Frozen Food Packaging Market Sets USD 79.59 Bn at 5.2% CAGR

Frozen Food Packaging Market Research, Consumer Behavior, Demand and Forecast

According to market projections, the frozen food packaging industry is expected to grow from USD 47.94 billion in 2024 to USD 79.59 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 5.2%. The key players operating in the market are focused on adopting inorganic growth strategies like acquisition and merger to develop advance technology for manufacturing frozen food packaging which is estimated to drive the global frozen food packaging market over the forecast period.

Last Updated: 30 April 2025 Category: Food Packaging Insight Code: 5058 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

The frozen food packaging market is projected to reach USD 79.59 billion by 2034, growing from USD 47.94 billion in 2025, at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

Frozen Food Packaging Market Size 2024 - 2034

Major Key Insights of the Frozen Food Packaging Market:

  • North America dominated the frozen food packaging market in 2024.
  • Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a significant rate in the market during the forecast period.
  • By material, the plastic segment dominated the market with the largest share in 2024.
  • By type, the bags & pouches segment registered its dominance over the global frozen food packaging market in 2024.
  • By application, the meat, poultry & seafood segment dominated the frozen food packaging market in 2024.

Frozen Food Packaging Market: Protects Food Taste

The specialized packaging materials and designs that protect food products stored at sub-zero temperatures (-18 degree Celsius) is known as frozen food packaging. It ensures food safety, freshness, extended shelf life by preventing moisture loss, freezer burn, and contamination. The frozen food packaging is temperature resistant, moisture resistant and vapour barrier. Different types of material utilized for manufacturing frozen food packaging have been mentioned here as follows: aluminium foil, plastic films, paperboard & cardboard, vacuum, and clamshell containers and rigid trays.

Increasing Demand for Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Packaging

The projection of various government laws for protecting the environment from harsh chemical packaging has increased demand for the frozen food packaging. Regulations on plastic waste & carbon footprint reduction push companies toward biodegradable & recyclable packaging solutions. The utilization of molded fiber trays, compostable films and recyclable paper-based packaging is increasing. Brands are shifting to mono-material packaging (E.G., 100% recyclable polyethylene films) for easier recycling.

Advanced Barrier Packaging to Prevent Freezer Burn

Innovations in high-barrier films & multilayer flexible improve moisture and oxygen resistance. Vacuum-sealed and MAP-modified atmosphere packaging for frozen food packaging assists to extend shelf life by preventing oxidation and ice crystal formation. The innovation of nano-coating and bio-based barrier films are being introduced for better food protection.

Smart Packaging & Automation

The introduction of QR codes, RFID tags, and NFC-enabled packaging provide real-time tracking, freshness indicators, and cooking instructions. Color-changing indicators that detect temperature fluctuations help to maintain food safety. Augmented reality (AR) & interactive packaging improve consumer engagement.

Freezer-Safe & Microwaveable Packaging

The flexible stand-up pouches & resealable zipper bags enhance convenience and reduce waste. The introduction of microwave-friendly packaging (ovenable trays, steam-release pouches) caters to the growing ready-to-eat meal market. Dual–compartment packaging separated components (e.g., sauces & main dishes for better quality retention.

Growth of Cold Chain Logistics

Growth of direct-to-consumer meal kits and frozen grocery deliveries is rising need for insulated, shock-resistant, and temperature-controlled packaging. Gel packs, dry ice packaging, and vacuum insulation panels (VIPs) are being utilized to maintain frozen temperatures during transit.

Growth of Plant-Based & Specialty Frozen Foods

Increasing demand for vegan, gluten-free, and organic frozen foods is driving innovation in sustainable packaging. Plant based fibers are being used widely for frozen food packaging. Premium frozen products require high-quality packaging that ensure freshness and prevents contamination.

How Can AI Improve the Frozen Food Packaging Industry?

The integration of artificial intelligence in frozen food packaging improves sustainability, quality control and food safety. Internet of Things & AI-powered sensors track temperature, humidity, and product freshness in real-time. The addition of smart labels & RFID tags to the frozen food packaging which change color or trigger alerts if the package experiences temperature fluctuations or damage. The AI-enabled blockchain technology enables authenticity and traceability, preventing frauds and food contamination. The machine learning and computer vision identify defects like misalignment, leaks, and improper sealing. AI-driven automation enables consistency in packaging weight, labeling and durability. The AI-integration reduces food waste by eliminating faulty packages before distribution.

