The food bags market is valued at USD 824 million in 2025. As per FMI's analysis, the industry will grow at a CAGR of 6.8% and reach USD 1.59 billion by 2035. Over the assessment period from 2025 to 2035, the global food bags industry is expected to continue its expansion, driven by increasing demand from the food service and household sectors.
The convenience of packaging solutions, especially for takeaway and ready-to-eat meals, will fuel this growth. Moreover, the rise of online food delivery services and e-commerce is creating additional growth opportunities. Disposable food bags will continue to dominate the industry, accounting for a significant portion of the industry share.
In 2024, the food bags sector is projected to see advancements in packaging technologies that enhance sustainability and functionality. Innovations such as improved oven bags and eco-friendly materials are gaining traction among consumers and manufacturers alike. Additionally, the growing influence of food safety regulations and the rising popularity of food delivery services will continue to shape the demand for food bags.
Food Bags Market Statistics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry Value (2025E) | USD 824 million |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 1.59 billion |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 6.8% |
The food bags industry is poised for steady growth, driven by rising demand from takeaway services, ready-to-eat meals, and the expanding food delivery sector. Key drivers include increasing consumer focus on food safety, convenience, and sustainability in packaging. Companies that innovate with eco-friendly and functional packaging solutions will benefit, while those slow to adapt to evolving consumer preferences may face challenges.
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Executives in the food bags industry should focus on investing in sustainable packaging solutions, prioritizing biodegradable and recyclable food bags to meet rising consumer demand for environmentally friendly options.
The growing importance of food safety and convenience will require companies to adopt innovative, functional packaging technologies. Additionally, the expanding online food delivery sector presents an opportunity for growth through partnerships with delivery service providers and foodservice outlets. To remain competitive, firms must strengthen their R&D capabilities to create advanced, eco-conscious packaging that complies with stringent food safety regulations.
Key risks include the increasing pressure from regulatory changes regarding packaging materials, which has a high probability and significant impact on operations. Companies must stay ahead of evolving environmental standards by accelerating R&D for low-emission, compliant packaging.
The volatility in consumer preferences for packaging sustainability presents a medium probability, but a high impact, and requires constant industry intelligence. Additionally, supply chain disruptions could affect packaging material availability, with a medium probability and impact, urging companies to adopt flexible sourcing strategies and build robust contingency plans.
To mitigate these risks, the company should invest in sustainable packaging R&D, establish strategic partnerships with online food delivery platforms, and ensure proactive compliance with evolving regulations. Additionally, focusing on high-growth regions like Asia-Pacific, where e-commerce and food delivery are rapidly expanding, will support long-term growth.
To capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable packaging, the client should immediately prioritize investments in eco-friendly food bags, focusing on biodegradable and recyclable materials. This shift will not only align with evolving consumer preferences but also ensure compliance with increasing environmental regulations.
By accelerating R&D efforts and forming strategic partnerships with food delivery platforms and foodservice outlets, the company can tap into high-growth opportunities across emerging industries like Asia-Pacific.
This roadmap will differentiate the company as an innovation leader in the food packaging sector, positioning it for sustained growth while addressing environmental concerns and meeting the demands of both consumers and regulators.
The FMI’s survey of 500 stakeholders in the food bags industry, conducted in Q4 2024 across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, revealed strong regional preferences and key industry trends. Environmental and safety regulations were top priorities, with 78% of respondents emphasizing the need for compliance with evolving packaging laws.
Additionally, 72% of stakeholders highlighted the growing demand for cost-effective solutions, especially in Asia-Pacific, where 64% of participants focused on affordability. Technological adoption varied, with 58% of North American respondents adopting digital packaging systems and tracking, compared to just 31% in Asia-Pacific.
In terms of materials, 68% of European stakeholders favored biodegradable packaging solutions, whereas 74% in North America showed preference for durable, high-quality packaging, and 62% in Asia-Pacific opted for hybrid solutions to balance cost and functionality.
The survey also revealed challenges across the global supply chain. 80% of stakeholders cited rising material costs as a significant concern, particularly in North America and Europe, where stakeholders were willing to pay a premium for high-performance products. In Asia-Pacific, however, the focus remained on reducing costs.
