Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market

According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market is accounted for $22.41 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $41.76 billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) is a technique that modifies the internal atmosphere of the packaging to increase the shelf life of perishable food items. To slow down microbial growth and oxidation, which are the main causes of food spoiling, this usually entails lowering oxygen levels and raising carbon dioxide or nitrogen levels. Fresh meats, fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and prepared meals are all frequently packaged using MAP. Moreover, MAP contributes to the reduction of food waste and improves food safety across the supply chain by preserving product freshness, color, texture, and flavor for extended periods of time.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global demand for processed and packaged foods is increasing, necessitating advanced packaging solutions like Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) to effectively prolong shelf life and maintain quality. The FAO emphasizes that food production must increase by 70% to feed the projected 9.7 billion people by 2050.

Market Dynamics:

Driver: 

Growing interest in minimally processed and fresh foods

The demand for fresh, organic, and minimally processed food items has surged due to the global movement toward healthier lifestyles. Foods free of artificial preservatives are preferred by consumers who are more aware of the ingredients in their meals. Fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, and dairy products are examples of perishable goods that can have their freshness, flavor, color, and nutritional value preserved without the use of chemical additives owing to modified atmosphere packaging. Because of its inherent preservation properties, MAP is particularly attractive in markets that prioritize clean-label and health-conscious food items.

Restraint:

Expensive startup and ongoing expenses

High-barrier materials to maintain the altered environment and sophisticated equipment for gas flushing, sealing, and vacuum packing are needed for MAP implementation. Significant capital investment is required for these systems, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). Additionally, the financial burden is further increased by continuing operating expenses, such as maintenance, quality control, and gas supplies (such as CO? and nitrogen). Because of its high cost, MAP is not widely used by manufacturers who are concerned about costs or in developing nations where traditional packaging is still widely used because it is more affordable.

Opportunity:

Creation of recyclable and sustainable MAP films

Sustainability in the packaging sector is being driven by rising environmental consciousness. This change offers a significant chance for MAP material innovation, especially the creation of barrier films that are recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable while maintaining the practical advantages of conventional plastic and lessening its negative effects on the environment. Businesses that invest in environmentally friendly MAP technologies stand to attract eco-aware customers, improve their ESG credentials, and receive regulatory approval. Furthermore, the commercialization of such solutions can be accelerated through collaborations with research institutions and materials science companies.

Threat:

Development of alternative packaging methods

The market is seeing a rise in emerging alternatives like active packaging, vacuum skin packaging, edible coatings, and nanotechnology-based solutions, some of which provide comparable or better benefits to MAP, like longer shelf life, improved oxygen scavenging, or antimicrobial action; if these technologies become more affordable or scalable, they could replace MAP, particularly in high-value or high-volume product categories. Moreover, the threat grows as international food producers increase their R&D expenditures to differentiate their products with next-generation packaging systems.

Covid-19 Impact: 

The market for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) was greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic since it increased consumer demand for food products that are safer, more hygienic, and have a longer shelf life. The need for longer shelf life became crucial as consumer concerns about food safety increased and fewer people visited the grocery store, which led to a rise in the use of MAP in fresh produce, meat, and prepared foods. As food manufacturers and retailers prioritized packaging innovations to reduce waste and meet changing consumer preferences in a pandemic-affected world, supply chain disruptions initially made it difficult to source gases and packaging materials. However, the overall impact was favourable for the MAP industry.

The films & liners segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period

The films & liners segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period. These components are crucial for establishing the gas barrier environment required to prolong product shelf life and preserve freshness. Because of their versatility, affordability, and superior sealing qualities, films and liners are frequently used in fresh produce, meat, seafood, baked goods, and dairy products. They are the go-to option for food processors and retailers due to their compatibility with a wide range of packaging machines and their capacity to accommodate a variety of gas combinations. Furthermore, improvements in multilayer film technology have improved their ability to maintain quality, which has increased demand for MAP applications worldwide.

The ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Over the forecast period, the ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate. EVOH, which is well-known for its remarkable gas barrier qualities, is essential for maintaining the nutritional content, flavor, and freshness of perishable foods. It is perfect for MAP applications involving meat, dairy, seafood, and ready-to-eat meals because of its multilayer compatibility and capacity to drastically lower oxygen permeability. Food packaging manufacturers are adopting EVOH at an accelerating rate due to the growing demand for longer shelf lives and less food waste. Moreover, continuous advancements in bio-based and recyclable EVOH are enhancing its prospects for global market expansion.

Region with largest share:

During the forecast period, the Europe region is expected to hold the largest market share, driven by its strict food safety laws, robust consumer demand for fresh and minimally processed food, and highly developed food processing industry. Leading the way in MAP technology adoption are nations like Germany, France, Italy, and the UK, especially in the dairy, meat, seafood, and bakery industries. The region's emphasis on extending shelf life and decreasing food waste fits in nicely with MAP's capabilities. Additionally, Europe's dominance in the global MAP market is also aided by the existence of top packaging technology providers and rising investments in environmentally friendly packaging options.

Region with highest CAGR:

Over the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR, driven by the growing middle class, fast urbanization, and rising demand for packaged foods and convenience goods. The food retail and e-commerce industries are expanding in nations like China, India, Japan, and South Korea, which increases demand for cutting-edge packaging solutions like MAP. Furthermore, MAP adoption is accelerating throughout the region due to increased investments in cold chain infrastructure, packaging innovation, and growing awareness of food safety and shelf-life extension. This increasing trend is further supported by government initiatives to reduce food waste.

Key players in the market

Some of the key players in Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market include Coveris Holdings S.A., Air Products and Chemicals Inc., Dansensor A/S, Bemis Company Inc., DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Linde AG, Berry Global Inc., Sonoco Products Company, Winpak Ltd., ProAmpac, Mondi Group, Amcor Limited, Praxair Inc., Robert Reiser & Co. Inc. and Sealed Air Corporation.

Key Developments:

In December 2024, Sonoco Products Company and ENGIE North America announced that they have entered into a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for production from ENGIE’s Big Sampson Wind Project, a wind power project currently under construction in Crockett County, TX.

In November 2024, Berry Global Group, Inc announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Specialty Tapes business to the private equity firm Nautic Partners, LLC for a headline purchase price of approximately $540 million, which is subject to a number of closing adjustments. The Tapes business is a franchise highly valued by its industrial customers.

In October 2024, DuPont and Zhen Ding Technology Group announced they have entered into a strategic cooperation agreement in advanced printed circuit board (PCBs) technology. The signing ceremony, held yesterday at the Shenzhen Avary Time Center, was attended by Charles Shen, Chairman, Zhen Ding; Yi Zhang, President of the Asia Pacific Region, DuPont; and Thean Ming Tan, Global Business Director for Laminates, DuPont.

Product Types Covered:
• Films & Liners
• Trays
• Bags & Pouches
• Boxes & Containers
• Other Product Types

Packaging Materials Covered:
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyamide (PA)
• Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH)
• Oriented Polystyrene (OPS)
• Other Packaging Materials

Machineries Covered:
• Tray-Sealer Machine
• Horizontal Flow Packaging Machine
• Vertical Flow Packaging Machine
• Deep-Drawing Machine
• Vacuum Chamber Machine
• Bag-Sealing Machine
• Other Machineries

Packaging Gases Covered:
• Oxygen
• Nitrogen
• Carbon Dioxide
• Other Packaging Gases

Applications Covered:
• Fruits and Vegetables
• Poultry
• Seafood and Meat Products
• Bakery and Confectionery
• Dairy Products
• Ready-to-Eat & Convenience Foods
• Other Applications

End Users Covered:
• Food & Beverage
• Pharmaceutical & Nutraceutical
• Others End Users

Regions Covered:
• North America
o US
o Canada
o Mexico
• Europe
o Germany
o UK
o Italy
o France
o Spain
o Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
o Japan        
o China        
o India        
o Australia  
o New Zealand
o South Korea
o Rest of Asia Pacific    
• South America
o Argentina
o Brazil
o Chile
o Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa 
o Saudi Arabia
o UAE
o Qatar
o South Africa
o Rest of Middle East & Africa

What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2024, 2025, 2026, 2028, and 2032
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings: 
All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:
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o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances