The food irradiation market is estimated to be valued at US$ 219.84 Bn in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 5.0% over the forecast period 2023-2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market Overview:
Food irradiation is a process that uses ionizing radiation to eliminate microorganisms, bacteria, viruses, and insects that cause food spoilage and disease, as well as delay or eliminate sprouting and ripening. It adds minimal heat to the food and allows foods to retain their natural sensory qualities. Food irradiation can be applied to fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, seafood, and spices to enhance food safety and increase shelf life.
Market Dynamics:
One of the major drivers for growth of the food irradiation market is its application in enhancing food safety. Food irradiation eliminates pathogenic microorganisms such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes without compromising the nutritional value of food. This improves food safety and reduces the incidence of foodborne illnesses and recalls. Additionally, food irradiation helps increase shelf life of foods by inhibiting sprouting, delaying ripening and senescence. This reduces food wastage significantly. For instance, irradiation preserves whole black pepper for 18 months compared to only 6 months with other preservation methods. Furthermore, irradiation is an effective alternative for Methyl Bromide fumigation, which is being phased out globally due to its ozone depletion effects.
SWOT Analysis
Strength: The food irradiation market offers various benefits such as increased shelf life of products, pathogen reduction, and control over insects. It ensures food safety by killing harmful bacteria and pathogens. This technology can safely sterilize spices and seasonings.
Weakness: High setup and operational costs associated with food irradiation hinders its adoption. There are also concerns regarding change in sensory and nutritional qualities of irradiated food.
Opportunity: Rising foodborne illnesses and outbreaks of disease have increased awareness about food safety and quality. Growing demand for fresh and convenient food offers scope for irradiation technology.
Threats: Stringent regulations pertaining to licensing and food approval acts as a challenges. Negative consumer perception regarding safety of irradiated food restricts market growth.
Key Takeaways:
The Global Food Irradiation Market Size is expected to witness high growth, exhibiting CAGR of 5.0% over the forecast period, due to increasing concerns over food safety. With growing population and changes in lifestyle and diet, demand for fresh and convenient food is on the rise. Irradiation helps extend shelf life of commodities and ensures pathogen reduction throughout the supply chain.
Regional analysis: North America dominated the food irradiation market in 2022 and is expected to maintain its lead over 2030. Stringent food safety regulations and growing food processing industry drive the demand in the region. Asia Pacific exhibits highest growth prospects in the forthcoming years. Rapidly growing population, rising health awareness, and changing dietary patterns in India and China will boost market value.
Key players operating in the food irradiation market are 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. Etc. These companies focus on new product launches and facility expansion to strengthen their market position.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.