Regional challenges included North America’s struggles with supply chain disruptions and Europe’s focus on regulatory delays, while Asia-Pacific contended with logistical difficulties and cost pressures. Looking ahead, 68% of manufacturers plan to invest in sustainable packaging solutions, with North America prioritizing smart packaging technologies, Europe focusing on eco-friendly materials, and Asia-Pacific exploring cost-efficient hybrid models.
| Countries | Regulatory Impact |
|---|---|
| Canada | In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) enforces regulations regarding food packaging to ensure safety. The CFIA mandates that food packaging must be made from materials that do not pose health risks and meet specific safety standards. (Source: CFIA) |
| Mexico | The Mexican government regulates food packaging through its Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS). Food packaging materials must meet safety standards and be free from harmful substances as per COFEPRIS guidelines. (Source: COFEPRIS) |
| Japan | Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) enforces stringent regulations on food packaging to ensure public health and safety. Manufacturers must comply with the Food Sanitation Act, which dictates safe materials for food contact. (Source: MHLW) |
| South Korea | South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) governs food packaging safety. The MFDS enforces regulations on the types of materials that can be used for food bags, especially for food preservation, and compliance with hygiene standards. (Source: MFDS) |
| Russia | In Russia, the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Welfare (Rospotrebnadzor) mandates that food packaging materials must meet specific hygiene and safety standards. These regulations are designed to protect consumers from potential contamination. (Source: Rospotrebnadzor) |
| United Kingdom | The UK government regulates food packaging materials through the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations. Manufacturers are required to ensure packaging materials are safe, non-toxic, and meet environmental criteria. (Source: FSA) |
| Saudi Arabia | In Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) oversees food packaging regulations. The SFDA ensures that food packaging complies with safety standards and does not introduce contaminants into the food supply. (Source: SFDA) |
| Indonesia | The Indonesian National Standard (SNI), enforced by the National Standardization Agency of Indonesia (BSN), mandates compliance with specific food safety standards for packaging. Companies must ensure that their food packaging meets the SNI to be eligible for sale in the industry . (Source: BSN) |
| South Africa | South Africa’s Department of Health regulates food packaging to ensure safety and hygiene. The country enforces compliance with the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act, which includes packaging requirements to protect food from contamination. (Source: Department of Health, South Africa) |
The global food bags industry, driven by increasing demand for sustainable packaging, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2025 to 2035. Among the material types, plastic bags, despite growing environmental concerns, will continue to dominate due to their affordability and versatility.
However, the industry is experiencing a shift towards eco-friendly alternatives such as paper and biodegradable materials, especially in regions with stringent environmental regulations.Nylon bags are gaining popularity in the reusable segment due to their durability and flexibility, catering to consumers who seek long-term, sustainable options.
Aluminum bags, although niche, are projected to see steady growth as their ability to preserve food and extend shelf life becomes more sought after. As consumer preference shifts toward greener options, the adoption of sustainable materials will be a key driver, reshaping the competitive landscape.
The food bags industry for reusable bags is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% from 2025 to 2035. Reusable bags, driven by consumer preference for sustainability, are steadily gaining ground over disposable bags.
Increasing awareness about environmental issues, such as plastic waste and pollution, is prompting both consumers and businesses to opt for bags made from durable, eco-friendly materials like cloth or biodegradable plastics. Disposable bags, though still dominating the industry, are facing regulatory pressures, particularly in regions where plastic bans are being enforced.
The shift towards reusable food bags is projected to accelerate, driven by new regulations, consumer demand for green products, and the rise of eco-conscious brands. This trend will continue to drive the industry, particularly in the household and foodservice sectors, where reusability is highly valued.
The demand for medium-sized food bags is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2025 to 2035. Medium-sized bags, which are versatile and cater to a broad range of applications, are increasingly being preferred in foodservice industries, particularly in quick-service restaurants and takeout services.
These bags strike a balance between portability and capacity, making them suitable for a variety of food items, from sandwiches to salads. Small-sized bags, which are ideal for snacks and single-serving portions, will also continue to see steady growth, though medium-sized bags will take the lead due to their practicality in serving a wide variety of consumer needs.
Large-sized bags are growing in demand as bulk packaging becomes more common in catering services and institutional food services. The rising trend of on-the-go meals and convenience packaging solutions will further fuel the growth of medium-sized bags in the assessment period.
The online sales channel for food bags is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% from 2025 to 2035. The shift towards e-commerce is significantly reshaping the food bags industry, as more consumers prefer the convenience of online shopping for a variety of packaging options. Online platforms allow consumers to explore a broader range of eco-friendly alternatives and compare prices across different suppliers.
As e-commerce continues to evolve, particularly with more options for sustainable and eco-conscious food bags, online sales are projected to be the fastest-growing segment. Offline sales, particularly in Grocery Stores and convenience stores, will still hold a strong share, catering to impulse buyers and everyday consumers. However, the growing importance of convenience, coupled with increased awareness of sustainability, will make online retail the key growth driver in the coming years.
The foodservice outlets segment is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2025 to 2035. As the demand for takeout and delivery services continues to rise, foodservice outlets will remain one of the largest contributors to the food bags industry. These establishments require high volumes of disposable and reusable bags for food packaging, especially as convenience-oriented consumer behavior increases.
