Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Type (Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol, Polyethylene, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polyamide, Others), By Application (Bakery & Confectionery, Poultry, Seafood & Meat, Fruits & Vegetables, Others), and Regional Forecast to 2033

MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING MARKET OVERVIEW

The global modified atmosphere packaging market is anticipated to witness consistent growth, starting at USD 13.79 billion in 2024, reaching USD 14.8 billion in 2025, and climbing to USD 26.06 billion by 2033, with a steady CAGR of 7.33% from 2025 to 2033.

The Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) industry develops around an advanced packaging technique that is typically utilized to displace the atmosphere of a package to extend the product's shelf life.  This segment of the MAP market is significant in food and pharmaceutical markets, as the product directly relates to freshness, safety, and quality. MAP is also called Modified or Modified Atmosphere Food Packaging for food, particularly bakery and confectionery, seafood, meat, fruits, vegetables, etc. It uses ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and Polyamide materials/stuff, all of which work together to control the oxygen, carbon dioxide, and moisture inside packaging. Additionally, the MAP market we will be discussing is a favourable world of projects because of the increasing global demand for food that is convenient, fresh, and processed minimally. The MAP market will continue to grow with the development of better barrier films, increasing technology in food preservation, and the increased emphasis on decreasing food waste. The growth of e-commerce and the cold chain logistics sector is likely to accelerate the growth of the MAP Market. However, participants in the MAP Market will need to remain aware of growing raw material costs, changing food safety regulations, and opportunities/functions for alternative, sustainable/eco-friendly packaging solutions. Rapid urbanization, increasing awareness of food quality, continuous research and development in packaging technology, and the increasing number of small food producers are all trends, drivers, and issues that are likely to redefine the MAP industry in how to preserve and distribute perishable goods around the world.

MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING MARKET KEY FINDINGS

Market Size and Growth

In 2024, the global Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market was valued at USD 13.78 billion. It is anticipated to grow to USD 14.79 billion in 2025 and reach USD 18.3 billion by 2033, representing a CAGR of 7.33% from 2025 to 2033.

Key Market Driver

Expansion of global cold chain logistics systems pertains to over 60% of MAP packaging usage, notably in the meat, dairy, and seafood sectors.

Major Market Restraint

Greater than 45% of small- and medium-scale food manufacturers report a significant aspect inhibiting MAP technology adoption is the high capital costs.

Emerging Trends

Additionally, in 2023, 35% of MAP products developed were biodegradable or recyclable, suggesting a transition toward a circular economy for packaging.

Regional Leadership

North America remains the largest MAP market with a global market share of over 38%, since food processing and retail (food and beverage) environments are thoroughly advanced by the development of demand.

Competitive Landscape

The global MAP marketplace will sustain more than 50 companies, while the larger companies account for more than 60% of the total supply.

Market Segmentation

Bakery and confectionery applications account for approximately 22% of the overall MAP market development and implementation, closely followed by the fresh produce and meat sector.

Recent development

In 2023, more than 25 MAP products were launched globally, mostly including fiber-based and compostable foodservice and retail packaging.

GLOBAL CRISES IMPACTING MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING MARKET

COVID-19 IMPACT

COVID-19 Impact on the Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market

The Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) market and numerous other industries have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic due to evolving supply and demand dynamics. Demand for various food products (e.g., poultry, seafood, bakery, and fresh produce) has been going up rapidly with the definitional focus on food safety, hygiene, and shelf-life quality. Due to the pandemic, consumers started selecting pre-packaged food products with supportive shelf-life certifications to reduce the number of grocery store visits and virus exposures. This change in consumer behaviour would fit right into the hands of MAP manufacturers, and many expanded due to their higher barrier packaging material. The pandemic also caused significant interruptions in the global supply chain and lockdowns impacted production facilities, led to slowed raw material supply with polyethylene and polyamide, and continued labour shortages. Moreover, due to the further disruption to logistics and transport, products were delayed, kitchen costs increased, and the delivery of products became unreliable. The majority of small and mid-size MAP producers faced serious challenges brought on by the pandemic. Many producers either temporarily shut down their business or continued operations at reduced capacities. Most addressed sped up automation, securing local sourcing of packaging materials, and building cold chain infrastructure to overcome challenges. There is no doubt that COVID-19 created serious short-term challenges to the MAP sector; however, it became a longer-term opportunity for growth to see the importance of hygienic packaging and labour-efficient packaging in a health-conscious market.

