RTE food fuels growth in preservatives

BY 2025, the food preservatives market will grow to USD 3.2 billion, according to a report by Grand View Research, Inc. In Asia Pacific and North America, preservatives are mainly gaining from the growth in the ready-to-eat foods (RTE) market that demand better shelf life extension. 

As food has become more global, the need for preservatives other than culinary salt and vinegar to keep food safe and fresh longer has led to increased use of chemical preservatives for products like processed meat, bakery, and dairy – sectors where substantial growth is expected.

Food preservatives are categorized into two types: natural and synthetic. Natural types include rosemary extracts, vinegar, and natamycin whereas propionates, benzoates, and sorbates are the most preferred synthetic variants.

Functionally, anti-microbial preservatives are estimated to dominate the market in terms of revenue owing to an increased demand for anti-microbial agents in the processed meat and beverage industries.