Global Food Certification Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In October 2020, DEKRA (Germany) consolidated its UK operations by merging Chilworth Technology Ltd., known for process safety consulting, testing, and advisory services, with DEKRA Organizational Reliability. This merger formed DEKRA Organizational and Process Safety (DEKRA UK Ltd.), expanding their service offerings in the UK. The new entity now provides comprehensive solutions for high-hazard processes in industries such as pharmaceuticals and food, focusing on both process and behavioral safety.

• In August 2020, SGS (France) introduced remote FSMA certification audits to support food suppliers during the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative allowed suppliers to undergo fully accredited certification audits for FSMA FSVP remotely, ensuring the continued safety of food products across the supply chain.

The global food certification market is witnessing substantial growth driven by increasing consumer awareness regarding food safety and quality. Food certifications ensure that products meet specific standards, including organic, kosher, halal, and others, which are crucial for gaining consumer trust and accessing international markets. As regulatory bodies tighten food safety norms globally, the demand for certifications that verify compliance with these standards has surged. This trend is particularly pronounced in developed regions like North America and Europe, where stringent regulations and consumer preference for certified products are strong drivers of market growth.

The market for food certification is segmented based on various types such as ISO 22000, BRC Global Standards, SQF (Safe Quality Food), and others. ISO 22000, focusing on food safety management systems, holds a significant share due to its broad applicability across the food supply chain. Certifications like BRC Global Standards and SQF are particularly popular in sectors requiring stringent quality management, such as processed foods and beverages. Additionally, certifications for organic and non-GMO foods are gaining traction, reflecting consumer preferences for healthier and sustainable food choices.

Geographically, North America and Europe dominate the food certification market, owing to stringent regulatory frameworks and high consumer awareness regarding food safety. The Asia-Pacific region is also experiencing rapid growth, fueled by rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and increasing awareness of food quality standards among consumers. Countries like China and India are witnessing significant adoption of food certifications as food safety concerns become more prominent. Moreover, Latin America and the Middle East are emerging markets with growing investments in food safety infrastructure and regulatory compliance.

The global food certification market is competitive, with key players including SGS SA, Bureau Veritas, Intertek Group plc, TÜV SÜD, and DNV GL. These companies offer a wide range of certification services and cater to diverse segments within the food industry, from production to distribution. Strategic initiatives such as mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships are common among market players to expand their service portfolios and geographical presence. Innovation in certification technologies, including blockchain-based solutions for traceability, is also becoming increasingly relevant to meet evolving consumer and regulatory demands.

Global Food Certification Segment Analysis

In this report, the global food certification market has been segmented by Type, Application, Risk Category and Geography.

Global Food Certification Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Food Certification Market has been segmented by Type into ISO 22000, BRC, SQF, IFS, Halal, Kosher and Free-from certifications.

The Global Food Certification Market is segmented by Type into several distinct categories, each addressing specific standards and requirements for food safety and quality. ISO 22000 is one of the prominent certifications, offering a comprehensive framework for managing food safety risks across the food supply chain. This certification focuses on ensuring that food safety management systems are robust and effective, meeting international standards for food safety practices. ISO 22000 is widely adopted by organizations aiming to demonstrate their commitment to food safety and meet regulatory requirements.

Another significant segment in the food certification market is BRC (British Retail Consortium). BRC certification is a global standard for food safety and quality management systems, specifically designed for retailers and food manufacturers. It provides guidelines for establishing best practices in food safety, helping businesses to ensure that their products are safe, legal, and of high quality. BRC certification is especially important for companies seeking to expand their market presence and build consumer trust.

SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification is another key component of the food certification market. SQF provides a rigorous food safety and quality management system that is recognized globally. This certification focuses on ensuring that food products meet high standards for safety and quality throughout the entire supply chain. SQF certification is essential for organizations looking to enhance their food safety practices and improve their product quality for both domestic and international markets.

IFS (International Featured Standards) is a certification standard that addresses food safety and quality management systems, focusing on both the requirements of the retailer and the consumer. It includes standards for food safety, product quality, and the overall performance of food businesses. Additionally, certifications like Halal and Kosher cater to specific dietary needs and religious requirements, ensuring that food products comply with Islamic and Jewish dietary laws, respectively. The Free-from certification, on the other hand, addresses allergen-free and other dietary restrictions, helping businesses cater to niche markets with specific dietary needs.

Global Food Certification Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Food Certification Market has been segmented by Application into Meat, poultry, and seafood products, Dairy products, Infant food, Beverages, Bakery & confectionery products and Free-from foods.

One significant segment is Meat, Poultry, and Seafood Products, which encompasses the certification processes for ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of animal-based food products. Certifications in this category cover aspects such as traceability, hygiene standards, and ethical practices in the meat and seafood industries. These certifications help in maintaining high safety standards and meeting regulatory requirements, which are crucial for consumer trust and market access.

