PUBLISHER: Orion Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1838625
PUBLISHER: Orion Market Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1838625
Food Grade Gases Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Gas Type (Oxygen, Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen, Sulphur Dioxide, and Others), by Application (Freezing & Chilling, Packaging, Carbonation, and Others), and by End-Use (Beverages, Fruits & Vegetables, Dairy & Frozen Products, Meat, Poultry, & Seafood Products, Bakery & Confectionery Products, Convenience Food Products, and Others (Sauces, Oil)), Forecast Period (2025-2035)
Industry Overview
Food grade gases market was valued at $9.1 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $18.8 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 6.8% during the forecast period (2025-2035). The global food-grade gases market is witnessing steady expansion as industries place greater emphasis on food safety and extended shelf life. Increasing reliance on gases such as nitrogen and carbon dioxide for freezing, chilling, and packaging processes is contributing significantly to demand. With consumers shifting toward fresh and convenience-based food products, manufacturers are adopting these gases to maintain quality and freshness. The beverages sector, in particular, is boosting consumption through the rising popularity of carbonated drinks. Additionally, stricter regulatory standards on food preservation are pushing producers to adopt high-purity gas solutions. This evolving landscape is fostering innovation and reinforcing the role of food-grade gases in modern food processing.
Market Dynamics
Rising Demand for Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP)
The increasing adoption of Modified Atmosphere Packaging is driving the growth of the food-grade gases market, particularly in extending the shelf life of perishable products. Nitrogen and carbon dioxide are widely used in this technique to prevent oxidation and microbial growth in packaged foods. Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. has been offering advanced MAP solutions that cater to the bakery and dairy industries. This trend aligns with the growing consumer demand for fresh and minimally processed products.
Expansion of the Carbonated Beverages Segment
The carbonated beverages sector continues to be a major consumer of food-grade carbon dioxide, supporting market expansion globally. Rising urban consumption patterns and the preference for ready-to-drink beverages are strengthening this demand. Linde plc has been supplying high-purity CO2 for carbonation processes across beverage companies, ensuring consistent product quality. This steady demand highlights the strong link between lifestyle changes and increased consumption of food-grade gases.
Market Segmentation
Carbon Dioxide Segment to Lead the Market with the Largest Share
The demand for carbon dioxide in food processing has been rising steadily as it plays a central role in carbonation, modified atmosphere packaging, and preservation. Its ability to extend shelf life without compromising product quality has strengthened its use in beverages and packaged goods. Linde plc supplies high-purity carbon dioxide tailored for the food industry, which is widely adopted by global beverage manufacturers. With increasing consumer preference for fizzy drinks and convenience food, reliance on carbon dioxide continues to grow. The use of controlled gas mixtures is also enhancing safety and efficiency in storage and transportation. This trend reflects how industrial suppliers are aligning technology with evolving food safety standards.
Freezing and Chilling: A Key Segment in Market Growth
Freezing and chilling applications are shaping the food gases market by ensuring products retain freshness during storage and distribution. The method is particularly important for seafood, dairy, and ready-to-eat meals where temperature stability is critical. Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. offers cryogenic freezing solutions that rely on liquid nitrogen and carbon dioxide to maintain consistent product quality. Such techniques not only improve food safety but also optimize operational efficiency for manufacturers. Growing demand for frozen convenience meals in urban markets is further driving this segment. As global supply chains expand, freezing and chilling gases are becoming indispensable in minimizing waste and ensuring product integrity.
The global food grade gases market is further divided by geography, including North America (the US and Canada), Europe (the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, and the Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, ASEAN Countries, and the Rest of Asia-Pacific), and the Rest of the World (the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America).
Growing Demand for Packaged and Carbonated Beverages in North America
In North America, growth is driven by the rising consumption of packaged and carbonated beverages, along with a robust frozen food industry. Food processors in the U.S. and Canada are increasingly relying on nitrogen and carbon dioxide to maintain freshness and flavor stability. Praxair, now part of Linde, offers advanced food-grade gas solutions that meet stringent safety standards across the region. The widespread adoption of quick-freezing methods for meat and seafood highlights the importance of gas technology in logistics. Expanding retail chains and online food delivery services are further stimulating the need for safe preservation methods. The market outlook remains strong as companies focus on quality control and efficient supply chain practices.
Europe Region Dominates the Market with a Major Share
In Europe, the market is expanding as stricter food safety regulations encourage the adoption of controlled atmosphere packaging. Consumers' preference for fresh, minimally processed products is pushing companies to adopt reliable gas-based preservation methods. Air Liquide provides specialized solutions that help European meat and bakery producers extend product shelf life without additives. This technological integration supports the region's strong focus on sustainability and reducing food waste. With expanding retail networks and increasing export activities, demand for certified food-grade gases continues to rise. The growth reflects Europe's commitment to both quality assurance and consumer health protection.
The major companies operating in the global food-grade gases market include Linde plc, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Air Liquide S.A., Messer Group GmbH, Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corp., among others. Market players are leveraging partnerships, collaborations, mergers, and acquisition strategies for business expansion and innovative product development to maintain their market positioning.
Recent Developments