Food Service Disposable Market Size - By Material, By Product Type, By End Use, Analysis – Global Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Food Service Disposable Market Size

The global food service disposable market size was valued at USD 73.2 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at 5.7% CAGR from 2025 to 2034. The demand for food service disposable industry is growing significantly owing to expansion of quick service restaurants (QSRs) and growth of online food delivery platforms.
 

The expansion of quick-service restaurants (QSRs) is a major factor contributing to the food service disposable industry. This trend is driven by urbanization, shifting lifestyles of consumers, and the higher propensity towards convenience. In order to ensure hygiene, operational effectiveness, and economy, QSRs make use of a vast quantity of food service disposables. According to Statista, the QSR market in India was approximately 25.46 billion dollars in the year 2024 and is estimated to be 38.7 billion dollars by the year 2029. This rapid growth will result in the surge in demand for food service disposables.
 

Food service disposable producers must concentrate on making affordable, high-quality, and environmentally friendly disposable products specifically for the growing quick-service restaurant (QSR) market. With the fast pace of market expansion, investment in eco-friendly materials and creative designs that improve hygiene and operational effectiveness will be crucial in capturing demand from QSRs.
 

The expansion of online food delivery systems is another factor that is driving growth of the food service sector globally. Digital ordering, app-based food services, and cloud kitchens have become so prevalent that the packaging industry must keep up with the demand by using more durable disposables. As customers become more health conscious, food service disposables will prevail in the market to increase food security, delivery efficiency, and to help promote the expanding online food ordering ecosystem.
 

Food service disposable manufacturers need to create more long-lasting, leak-proof, and tamper-evident packagings to address the growing demand from online food ordering services, cloud kitchens, and app-based food ordering platforms. Also, emphasis on sustainable and food-safe packaging materials will be crucial to keep up with increasing consumer interest in health-focused and eco-friendly packaging.
 

Food Service Disposable Market Trends

• The food service disposable industry is changing rapidly, with a new trend that focuses on sustainability and an emphasis on the reuse and recycling of disposables. Companies are now looking for better ways to substitute plastic, reduce plastic pollution, and improve materials recovery systems. Anchor Packaging LLC in May 2024, worked with Cyclyx International to improve recovery and recyclability of food-grade plastics. An important aspect of this cooperation is to solve the major sustainability issues within developed economies by providing sophisticated recycling technologies for post-use plastics in food service packaging.
   
• There is a growing trend towards use of biodegradable and compostable packaging because of the increased consumer concern about the environment as well as the stringent regulations on single-use plastics. The application of sustainable materials, such as bagasse, PLA, and molded fiber, is becoming a standard in order to meet the consumer's demand. Biodegradable materials are seen as a major opportunity in the food service disposable market as government initiatives for sustainable packaging and consumer's awareness of plastic waste increases.
   
• The market is rapidly changing with a focus on smarter and more functional food packaging. Manufacturers are incorporating new materials, advanced temperature-proof packaging, and even QR codes and RFID tracking to guarantee food safety and enhance the consumer experience. These technologies meet the demands for freshness, anti-tampering, traceability, and content-sensitive online food service.
   

Food Service Disposable Market Analysis

Based on material, the market is divided into plastic, paper & paperboard, aluminum, and others.
 

• The plastic market is anticipated to reach USD 59.8 billion by 2034. The plastic segment is undergoing a change wherein companies are developing recyclable and biodegradable plastic packaging solutions due to sustainability efforts and regulatory pressure. New developments in compostable plastics and new recycling methods are becoming popular as businesses seek to meet customer needs for environmentally friendly packaging in the food service industry while also ensuring convenience.   
   
• The paper & paperboard market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% by 2034. The paper and paperboard industry is growing rapidly due to its environmentally friendly attributes and fast-growing acceptance among food service providers. With the ban on single use plastics, companies have started using sustainable paper-based packaging, such as compostable cups, containers, and wraps that improve the company’s image and help the society fulfill environmental regulations.   
   

On the basis of product type, the food service disposable market is divided into plates, trays, bowls, cups, clamshells, wraps & films, foils, and others.
 

• The plates held a market share of 17.7% in 2024. The plates segment in the market is anticipated to increase because of increased demand for on-the-go, convenient eating solutions, fuelled by the growth of quick-service restaurants, street food stalls, and online food ordering services. Growing consumer demand for single-use, clean eating solutions also promotes growth. Moreover, strict controls on plastic usage are compelling companies to create sustainable, biodegradable, and compostable plates using materials such as paper, bamboo, and bagasse, further propelling market growth.
   
