Global Post-harvest Treatment Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In March 2024, Bayer launched a new biodegradable post-harvest treatment for fruits and vegetables, designed to extend shelf life without harming the environment.

• In October 2022, Syngenta introduced a post-harvest treatment aimed at reducing food waste by enhancing the storability of key crops like potatoes and tomatoes.

The global post-harvest treatment market plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and safety of agricultural produce from harvest through to consumption. Post-harvest treatment encompasses a range of practices and technologies aimed at preserving freshness, enhancing shelf life, and preventing spoilage of fruits, vegetables, grains, and other perishable commodities. Key factors driving the market include increasing global demand for fresh and processed foods, growing awareness about food safety regulations, and the need to reduce food wastage along the supply chain.

Technological advancements in post-harvest treatments have led to the development of innovative solutions such as controlled atmosphere storage, modified atmosphere packaging, and various chemical treatments. These methods help maintain product quality by controlling temperature, humidity, and gas composition, thereby extending shelf life and preserving nutritional value. Additionally, bio-based and organic post-harvest treatments are gaining traction due to rising consumer preferences for sustainable and chemical-free food products.

Geographically, the market is witnessing significant growth in regions with high agricultural production and export activities, such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Government initiatives promoting better post-harvest practices, coupled with investments in cold chain infrastructure, are further driving market expansion. However, challenges remain, including the high cost of advanced treatments, regulatory complexities, and the need for continuous innovation to address evolving consumer preferences and environmental concerns.

Global Post-harvest Treatment Segment Analysis

In this report, the global post-harvest treatment market has been segmented by type, crop and geography.

Global Post-harvest Treatment Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Post-harvest Treatment Market has been segmented by Type into Coatings, Ethylene blockers, Fungicides, Cleaners, Sanitizers and Sprout inhibitors.

The Global Post-harvest Treatment Market is crucial for maintaining the quality and extending the shelf life of harvested produce. This market encompasses various products and methods used to treat fruits, vegetables, and other crops after harvest to prevent spoilage, decay, and loss of quality during storage and transportation. The importance of post-harvest treatment is heightened by the need to reduce food waste and meet the growing demand for fresh produce worldwide. As a result, the market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in treatment technologies and increasing awareness among farmers and producers about the benefits of post-harvest treatments.

The market is segmented by type into coatings, ethylene blockers, fungicides, cleaners, sanitizers, and sprout inhibitors. Coatings are used to create a barrier on the surface of produce, reducing water loss and respiration rates, thereby extending shelf life. These coatings can be natural or synthetic and are designed to be safe for consumption. Ethylene blockers are used to inhibit the action of ethylene, a plant hormone that promotes ripening and senescence. By blocking ethylene, these treatments can slow down the ripening process, allowing fruits and vegetables to stay fresh for longer periods.

Fungicides play a crucial role in preventing fungal infections that can cause spoilage and decay in post-harvest produce. They are applied to crops to protect them from fungal pathogens that can thrive in storage conditions. Cleaners and sanitizers are used to remove dirt, debris, and microbial contaminants from the surface of produce, ensuring that they are safe for consumption and free from pathogens that can cause foodborne illnesses. These treatments are essential for maintaining hygiene and quality standards in the food supply chain.

Sprout inhibitors are used to prevent the sprouting of tuberous crops such as potatoes and onions during storage. Sprouting can lead to quality degradation and loss of nutritional value, making sprout inhibitors an important segment of the post-harvest treatment market. The growing adoption of these various treatments across the agricultural sector, along with continuous innovation and development of new and more effective products, is expected to drive the market's growth in the coming years. As consumers demand higher quality and safer produce, the Global Post-harvest Treatment Market will continue to expand, offering new opportunities for stakeholders in the agriculture and food industries.

Global Post-harvest Treatment Market, Segmentation by Crop

The Global Post-harvest Treatment Market has been segmented by Crop into Fruits and vegetables.

The Global Post-harvest Treatment Market plays a crucial role in extending the shelf life of crops, reducing food waste, and ensuring the quality of produce from farm to table. The market is segmented by crop into two main categories: fruits and vegetables. Each segment has its unique post-harvest requirements and treatment methods to address the specific challenges faced by these crops. The segmentation allows for targeted approaches to maintain freshness, prevent spoilage, and enhance the overall quality of produce.

