in maintaining food freshness and prolonging product life.

Moreover, the shift toward more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging has driven companies to spend money on active materials which are recyclable and biodegradable. Increasingly booming online retail business also emerges as the foremost reason, due to the utmost importance of safe shipment of items in good packages. Developments in technology, especially in smart packaging systems with real-time monitoring capabilities of product conditions, have added further traction to the market. In addition, encouraging supportive regulations for strengthening food safety standards highlight the applicability of active packaging, promoting investment in the sector.

Bio-based active packaging developments like using pullulan for fruits & vegetables are proving to be a pivotal trend for growth in markets. Pullulan is an aqueous soluble and microbial polysaccharide glucan gum. It is aerobically produced with biodegradable and non-toxic fungus. It has been gaining popularity in recent times because of its extensive application in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and food industries. Several film-forming and oxygen barrier properties provided by pullulan make it appropriate for functional biomolecules, thus enhancing the growth of the global active packaging market.

Key Market Attributes

In February 2024, ProAmpac and Aptar CSP Technologies, a business unit of AptarGroup, Inc., collaborated to launch ProActive Intelligence Moisture Protect (MP-1000) to the market. ProActive Intelligence MP-1000 is an innovative solution that maximizes product stability and shelf life with superior moisture protection without requiring extra desiccant sachets. The MP-1000 technology combines active moisture management with the structure of the package, presenting the pharmaceutical, diagnostic, and food industries with a productive, environmentally friendly alternative. The partnership demonstrates both companies' commitment to developing intelligent, high-performing packaging systems that enhance product integrity and decrease unnecessary packaging waste.

In June 2024, through acquisition of Donatelle Plastics Incorporated by DuPont enhanced its position in the medical device business. Donatelle Plastics Incorporated is a contract manufacturer with a history of producing, designing, and manufacturing accurate medical devices and components. Consistent with the increasing demand for innovative medical solutions, this acquisition complements DuPont's expertise in advanced healthcare materials and manufacturing techniques. DuPont can penetrate higher-value medical uses like surgical equipment, drug delivery systems, and diagnostic tools due to Donatelle's expertise in high-precision injection molding and medical-grade plastic components.

Amcor plc committed again to eco-friendly, recyclable packaging options in June 2023 with the announcement of its AmFiber Performance Paper packaging line expansion in Europe. This paper-based packaging with high barrier is created to maintain the product and extend its shelf life while addressing the increasing demand of customers for environmentally friendly packages as an alternative to plastic packages. The enhanced range features improved recyclability without compromising on barrier performance, making it applicable in the home care, personal care, and cooking businesses. Amcor's overall sustainability targets, such as having all its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025, support this initiative.