It predicts the global market of barrier coatings for plastic packaging will be $1.37bn in 2016 and will grow at an annual rate of 5.2% during the five-year period to 2021 to $1.76bn.
Lifestyle changes
In its report ‘The Future of Functional Additives and Barrier Coatings for Plastic Packaging to 2021’, it claims demand for functional additives and barrier coatings for plastic packaging is driven by economic, social, demographic and lifestyle changes, brand owners’ focus on source reduction, sustainable packaging, consumer demand for convenience food and the growth of large retail chains.
Dan Rogers, head of publishing, Smithers Pira, told this site, as plastics have become more common, concerns have arisen about their ability to allow the exchange of gases and vapors that can compromise the quality and safety of packaged products.
FACTBOX
- Functional additives and barrier coatings are used across a range of food, beverages and non-food packaging markets.
- Food is the largest end-use sector for functional additives and barrier coatings in plastic packaging, accounting for a projected share of over 60.0% of market value in 2016.
- Non-food is the second largest market accounting for less than 20.0% of market value, followed by beverages with an 18.5% value share.
- Pet food represents 1.5% of total market value.
“Confectionery and baked goods are indeed among the more challenging applications,” he said.
The report states: "Barrier packaging film helps extend the shelf life of fresh baked goods by keeping out oxygen and moisture. Baked goods dry out quickly when exposed to oxygen, and oxygen reacts with fats in high-fat pastries, causing changes in flavor. Moisture can lead to condensation and fogging inside the package and promote the growth of microbes that diminish freshness and quality.’”
A variety of functional additives and barrier coating technologies which have been commercialized preserve, protect and promote; optimize product shelf life, reduce the need for preservatives, provide transparency and gloss, and serve as a printing substrate.
Rogers added, baked goods are often unpackaged in many countries, but have seen strong growth in packaging penetration rates across the world.
"Developing retail networks are helping to increase the levels of baked goods that are packaged, which presents a strong opportunity for coatings and additives going forward," he said.
Longer shelf life
“Some typical confectionery pack types are flow wrap, vertical form-fill-seal bags, roll wrap, twist wrap and stand-up pouches (SUP). Where longer shelf life is required, the package should have a barrier layer against oxygen, light, oil and moisture, to prevent loss of crispness,” he added.
“However, there are different requirements in various categories – by other measures, products such as meat and poultry can also be extremely demanding applications.”
Speaking about the most popular categories for barrier coatings, the report said: "Food is by far the largest end-use sector for functional additives and barrier coatings in plastic packaging, accounting for a projected share of just over 60.0% of market value in 2016.
"The ‘other human food’ category (ready meals, baby food, soups & sauces and cooking oils), fresh food and savory snacks are the leading end-use markets."
The social trends that are influencing market growth are consumer demand for food and drink products perceived to be healthier, demand for convenience food due to busier lifestyles, an increase and eating-on-the-go.
Busier lifestyles have led to an increase in microwavable packaging, single-serve packs, carry-away packs, resealable packaging, easy to open and longer shelf life.
Demographic influences include higher population growth in developing countries, an ageing population in advanced economies, and longer life expectancy which has seen a rise in healthcare and personal care products.
The report also refers to an increase in the population of working age (25–64 years) in developing nations has driven demand for packaged products and a rise in the number of single-person households has seen growth in smaller pack sizes and single portion food packaging.
'The Future of Functional Additives and Barrier Coatings for Plastic Packaging to 2021’ was based on interviews with industry experts from across the supply chain and desk research.