Products from Food Waste Industry in Western Europe 2024
The market for products from food waste in Western Europe is undergoing significant expansion, driven by sustainability initiatives, regulatory frameworks, and technological innovations. By 2024, the market is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 9,051.72 million, and by 2034, it is expected to surge to US$ 13,745.8 million, growing at an accelerated CAGR of 5.3%.
The region’s commitment to a circular economy and zero-waste initiatives has propelled the demand for food waste-derived products. This growth is supported by innovative recycling technologies, government mandates, and increasing awareness of sustainable consumption among consumers.
Key Market Trends and Growth Drivers
1. Rise of Circular Economy and Zero-Waste Initiatives
Western European countries are prioritizing waste reduction and circular economy principles. Businesses are leveraging technologies to transform food waste into high-value products like fertilizers, animal feed, packaging materials, and biofuels.
Notable Development:
Regulations such as the European Green Deal are pressuring companies to adopt sustainable waste management practices, leading to higher investment in waste-to-product solutions.
2. Growing Demand for Biodegradable Packaging
As part of efforts to reduce plastic waste, companies are increasingly utilizing fruit and vegetable waste to produce biodegradable packaging. The rise in e-commerce and consumer interest in eco-friendly alternatives has driven demand for sustainable packaging.
Example:
Companies like Veolia Environment and SUEZ are leading the production of packaging solutions derived from food waste, thereby supporting the region’s push for sustainable materials.
3. Increased Use of Food Waste in Cosmetics & Personal Care
There is a growing demand for natural ingredients in the cosmetics industry. Citrus peels, fruit extracts, and essential oils are being repurposed from food waste to develop natural beauty and skincare products.
Industry Example:
ReFood utilizes by-products from fruit processing to produce natural extracts for anti-aging creams, skincare serums, and beauty oils, capitalizing on the surge in demand for organic personal care products.
4. Technological Advancements in Recycling & Processing
Companies are adopting anaerobic digestion, bio-refining, and upcycling technologies to convert food waste into bioenergy, fertilizers, and chemical feedstocks. These innovations create new revenue streams while supporting zero-waste goals.
Case Study:
Biogen’s acquisition of five anaerobic digestion plants in London reflects the rising adoption of technologies that convert food waste into biogas and renewable energy.
5. Shift Toward Sustainable Agriculture
Farmers and agricultural companies are embracing biofertilizers and compost derived from food waste to support sustainable farming practices. This not only reduces the dependency on chemical fertilizers but also aligns with the region’s focus on organic farming.
Segment & Category Analysis
By Product Type
| Product Type | Market Share (2024) | Growth Drivers |
| Biofertilizers & Compost | 28.3% | Rising demand for sustainable farming inputs |
| Biodegradable Packaging | 30.7% | Consumer shift toward plastic-free alternatives |
| Animal Feed | 19.5% | Affordable and sustainable feed for livestock |
| Cosmetic Ingredients | 15.6% | Demand for organic skincare and beauty products |
| Biogas & Renewable Energy | 6.9% | Emphasis on renewable energy solutions |
By Source of Food Waste
| Source | Market Share (2024) | Applications |
| Fruits & Vegetables | 40.1% | Compost, bioplastics, cosmetic ingredients |
| Grains & Cereals | 21.3% | Livestock feed, bio-based plastics, biofuels |
| Citrus Waste | 19.0% | Essential oils, natural extracts, and beauty products |
| Seafood Waste | 14.6% | Nutraceuticals, functional food additives |
By End-User
| End-User | Market Share (2024) | Growth Drivers |
| Food Processing | 24.0% | Utilization of fruit peels in juices and purees |
| Cosmetics & Skincare | 17.9% | Demand for natural cosmetic products |
| Agriculture | 29.8% | Rising use of biofertilizers |
| Animal Feed | 19.3% | Affordable and sustainable feed options |
| Renewable Energy | 9.0% | Demand for biogas from organic waste |
Regional Insights
| Country | CAGR (2024–2034) | Key Market Trends |
| Germany | 4.4% | Lead market for food waste regulations |
| United Kingdom | 5.6% | Home to emerging biofuel & biogas innovations |
| France | 3.8% | Adoption of circular economy principles |
| Netherlands | 4.2% | Major hub for sustainable food processing |
| Italy | 4.1% | Government-backed waste recycling initiatives |
Competitive Landscape
Key Players & Their Initiatives
Recent Developments
- August 2023: Biogen acquired five anaerobic digestion (AD) plants from Ingenious Group, increasing its capacity to convert food waste into biogas.
- 2024 Projections: SUEZ to introduce innovative packaging materials made from food waste, supporting sustainable e-commerce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the projected size of the Products from Food Waste industry in Western Europe in 2024?
The industry is forecasted to be valued at US$ 9,051.72 million. - What is the expected size of the industry by 2034?
The market is expected to reach US$ 13,745.8 million by 2034. - What is the CAGR for the industry from 2024 to 2034?
The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% over the forecast period. - Which country is leading the market?
Germany is leading due to its strict regulatory framework and strong commitment to sustainable waste management. - Which companies are the top players in this industry?
Veolia Environment, SUEZ, Biogen, ReFood, and TerraCycle are the key players driving the industry forward.
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