Global post-harvest treatment market poised for USD 1.3B growth by 2028, Technavio

GLOBAL – The global post-harvest treatment market is on track to grow by USD 1.31 billion between 2024 and 2028, according to Technavio.

As urbanization and population growth reshape dietary preferences, the need for fresh produce is surging, especially in developing countries.

This demand has led to a rise in the adoption of post-harvest treatments, which play a vital role in reducing food waste and extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.

“Post-harvest treatment is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of our produce,” stated a spokesperson from AgroFresh Solutions Inc., a key player in the market.

Governments in developing nations are increasingly investing in post-harvest management to ensure food security and minimize losses. These investments are creating significant opportunities for businesses in the sector.

Companies are focusing on developing affordable, portable, and user-friendly solutions tailored for small-scale farmers.

While synthetic chemicals like fungicides and chlorine dioxide gas are commonly used to prevent decay, there is a growing trend towards natural techniques. Essential oil washes and beneficial microbes are gaining traction as consumers become more aware of organic food items.

“Consumers are driving the shift towards natural post-harvest treatments, pushing us to innovate continuously,” said a representative from Apeel Technology Inc.

Despite the promising growth, the post-harvest treatment market faces challenges, particularly in raising awareness among farmers and consumers.

Many producers remain uninformed about the benefits of post-harvest treatments, which limits the market’s expansion. To address this, companies need to invest in educational campaigns.

“Increasing awareness is crucial for market growth,” explained a market analyst. “By educating farmers and consumers, we can expand the customer base for post-harvest treatments.”

The market includes a wide range of products, from synthetic chemicals to natural coatings. Companies like BASF SE, Bayer AG, and Syngenta Crop Protection AG offer various solutions to address biotic and abiotic stressors affecting produce quality.

Bio-coatings, cleaners, and biotechnology techniques are also integral to maintaining produce quality during transportation and storage.

The post-harvest treatment market serves different crop types, including fruits and vegetables. The fruit application segment is particularly strong, driven by the global demand for fresh fruits and the health benefits they offer.

The food service industry’s growing use of coated fruits for dishes like desserts, salads, and pastries is further boosting this segment.

Regulatory support and government policies encouraging post-harvest practices to reduce food waste and enhance food safety are also contributing to market growth. The preference for natural and organic products is expected to drive further expansion.