Disposable food container market to reach USD 188.74-billion by 2034

The popularity of disposable food containers is growing, given the surge in meal delivery services and cloud kitchens, growing institutional demand (business cafeterias, schools, and hospitals), and a global trend towards sustainable packaging.

Rising trends in takeaway and food delivery services, particularly in fast food, snacks, and portion-controlled meals, have resulted in the use of small containers made of materials such as paperboard, plastic, aluminium, and disposable bioplastics. Smaller containers enable portion control, mobility, and single-serve alternatives.

Consumers and businesses are prioritising sustainable decisions in food packaging, resulting in businesses investing in plant-based polymers, such as maize starch, sugarcane, and polylactic acid (PLA). In addition, organisations are adopting biodegradable plastics to make bottle caps and containers, made from natural materials such as sugarcane or corn starch. In addition, companies are adopting plant-based films made from cellulose or other renewable resources. Plant-based polymers act as a barrier against oxygen and moisture.

Multifunctional packaging, such as containers that serve as silverware and plates, is growing in demand.

Innovative production technologies are making containers efficient and sustainable, with increasing automation and accuracy in production decreasing waste while increasing scalability. Circular economy models are gaining traction, resulting in brands adapting mono-material packaging, refillable containers, and packaging manufactured with recycled materials.

Manufacturing procedures and rapid economic expansion have positioned the Asia Pacific region as a global leader in the transition to sustainable packaging. With nations such as India, China, Vietnam, and Indonesia becoming major participants in the manufacture and export of commodities, there is increasing demand to shift to low-carbon and sustainable packaging options.

Corporations in the region are implementing sustainability strategies to meet customer expectations and regulations. Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies, eCommerce platforms, and food and beverage companies are replacing plastic packaging with biodegradable or recyclable alternatives to meet global environmental trends.