The integration of artificial intelligence uses predictive modeling to help manufacturers to develop lightweight, recyclable packaging without compromising durability. AI analyzes material strength and barrier properties, optimizing packaging for freezer conditions. Eco-friendly alternatives (bioplastics, molded fiber, and paper-based wraps) are developed based on AI simulations. AI-driven predictive analytics forecast best storage conditions, reducing energy consumption. Route optimization algorithms ensure frozen food is transported efficiently, reducing spoilage risks. AI-powered warehouse management prevents overstocking, understocking, and expiration-related losses.

Driver

Rise in Online Grocery Delivery and E-commerce Sector

Due to the busy-life style and acceptance of modernization the online grocery purchasing culture is flourishing. Rise of online food retail platforms (Blinkit, Instamart, Amazon Fresh, Zepto, Instacart, etc.) is increasing the demand for durable, insulated, leak-proof packaging. Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) meal delivery services require advanced frozen food packaging solutions to maintain freshness during transit.

  • For instance, in January 2025, according to the data published by the Food Industry Association, it has been estimated that from 2019 to 2023, supermarket e-commerce sales climbed at the quickest rate of any grocery business, at 26.4% each year. Similar to offline grocery shopping, grocery e-commerce is heavily centralized, with Walmart at the forefront of both. Although Amazon is Walmart's main rival in the grocery e-commerce space, it lags far behind Walmart in both online and offline grocery sales, especially when it comes to perishables and staple foods.

However, Amazon's warehouses and logistics network give it the advantage of being able to stock more SKUs and shelf-stable categories where variety is most important, like snacks and hot beverages. Due to the tremendous demand during the pandemic, large offline grocery merchants expanded their online ordering facilities, particularly for click-and-collect, for food and drink products.

Restraint

Stringent Government Regulations & Arising Environmental Concerns

The key players operating in the market are facing issues due to stringent government regulations, compliance issues, and environmental concerns, which has estimated to restraint the growth of the frozen food packaging market in the near future. Strict food safety and packaging regulations (EU, FDA, FSSAI) require frozen food packaging to meet specific material and labeling standards.

Market Opportunity

Increasing Consumption & Demand for Convenience & Ready-to-Eat Foods

Rapid urbanization has risen the demand for the ready-to-eat foods, snacks, and frozen meals. Growth in dual-income households & single-person living is boosting demand for portion-controlled frozen food packaging. Hence, rising consumption of ready-to-cook items has created lucrative opportunity for the growth of the frozen food packaging market in the near future.

  • For instance, in January 2025, according to the data published by International Association for Food Protection it has been estimated that in comparison to global data, the highest revenue through sales of frozen food packaging is collected by China which is US$ 67 Billion in 2024. In 2025, per capita revenues of US$50.75 are created in comparison to the total population estimates. By 2030, the market for ready-to-eat meals is projected to reach a volume of 60.54 billion kg. In 2026, the market for ready-to-eat meals is anticipated to rise by 3.4% in volume. In 2025, the market for ready-to-eat meals is anticipated to have an average volume per person of 6.7 kg.

Segmental Insights

Plastic Segment Led the Market in 2024

The plastic segment held a dominant presence in the frozen food packaging market in 2024. Plastic material is extensively used for frozen food packaging as it is durable, contains barrier properties, flexible, light-in-weight, and inexpensive. Plastic remains intact and does not break easily under freezing temperatures, unlike glass or some brittle materials. Many plastics, like polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), offer good moisture and oxygen barriers, preserving food quality and preventing freezer burn.

Plastic material packaging reduces shipment cost as it is lightweight and can be molded into various shapes and sizes for convenience. Plastic materials can be easily heat-sealed, enabling airtight packaging to maintain food freshness. Plastics utilized in frozen food packaging resist moisture, oils and other food components, preventing contamination or degradation. Newer biodegradable and recyclable plastics are being developed to minimize environmental impact while maintaining the benefits of traditional plastics.

Bags and Pouches Segment Held Significant Share in 2024

The bags and pouches segment accounted for a considerable share of the frozen food packaging market in 2024. The bags and pouches used widely for frozen food packaging due to its flexible nature and lightweight. The flexible packaging pouches and bags conform to the shape of the food, maximizing storage efficiency in freezers. Flexible packaging bags & pouches require less material than rigid packaging, minimizing production, transportation, and storage costs. Multi-layer plastic films offer strong resistance against oxygen, moisture, freezer burn, preserving food quality.