Quick-service restaurants, catering services, and food courts are the primary users of food bags in this category. With an increasing focus on sustainable packaging, foodservice outlets are transitioning to eco-friendly options to meet consumer demand and comply with regulations.
Institutional food services, such as hospitals, schools, and offices, are also projected to drive growth, particularly as health-conscious and on-the-go meal options become more common. The rising preference for convenience, sustainability, and hygiene will continue to boost demand in this segment.
The USA food bags industry value is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% 2025 to 2035. And FMI’s study reveals that the growing demand for eco-friendly, reusable food bags is making a profound impact on industry dynamics. Regulatory measures on single-use plastics are forcing food service outlets, Grocery Stores and institutional purchasers to look for alternatives in paper, nylon or biodegradable silicon bags.
FMI research reveals that online sales channels are seeing remarkable expansion, propelled by changing consumer preferences for convenience and sustainability. Fast food restaurants and food service are leading the way in new types of bags and materials. According to FMI analysis, additional investment in long-term sustainable product lines and government-driven recycling initiatives will continue to drive the momentum throughout the assessment period across the decade.
The food bags industry in the United Kingdom is projected to register a CAGR of 6.5% during 2025 to 2035. Research by FMI shows that increasing environmental awareness and stringent government regulations against single-use plastics are the biggest trends impacting the industry. Household adoption of reusable bags, particularly mediums and larges, is gaining ground quickly through many online grocery trends, according to FMI analysis.
Consumer focused food service restaurants and catering shops are investing in paper or silicon-based bags in a big way to ensure they can meet consumer expectations as well as compliances. FMI research indicates that through the power of manufacturers and retail chains working together, there will be even greater movement toward recyclable or compostable packaging solutions, solidifying the nation’s role as a leader in environmental consumer measures.
The food bags industry in France is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% during 2025 to 2035. FMI’s findings show that environmental laws like the AGEC law are already affecting food bag material selections in a huge way, shifting the focus more towards biodegradables and materials like paper. According to FMI research, hotels, lodges and QSRs are increasingly demanding, thanks to national efforts to minimize plastic pollution.
Households and industrial consumers, such as hospitals, and offices are shopping more of its reusable bags online and offline. Innovation in the biodegradable and hybrid material bags to continue to provide an impetus for bag manufacturers The FMI study finds that this trend will continue to provide an impetus to the growth of the bag industry wherein companies would invest in both functional as well as environmental attributes of their products.
The Germany Food Bags Industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% during 2025 to 2035. FMI’s analysis reveals that Germany’s strict recycling regulations coupled with consumer preference for more sustainable options are promoting the acceptance of reusable and reusable food bags across end users. According to FMI, Grocery Storesand food courts are actively replacing traditional plastic bags with paper and silicon bags.
Sale of disposable bags is decreasing gradually as reusable options are being favored by households and food service operators. FMI’s study confirms that government instigated promotions for sustainable packaging advances will open up avenues, particularly for players who have dedicated resources to the development of low footprint materials.
The Italy's food bags industry is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2025 to 2035. The FMI study finds that contribution towards European Union mandates for the reduction of plastics is a leading factor for the rise of reusable and paper food bags.
According to FMI, food courts, caterers and quick service restaurants are moving toward medium and large-sized reusables to achieve sustainability. Italians are buying more environmentally-friendly options through in-store and online channels. According to FMI, partnerships among eco-packaging manufacturers and food service companies will promote product differentiation, underpinning sustained industry robustness.
The New Zealand’s food bags industry is set to record a CAGR of 5.6% from 2025 to 2035. FMI’s research indicates that national bans on lightweight plastic bags and strong public support for sustainability initiatives are reinforcing the demand for paper and reusable nylon bags. FMI analysis shows that Grocery Stores, convenience stores, and institutional food services are the key adopters of eco-friendly packaging alternatives.
Quick service restaurants and household consumers are moving toward reusable silicon and hybrid material bags, emphasizing durability and reduced environmental footprint. FMI findings suggest that increasing awareness campaigns and stricter environmental policies will continue to drive industry expansion, providing fertile ground for innovation in biodegradable solutions.
The South Korea’s food bags industry is forecasted to expand at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2025 to 2035. FMI’s research indicates that robust regulatory frameworks focused on waste reduction are propelling the shift toward sustainable and reusable food packaging solutions. FMI analysis shows that large food courts, quick service restaurants, and catering services are adopting paper and silicon-based bags to comply with national recycling policies.
Household consumers are showing a strong preference for reusable bags purchased through offline and online platforms. FMI findings suggest that government incentives for eco-friendly products and the rise of health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers will collectively sustain the growth of the food bags industry in the country.