LATEST TREND

Smart Packaging Solutions Advancing the Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market

The rapid development of smart packaging technology is among the most impactful forces defining the current trajectory of the Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) market. Smart packaging technologies are asking unique questions of high barrier film, oxygen scavengers, and freshness indicators to assess how long products remain in a safer and fresher condition. Not only can these technologies keep food safer and fresher, but consumers also become more confident in their decisions and remain less concerned about food waste. Using built-in sensors and also multilayered materials, smart packaging technologies monitor internal conditions for many products, including meats, seafood, and produce, while also improving the overall packaging design. To further highlight sustainability, it allows manufacturers to offer safe and proper sustainable options for packaging alternatives without sacrificing packaging functionality. Focused on MAP applications on ready-to-eat meals and assorted fresh produce, there is great importance in keeping shelf life while preserving each product's appearance. We can see that the MAP market will continue to expand and evolve largely due to the new innovative capabilities of smart packaging offerings and the goals for safety and efficiency perceived by consumers, without compromising the impact on the surrounding environment.

MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING MARKET SEGMENTATION

BASED ON TYPES

Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH): With excellent gas barrier properties, EVOH finds ample consideration throughout the food industry and is well-positioned to prevent gassing while preventing oxygen from entering the package and spoiling the product. This is essential for many long-lasting products, and is often taken full advantage of with the meat and seafood packages.

Polyethylene (PE): PE is recognised as the most common and cost-effective, and also offers decent moisture resistance and versatility. All of which are excellent qualities for PE's application with fruits, vegetables, and baked goods, where other types of barrier layers are also used in conjunction with PE.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): PET offers both strength and visibility applicable to product packaging requiring tough plastic materials (e.g., shrink wrap) so the product will be seen clearly while still fresh.

Polyamide (PA): Polyamide offers toughness and a good puncture resistance mechanism for MAP packaging. This is especially important with sharp-edged products such as cuts of meat and bone-in products requiring additional durability. Polyamide does provide a moderate barrier to gases and moisture as well, while offering some moisture hold.

Others: Means of other materials such as polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and most recently, biodegradable films that, due to the consumer demand for sustainable packaging alternatives, are growing in acceptance. These may be mixed or layered with other in different areas of the supply chain, while considerably outperforming standard contingent upon the product specification and need.

BASED ON APPLICATIONS

Bakery & Confectionery: In this area, MAP helps to ensure the softness, texture, and flavour of products such as bread, cakes, and chocolates through the control of oxygen and moisture to prevent staling as well as provide increased shelf life.

Poultry: In the case of poultry products, MAP can assist in slowing the actions of microorganisms and oxidation, ensuring the meat stays fresh and visually appealing. Special packaged flavoured gas mixtures that include cyclotrimethylenetrinitrile (CT3) are commercially available and significantly preserve colour, texture, as well as being safe when transported and in processed storage.

Seafood & Meat: In this application, it requires MAP to function completely, to prevent decolouring, odour, and spoilage, whilst keeping taste and appearance as they should when fresh or processed. Items such as higher barrier materials, as well as traditional gas mixtures, significantly impact bacterial growth and the time the product can be used.

Fruits & Vegetables: MAP can assist in managing the respiration rate of fresh food, which allows a slowdown of ripening and decay. MAP can preserve the crispiness, colours, and nutrients of fruits and vegetables; therefore, it is vital when extending shelf life while intended for retail display.