• Wraps & films market is projected to reach USD 13.9 billion by 2034. The wraps and films segment is growing with the introduction of new sustainable high barrier materials for packaging. Companies are adopting the use of biodegradable and compostable wraps to not only enhance brand image but also address issues of pollution. Demand for eco-friendly and functional packaging that resists moisture and increases shelf life of the products is driving innovations in the segment.
   

On the basis of end-use, the food service disposable market is divided into quick service restaurants (QSRs), full-service restaurants (FSRs), catering services, online delivery, and others.
 

• The quick service restaurants (QSRs) dominated the global market accounting for 38.1% market share in 2024. The Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs) segment is stimulating the adoption of new disposable packaging that is easy to use and safer. Expansion in the global and regional QSR chains, in addition to the fast-paced modernization, has facilitated the innovation of lightweight, durable, and flexible materials that enhance portability as well as ensure quality during takeout and delivery.
   
• The online delivery market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% by 2034. The need for strong, tamper-proof, and eco-friendly packaging is being driven by expansion of online delivery market. As mobile food ordering and cloud kitchens become more popular, brands are beginning to prioritize packaging that is leak-proof and temperature controlled, as well as smart food labels that are essential for safety, fresh food retention, and improve customer satisfaction in the ever-growing digital food economy. 
   

North America held a market share of 28% in 2024. There is a steady growth in the demand for innovative and sustainable packaging across North America. Consumers’ preference for eco-friendly materials is propelling the use of biodegradable as well as compostable packaging solutions. 
 

• The U.S. food service disposable market reached USD 16.6 billion in 2024. In the United States, the expansion of quick service restaurants (QSR) and online food delivery services are increasing the demand for robust, leak-proof, and tamper-proof packaging. According to Statista, in 2023, the revenue in the quick service restaurant (QSR) industry in the United States amounted to USD 387.5 billion. This drives innovation in packaging that is more convenient, hygienic, and environmentally friendly. 
   

• Canada market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.4% by 2034. Canada is shifting towards the adoption of paper-based and plant fiber packaging alternatives because of strict environmental regulations.  Government ban on the use of single-use plastics coupled with higher consumer awareness is propelling food service providers to use recyclable and compostable packaging, thus fostering innovation in the industry.
   

Europe held a market share of 23.8% in 2024. With a strong focus on the circular economy, Europe continues to be a major player in developing sustainable packaging. Regulations on single-use plastics and EPR schemes are motivating businesses to produce biodegradable and reusable packaging.
 

• Germany food service disposable market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% by 2034. Growth in Germany is fueled by a robust fast food and bakery culture, as well as strict sustainability regulations that require plastic-free and recyclable packaging of food. Growth in convenience foods, grab-and-go food, and increasing retail food chains further fuels demand for food service disposable products.
   

• The UK market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% by 2034. The UK market is growing because of an increased demand for delivery and takeaway services, with lifestyles in cities and online ordering food platforms pushing demand. Tighter environmental legislations are also stimulating the adoption of sustainable and biodegradable disposables to lead the conversion toward green packaging solutions.
   
• France food service disposable market is expected grow at a CAGR of 5% by 2034. France market is influenced by government legislation prohibiting single-use plastics, driving the need for compostable and bio-based disposables. The popular café culture, tourism industry, and premium food packaging preference make up the growing demand for premium, sustainable food service disposables.
   
• Italy market accounted for 13.8% of the share in 2024. In Growing demand for take-away coffee, gelato, and fast food packaging is driving market growth. Government initiatives favoring environmentally friendly alternatives and popularity of food delivery platforms are driving the disposable food packaging market.
   
• Spain food service disposable market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% by 2034. The need for inexpensive, lightweight disposable packaging in Spain is increasing, especially in the tourism-driven hospitality sector. Development of recycled paper and compostable plastics is on the rise to ensure availability of sustainable packaging solutions to address modern business challenges.
   

Asia Pacific is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% by 2034. Rapid urbanization of the Asia Pacific region combined with the growth of online QSR food delivery is propelling the region to emerge as a major market for disposables used in food services. The growth of the middle class, as well as shifting consumer needs, are driving the need for easier and eco-friendly packaging solutions. 
 

