Cassava packaging is the new sustainable packaging expected to grow exponentially over the next few years. Biodegradable packaging, such as cassava, is aligned with increasing environmental concerns toward compostable packaging alternatives.
Cassava is derived from cassava roots and is renowned for its environmentally friendly and lightweight design. The material has developed considerably in developed countries with fast-paced lifestyles and growing food distribution and takeout facilities, as it protects and preserves its freshness from air contamination.
The global cassava market is expected to garner a market value of USD 1.86 billion in 2023 and is expected to have an annual growth rate of 8.2 percent between 2023 and 2033, making an estimated value of USD 4.1 billion.
Cassava packaging is the most promising alternative to plastic and styrofoam due to its compatibility with hot and cold food and microwave friendly.
Starch-based bioplastic alternatives are popular due to the barrier properties which restrict moisture transfer from food to the atmosphere. However, their use is strictly regulated, propelling the cassava packaging alternative.
The opportunities now available for industry expansion can also be credited to the volatility in oil prices, which has forced manufacturers to search for a consistent source of raw material.
Meanwhile, the use of biodegradable plastics is supported by subsidies and ongoing investments of governments in developing countries to minimise the pollutants and disposal issues of conventional plastics, which contaminate the sea and landfills.
Furthermore, promoting bioplastics through subsidies and charging taxes and enforcing stringent regulations against traditional plastics have only increased the demand for bioplastics.
Bioplastic's power to bypass the environmental impacts of petroleum-based plastics has also increased the popularity of cassava-based packaging. It is created using various biodegradable materials, much like its starch blend counterparts.
Cassava packaging can be utilised to reduce reliance on fossil fuel-based plastic packaging, aiming to increase the use of green packaging and boost sustainability and an inclination toward environmental protection.
Currently, the market is dominated by Europe, which is estimated to accumulate over 40 percent of the market share by the end of the forecast period (2023 - 2033).
North America is expected to reflect significant annual growth of 7.6 percent during the forecast period. Increasing government efforts toward environmentally safe packaging are expected to drive growth further.
Thailand and Indonesia are the biggest producers of cassava. Thus the popularity of alternative packaging is expected to support market expansion in these areas as well.
