Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Trends and Forecast
The future of the global food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market looks promising with opportunities in the baked goods, paper tableware, beverage/dairy, and convenience foods markets. The global food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2031. The major drivers for this market are the growing demand for sustainable packaging and the increasing demand for organic and natural food products.
• Lucintel forecasts that, within the type category, quantitative ≥120g/㎡ is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period.
• Within the application category, baked goods are expected to witness the highest growth.
• In terms of region, Europe is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period.
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Emerging Trends in the Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market
The global food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market is evolving rapidly, driven by the increasing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions. A variety of trends are emerging as manufacturers strive to meet both consumer and regulatory expectations for sustainable packaging. These trends reflect the growing emphasis on reducing plastic waste and improving the recyclability and compostability of packaging materials.
• Shift toward Compostable and Biodegradable Coatings: There is a marked shift toward the use of compostable and biodegradable coatings on food-grade paper packaging. These coatings, made from plant-based materials, replace traditional plastic coatings, offering a more sustainable solution. Manufacturers are increasingly focused on creating coatings that can protect food without harming the environment. This trend is gaining traction as both consumers and businesses are keen to reduce their environmental footprint, ensuring that packaging can break down naturally without contributing to long-term waste.
• Water-Based Coatings Gaining Popularity: Water-based coatings are becoming a preferred choice for food-grade plastic-free packaging. These coatings offer several advantages, including reduced environmental impact during production and ease of disposal. Unlike solvent-based coatings, water-based coatings are free from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them safer for both the environment and workers. With an increasing focus on sustainability and consumer health, the shift toward water-based coatings is expected to accelerate as it offers a cleaner and greener alternative to plastic-based coatings.
• Consumer Demand for Transparency and Sustainability: Consumers are increasingly seeking brands that prioritize sustainability in their packaging. This trend is particularly visible in the food and beverage sector, where companies are adopting plastic-free coated paper as part of their eco-friendly initiatives. Transparency in packaging materials, such as labeling the use of biodegradable or recyclable coatings, is becoming a key selling point. Brands are responding by offering products with clear information about their environmental impact, which helps build consumer trust and loyalty while meeting the growing demand for sustainable solutions.
• Integration of Advanced Barrier Properties in Coated Paper: One of the key challenges with food-grade plastic-free packaging is ensuring the same level of protection and barrier properties as traditional plastic packaging. To overcome this, manufacturers are focusing on integrating advanced barrier technologies into coated paper. These innovations enhance the moisture, grease, and oxygen resistance of paper packaging, making it suitable for a wider range of food products. By improving the performance of coated paper, manufacturers are ensuring that plastic-free solutions can meet the same functional requirements as plastic packaging.
• Circular Economy and Recycling Focus: The growing emphasis on the circular economy is pushing the food-grade plastic-free soft packaging market toward more recyclable and reusable solutions. Companies are designing packaging that can be easily recycled or composted, reducing the lifecycle environmental impact. This trend aligns with global waste reduction goals and is supported by advancements in recycling technologies. Additionally, increased investment in the development of efficient collection and recycling infrastructure will further promote the use of sustainable, recyclable food-grade packaging.
These trends are reshaping the food-grade plastic-free soft packaging market by driving innovation, sustainability, and consumer demand for eco-friendly products. The shift towards compostable coatings, water-based formulations, and enhanced barrier properties is enabling the packaging industry to provide sustainable solutions that meet both performance and environmental standards. These trends also align with broader regulatory and consumer expectations, accelerating the transition toward plastic-free packaging alternatives across the food sector.
Recent Development in the Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market
The global food-grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market has seen significant developments, particularly in response to growing environmental concerns and stricter regulations around plastic waste. Innovations in material technologies, investments in sustainable production processes, and changes in consumer preferences have all contributed to the rapid evolution of this market. The following key developments highlight the factors influencing growth in this space.
• Introduction of Compostable and Biodegradable Coated Paper: Many manufacturers are increasingly introducing compostable and biodegradable food-grade coated papers, which are in line with global sustainability goals. These papers use natural, plant-based coatings that allow the packaging to break down more easily in composting environments. This innovation addresses the challenge of plastic waste and caters to eco-conscious consumers and brands looking for environmentally friendly alternatives.
• Rise in Water-Based Coatings: A significant development in the food-grade plastic-free coated paper market is the rise of water-based coatings as a replacement for traditional plastic coatings. Water-based coatings are safer, non-toxic, and more sustainable because they contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This move aligns with regulatory changes that restrict harmful chemicals and is being embraced by food packaging manufacturers looking to reduce their environmental footprint while maintaining packaging integrity.
• Investment in Advanced Coating Technologies: Companies are investing heavily in R&D to develop advanced coating technologies that enhance the performance of plastic-free coated paper. These technologies improve the barrier properties of paper packaging, such as moisture, grease, and oxygen resistance, which are essential for food preservation. This development is crucial for ensuring that plastic-free paper packaging can compete with traditional plastic materials in terms of durability and functionality.
• Regulatory Push Toward Sustainable Packaging: Governments around the world are implementing stricter regulations to reduce plastic waste, which is driving the adoption of plastic-free coated paper in the food packaging industry. In regions like the EU, countries are incentivizing businesses to transition to biodegradable and recyclable packaging options. This regulatory push is encouraging companies to explore and adopt alternative materials, further accelerating the growth of the food-grade plastic-free packaging market.
• Consumer Demand for Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions: Consumer demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions is growing at a rapid pace. As a result, food brands are increasingly shifting toward plastic-free coated paper to cater to the growing environmental concerns of consumers. This demand is prompting companies to innovate and offer packaging solutions that align with sustainability trends, creating a broader market for plastic-free food packaging materials.
These developments are reshaping the global food-grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market by making packaging more sustainable, innovative, and consumer-friendly. The introduction of compostable materials, advancements in coating technologies, and increased investment in R&D are ensuring that food packaging can meet both environmental standards and consumer expectations. These trends position plastic-free coated paper as a viable alternative to traditional plastic packaging, boosting the growth of the global market.
Strategic Growth Opportunities in the Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market
The food-grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market offers significant growth opportunities across various applications, driven by the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions. As environmental concerns continue to influence consumer preferences and regulatory standards tighten, food companies and packaging manufacturers are seeking alternatives to traditional plastic packaging. The following are key growth opportunities by application within this market.
• Beverage Packaging: The beverage industry is increasingly adopting food-grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper as a sustainable alternative to plastic bottles and pouches. Companies are turning to coated paper for beverage packaging solutions that are eco-friendly and maintain the freshness of drinks. The ability of coated paper to provide moisture and oxygen barriers makes it ideal for liquid packaging, contributing to the growth of this application.
• Snack Food Packaging: As consumers demand more environmentally friendly options, the snack food sector is shifting toward plastic-free coated paper packaging. Coated paper can provide a suitable barrier for snack foods, such as chips and granola bars while offering an environmentally friendly option that meets consumer preferences. This trend is expected to continue as brands aim to align with sustainability goals and improve the recyclability of their packaging.
• Fresh Produce Packaging: Fresh produce packaging is another key application area where plastic-free coated paper is gaining traction. Coated paper is being used to package fruits and vegetables, offering an eco-friendly option that maintains freshness and quality. The shift toward biodegradable and recyclable materials is expected to grow as supermarkets and retailers prioritize sustainability in their packaging strategies.
• Frozen Food Packaging: The frozen food market is adopting food-grade plastic-free coated paper as an alternative to traditional plastic packaging. Coated paper offers the advantage of being both recyclable and biodegradable, making it an appealing choice for frozen food products that require durable packaging. Manufacturers are exploring new coating technologies that can protect frozen foods from moisture and temperature changes while remaining environmentally responsible.
• Takeout and Ready-to-Eat Packaging: The rise in demand for takeout and ready-to-eat food is creating opportunities for food-grade plastic-free coated paper in food packaging. Coated paper is used to package items like sandwiches, salads, and prepared meals, providing a sustainable solution that is both lightweight and functional. This application is growing rapidly as consumers and businesses seek alternatives to single-use plastic containers.
These strategic growth opportunities across key applications highlight the expanding role of food-grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper in various food sectors. As more industries adopt sustainable packaging solutions, the demand for plastic-free coated paper continues to rise, supporting growth and innovation in this market.
Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Driver and Challenges
The global food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market is influenced by multiple drivers and challenges that impact its growth trajectory. Technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and evolving consumer preferences are key drivers, while challenges such as material costs and supply chain issues present barriers. Understanding these factors is crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of sustainable food packaging.
The factors responsible for driving the food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market include:
1. Growing Environmental Awareness: Rising awareness about plastic pollution and environmental degradation is a major driver for the adoption of plastic-free packaging solutions. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing eco-friendly products, leading food companies to explore alternative materials like coated paper that align with sustainability goals. This trend is expected to continue as concerns about plastic waste persist globally.
