Food Safety Products in the US by Product and Market, 5th Edition

Technologically Advanced Products and Government Regulations to Drive Gains

These products will benefit from continuing technology developments and ongoing implementation of rules under the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Key Findings in the Food Safety Products Study:

Sizeable Disinfection and Diagnostic Product Segments Driving Gains

Growth in the US food safety market is largely determined by changes in the disinfection and diagnostic products segments, which together represented two-thirds of demand in 2017. Within these segments, the established disinfectant chemicals category will see limited gains, but disinfection equipment that does not change food properties (e.g., ultraviolet and ozone) will grow faster from a small base. Advances will also stem from the continued migration toward pricier rapid diagnostic tests. GMO or genetic trait diagnostic testing products will also fuel gains in light of consumer demand for food authenticity.

Consumer Trends Changing the Food Industry’s Approach to Food Safety

Consumers are increasingly concerned about food safety as high profile outbreaks of foodborne illness have led to further distrust of corporations. Many consumers, who want food that is “real” and safe, increasingly view conventional processing and ingredients negatively, and instead seek “free-from”, raw, and organic products. However, raw and organic foods require new types of safety processes as more established chemical or heat treatments may be incompatible with raw and organic designations.

Technological innovations including blockchain technology will boost consumer confidence by enabling the food industry to track products throughout the supply chain. For instance, a beef product could be traced back to a specific farmer and cow to provide assurances that the beef is safe and the cow was treated humanely.

Even though the population of Americans with food allergies is relatively low (under 5%), the life-threatening nature of anaphylactic shock makes undeclared allergens a significant focus in food safety. As such, many consumers – including those who have a food intolerance or food preference – want to be assured that food does not contain certain ingredients, leading to increased demand for certified-free foods. Undeclared allergens (e.g., milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat) are the top cause of food recalls, and they quickly become costly to companies when a contaminated product is an ingredient used in other foods.

Farm Markets to Remain Fastest Growing under New FSMA Rule for Produce Safety

Food processing plants and foodservice establishments are by far the two leading markets, making up 61% and 22% of demand, respectively, and will continue to have the greatest impact on gains through 2022. However, as provisions of the Produce Safety rule with new disinfection and testing requirements take effect, farms will be the fastest growing market. For the first time, the Produce Safety rule establishes standards for the safe growing, harvesting, packing, and holding of fruits and vegetables that are grown for human consumption.

Study Coverage

This industry study presents historical demand data (2007, 2012, and 2017) and forecasts for 2022 by product (disinfection products, diagnostic products, protective apparel, smart labels and tags, and foreign object detection equipment) and market (food processing plants; foodservice establishments; farms; retail, wholesale, and distribution; and government). The study also evaluates company market share and analyzes industry competitors including Ecolab, 3M, and Diversey.