Food Waste Management Market Report

Market Overview:

The global food waste management market size reached US$ 73.9 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 125.0 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% during 2024-2032. The increasing awareness and environmental consciousness, stringent regulations and government initiatives, rising demand for resource optimization, growing adoption of advanced technologies, expanding food and beverage industry and importance of corporate social responsibility are some of the major factors propelling the market.

Food waste management refers to the process of minimizing, handling, and disposing of food waste in an efficient and sustainable manner. It involves various practices aimed at reducing the amount of food wasted, such as source reduction, recycling, and energy recovery. Source reduction focuses on preventing food waste at its origin by improving production and distribution processes, while recycling involves the conversion of food waste into valuable products like compost or animal feed. Energy recovery utilizes food waste as a source of renewable energy through anaerobic digestion or incineration. Effective food waste management helps address environmental, social, and economic concerns. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions, conserves natural resources, and minimizes landfill usage. Additionally, it can contribute to food security by redirecting surplus food to those in need. Overall, food waste management plays a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and efficient food system.

Growing awareness about the environmental impact of food waste, such as greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion, is driving the demand for effective waste management solutions. Additionally, the need to optimize resources, including food, is driving businesses and organizations to adopt efficient waste management practices. Minimizing food waste helps in reducing costs, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing sustainability credentials. Besides this, the integration of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics in food waste management has improved monitoring, tracking, and prediction capabilities. These technologies enable better inventory management, shelf-life monitoring, and waste reduction strategies. Other than this, numerous companies are recognizing the importance of CSR and sustainability in their operations. Implementing effective food waste management practices aligns with their commitment to reducing waste and environmental impact, enhancing brand reputation, and meeting consumer expectations. Moreover, the expansion of the food and beverage industry globally has led to increased food waste generation. As a result, there is a rising need for efficient waste management solutions to handle and process this waste effectively.

Food Waste Management Market Trends/Drivers:

Increasing awareness and environmental consciousness

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in public awareness and environmental consciousness regarding the issue of food waste. Consumers, businesses, and governments are increasingly recognizing the detrimental environmental impacts of food waste, including the emission of greenhouse gases, depletion of natural resources, and contribution to climate change. This heightened awareness is driving the demand for effective food waste management solutions. Individuals and organizations are actively seeking ways to reduce waste, recycle or repurpose food, and support sustainable waste management practices.

Stringent regulations and government initiatives:

Governments around the world are implementing stringent regulations and initiatives to combat food waste. They are setting targets for waste reduction, imposing penalties for non-compliance, and promoting sustainable waste management practices. For instance, countries like France have passed legislation that bans supermarkets from throwing away unsold food and requires them to donate edible surplus food to charities. These regulations and initiatives create a favorable environment for the growth of the food waste management market, as businesses and organizations are compelled to implement effective waste management strategies to comply with the laws and meet waste diversion targets.

Increasing adoption of advanced technologies

The adoption of advanced technologies is playing a crucial role in transforming food waste management practices. Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics are being used to monitor, track, and predict food waste generation, optimize inventory management, and improve efficiency throughout the supply chain. Smart sensors and data-driven solutions help businesses identify areas of waste, implement real-time tracking of perishable items, and make data-informed decisions to minimize waste. These technologies enable better forecasting of demand, improved inventory management, and streamlined operations, ultimately reducing food waste. The integration of advanced technologies in food waste management is driving innovation and providing efficient and scalable solutions for the industry.

Food Waste Management Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global food waste management market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels from 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on waste type, process, source and application.

Breakup by Waste Type:

• Cereals
• Dairy Products
• Fruits and Vegetables
• Fish and Sea Food
• Processed Food
• Others

Fruits and vegetables dominate the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the waste type. This includes cereals, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, fish and sea food, processed food, and others. According to the report, fruits and vegetables represented the largest segment.

Fruits and vegetables waste management focuses on the efficient handling and treatment of waste generated from fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables. Waste in this category can occur at various stages of the supply chain, including production, distribution, and retail. Effective waste management strategies include optimizing inventory management, minimizing post-harvest losses, and implementing recycling or composting methods for waste diversion. The demand for fruits and vegetables waste management solutions is driven by the substantial consumption and production of fresh produce globally. The market is also influenced by factors such as increasing consumer awareness of food waste and sustainability, as well as the regulatory emphasis on reducing waste and promoting responsible resource management. Businesses and governments are actively adopting measures to minimize waste, improve supply chain efficiency, and reduce environmental impact in the fruits and vegetables sector.

Breakup by Process:

• Aerobic Digestion
• Anaerobic Digestion
• Combustion/Incineration
• Others

Anaerobic digestion holds the majority of the market share

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the process has also been provided in the report. This includes aerobic digestion, anaerobic digestion, combustion/incineration, and others. According to the report, anaerobic digestion accounted the largest market share.

Anaerobic digestion in waste management involves the process of converting organic waste into biogas and nutrient-rich digestate through the action of microorganisms in the absence of oxygen. Organic waste, such as food waste, agricultural residues, and sewage sludge, is fed into anaerobic digesters, where it undergoes biochemical reactions to produce biogas, primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide. Biogas can be utilized as a renewable energy source for electricity generation, heat production, or as a vehicle fuel. The remaining digestate can be further processed into nutrient-rich fertilizer. Anaerobic digestion offers several benefits, including waste diversion, renewable energy production, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and nutrient recycling. The market for anaerobic digestion is driven by increasing regulations and incentives for waste diversion and renewable energy, as well as the need to address organic waste management challenges in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.

Breakup by Source:

• Primary Food Producers
• Food Manufacturers
• Food Distributors and Suppliers
• Food Service Providers
• Municipalities and Households

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the source. This includes primary food producers, food manufacturers, food distributors and suppliers, food service providers, and municipalities and household.

 The market for primary food producers in waste management focuses on addressing waste generated at the initial stages of food production, including farms, fisheries, and livestock operations. Waste in this category may include agricultural residues, spoiled or damaged crops, and byproducts from animal farming. Effective waste management strategies for primary food producers include composting, animal feed production, and anaerobic digestion. The market is driven by the need to optimize resource utilization, comply with regulations, and reduce environmental impact at the primary production level.

The market for food manufacturers in waste management involves managing waste generated during food processing and manufacturing operations. This includes food scraps, packaging waste, and byproducts from processing activities. Effective waste management strategies for food manufacturers include source reduction, recycling, and energy recovery. Companies in this market focus on minimizing waste generation through process optimization, implementing recycling programs, and utilizing waste as a source of energy. The market is driven by cost reduction, sustainability goals, and regulatory compliance.

The market for food distributors and suppliers in waste management deals with waste generated during distribution, storage, and retail operations. This waste may include expired products, damaged goods, and unsold inventory. Effective waste management strategies for food distributors and suppliers involve inventory management optimization, donation programs, and recycling initiatives. Companies in this market aim to minimize waste through efficient supply chain management, divert surplus food to food banks or charitable organizations, and recycle packaging materials. The market is driven by reducing financial losses, improving brand reputation, and addressing social and environmental responsibilities.

Breakup by Application:

• Animal Feed
• Fertilizers
• Biofuel
• Power Generation

Animal feed is the largest application segment

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the application has also been provided in the report. This includes animal feed, fertilizers, biofuel, and power generation. According to the report, animal feed represented the largest segment.

Animal feed in waste management involves repurposing food waste and byproducts as a valuable source of nutrition for livestock and aquaculture. Food waste that is unsuitable for human consumption can be processed into animal feed, reducing waste and optimizing resource utilization. Animal feed applications in waste management contribute to the circular economy by transforming food waste into a valuable nutrient source, reducing environmental impact, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

Fertilizers in waste management focuses on converting organic waste, such as food scraps and agricultural residues, into nutrient-rich fertilizers. Through processes like composting or anaerobic digestion, organic waste is transformed into compost or digestate, which can be used as natural fertilizers. These fertilizers enhance soil fertility, improve crop yields, and reduce reliance on synthetic chemical fertilizers. The fertilizer market in waste management plays a crucial role in sustainable agriculture and resource conservation.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

Europe exhibits a clear dominance in the market

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Europe was the largest products for food waste management.

Europe has a substantial food waste management market due to its strong regulatory framework and commitment to sustainability. The European Union has set ambitious targets to reduce food waste and promote circular economy practices. Strict waste management regulations, including landfill diversion and recycling targets, drive the demand for advanced waste management technologies. Additionally, European countries have robust waste collection and treatment infrastructure, along with public awareness and consumer education programs. The emphasis on reducing waste, minimizing environmental impact, and resource optimization has made Europe a prominent market for food waste management solutions.

Competitive Landscape:

Prominent waste management companies are investing in advanced waste processing technologies, such as anaerobic digestion and composting facilities, to efficiently manage food waste. Additionally, technology providers are developing cutting-edge solutions to monitor and track food waste throughout the supply chain. This includes the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize inventory management, identify waste hotspots, and improve forecasting accuracy. Other than this, food industry stakeholders, including manufacturers, retailers, and restaurants, are actively engaged in reducing food waste at the source. They are implementing strategies such as inventory optimization, improved production planning, and donation programs to minimize food waste.

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• Clean Harbors Inc.
• Covanta Holding Corporation
• FCC Environment (UK) Limited
• Hulsey Environmental Services Inc.
• Remondis SE and Co. KG
• Republic Services Inc.
• Stericycle Inc.
• Suez (Sofina)
• Veolia
• Waste Management Inc.

Recent Developments:

• Covanta Holding Corporation acquired Circon Holdings Inc. This acquisition expanded Covanta’s geographic footprint and environmental service offerings.
• Republic Services Inc. acquired GFL’s Colorado and New Mexico Operations. By acquiring GFL's operations, Republic Services gained access to new markets and customers in these regions. Also, the company can leverage its existing infrastructure and expertise to enhance service quality and efficiency.
• Stericycle Inc. entered in an agreement to sell its Environmental Solutions business to Harsco Corporation. This strategic decision allows Stericycle to focus on its core business areas and optimize its portfolio.

Food waste management Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the food waste management market from 2018-2032.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global food waste management market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the food waste management industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.