• China food service disposable market accounted for 38.8% of the market share in 2024. The market is growing rapidly in China due to the expansion of quick-service restaurants and food delivery services. The country is investing in new technologies for sustainable packaging, such as development of eco-friendly plastic and smart-easy-to-use packaging. In addition, the regulation of waste management and food safety is driving the use of eco-friendly and high-quality disposable packaging. 
   
• The market in India is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% by 2034. India market is facing growing demand for economical and eco-friendly packing material. Single-use plastic ban implemented by the government and burgeoning growth of food delivery is making industries switch towards alternate forms of material like bagasse-based packager containers and bio-film based packager film.     
   
• Japan food service disposable market held a share of 15.7% in 2024. Japan is observing an increased need for high quality and innovative disposables. There is a shift in the market towards development of lightweight, highly durable, and environmentally friendly materials, due to a strong emphasis on precision, convenience, and sustainability. Advancements in compact and space- efficient packaging is propelling market growth. 
   

Latin America held a share of 6.3% in the market in 2024. Due to the growth in urban food consumption and quick service restaurants (QSRs), disposable food packaging is increasing in Latin America. Sustainability efforts have gained momentum with companies looking for affordable biodegradable options to address changing consumer needs and regulations.     
 

Middle East & Africa is projected to grow at a strong pace with a CAGR of 3.6% by 2034. The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is experiencing the growth of high barrier and temperature-controlled disposables due to the rising demand for food delivery services. The increase in the hospitality and tourism industries is fostering the use of novel food packaging materials that can improve food safety and preservation.
 

Food Service Disposable Market Share

The food service disposable industry is highly competitive. The top 5 players in the market are Berry Global, Georgia-Pacific, Graphic Packaging International, Huhtamaki, and Stora Enso accounting for a significant share of over 22% in the market. To solidify their position within the market, key companies operating in the market are focusing on innovation, sustainability, and growth. Companies are using eco-friendly, biodegradable and recyclable materials to develop disposable food service products in order to satisfy environmental regulations and consumer expectations. Mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and joint ventures are widely adopted strategies to expand product portfolio and geographic reach. Smart packaging such as RFID tags, tamper-evident seals are being adopted to increase food safety as well as to improve user interaction with the product.
 

Brands are offering more economical and easier-to-use packaging to differentiate themselves from competitors and to keep up with the increasing food delivery and QSR markets. Branding and customization are now integral with companies providing personalized packaging to improve business visibility and consumer retention rate. Market participants are streamlining their supply chain and using automation to enhance productivity and decrease costs of production and remain competitive within this fast-changing marketplace.
 

Berry Global concentrates on sustainability and innovation by creating new recyclable, lightweight, and high-quality packaging solutions. The company invests on new materials and circular economy initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste. Berry Global focuses on growing its product portfolio through acquisitions and partnerships to solidify its share in the food service disposable packaging segment.
 

Huhtamaki focuses on environmentally friendly packaging through the development of fiber-based and compostable materials. The company invests in eco-friendly materials and seeks to develop innovations that serve as sustainable substitutes for plastic. The company focuses on acquisitions and expands its operations globally by working together with other businesses in the industry to foster innovation in food service packaging.
 

Food Service Disposable Market Companies

Some of the prominent market participants operating in the food service disposable industry include:

• Berry Global
• Georgia Pacific
• Graphic Packaging
• Huhtamaki
• Stora Enso
   

Food Service Disposable Industry News

• In November 2024, Amcor and Berry Global, announced an all-stock merger with an aim to create a global leader in consumer and healthcare packaging solutions. This transaction is valued at approximately USD 37 billion. The shareholders of Amcor will own approximately 63%, while Berry shareholders will own approximately 37%.
   
• In April 2023, the Hinojosa Packaging Group launched a new line of packaging called Foodservice, which is entirely recyclable and compostable, targeting the food service industry and reducing single use plastic consumption.
   

The food service disposable market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) and volume (Kilo Tons) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Material

• Plastic
  • Polypropylene (PP)
  • Polyethylene (PE)
  • Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
  • Polystyrene (PS)
  • Biodegradable plastic
  • Others
• Paper & paperboard
• Aluminum
• Others

Market, By Product Type

• Plates
• Trays
• Bowls
• Cups
• Clamshells
• Wraps & films
• Foils
• Others

Market, By End Use

• Quick service restaurants (QSRs)
• Full-service restaurants (FSRs)
• Catering services
• Online delivery 
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE