The Food Processing Machinery Market size is estimated at USD 101.22 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 133.63 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 5.71% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
The shift in consumer preferences toward convenient and ready-to-eat food products is driving the need for sophisticated processing equipment. Evolving consumer lifestyles are characterized by an increasing reliance on time-saving solutions and ready-to-consume food products. This paradigm shift necessitates an evolution in food processing equipment to meet the growing expectations for efficiency, variety, and quality in the production of convenience foods. Manufacturers are investing in equipment that allows for the efficient processing of a wide variety of convenience food products. The growing demand for processed foods from developing nations worldwide and government incentives, such as reimbursement on equipment, are also among the factors driving demand from the growing markets.
For instance, according to the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the export value of processed food and products from India in 2021 amounted to USD 390.99 billion for processed vegetables and USD 780.19 for processed fruits, juices, and nuts.
Processed food demand and consumption have been steadily increasing, which is a major driver for the industry. Despite being a global phenomenon, this desire is particularly prevalent in underdeveloped countries. The food processing industry in nations like India and China has fundamentally evolved as a result of recent economic success and increased market openness to international commodities. An increase in meat eating is one of the most significant consequences of this. One of the fastest-expanding segments, especially in developing nations, is the meat processing equipment segment.
The developed markets of Western Europe, the United States, and Canada are witnessing a strong demand for processing and packaging equipment from the bakery and beverage industries. The increasing popularity of functional beverages has escalated the demand for equipment that is utilized in the production of non-alcoholic drinks and dairy-based beverage products.
Moreover,food equipment manufacturers are developing new ways of working by investing in new capabilities, like advanced data and analytics, robotics, and automation, to attract more processors. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and smart sensors in food processing equipment is a notable trend. This enables real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision-making, enhancing overall operational efficiency. The key market players are focused on providing machinery with high efficiency to cater to the demand from food processors.
Advances in food processing equipment technology have led to improved efficiency, productivity, and product quality. Automation, robotics, IoT integration, artificial intelligence, and data analytics are being increasingly adopted to streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and enhance food safety and traceability. Automation is helping reduce production time while increasing output as demand and costs continue to rise. Food processors are increasingly aware of the value of data-driven insights in maximizing the utilization of raw materials, ensuring traceability and support for constant improvement, and improving food quality and safety. The robotic butchery machine, which helps speed up the process, is among the most common types of automation gear. This automated equipment also makes facilities safer since it reduces the amount of personnel handling potentially harmful tools and apparatus.
For instance, in November 2023, the University of Birmingham Enterprise launched EvoPhase. It uses evolutionary AI algorithms, coupled with simulations of particulates in systems such as industrial mixers, to evolve an optimized design for the mixing blade and the shape or size of the blending vessel. EvoPhase offers a diverse range of process equipment, including mills, dryers, roasters, coaters, fluidized beds, and stirred tanks, and is expected to result in huge cost and energy savings for the industry.
The meat, baking, and dairy segments of the market are among the major segments adopting automation in terms of processing and packaging, resulting in increased production efficiency in the market. With a significant number of players operating in the market, technical advancements in terms of automation are expected to drive the market in a positive direction over the coming years.
Europe, one of the prominent regional markets, is likely to witness significant growth over the coming years owing to the growing demand for high-quality systems. France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Denmark are the important markets in Europe. Firms belonging to Europe are also major exporters of food and beverage products. France is a major exporter of food products, including dairy, meats, wines, and processed foods. To meet the growing demand for French food products in international markets, food processors require efficient and reliable equipment that can scale production to meet export requirements while maintaining product quality and consistency. For example, according to Eurostat, the volume of cheese from France reached 665.4 thousand tons in 2022, while it was 657.06 thousand tons in 2020. Similarly, according to UN Comtrade, the export of meat from sheep or goats, in fresh, chilled, and frozen forms, in France increased and reached EUR 340.61 million in 2022, registering an increase from EUR 297.29 million in 2021.
There is a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility in the food industry. Food processors are investing in equipment that reduces energy consumption, minimizes waste, and optimizes the use of resources to achieve sustainability goals and reduce their environmental footprint. Equipment with features such as energy-efficient technologies, water recycling systems, and waste reduction measures are in demand to support sustainable food production practices. Thus, companies have started to manufacture food processing machinery with energy-efficient technology. For example, OctoFrost Processing Solutions provides energy-efficient food processing machinery, particularly in the fields of freezing and thermal processing. The company offers innovative solutions designed to optimize energy usage while maintaining the quality and integrity of food products.
The global food processing machinery market includes the presence of large regional and domestic players across different countries, with domestic companies having gained preference over multinationals with a higher market share. Some of the major players in the global food processing machinery market include JBT Corporation, Bühler AG, Krones AG, Marel, and Tetra Laval.
Learn how to effectively navigate the market research process to help guide your organization on the journey to success.
Download eBook