The post-harvest treatment market has become a crucial component in the global agricultural sector, addressing the significant challenge of reducing food waste and enhancing food security. The global post-harvest treatment market is experiencing significant growth, with its size estimated at USD 2.01 billion in 2022 and projected to reach USD 3.12 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 7.6% during the study period. One of the driving forces behind this market expansion is the alarming rate of fruit and vegetable post-harvest losses, estimated to range between 30% and 40%. This loss not only impacts food availability but also represents a substantial economic setback. By implementing post-harvest treatments, we can extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, thereby reducing waste and enhancing market accessibility.

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The Impact of Growing Consumer Awareness on the Organic and Bio-Based Post-Harvest Products Market

With the growing consumer demand for higher food quality, safety, and healthier diets, there's an increasing emphasis on the use of organic and environmentally friendly post-harvest treatments. Markets in North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region are witnessing a surge in demand for organic fruits and vegetables. This trend has given rise to a new segment within the post-harvest treatment market—organic and bio-based products.

Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their purchasing choices and are leaning towards organic, chemical-free options. Governments and regulatory agencies are also imposing stricter regulations on the use of synthetic chemicals in agriculture, further propelling the industry to adopt natural alternatives. The development of organic and bio-based post-harvest treatments is an opportunity that aligns with these market dynamics and consumer preferences.

Segment Insights: Fruits Leading the Market

Fruits are forecasted to be the largest segment in the post-harvest treatment market during the research period. Given that fruits are often consumed raw and have a relatively short shelf life, they are more vulnerable to post-harvest losses. Additionally, the seasonal nature of fruit production necessitates methods to extend their availability, making post-harvest treatments essential for producers and merchants.

Post-Harvest Treatment Companies: Inside Bayer AG and Syngenta's Growth Strategy in Industry

• Bayer AG: A major player in life sciences, Bayer offers a range of solutions through its Crop Science segment, including innovative crop protection products and digital solutions. In November 2021, Bayer partnered with Microsoft to develop cloud-based digital tools, enhancing sustainability and efficiency in agriculture.
• Syngenta Crop Protection AG: A global leader with operations in over 90 countries, Syngenta focuses on improving agricultural productivity. In January 2022, they launched "Archive," a post-harvest fungicide designed for broad-spectrum disease control, expanding their product offerings in the market.

By launching new products and forming strategic partnerships, these companies are shaping the future of post-harvest treatments, driving innovation, and promoting sustainability in agriculture.

Regional Growth: Africa Post-Harvest Treatment Industry as a Key Market

Africa is projected to be the fastest-growing region in the post-harvest treatment market during the study period. The continent’s rapidly growing population and increasing demand for food place significant pressure on local farmers. Improved market access, investment in post-harvest technologies, and enhanced storage and transportation infrastructure are contributing to the growth of the post-harvest treatment industry in Africa. As private sector companies continue to invest in this space, the region is expected to witness robust market development.

The post-harvest treatment industry is poised for significant growth due to its ability to address crucial challenges related to food waste, market accessibility, and economic sustainability. By reducing post-harvest losses and extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, these treatments provide a pathway toward a more sustainable and profitable food supply chain. With growing interest in organic and bio-based treatments and increased investment in emerging markets like Africa, the future of the post-harvest treatment industry looks promising.

Post-Harvest Treatment Market Growth Drivers

• Growing Demand for Organic and Bio-Based Treatments: The rising consumer demand for organic food products and healthier diets has led to a surge in demand for organic and bio-based post-harvest treatments. These treatments align with the growing preference for environmentally friendly and chemical-free solutions, driven by increased consumer awareness and stringent regulatory requirements. The development and adoption of natural alternatives in post-harvest treatments are gaining momentum, particularly in regions like North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific.
• Increasing Need to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses: Fruits and vegetables are vital dietary components globally but are highly perishable, making them prone to post-harvest losses due to physical damage, physiological changes, and microbial contamination. High metabolic rates and sensitivity to abiotic and biotic stressors further shorten their shelf life. Post-harvest treatments, including the use of coatings, controlled atmospheres, and preservatives, help to mitigate these losses, thereby improving food availability and reducing economic wastage.