Packaging Testing Market Size and Trends
The Packaging Testing Market size is expected to reach US$ 16.53 Billion by 2030, from US$ 9.90 Billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period.
Packaging Testing Market Trends
- Adoption of non-destructive testing methods: Traditionally destructive test methods have been used in packaging testing which cannot be repeated on the same sample. Non-destructive techniques like leak testing, 3D scanning, digital video microscopy, hyperspectral imaging, and ultrasonic inspection are growing in prominence. They enable repeatable tests without damaging samples. Moreover, automation and data analytics can be easily integrated with them. Major packaging testing providers are adopting non-destructive testing technology to improve speed, efficiency and inline capabilities. For instance, according to data from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of non-destructive testing jobs in the U.S. manufacturing sector grew over 10% between 2019 and 2021, indicating widespread uptake of these techniques across industries like food, beverage, and pharmaceuticals.
- Increasing use of automation and robotics: Automation and robotics are finding increased implementation in the packaging testing domain, aligned with Industry 4.0 trends. Robotic test tools for tasks like drop/shock testing, vibration, compression, and puncture offer consistent results. Automated vision inspection enables fast and accurate defect detection and quality checks. Test automation provides benefits like higher throughput, better productivity, reduced costs and human errors. Packaging manufacturers are increasingly looking to implement automated testing solutions in their labs and production lines to enhance quality control.
- Growing need for microbial challenge testing: There is an increasing need for microbial challenge testing or sterility testing of packaging systems used in industries like pharmaceuticals and healthcare. Testing helps evaluate the ability of packaging to maintain sterility and prevent contamination during shelf life. Moreover, antimicrobial packaging solutions also require rigorous microbiological testing. Major packaging testing laboratories are expanding capabilities in microbial challenge testing in line with rising quality standards, safety regulations, and innovation in antimicrobial packaging. For example, in the 2020-21 period, the WHO reported over 300 cases of diseases and 2 deaths due to Salmonella contamination originating from incorrect packaging permeation in some countries. This led many national food safety agencies and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization to release updated guidelines mandating stricter packaging testing standards, including microbial challenge assessments.
- Emphasis on testing packaging interaction with contents: Previously packaging testing focused on packaging materials and performance. However, there is a growing emphasis on testing the interaction between packaging and contents. For instance, the chemical reaction that occurs between medical supplies and packaging, or the effect that packaging has on the flavor and perfume of food. Advanced technologies allow testing parameters like barrier properties, sorption, and permeability at higher sensitivity. Evaluating packaging's impact on contents enables better design aligned to end-use requirements.
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