US Molded Fiber Foodservice Disposables

US Molded Fiber Foodservice Disposables

The US market for molded fiber foodservice disposables continues to see strong growth attributable to an increased focus on sustainability initiatives, technological improvements, and longer-running market trends; these factors are combining to increase market size and breadth.

US demand for molded fiber foodservice disposables is forecast to increase 11% per year to $1.8 billion in 2027, with real growth of 11% annually to 17.8 billion units. Gains will be supported by multiple factors:

• Molded fiber will continue to benefit from perceptions of it as sustainable, recyclable, compostable, biodegradable, and from the fact that it is increasingly made from agricultural waste.
• Developments in coatings and additives will increase the number of applications for molded fiber, including high-temperature and oily products.
• Advances in manufacturing and tooling processes will continue to lower the cost of molded fiber production, especially for those sourced from alternative fibers.

Molded Fiber Taking Share from Conventional Plastic-Based Foodservice PackagingOwing to its favorable sustainability profile and increasing cost competitiveness, molded fiber is expected to continue taking share from conventional plastic and foam iterations of products like clamshells, two-piece containers, cups, and dinnerware. Molded fiber is compostable and biodegradable in addition to being recyclable, and it is increasingly being made of nonwood fibers that enhance its sustainability profile.

Improvements in Coatings and Additives to Further Boost Molded Fiber Penetration

Historically, molded fiber did not see much use in the foodservice industry apart from a few specific products (like beverage carriers). One of the biggest deterrents was its poor moisture and heat resistance, which prevented it from being used with very hot or oily food and beverages. This issue was initially addressed through the use of PFAS-based coatings, but concerns about the health risks associated with such chemicals have only grown. In response, molded fiber packaging manufacturers have invested in less problematic fluorochemical-free products that maintain compostability and allow molded fiber to be used with a wider variety of foodservice dishes.

Nonwood Fibers Expected to See Especially Strong Growth

Molded wood pulp products are expected to see strong growth, but products sourced from alternative fibers – including sugarcane, wheat straw, bamboo, and various grasses – have the largest projected gains due their superior renewability, perceived sustainability, improved aesthetics, and increasing cost competitiveness. These materials also offer unique features. Wheat straw, for example, is available in a darker shade than other materials.

Study Description

This study examines the US market for molded fiber foodservice disposables, defined as rigid packaging formed from fibrous materials used by foodservice locations to serve and package food, and meant to be disposed of. Serviceware – such as dinnerware, trays, and beverage carriers – is also covered. Historical data are provided for 2012, 2017, and 2022, with forecasts through 2032 in current US dollars and in units. Annual data is provided for 2018-2026. Also provided is an analysis of key industry players.