Other: This would consist of dairy, ready-to-eat meals, and pharmaceutical shelf life, where MAP is used with products to maintain stability, freshness, and hygiene. Although it is often the case that these types of products would use custom gas mixtures, whilst being packaged in multi-layered or proprietary films.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market dynamics include driving and restraining factors, opportunities, and challenges, stating the market conditions.

DRIVING FACTORS-

Increasing Demand for Fresh and Minimally Processed Foods Drives Market Growth

The increased consumer demand for viable, ready-to-eat, minimally processed foods is a leading cause for Enterprise MAP Market Growth. Consumers are looking for healthier options, which means no artificial preservatives or longer shelf life. MAP is a great way to address this demand, it maintains sensory and nutritional qualities while significantly extending shelf life with little to no additives. Urbanization and the convenience of food with a longer shelf life have led to increased consumer demand for healthier food options.

Growing Concern with Reducing Food Waste and Extending the Shelf Life of Food Supports Market Expansion

One of the next largest reasons for Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market Growth is the awareness of the need to reduce food waste throughout all levels of supply chains. Consumer concern over sustainability and resource efficiency is causing manufacturers and retailers alike to turn to MAP as a way of extending product life and storage time during distribution channels. MAP limits costs associated with product loss, reduces retailer returns, limits wasted suppliers, increases freshness toward the supply chain, and overall increases productivity. It offers economic and environmental benefits altogether, which is why it is now used more and more in both the food and pharmaceutical industries.

RESTRAINING FACTOR

High Equipment and Material Costs in Packaging Operations Hinders Growth

One of the most significant challenges limiting Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market Growth is the cost of establishing and maintaining leading-edge MAP systems. Companies will have to invest in specialized equipment for gas flushing, sealing, or vacuum packaging. They will also have to invest in high-performance barrier films such as EVOH or polyamide materials, which can be expensive. They will then have to continue their operational costs associated with gas mixtures, maintaining certain equipment, and necessary skilled labour. These high capital and operational costs can pose serious problems for smaller and mid-sized food producers and limit their options to adopt new MAP technologies. While organizations that are larger in nature still require the availability of financial reserves when raw material prices fluctuate, or if energy prices rise to a level that consumes profitability. Furthermore, packaging requires periodic changes due to safety standards or specifications to benefit consumers, thereby continuing a rising cost model, both operational and fixed. As a result, even with consumers demanding packaged goods that are safe and long-lasting, financial limitations may slow the speed at which the market is expanding.

OPPORTUNITY

Adoption of Automation and AI-Enabled Quality Control in Packaging Generates Opportunities

There is a significant opportunity for growth within the Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) industry by implementing automation and AI quality control solutions. AI technology will allow manufacturers to monitor and adjust gas compositions, seal integrity, and senility of products in real time, offering improved accuracy in packaging and significantly reducing human error. Responsive or adaptive capabilities to the manufacturing settings based on the specific type of food goods, required shelf life, and storage conditions can also be accomplished with these technology capabilities. Automation reduces labour costs while also improving production speed, further aiding organizations to meet the demands of growth and increased availability of fresh, hygienically packed food products. AI support systems in predictive maintenance capacity help reduce times of downtime and improve operational efficiency. As consumer expectations begin leaning towards safe, consistent, and longer shelf-life food packaging, companies that invest in smart technologies will likely set themselves apart as the regulatory landscape continues to escalate and find new ways to innovate. The level of potential innovation occurring within the MAP industry is creating a sense of excitement as it opens new avenues for industry transformation, which lends to the prediction that the Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market Share will continue to grow steadily in the next few years.

CHALLENGE

Food Safety Standards and Consumer Trust After the Pandemic creates Challenges

Food safety and hygiene across the board are critical issues that are influencing the Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market. Post pandemic, consumers anticipate high food safety expectations with packaging being tamper-proof, reduced handling, fresh product guarantee, and so on. More importantly, companies must deliver MAP solutions that ensure shelf life while also meeting hygiene restrictions and compliance regulations. These heightened expectations standards can lead to the loss of consumer trust, damage brand integrity, and reputation. But with these safety standards to consider, companies are faced with the ongoing dilemma of delivering enhanced hygiene protocols without sacrificing cost savings, packaging speed, etc. Overall, all expenses considered, companies are tasked with balancing safety with scalability, as they maintain relationships and grow their customer databases. As food safety regulations constantly change and grow within the industry, and consumers adapt, navigating this area will determine how long companies can sustain their Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market Share.

MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

NORTH AMERICA

The U.S. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market has a role to play in the overall regional market growth, mainly due to its robust food processing industry and related food safety regulations. Higher consumer demand for fresh and minimally processed foods has also driven the acceptance of MAP technology among U.S. manufacturers to increase shelf-life and quality across the many product categories (processed meat, baked goods, dairy, ready-to-eat meals, etc.). Moreover, the presence of leading packaging technology suppliers along with new technologies (intelligent packaging, eco-packaging films, automation along food packaging lines, etc.) in the U.S. reinforces a strong market structure concerning the consumption of MAP technology by food manufacturers. As producers become more cognizant about food waste and sustainability challenges, they have been compelled to consider MAP as an option to mitigate spoilage along the food supply chain. Therefore, it is probably quite obvious why the United States Modified Atmosphere Packaging Market will likely grow (although modestly) due to the considerable logistics, retail, and consumer education regarding MAP technology.

EUROPE

The European Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) industry is developing steadily as consumers continue to demand fresh, safe, and ethically produced packaged food. The largest MAP markets, accounting for the lion's share of MAP use, are in Germany, the UK, France, and Italy across various products such as meat, fish, dairy, and bakery. Manufacturer's investments in recyclable and high-barrier package materials are also a result of tighter food safety standards in the EU and growing environmental awareness among consumers. The existing cold chain and modern retail systems in Europe have also influenced the widespread use of MAP packaging solutions. With more innovation, government incentives, and growing awareness of health issues related to food, the European Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market will develop steadily over the coming years.

ASIA

The Asia Pacific modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) market is experiencing rapid growth thanks to urbanization, increased disposable incomes, and more discussions around packaged/convenience foods. Within this region, China's modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) market leads due to its massive food-producing landscape, growing demand for shelf-stable meat and seafood, and substantial capital investments in food packaging technologies and processes. The Japanese modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) market is characterized by high standards of food safety and very innovative packaging, as the packaging of ready-to-eat meals, bento boxes, and fresh produce is common. Meanwhile, the Indian modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) market is expanding rapidly as modern retail enters the region and shoppers and consumers are raising their hygiene levels, food freshness, and cleanliness expectations to trendy new levels. Finally, Southeast Asia's modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) market (Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and more) is demonstrating quick growth due to fast-moving supermarket growth and the need for packaged consumption of poultry, seafood, and packaged fruit. Collectively, these markets provide substantial growth, making the Asia Pacific modified atmosphere packaging market a key player in the global MAP industry.

LATIN AMERICA

The Latin America Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market is consistently growing as urban demand for packaged and processed food continues to increase in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. As convenience and health awareness drive consumer choices through food preparation and a shift of food toward the preservation of freshness, reduced spoilage, and shelf life for meat, dairy, bakery, and fresh produce, the adoption of MAP technology will increase to continue to meet consumer needs safely. The rise of export demand for perishable goods indicates that the growth of Latin American MAP solutions will continue to gain importance for the safe transfer of food across long-distance transport. Continued upgrades of cold chain assets and incremental improvements in the food retail industry with technology continue to enhance the growth of the Latin America Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market as a new opportunity for the global market.

MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA

The Middle East and Africa Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market is expected to continue growing as urban areas increasingly demand packaged and preserved food, particularly in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Nigeria. High temperatures and a lack of cold chain infrastructure in many locations make MAP technology a powerful alternative to handling food freshness. MAP can provide shelf stability and maintain food quality with refrigerated products by utilizing MAP with meat, poultry, bakery, and fresh produce capabilities. The modern retail format of shopping is changing dietary habits, while the growing awareness of food safety and hygiene also encourages food packaged with MAP methods. The uptick in MAP application is further driven by the hospitality and foodservice sectors as they continue to expand. It should be noted that continued commitment to investments in packaging technology and food logistics is expected to support increased market growth for the Middle East and Africa Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS
 

Changing Strategies Augment Survival and Growth by Rivals Among Major Competitors Worldwide

The Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market has a wide variety of global and/or regional systems competing with innovation, partnerships, and new and attractive packaging. Leading companies continue to enhance barrier properties and shelf-life, as well as food safety issues, while addressing growing concerns over their sustainability and economic feasibility. Companies like Linde AG, Amcor Ltd., and Sealed Air Corporation are leveraging their significant R&D budgets and supply chain reach in the global market with fully integrated MAP systems, and as green packaging materials and automation. Manufacturers of MAP equipment, like ULMA and Ilapak International, are developing full-line MAP equipment for performance, ease of use, and flexible packaging. Meanwhile, gas suppliers like Praxair and Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. are leading the way in improving the shelf life of different food types of the proprietary gas mixture when preserving freshness. With increasing demand and regulatory standards, continued change is inevitable, with changes in strategy alternatives moving forward for these players within the crisp, highly competitive, and numerous competitive landscapes.

LIST OF TOP MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING COMPANIES

Linde AG (Germany)

Bemis Co., Inc. (U.S.)

ULMA Packaging, S.Coop. (Spain)

Amcor Ltd. (Australia)

Ilapak International SA (Switzerland)

Coveris Holdings SA (U.S.)

LINPAC Packaging (U.K.)

Robert Reiser & Co., Inc. (U.S.)

Praxair, Inc. (U.S.)

Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (U.S.)

Berry Plastics Corporation (U.S.)

CVP Systems, LLC (U.S.)

Orics Industries, Inc. (U.S.)

Sealed Air Corporation (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

April 2025 – Amcor Ltd. announced an expansion of its MAP film capacity at its Michigan, USA facility to keep pace with the demand in North America. The expansion within the Michigan facility not only includes advanced multi-layer co-extrusion lines that provide better oxygen and moisture barrier performance in the packaging films used for meats and fresh produce but will also enable Amcor to produce recyclable MAP films as part of their commitment to sustainability. Adding more MAP film capacity will also offer customers longer shelf life and better protection for their products.

REPORT COVERAGE

Provided technological advancements, constantly changing food safety regulations, and an increase in demand for fresh and minimally processed foods keep us going in one direction; the Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market will continue to grow in demand. With a growing consumer awareness towards healthy food choices and food quality, MAP will remain an effective vehicle for preserving freshness, flavour, and nutritional value, all without the use of preservatives or additives. Well-established global players such as Amcor, Sealed Air, and Linde AG are facilitating growth by investing in high-barrier films, sustainable materials, and automation to remain competitive. The United States Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Market will continue to lead, supported by our established food production capability and an increasing demand for packaged convenience foods. The Asia Pacific region is rapidly emerging to capture market share, particularly with an increase in urbanization, improvements to cold chain logistics, and an increase in protein-based foods (meat, dairy, produce). In Europe, the drive for sustainability and new regulations to comply with will serve to improve the MAP market. While challenges facing the market, such as high entry costs, recyclability of materials, and regulatory pressures, will continue to impact growth, the potential for this market is encouraging. Opportunities for smarter packaging, variations in gas mixtures, and the overall use of MAP packaging are evolving.