2. Stringent Regulatory Standards: Governments worldwide are implementing more stringent regulations regarding plastic packaging waste, which is driving companies to adopt more sustainable alternatives. Regulations, such as plastic bags and waste reduction targets are pushing manufacturers to invest in food-grade plastic-free coated paper that meets both environmental and safety standards.
3. Innovation in Coating Technologies: Advances in coating technologies are enhancing the functionality of food-grade plastic-free coated paper, making it a more viable alternative to plastic packaging. New biodegradable and water-based coatings are improving the performance of paper packaging, offering better moisture, grease, and oxygen resistance, which are essential for food preservation.
4. Consumer Demand for Sustainable Products: There is an increasing demand from consumers for products with minimal environmental impact. This demand for sustainability is driving food brands to shift toward plastic-free packaging solutions. As consumer preferences continue to evolve toward eco-friendly options, manufacturers are responding by offering food-grade plastic-free coated paper as a viable solution.
5. Cost Efficiency of Paper Packaging: As the cost of plastic packaging rises, food companies are exploring alternatives that are cost-effective without sacrificing performance. Coated paper offers a more affordable alternative to plastic packaging, especially in regions where production costs are high. As cost efficiency becomes increasingly important, the adoption of plastic-free coated paper is expected to grow.
Challenges in the food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market are:
1. High Production Costs: The cost of producing food-grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper can be higher than traditional plastic packaging due to the more complex manufacturing processes and specialized materials required. This can make it difficult for some companies to adopt these solutions, particularly in price-sensitive markets.
2. Limited Availability of Materials: The availability of raw materials for producing food-grade plastic-free coated paper is still limited in some regions, which can create supply chain disruptions and impact market growth. Manufacturers need to secure a steady supply of eco-friendly raw materials to meet increasing demand.
3. Consumer Education and Adoption Barriers: While there is significant demand for sustainable packaging, educating consumers about the benefits and proper disposal methods for plastic-free packaging is still a challenge. Overcoming these barriers requires increased awareness and collaboration between manufacturers, retailers, and consumers to promote the benefits of eco-friendly packaging.
The drivers of growing environmental awareness, regulatory pressure, and innovation in coating technologies are accelerating the adoption of food-grade plastic-free coated paper in the packaging industry. However, challenges such as high production costs, limited material availability, and consumer education need to be addressed for continued market expansion. Balancing these drivers and challenges will be key to the sustained growth of the food-grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market.
List of Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Companies
Companies in the market compete on the basis of product quality offered. Major players in this market focus on expanding their manufacturing facilities, R&D investments, infrastructural development, and leverage integration opportunities across the value chain. With these strategies food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper companies cater increasing demand, ensure competitive effectiveness, develop innovative products & technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some of the food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper companies profiled in this report include-
• UPM Specialty Papers
• Sappi
• Mondi Group
• Billerud
• Stora Enso
Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market by Segment
The study includes a forecast for the global food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market by type, application, and region.
Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market by Type [Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• Quantitative ≤50G/㎡
• 50G/㎡＜Quantitative＜120G/㎡
• Quantitative ≥120G/㎡
Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market by Application [Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• Baked Goods
• Paper Tableware
• Beverage/Dairy
• Convenience Foods
• Others
Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market by Region [Value from 2019 to 2031]:
• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• The Rest of the World
Country Wise Outlook for the Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market
The global food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market is gaining traction as consumers and industries alike are seeking sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging. Driven by increasing environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and changing consumer preferences, food-grade plastic-free coated paper is emerging as a viable and eco-friendly solution in the packaging industry. Key markets such as the United States, China, Germany, India, and Japan are witnessing rapid adoption of these materials in food packaging as companies innovate to meet the demand for sustainability without compromising on food safety or quality. Recent developments across these countries reflect this shift toward eco-conscious packaging solutions.
• United States: In the United States, there is a growing demand for food-grade plastic-free soft packaging, with more food brands adopting coated paper as a sustainable alternative to plastic. Companies are increasingly focusing on creating compostable and recyclable packaging solutions that meet FDA standards. A significant shift toward eco-friendly solutions has been influenced by both regulatory pressures and consumer demand for sustainability. The U.S. has also seen innovations in coating materials, with water-based and biodegradable coatings gaining popularity. As part of a broader movement, U.S. manufacturers are investing in R&D to improve the durability and shelf life of plastic-free packaging.
