Airlaid Paper for Food Market

MARKET INSIGHTS

The global airlaid paper for food market size was valued at USD 3,338 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 3,600 million in 2025 to USD 5,500 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period.

Airlaid paper is a textile-like material categorized as a nonwoven fabric made from fluff pulp. It combines the properties of paper and fabric, offering high absorbency, softness, and durability while maintaining food-grade safety standards. This unique material is widely used in food packaging, disposable tableware, and absorbent pads due to its ability to retain moisture and oils without compromising food quality.

The market growth is driven by increasing demand for convenient and hygienic food packaging solutions, particularly in the fast-food and ready-to-eat meal sectors. Additionally, the shift toward sustainable packaging materials has boosted adoption, as airlaid paper is biodegradable and can be produced from renewable resources. Key players like Glatfelter and Georgia-Pacific are expanding their production capacities to meet this growing demand, particularly in Asia-Pacific where foodservice industries are rapidly developing.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Rising Demand for Sustainable Food Packaging Solutions Accelerates Market Growth

The global shift toward sustainable packaging is a key driver for the airlaid paper for food market. With increasing environmental awareness, consumers and businesses are actively seeking alternatives to plastic-based food packaging. Airlaid paper, being biodegradable and compostable, fits perfectly into this trend. The material's ability to maintain food quality while reducing environmental impact makes it highly attractive to food service providers and retailers. Recent regulations banning single-use plastics in over 90 countries have further propelled demand, creating significant opportunities for airlaid paper manufacturers to expand their market presence.

Growth in Food Service Industry Fuels Adoption of Disposable Tableware

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The expanding food service sector continues to drive demand for airlaid paper products. As quick service restaurants, cafes, and takeaway services proliferate globally, there's growing need for hygienic, disposable solutions for plates, trays and food mats. Airlaid paper's excellent absorbency and grease resistance make it ideal for these applications. In Europe and North America, where food delivery services have grown by over 30% annually since 2020, restaurant operators prioritize functional yet sustainable packaging that enhances customer experience while meeting environmental goals.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Higher Production Costs Compared to Alternatives Limits Market Penetration

Despite its advantages, airlaid paper faces competition from lower-cost alternatives that restrain market growth. The specialized manufacturing process involving pulp disintegration and air-laying technologies requires significant energy consumption and capital investment. These factors contribute to production costs that are typically 15-20% higher than conventional paper products. While premium restaurants and environmentally-conscious brands can absorb these costs, price-sensitive markets in developing regions often opt for cheaper alternatives, slowing broader adoption.

Material Performance Limitations
While excelling in many applications, airlaid paper has certain functional constraints compared to synthetic materials. Its water resistance and strength properties, though continually improving, still lag behind plastic-coated alternatives in some demanding food applications. This performance gap presents a restraint for uses requiring extreme conditions or extended product shelf life.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Supply Chain Disruptions Impact Raw Material Availability

The airlaid paper industry faces ongoing challenges securing consistent supplies of high-quality fluff pulp, its primary raw material. Geopolitical tensions and logistics bottlenecks have caused volatility in pulp markets, with prices fluctuating by over 25% in recent years. Production requires specialty grades of pulp with specific fiber characteristics, limiting sourcing options. Manufacturers must develop resilient supply chains while maintaining strict quality standards, adding complexity to operations.

Consumer Education Needs
Many food service providers and consumers still lack awareness of airlaid paper's benefits compared to traditional options. Overcoming misconceptions about cost, performance and sustainability requires significant education efforts. Industry players must invest in marketing and demonstrations to clearly communicate the value proposition and proper usage scenarios for these specialized materials.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Innovation in Functional Coatings Opens New Application Areas

Technological advancements present significant growth opportunities for the airlaid paper market. Development of food-safe, biodegradable coatings that enhance moisture resistance and grease barrier properties is enabling expansion into new food packaging segments. These innovations allow airlaid paper to compete more effectively with plastics in applications like fresh produce packaging and ready-to-eat meals. Recent breakthroughs in nanotechnology-based coatings have shown particular promise, with some formulations improving water resistance by over 40% while maintaining compostability.

Emerging Markets Offer Untapped Growth Potential

Developing economies represent a major opportunity as disposable incomes rise and food safety regulations tighten. Countries in Southeast Asia and Latin America are experiencing rapid growth in modern retail and food service sectors, creating demand for premium packaging solutions. While current per capita consumption of airlaid paper in these regions remains low compared to developed markets, the potential for expansion is substantial. Forward-thinking manufacturers are establishing local production facilities and distribution networks to capitalize on this growing demand.