The Japan’s food bags industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2025 to 2035. FMI’s research indicates that government initiatives to reduce plastic consumption, such as mandatory charges for plastic bags, are encouraging greater adoption of eco-friendly alternatives. FMI analysis shows that Grocery Stores and quick service restaurants are leading the transition to paper, nylon, and silicon-based reusable bags.
Household consumers are also increasingly opting for durable, multi-use bags to align with national sustainability goals. FMI findings suggest that technological innovations in material science and strong corporate responsibility programs will further enhance the country’s commitment to environmentally friendly packaging practices.
The China’s food bags industry is projected to record a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025 to 2035. FMI’s industry substantial opportunities for eco-friendly food bag manufacturers. FMI analysis shows that demand from online food delivery services, Grocery Stores, and institutional food services is driving the adoption of paper, reusable nylon, and biodegradable silicon bags.
Food service outlets are under growing pressure to comply with national environmental policies, leading to a surge in innovation and local production of sustainable packaging solutions. FMI findings suggest that continued regulatory enforcement and rapid expansion of the e-commerce sector will support strong growth in the food bags industry across urban and rural areas.
The Australia’s food bags industry is forecasted to expand at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2025 to 2035. FMI’s research indicates that widespread bans on single-use plastic bags at the state and national levels are creating a robust demand for reusable and biodegradable food packaging. FMI analysis shows that Grocery Stores, convenience stores, and food service restaurants are swiftly transitioning to paper, silicon, and nylon bag options to meet regulatory compliance.
Household consumers are embracing environmentally friendly options across offline and online retail channels. FMI findings suggest that ongoing public awareness campaigns, government incentives for sustainable businesses, and consumer shifts towards green lifestyles will continue to propel the demand for eco-conscious food bags throughout the assessment period.
In 2024, Amcor Plc (18-22% industry share) sustained its dominance by expanding its AmFiber™ sustainable food bag solutions across North America, addressing the surging demand for recyclable packaging. Berry Global Inc. (15-18%) advanced its position through a partnership with Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, developing recyclable resin materials to meet evolving environmental regulations.
Sealed Air Corporation (12-15%) launched CRYOVAC® compostable overwrap trays, strengthening its leadership in compostable packaging innovations. Mondi Group (10-12%) expanded its paper-based bag production by opening a new facility in Germany to cater to Europe’s rising sustainability demands.
Huhtamaki Oyj (8-10%) enhanced its portfolio through the acquisition of Elif Holding, boosting its capabilities in flexible packaging. Coveris Holdings S.A. (5-7%) invested €20 million to scale sustainable bag production in Germany.
In March 2024, Amcor announced the expansion of its AmFiber™ Performance Paper packaging range into North America, strengthening its position in sustainable, recyclable packaging solutions. Around the same time, Berry Global collaborated with Mitsubishi Gas Chemical to launch MXD6, a recyclable high-barrier resin compatible with polypropylene recycling streams, advancing sustainable food packaging innovations. In January 2024, Sealed Air Corporation introduced its new CRYOVAC® brand compostable overwrap tray, highlighting a shift towards compostable, USDA-certified biobased packaging.
Additionally, in March 2024, ProAmpac acquired UP Paper, significantly broadening its offering of recycled fiber-based paper packaging solutions and reinforcing its sustainability strategy. These developments reflect an industry-wide focus on innovation, sustainable material development, and strategic acquisitions to enhance product portfolios and cater to evolving regulatory and consumer demands.
Increased demand for sustainable packaging, convenience in food storage, and rising preferences for eco-friendly and reusable options are the main drivers of growth in the food bags industry.
Government regulations are pushing for more environmentally responsible packaging, encouraging the adoption of biodegradable and recyclable materials to reduce waste and ensure compliance with local environmental laws.
The latest innovations include the development of compostable food bags, advanced sealing technologies to extend food shelf life, and the integration of smart packaging solutions for improved food safety and traceability.
North America, Western Europe, and East Asia are anticipated to experience the highest demand due to growing awareness of sustainable packaging and increasing consumer demand for convenience and eco-friendly products.
Rising raw material costs, regulatory pressures for sustainable products, and the need to innovate while maintaining cost-effectiveness are key challenges faced by companies in the food bags industry.
he industry is segmented into Nylon, Plastic, Aluminum, Paper, and Silicon.
the industry is segmented into Disposable and Reusable.
the industry is segmented into Small, Medium, and Large.
the industry is segmented into Online, Offline, Grocery Stores, Convenience Stores, and Others.
the industry is segmented into Food Service Outlets, Food Service Restaurants, Quick Service Restaurants, Catering Services, Hotels and Lodgings, Food Courts, Others, Institutional Food Services, Hospitals, Offices, Schools, and Household.
the industry is studied across North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Russia & Belarus, Balkan & Baltic Countries, and Middle East & Africa.
Food Bags Market
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