• China: The Chinese food-grade plastic-free soft packaging market is rapidly expanding as the government enforces stricter environmental regulations to combat plastic waste. China is investing heavily in biodegradable and compostable packaging materials, and food companies are increasingly adopting plastic-free coated paper to meet sustainability goals. The shift is driven by both domestic consumption trends, which are leaning toward environmentally friendly options, and the global push for sustainable packaging. Furthermore, Chinese manufacturers are scaling production to meet increasing domestic demand and are also expanding their export capabilities, positioning themselves as global leaders in eco-friendly food packaging solutions.
• Germany: Germany is at the forefront of the transition to food-grade plastic-free soft packaging, driven by its strong environmental regulations and commitment to sustainability. German food packaging companies are focusing on creating innovative, plastic-free alternatives such as coated paper with plant-based coatings. These solutions are designed to be biodegradable and recyclable, meeting the high standards set by the European Union’s waste reduction initiatives. German manufacturers are also investing in green technologies, reducing energy consumption and improving the overall sustainability of the production process. The demand for plastic-free packaging is further fueled by consumer awareness and preference for environmentally responsible products.
• India: In India, the food-grade plastic-free soft packaging market is growing in response to rising environmental awareness and government initiatives to reduce plastic usage. India has set ambitious goals to phase out single-use plastics, prompting food companies to explore alternatives like coated paper. Indian manufacturers are focusing on cost-effective and scalable solutions, leveraging local raw materials to produce food-grade coated papers with eco-friendly coatings. As the country’s middle class continues to grow, there is an increasing demand for sustainable packaging in the food sector. This trend is reinforced by an expanding retail market that prioritizes eco-conscious consumer products.
• Japan: Japan is witnessing a surge in the use of food-grade plastic-free soft packaging due to growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly alternatives and stringent environmental policies. The Japanese market is particularly focused on high-quality, functional packaging solutions that can maintain food freshness without relying on plastic. Japanese manufacturers are exploring innovative, biodegradable coatings made from natural materials such as starch, cellulose, and plant-based polymers. Japan’s packaging industry is highly advanced, and the shift toward sustainable, plastic-free coatings is being accelerated by both local consumer preferences and global trends in sustainable packaging.
Features of the Global Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market
Market Size Estimates: Food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market size estimation in terms of value ($B).
Trend and Forecast Analysis: Market trends (2019 to 2024) and forecast (2025 to 2031) by various segments and regions.
Segmentation Analysis: Food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market size by types, applications, and region in terms of value ($B).
Regional Analysis: Food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market breakdown by North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.
Growth Opportunities: Analysis of growth opportunities in different type, application, and regions for the food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market.
Strategic Analysis: This includes M&A, new product development, and competitive landscape of the food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market.
Analysis of competitive intensity of the industry based on Porter’s Five Forces model.
FAQ
Q1. What is the growth forecast for food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market?
Answer: The global food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2031.
Q2. What are the major drivers influencing the growth of the food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market?
Answer: The major drivers for this market are the growing demand for sustainable packaging and the increasing demand for organic and natural food products.
Q3. What are the major segments for food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market?
Answer: The future of the food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market looks promising with opportunities in the baked goods, paper tableware, beverage/dairy, and convenience foods markets.
Q4. Who are the key food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market companies?
Answer: Some of the key food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper companies are as follows:
• UPM Specialty Papers
• Sappi
• Mondi Group
• Billerud
• Stora Enso
Q5. Which food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market segment will be the largest in future?
Answer: Lucintel forecasts that, within the type category, quantitative ≥120g/㎡ is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period.
Q6. In food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market, which region is expected to be the largest in next 5 years?
Answer: In terms of region, Europe is expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period.
Q7. Do we receive customization in this report?
Answer: Yes, Lucintel provides 10% customization without any additional cost.
This report answers following 11 key questions:
Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the food grade plastic-free soft packaging coated paper market by type (quantitative ≤50g/㎡, 50g/㎡＜quantitative＜120g/㎡, and quantitative ≥120g/㎡), application (baked goods, paper tableware, beverage/dairy, convenience foods, and others), and region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World)?
Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.3. Which region will grow at a faster pace and why?
Q.4. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?
Q.5. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?
Q.6. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?
Q.7. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?
Q.8. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?
Q.9. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?
Q.10. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?
Q.11. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?
For any questions related to Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market, Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Size, Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Growth, Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Analysis, Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Report, Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Share, Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Trends, Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Market Forecast, Food Grade Plastic-free Soft Packaging Coated Paper Companies, write Lucintel analyst at email: helpdesk@lucintel.com. We will be glad to get back to you soon.