Segment Analysis:

By Type

Chemical Bonding Segment Leads Due to Superior Durability and Cost-Efficiency

The market is segmented based on type into:

• Chemical Bonding

  • Subtypes: Latex-bonded, resin-bonded, and others

• Thermal Bonding

By Application

Food Packaging Dominates Market Share Due to Rising Demand for Convenience Foods

The market is segmented based on application into:

• Food Packaging

  • Subtypes: Meat trays, bakery liners, and fresh produce packaging

• Food Mat

• Other

By Material Composition

Pure Fluff Pulp Variant Remains Preferred for High Absorbency Requirements

The market is segmented based on material composition into:

• Pure Fluff Pulp

• Blended Materials

  • Subtypes: Wood pulp blends, synthetic fiber blends, and others

By End-Use Sector

Food Service Industry Accounts for Major Adoption Due to Hygiene Requirements

The market is segmented based on end-use sector into:

• Food Service Industry

  • Subtypes: Quick service restaurants, cafes, and catering services

• Retail Sector

• Institutional Food Preparation

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Strategic Product Development and Sustainability Initiatives Drive Market Competition

The global Airlaid Paper for Food market exhibits a moderately consolidated competitive landscape, characterized by multinational corporations and regional players competing through innovation and sustainable solutions. Glatfelter leads the market with its diversified portfolio and strong foothold in North America and Europe, leveraging its technological expertise in airlaid manufacturing for food-grade applications. With approximately 18% market share in 2024, the company continues to expand through acquisitions and R&D investments in biodegradable materials.

Following closely, Georgia-Pacific and Duni AB collectively hold nearly 25% of the global market, benefiting from their integrated supply chains and focus on premium food service products. Their commitment to sustainability—particularly in developing compostable airlaid solutions—has positioned them favorably amid growing environmental regulations and consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging.

Medium-sized players like McAirlaid's Vliesstoffe and Fitesa differentiate through niche specialization. Germany-based McAirlaid’s excels in high-absorbency food pads, while Fitesa capitalizes on its nonwoven fabric expertise to serve the fast-growing food mat segment. Both companies have reported year-on-year revenue growth of 8–10% in 2023–2024, outpacing industry averages through targeted customer engagement.

Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific manufacturers such as Oji Kinocloth and China Silk New Material are rapidly gaining traction, supported by lower production costs and rising domestic demand. Their expansion into Southeast Asian markets, coupled with investments in thermal-bonded airlaid technologies, mirrors the region’s projected CAGR of 9.2% during 2024–2032.

List of Key Airlaid Paper for Food Companies Profiled

• Glatfelter (U.S.)

• Georgia-Pacific (U.S.)

• McAirlaid's Vliesstoffe (Germany)

• Duni AB (Sweden)

• EAM Corporation/Domtar (U.S.)

• Fitesa (Brazil)

• Oji Kinocloth (Japan)

• Kinsei Seishi (Japan)

• M&J Airlaid (Denmark)

• China Silk New Material (China)

AIRLAID PAPER FOR FOOD MARKET TRENDS

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Materials Drive Market Growth

The global shift toward sustainability has significantly accelerated the demand for airlaid paper in food applications. With growing environmental concerns, both consumers and regulatory bodies are pushing for biodegradable and compostable alternatives to single-use plastics. Airlaid paper, being a plant-based and often recyclable material, aligns perfectly with these sustainability goals. In 2024 alone, approximately 42% of food service businesses reported adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions, with airlaid paper emerging as a preferred choice. Furthermore, innovations in material science have led to the development of airlaid products with enhanced biodegradability while maintaining the necessary strength and absorbency for food applications. The integration of recycled fibers into production processes has also reduced the environmental footprint, making it a commercially viable option for brands aiming to meet corporate sustainability targets.

Other Trends

Rising Demand for Convenient Food Packaging Solutions

The fast-paced lifestyle of modern consumers has increased the preference for ready-to-eat meals and on-the-go food packaging, directly fueling the airlaid paper market. Disposable food trays, absorbent pads for meat packaging, and single-serve napkins are witnessing higher adoption due to their convenience and hygiene benefits. The rise in online food delivery services, which grew by 18% globally in 2023, has further amplified this trend. Airlaid paper's superior liquid absorption and grease resistance make it ideal for packaged foods, ensuring product freshness and minimizing spillage. Food service providers are increasingly replacing traditional materials like polystyrene with airlaid solutions to enhance consumer experience while complying with stricter food safety regulations.

Technological Advancements in Nonwoven Manufacturing

Recent advancements in airlaid manufacturing technologies have expanded the functional capabilities of airlaid paper, opening new avenues in the food sector. Innovations like thermal-bonded airlaid and multi-layered composite structures now offer improved durability and barrier properties, making them suitable for high-moisture and high-fat food applications. Leading manufacturers are investing heavily in R&D to develop thinner yet stronger variants, reducing material usage without compromising performance. For instance, new binder-free airlaid technologies have enhanced product safety by eliminating chemical residues, a critical factor for direct food contact applications. These developments are not only improving product efficiency but also reducing production costs, which is expected to drive market competitiveness over the forecast period.