Another important segment is Dairy Products, which includes certifications for milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy items. This sector focuses on aspects like pasteurization processes, ingredient sourcing, and product quality. Certifications for dairy products ensure that they meet safety standards, nutritional claims, and labeling requirements, which are essential for consumer safety and industry credibility.

The Infant Food segment represents a highly regulated area of the food certification market. Certifications for infant food products emphasize safety, nutritional adequacy, and allergen management. These certifications are crucial for ensuring that products meet stringent safety standards and provide appropriate nutrition for infants. They also address issues such as ingredient transparency and product efficacy, which are critical for the health of young children.

Beverages, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, form another key segment of the food certification market. This segment covers certifications for product safety, ingredient authenticity, and labeling accuracy. In this sector, certifications ensure that beverages meet regulatory standards and quality expectations, which is vital for consumer protection and market competitiveness.

The Bakery & Confectionery Products segment deals with the certification of goods such as bread, cakes, and candies. Certifications in this area focus on product safety, ingredient quality, and compliance with food safety regulations. These certifications help manufacturers adhere to industry standards and meet consumer expectations for safe and high-quality products.

The Free-from Foods segment includes certifications for products that are free from specific allergens, additives, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This category addresses the needs of consumers with dietary restrictions or preferences. Certifications in this segment help manufacturers cater to niche markets and ensure that products are genuinely free from specified ingredients or processes.

Global Food Certification Market, Segmentation by Risk Category

The Global Food Certification Market has been segmented by Risk Category into High-risk foods and Low-risk foods.

High-risk foods are those products that are more susceptible to contamination and foodborne illnesses. This category includes perishable items such as meat, poultry, seafood, dairy products, and fresh produce. The certification process for high-risk foods is stringent due to the potential for severe health consequences if these foods are not handled, processed, or stored correctly. Certifications for high-risk foods often involve rigorous inspections, comprehensive testing for pathogens, and adherence to strict safety standards set by organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). The increasing global demand for safe and high-quality food products has driven significant growth in the certification market for high-risk foods, as manufacturers seek to meet international safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Low-risk foods are less prone to contamination and typically include shelf-stable products like canned goods, dry foods, and certain packaged snacks. While these foods present a lower risk of causing foodborne illnesses compared to high-risk foods, certification remains important to ensure quality and compliance with regulatory standards. Certification for low-risk foods may involve less frequent inspections and less rigorous testing compared to high-risk foods. However, these certifications are essential for maintaining consumer trust, meeting regulatory requirements, and accessing global markets. As consumer awareness of food safety grows, there is an increasing emphasis on certification for low-risk foods to assure quality and safety even for products with lower inherent risks.

Global Food Certification Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Food Certification Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Food Certification Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

In North America, the food certification market is primarily driven by stringent regulatory standards and increasing consumer awareness about food safety and quality. The United States and Canada are the major contributors to this market segment due to their well-established regulatory frameworks and high demand for certified food products. Key certifications such as Organic, Non-GMO, and Fair Trade are particularly popular among consumers who are increasingly focused on health and sustainability. The presence of major food certification bodies like the USDA and the CFIA further supports the market growth in this region. Additionally, advancements in technology and innovation in food certification processes are expected to continue driving the market forward.

Europe is another significant market for food certification, characterized by a complex regulatory environment and high consumer demand for certified food products. European countries adhere to rigorous food safety regulations, which are enforced by agencies such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and national certification bodies. The market in this region is driven by the growing consumer preference for quality and sustainably sourced food products. Certifications such as EU Organic, GlobalGAP, and BRCGS are widely recognized and sought after. The increasing focus on food traceability and the rise of trends such as plant-based diets are expected to further boost the demand for food certification services in Europe.

The Asia Pacific region represents a rapidly growing segment of the global food certification market due to increasing food safety concerns, expanding middle-class population, and rising awareness about food quality. Countries like China, India, and Japan are at the forefront of this growth. The market is driven by a combination of regulatory reforms, government initiatives, and consumer demand for certified food products. In this region, certifications such as HACCP, ISO 22000, and various local certifications are gaining traction. The increasing adoption of international food safety standards and growing export opportunities for certified food products are key factors propelling market growth in Asia Pacific.

In the Middle East and Africa, the food certification market is emerging, with growth driven by increasing urbanization, changing dietary habits, and a rising focus on food safety and quality. The market in this region is characterized by a diverse range of certifications, including halal certifications and ISO standards, which cater to both local and international consumer demands. The expansion of retail and food service industries, coupled with government initiatives to improve food safety standards, is expected to drive the growth of the food certification market in the Middle East and Africa. As these regions continue to develop their food safety infrastructure, the demand for food certification services is anticipated to rise.