Many frozen food bags come with heat-sealable or resealable zippers, maintaining freshness and convenience. Pouches and bags are type of flexible packaging allows for high-quality printing, labeling and branding with attractive designs to catch consumer attention. Many frozen food pouches have been manufactured with recyclable or biodegradable materials to minimize environmental impact. The pouches and bags are suitable for a wide range of frozen products, including vegetables, meats, seafood, and ready-to-eat meals.

Meat, Poultry & Seafood Segment Led the Market in 2024

The meat, poultry & seafood segment registered its dominance over the global frozen food packaging market in 2024. Freezing prevents bacterial growth spoilage, and contamination in perishable protein like seafood and meat. Packaging acts as a barrier against oxidation and moisture loss, maintaining texture, flavor, and nutritional quality, High-quality plastic films create an airtight seal, preventing the dehydration and freezer burn, which can affect taste and texture.

The frozen food packaging is mostly used for packaging meat, poultry and seafood so that the shelf-life is extended. It allows for global distribution of meat and seafood without the need for chemical preservatives. Leak-proof and tamper evident packaging ensures safe handling, preventing cross-contamination in supermarkets and homes. Many frozen food packages meet U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulation for frozen meat storage. As compared to fresh meat packaging, frozen packaging reduces spoilage-related losses, and enables bulk purchases, benefiting consumers and retailers.

Regional Insights

North America’s Advance Infrastructure to Promote Dominance

North America region held the largest share of the frozen food packaging market in 2024, owing to well established food & beverages, chemicals industry in the region. Well-developed refrigeration and logistics systems in North America region ensure efficient transportation and storage of frozen foods. For instance, on February 26, 2025, Amerikooler Inc., Commercial refrigerator supplier in Florida, revealed the launch of the FlexiCool ProBox, a portable cooling unit engineered to satisfy the diverse refrigeration needs of different industries.

Moreover, modern lifestyle of North America has increased consumption of ready-to-eat and frozen meals. Growing preference for frozen vegetables, meats, seafood, and bakery products, has driven the growth of the frozen food packaging market in North America.

U.S. Frozen Food Packaging Market Trends

The U.S. frozen food packaging market is driven due to the well-established food industry and cold chain logistic supply in the region. U.S. is home to giants like Berry Global, Sealed Air, and Amcor plc. The key players operating in frozen food industry like Nestle USA, Conagra, and Tyson Foods drive the frozen food packaging market demand.

Asia’s Large Export & Import of Seafood to Support Growth

Asia Pacific region is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate in the frozen food packaging market during the forecast period. Increasing number of dual-income households leads to higher demand for convenient, ready-to-eat frozen meals. Increasing acceptance of frozen foods in countries like China, Japan, India and South Korea. Government investments in cold storage facilities and transportation for instance, India’s “Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana”.  Growing of organized retail (supermarkets, hypermarkets, an online grocery stores) ensures efficient distribution. Platforms like Alibaba’s Freshippo, JD.com, Rakuten and Bigbasket are expanding frozen food availability.

India Frozen Food Packaging Market Trends

Indian frozen food packaging market is driven due to large seacoast around India supports import & export of the seafood around the globe. In India growing big chains like Reliance Fresh, Big Bazaar, and Spencer’s increase frozen food availability. Platforms like Zepto, Blinkit, BigBasket, and Amazon Fresh boost deamd for insulated packaging. Growth in Ready-to-Cook brands like McCain, Godrej Yummiez, and ITC has driven frozen food sales in India.

Europe’s Sustainability Initiatives to Project Notable Growth

Europe region is seen to grow at a notable rate in the foreseeable future. Expansion of Vegan & Plant-based frozen foods and brands like Quorn and Beyond Meat in Europe has driven demand for sustainable packaging. EU packaging & waste regulations has driven the demand for the frozen food packaging in Europe.