Regional Analysis: Airlaid Paper for Food Market

North America
The North American airlaid paper for food market is driven by stringent food safety regulations and a well-established food service industry. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) imposes strict compliance requirements for food-contact materials, pushing manufacturers toward high-quality, food-grade airlaid solutions. With the U.S. quick-service restaurant sector valued at over $300 billion, demand for disposable napkins, food pads, and biodegradable tableware is rising. However, higher production costs compared to Asian suppliers and competition from alternative materials like molded fiber present challenges. Recent developments include major brands switching to compostable airlaid products to meet sustainability goals.

Europe
Europe leads in sustainable airlaid paper adoption, with the EU's Single-Use Plastics Directive accelerating demand for eco-friendly alternatives. Germany and France dominate regional consumption, accounting for nearly 45% of the market share. The Nordic countries show particularly strong growth in compostable food service products, with Sweden aiming for fossil-free food packaging by 2030. While the market remains technology-driven, high energy costs and raw material price volatility have forced some manufacturers to relocate production facilities. Nonetheless, innovations in recycled fiber content (now reaching up to 70% in premium products) continue to reinforce Europe's leadership position.

Asia-Pacific
Accounting for over 40% of global volume, the Asia-Pacific region represents the largest and fastest-growing airlaid paper market. China's booming food delivery sector (1 billion monthly active users) and India's expanding quick-service restaurant chains are primary growth drivers. However, price sensitivity keeps average product quality lower than Western markets, with many local manufacturers prioritizing cost over sustainability. Japan stands apart with premium applications in ready-to-eat meal packaging, where technical performance requirements justify higher prices. The region also faces infrastructural challenges in waste management, limiting the benefits of biodegradable airlaid products despite increasing production capacities.

South America
Growth in South America remains uneven, with Brazil and Argentina showing promising adoption while other nations lag due to economic instability. The Brazilian food service market's recovery post-pandemic has driven demand for affordable disposable solutions, with airlaid napkins gaining share over traditional cloth alternatives. However, import dependency for high-end products and lack of local pulp processing capabilities constrain market development. Recent trade agreements with European suppliers are helping modernize production, but currency fluctuations continue to impact profitability. The region shows potential for growth in meat packaging applications, leveraging airlaid's superior absorbency characteristics.

Middle East & Africa
This emerging market sees concentrated demand in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where luxury hotels and food tourism drive premium product adoption. The UAE leads in sustainable packaging initiatives, with Dubai's food service sector mandating compostable solutions for major events. Africa presents longer-term opportunities as quick-service restaurants expand in urban centers, though low purchasing power and unreliable electricity supply hinder local manufacturing. Some North African countries are becoming export hubs to Europe, benefiting from lower labor costs and geographic proximity. The region's overall growth trajectory remains positive but heavily dependent on economic diversification beyond oil revenues.

Report Scope

This market research report offers a holistic overview of global and regional markets for the forecast period 2025–2032. It presents accurate and actionable insights based on a blend of primary and secondary research.

Key Coverage Areas:

• ✅ Market Overview

  • Global and regional market size (historical & forecast)

  • Growth trends and value/volume projections

• ✅ Segmentation Analysis

  • By product type or category

  • By application or usage area

  • By end-user industry

  • By distribution channel (if applicable)

• ✅ Regional Insights

  • North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa

  • Country-level data for key markets

• ✅ Competitive Landscape

  • Company profiles and market share analysis

  • Key strategies: M&A, partnerships, expansions

  • Product portfolio and pricing strategies

• ✅ Technology & Innovation

  • Emerging technologies and R&D trends

  • Automation, digitalization, sustainability initiatives

  • Impact of AI, IoT, or other disruptors (where applicable)

• ✅ Market Dynamics

  • Key drivers supporting market growth

  • Restraints and potential risk factors

  • Supply chain trends and challenges

• ✅ Opportunities & Recommendations

  • High-growth segments

  • Investment hotspots

  • Strategic suggestions for stakeholders

• ✅ Stakeholder Insights

  • Target audience includes manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, investors, regulators, and policymakers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is the current market size of Global Airlaid Paper for Food Market?

-> The Global Airlaid Paper for Food market was valued at USD 3,338 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 5,500 million by 2032.

Which key companies operate in Global Airlaid Paper for Food Market?

-> Key players include Glatfelter, Georgia-Pacific, McAirlaid's Vliesstoffe, Duni AB, EAM Corporation, Fitesa, and Oji Kinocloth, among others.

What are the key growth drivers?

-> Key growth drivers include rising demand for sustainable food packaging, growth in food service industry, and increasing preference for hygienic disposable products.

Which region dominates the market?

-> Europe currently leads the market, while Asia-Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region due to expanding food processing industries.

What are the emerging trends?

-> Emerging trends include development of biodegradable airlaid materials, smart packaging solutions, and increased R&D in absorbent technologies.