Latin America’s food certification market is characterized by a growing emphasis on food quality and safety amid increasing consumer awareness and export opportunities. Countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are leading the market in this region. The demand for certifications such as Organic, Fair Trade, and ISO 22000 is on the rise due to the increasing focus on sustainable agriculture and food safety practices. The market is also supported by both regional and international certification bodies that offer a range of food safety and quality certifications. As the region continues to develop its food industry, the demand for food certification services is expected to grow.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Food Certification Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers

• Rising Food Safety Concerns
• Increased Consumer Awareness
• Regulatory Requirements

• Global Trade Expansion: The Global Food Certification Market has witnessed significant growth driven by increasing consumer demand for high-quality and safe food products. As international trade in food products expands, there is a growing emphasis on food safety, quality assurance, and adherence to regulatory standards. Food certification plays a crucial role in ensuring that products meet stringent safety, quality, and environmental standards. Certifications such as ISO 22000, GlobalGAP, and Organic are becoming essential for food producers and exporters aiming to access global markets and enhance their competitive edge. These certifications not only help companies meet international food safety requirements but also build consumer trust and open new market opportunities.

  The expansion of global trade has intensified the need for standardized food safety measures. As food supply chains become more complex and international, certifications help manage risks related to food safety and quality across borders. Governments, regulatory bodies, and international organizations are collaborating to harmonize food safety standards and certification processes. This harmonization supports the growth of global trade by reducing trade barriers and facilitating easier market entry for food products. Additionally, certifications such as Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance are gaining prominence as consumers become more conscious of ethical and sustainable food production practices.

  Trade expansion also drives innovation and investment in the food certification market. Companies are investing in advanced technologies and processes to meet certification requirements and address the evolving demands of global consumers. The rise of digital tools, such as blockchain for traceability and AI for quality control, is transforming the food certification landscape. These innovations not only streamline certification processes but also enhance transparency and efficiency in food supply chains. As the global food certification market continues to grow, it will play a pivotal role in supporting safe, high-quality, and sustainable food production for international markets.

Restraints

• High Certification Costs
• Complex Compliance Processes
• Market Saturation

• Limited Awareness in Some Regions: The global food certification market is expanding rapidly as consumers and businesses alike become more conscious of food safety, quality, and sustainability. However, despite this growth, there is a significant challenge related to limited awareness of food certification processes in some regions. In many developing countries, the concept of food certification is still relatively new, and there is a lack of understanding about its benefits and importance. This limited awareness can hinder the adoption of certification practices and slow down market growth in these areas.

  One of the main factors contributing to limited awareness is the lack of educational resources and outreach programs aimed at informing local producers, suppliers, and consumers about food certification. Many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in these regions may not have access to information on how certification can enhance their marketability or ensure food safety standards. Additionally, the costs associated with certification processes can be a barrier, especially for smaller businesses that may not see the immediate benefits of investing in these practices.

  To overcome these challenges, there is a need for increased efforts from certification bodies, governmental organizations, and industry leaders to promote the benefits of food certification. Initiatives such as workshops, training programs, and informational campaigns can help raise awareness and educate stakeholders about the value of certification. By addressing these awareness gaps, it is possible to foster a more inclusive and globally aware food certification market that supports safe and sustainable food practices across all regions.

Opportunities

• Emerging Markets Growth
• Technological Advancements
• Increasing Demand for Organic Products

• Expansion of Certification Services: The global food certification market is witnessing significant growth due to the expanding range of certification services offered to ensure food safety, quality, and sustainability. As consumer awareness about food safety and health increases, there is a rising demand for certifications that validate the authenticity, quality, and environmental impact of food products. Certification services have expanded from traditional food safety standards to include a broader spectrum of requirements such as organic, non-GMO, fair trade, and sustainability certifications. This diversification is driven by both consumer preferences and regulatory changes aimed at enhancing food safety and quality across the supply chain.

  In response to this demand, certification bodies are broadening their service portfolios to cover new certification schemes and emerging market needs. For instance, there is a growing emphasis on certifications related to environmental sustainability, such as carbon footprint assessments and water usage evaluations. Certification organizations are also expanding their geographical reach to cater to global markets, offering services in new regions and languages to support international trade and compliance with local regulations. This expansion not only helps meet the increasing demand for diverse certification services but also ensures that companies across various regions can achieve and maintain certification standards.

  The expansion of certification services is facilitated by advancements in technology, such as digital certification platforms and blockchain for traceability. These technologies streamline the certification process, reduce costs, and improve transparency in the food supply chain. Digital tools enable certification bodies to manage applications, conduct audits, and issue certifications more efficiently. The integration of blockchain technology helps in creating immutable records of food production and certification processes, enhancing trust and verification in the food industry. This technological evolution is a key driver behind the growth and diversification of certification services in the global food certification market.

Key players in Global Food Certification Market include:

• SGS S.A
• Bureau Veritas
• Intertek Group plc
• TÜV SÜD
• DNV GL
• UL Solutions
• Eurofins Scientific
• NSF International
• Silliker
• Rina S.p.A

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis