by The Global Food Irradiation Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 199.4 billion in 2021 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 5.0% over the forecast period of 2022 to 2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market Overview:
The food irradiation market involves the application of ionizing radiation to food products to improve their safety and extend their shelf life. This technology is used to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses by killing or reducing microorganisms, insects, and other pests present in food items.
Food irradiation finds applications in various sectors such as fruits and vegetables, meat and poultry, seafood, grains, and spices. It offers significant benefits such as increased food safety, improved quality, reduced post-harvest losses, and increased shelf life.
Market Dynamics:
The food irradiation market is driven by two major factors – the increasing demand for food safety and the need for longer shelf life of food products.
1. Driver: Increasing Demand for Food Safety
The rising concerns about foodborne illnesses and the need for safe and hygienic food consumption are driving the demand for food irradiation. Irradiation eliminates harmful bacteria, parasites, and insects, ensuring that the food is safe for consumption. As a result, there is growing acceptance and adoption of food irradiation technologies by food manufacturers and consumers alike.
For example, in 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of ionizing radiation to control foodborne pathogens on fresh iceberg lettuce and spinach. This decision reflects the growing recognition of food irradiation as an effective technology for enhancing food safety.
2. Opportunity: Longer Shelf Life of Food Products
With the increasing demand for convenience and ready-to-eat food products, there is a need for longer shelf life to ensure product freshness and reduce food waste. Food irradiation helps in extending the shelf life of food items by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and microorganisms that cause spoilage.
For instance, strawberries typically have a short shelf life of 2-3 days. However, by applying irradiation technology, the shelf life can be extended up to 14 days, allowing for longer storage and transportation periods.
Segment Analysis:
The food irradiation market can be segmented based on the type of food and the source of radiation used for irradiation.
In terms of food type, fruits and vegetables dominate the market due to their susceptibility to spoilage caused by microorganisms. The irradiation of fruits and vegetables helps in preserving their quality and increasing their shelf life.
In terms of radiation source, gamma rays are the most commonly used as they have better penetration power and can be applied to packaged food items. In addition, gamma rays do not leave any residual radioactivity in food products, making them safe for consumption.
PEST Analysis:
– Political: Governments play a crucial role in regulating the use of food irradiation to ensure food safety. Regulatory bodies set standards and guidelines for the application of irradiation technology in different countries.
– Economic: The growing food industry and increasing consumer awareness about food safety are driving the demand for food irradiation. Additionally, the longer shelf life offered by irradiation helps in reducing food waste, leading to cost savings for both manufacturers and consumers.
– Social: Consumers are becoming more conscious about their health and the quality of the food they consume. This has led to an increased demand for safe and hygienic food products, driving the adoption of food irradiation technologies.
– Technological: Technological advancements in food irradiation systems and equipment have improved the efficiency and effectiveness of the process. The development of new irradiation sources and techniques has made the process faster and more precise.
Key Takeaways:
– The Global Food Irradiation Market Demand is expected to witness high growth, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.0% over the forecast period, due to the increasing demand for food safety and longer shelf life of food products.
– In terms of regional analysis, North America is expected to dominate the market due to strict regulations and guidelines for food safety. Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region, driven by the growing population, rising disposable incomes, and increasing awareness about food safety.
– Key players operating in the global food irradiation market include Sterigenics International, Inc., Ionisos SA., Gray Star, Inc., Reviss Services Ltd., Nordion Inc., Sadex Corporation, Steris Isomedix Services, Scantech Sciences Inc., Steri-Tek, and Symec Engineers (India) Pvt. Ltd. These players are focusing on research and development activities to enhance their product offerings and expand their market presence.
In conclusion, the global food irradiation market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for food safety and longer shelf life of food products. This technology offers various benefits and finds applications in different sectors of the food industry. With strict regulations and guidelines for food safety, the market is expected to witness continued growth, especially in regions like North America and Asia Pacific. Key players are investing in research and development activities to meet the evolving market demands and gain a competitive edge.
