The global biodegradable cutlery market size was USD 37.73 million in 2023. The market is set to increase from USD 39.82 million in 2024 to USD 73.43 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 7.95% during 2024-2032. The rapid expansion of the food and beverage industry is boosting the usage of biodegradable cutlery in restaurants, fast food outlets, and hotels. The increasing need for food product packaging to extend its shelf life without harming the environment is driving the demand for biodegradable cutlery due to its biodegradable and durable nature. Fortune Business Insights™ shares this information in its report titled “Biodegradable Cutlery Market, 2024-2032.”

COVID-19 Impact:

Suspensions in Recycling Programs and Biodegradable Item Production during the Pandemic Hampered Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic had an adverse effect on the biodegradable cutlery market growth. Closed commercial spaces amid the lockdown decreased biodegradable cutlery sales, which restrained market progress. Suspensions in recycling programs and biodegradable item production during the pandemic limited market growth.

Top Leading Company Covered in the Biodegradable Cutlery Market:

• Huhtamäki Oyj (Finland)

• Pactiv Evergeen Inc. (U.S.)

• Vegware Ltd. (U.K.)

• Biotrem (Poland)

• BioPak (Australia)

• Genpak, LLC (U.S.)

• TIPA Ltd. (Israel)

• Ecoware (India)

• Better Earth LLC (U.S.)

• BeGreen Packaging (U.S.)

Information Source: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/biodegradable-cutlery-market-106212 

Segmentation

Surging Demand for Biodegradable Spoons as they are High and Low Temperature Resistant is Fostering Segment Growth

In terms of product type, the market is divided into spoon, fork, knife, and others.

The spoon segment dominates the global market. Increasing demand for biodegradable spoons as they are smooth, kind on the mouth, and high and low temperature resistant is driving segment growth. They are used for tasting ice cream and are resilient in hot liquids. They are robust, 100% eco-friendly, and completely compostable.

The Wood Segment Commanded the Market due to its Natural Elements

By raw material, the market is categorized into wood, husk, paper, plastic, and others.

The wood segment commanded the biodegradable cutlery market share due to its natural elements. To make affordable biodegradable cutlery, many market participants are focusing on R&D.

Use of the Product in Various Occasions Boosted Commercial Applications

In terms of application, the market is segmented into residential and commercial. Commercial segment dominated the market as these cutleries are being used by catering services in various ceremonies, offices, and occasions.                                

Report Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the top segments and the latest trends in the market. It comprehensively discusses the driving and restraining factors and the impact of COVID-19 on the market. Additionally, it examines the regional developments and the strategies undertaken by the market's key players.

Drivers and Restraints

Emergence of Supportive Government Laws Restricting Plastic Tableware to Fuel Market Growth

The consumption of disposable products, such as packaging and tableware, in the food industry is increasing. Market expansion is attributed to the emergence of supportive government laws restricting plastic tableware, including the Make in India initiative. Surging demand for swadeshi goods made of biodegradable products and increasing need for organic cutlery in restaurants, fast food chains, and hotels are the major factors enhancing the biodegradable cutlery market growth. Several market players are adopting sustainability initiatives, and they are also using eco-friendly tableware and packaging.  To serve and package food, leading companies are launching a variety of biodegradable paper, cardboard, and plastic cutleries. Rapid innovations in biodegradable cutlery products are driving market expansion.

On the other hand, market growth is hampered by a lack of awareness and less availability of biodegradable products.

Regional Insights

Increase in Product Offerings by Top Producers is Driving Market Expansion in Europe

Europe registers the largest market share. Increasing producers’ concentration on new product offerings to increase their product portfolios and expand production and distribution is driving market growth in the region. Growing demand for biodegradable tableware to decrease greenhouse gas emissions in the region is projected to boost market expansion over the forecast timeframe.

The market in North America is expected to rise during the forecast period due to a growing emphasis on the harmful effects of non-biodegradable plastic waste and the rising adoption of environmentally friendly products.

Competitive Landscape

Top Market Players Focus on Offering Eco-friendly Products to Expand their Product Portfolio

A rise in the introduction of eco-friendly products that are more durable and reusable by key market players is expected to boost market growth in the coming years. For instance, bamboo plates and containers are presented as environmentally friendly and bio-friendly substitutes for plastic cutlery. These organic products give the tableware a classier look and are not toxic.

Key Industry Development

• December 2022: Eatlery, a business in the UAE, created edible cutlery and spoons as a novel alternative to a non-sustainable practice; the spoons can be consumed after use. Eatlery uses cereal grains to make its spoons, and they are sturdy enough not to drop when used for curries or other wet food items. The material used to make these spoons decomposes within 30 days. It also ensures the food taste doesn’t get hampered or leached.