The global market for aseptically packed products is estimated to grow 24% in the next five years, according to new market research from food and drink consultancy Zenith International. Annual volumes have grown by 5% since 2008, with South/South East Asia achieving the fastest rise at 22% a year.
According to the 2012 Global Aseptic Packaging report, aseptically packed products reached 123 billion liters in 269 billion packs during 2011. White drinking milk accounts for 39% of aseptically packed products, with beverages responsible for 37% and other dairy or food products making up the remainder. By 2016, the global market for aseptic packaging will reach 153 billion liters using 333 billion packs. The majority of additional demand will come from South/South East Asia and China, where growth is forecast at 11% a year and 3.5% a year, respectively.
The report notes that while aseptic filling has yet to make a significant impact in food markets, there are some established niche applications, including sauces, tomato products and baby food, that are important new areas of development.