Global Frozen Food Packaging Market Players:

Frozen Food Packaging Market Companies

  • Sonoco Products Company
  • Sealed Air
  • Berry Global Inc.
  • ProAmpac
  • Cascades Inc.
  • Printpack
  • SÜDPACK
  • Amcor plc
  • WestRock Company
  • Huhtamaki Oyj
  • Sabert Corporation
  • Smurfit Kappa
  • Tetra Pak
  • Transcontinental Inc.
  • Toyo Seikan Group Holdings, Ltd.
  • Jupiter Laminators Pvt. Ltd.
  • Omprakash Packaging
  • ROVEMA GmbH

Latest Announcements by Frozen Food Packaging Industry Leaders:

  • In August 2024, Asim Munir, CEO of Thinkink Packaging, stated that the introduction of Custom Frozen Food Boxes is a major step forward for the company as the company continue to broaden the product offerings to satisfy the changing demands of the food industry. The Thinkink Packaging company’s new boxes are made to offer the best possible protection while simultaneously promoting environmental objectives since the company has recognized how crucial packaging is to preserving the quality and safety of frozen meals.
  • Masa Tatewaki, Executive Officer of Global Business in Toppan's Living & Environment Division, stated that by preserving food quality for longer, this novel packaging has the potential to assist the food industry and society at large in both economic and environmental ways. In order to contribute to a safer and more sustainable society, the Toppan company will be increasing company’s sales to frozen food makers, distributors, and wholesalers. The company will also use technology to create more environmentally friendly goods that improve freshness retention.

New Advancements in Frozen Food Packaging Industry

  • In December 2023, Northwest Frozen LLC and Preferred Packaging, a branch of C-P Flexible Packaging, are pleased to announce their successful partnership in creating and introducing a new range of prepared, chilled meals with longer shelf lives for retail distribution. One of Oprah's Favorite Things for the 2022 holiday season is Crocchi, a frozen croissant-shaped gnocchi noodle product that is part of the new lineup. The pasta is packaged in high barrier, modified environment containers after being cryofrozen. Additionally, Northwest Frozen LLC manufactures premium frozen meals under a private label for the biggest supermarket chain in the U.S.
  • In January 2025, The massive European seafood company Royal Greenland has introduced a completely recyclable packaging option for its 15-pound boxes of cod and halibut. With the help of packaging solutions company Schur, the innovative packaging uses a water-based coating specifically designed for frozen seafood in place of conventional cardboard coated in polyethylene. According to the company, the packaging satisfies the exacting requirements of the industry and is currently utilized on Royal Greenland's trawlers. During recycling, it dissolves effectively and can tolerate plate freezing without sticking to the fish or freezer.
  • In August 2024, Thinkink Packaging, a company involved providing packaging solutions, revealed the introduction of the new line of Custom Frozen Food Boxes.

Global Frozen Food Packaging Market Segments

By Material

  • Paper and Paperboard
  • Plastic
  • Metal
  • Other Packaging Materials

By Type

  • Bags and Pouches
  • Boxes and Carton
  • Containers
  • Trays
  • Films and Wraps
  • Bottles and Jars
  • Others

By Application

  • Meat, Poultry & Seafood
  • Dairy Products
  • Baked Goods
  • Fruit & Vegetables
  • Others

By Region:

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • UK
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Sweden
    • Denmark
    • Norway
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Thailand
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Mexico
    • Argentina
  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)
    • South Africa
    • UAE
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Kuwait
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  • Insight Code: 5058
  • No. of Pages: 150
  • Format: PDF/PPT/Excel
  • Last Updated: 30 April 2025
  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Deepa Pandey is a market research expert in packaging with 3+ years of experience, specializing in regulatory compliance, design innovations, sustainable packaging, and delivering insights to enhance safety and efficiency.

Learn more about Deepa Pandey

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in packaging market research, specializes in food, beverage, and eco-friendly packaging. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards Packaging 's excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

The different materials used for frozen food packaging have been mentioned here as follows: paper & paperboard, plastic, aluminium, and glass material.

The key players operating in the frozen food packaging market have been mentioned here as follows: Sonoco Products Company; Sealed Air; Berry Global Inc.; ProAmpac; Cascades Inc.; Printpack; SÜDPACK; Amcor plc; WestRock Company; Huhtamaki Oyj; Sabert Corporation; Smurfit Kappa; and Tetra Pak among others.

Frozen Food Packaging Association, Flexible Packaging Association, FPA-The Food Packaging Association, Packaging Industry Association of India (PIAI), Food Packaging Forum, Food Service Packaging Association, World Packaging Organisation and AIPIA | Active & Intelligent Packaging Industry Association among others.