In the fruits segment, post-harvest treatments are critical for managing ripening, reducing decay, and controlling pests and diseases. Common treatments include the use of fungicides, coatings, and controlled atmosphere storage. For example, treatments like ethylene inhibitors are used to slow down the ripening process of bananas and apples, thereby extending their market life. The application of fungicides helps in controlling mold and rot, which are prevalent issues in fruits like strawberries and grapes. Coatings such as waxes are applied to citrus fruits to reduce moisture loss and improve appearance.

Vegetables, on the other hand, require different post-harvest treatments focused on maintaining firmness, preventing microbial growth, and preserving nutritional quality. Treatments such as chlorine washes, modified atmosphere packaging, and refrigeration are widely used. Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach benefit from rapid cooling and moisture control to prevent wilting and microbial contamination. Root vegetables, such as potatoes and carrots, often undergo treatments to prevent sprouting and maintain texture. Additionally, controlled atmosphere storage is employed to regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, which helps in delaying spoilage and extending shelf life.

Global Post-harvest Treatment Market, Segmentation by Geography

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

Global Post-harvest Treatment Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America, a significant player in the market, benefits from advanced agricultural techniques and a strong emphasis on reducing food waste. The region's stringent regulatory standards ensure high-quality post-harvest treatments, driving innovation and adoption of new technologies. In Europe, the market is influenced by the growing demand for organic and minimally processed foods. European countries are investing in sustainable and eco-friendly post-harvest solutions to meet consumer demand and comply with strict environmental regulations.

The Asia Pacific region, home to some of the largest agricultural producers globally, shows robust growth in the post-harvest treatment market. The rising population and increasing food demand drive the need for effective post-harvest treatments to minimize losses and ensure food security. Countries like China and India are investing heavily in modern agricultural practices, including advanced post-harvest technologies. In the Middle East and Africa, the market is gradually evolving, with a focus on improving food storage and reducing post-harvest losses. The region's harsh climatic conditions necessitate effective treatment solutions to preserve agricultural produce.

Latin America, with its vast agricultural landscape, is also a key market for post-harvest treatments. The region's export-oriented agricultural sector requires high-quality post-harvest solutions to meet international standards and maintain competitiveness. Countries such as Brazil and Argentina are adopting advanced post-harvest technologies to enhance the quality and shelf life of their produce, supporting the region's market growth. Overall, the Global Post-harvest Treatment Market is poised for significant expansion, driven by the need to reduce food waste, improve food security, and meet evolving consumer preferences across different regions.

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

Drivers

• Increasing demand for quality produce
• Advancements in preservation technologies
• Rising global food trade
• Government support and policies

• Growth in food processing industry: The food processing industry is experiencing significant growth driven by increasing consumer demand for convenience foods, advancements in food technology, and expanding global trade. Innovations in processing techniques, packaging, and food safety standards are enhancing the efficiency and scalability of food production, allowing companies to meet the rising demand for processed food products. This growth is also fueled by changing consumer lifestyles, which prioritize ready-to-eat meals and snacks, and the increasing availability of processed foods in emerging markets. Additionally, the growing awareness of food wastage and the need for sustainable processing practices are encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methods to reduce waste and improve resource efficiency in the food processing sector.

  The Global Post-harvest Treatment Market plays a crucial role in the food processing industry by extending the shelf life of fresh produce and maintaining its quality during storage and transportation. This market is driven by the increasing demand for fresh fruits and vegetables, along with the need to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure food security. Technological advancements in post-harvest treatments, such as coatings, biocontrol agents, and controlled atmosphere storage, are enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of these treatments. Furthermore, the growing focus on organic and natural post-harvest solutions, driven by consumer preference for chemical-free and sustainable products, is shaping the market dynamics. As a result, the post-harvest treatment market is expected to witness substantial growth, supported by innovations in treatment methods and the expanding global food supply chain.

Restraints

• High treatment costs
• Lack of awareness
• Limited infrastructure in developing regions
• Stringent regulatory frameworks

• Environmental concerns: The Global Post-harvest Treatment Market is significantly influenced by growing environmental concerns, particularly in relation to the use of chemical treatments and their impact on ecosystems and human health. Traditional post-harvest treatments often involve the application of synthetic chemicals to prolong shelf life and protect against pests and diseases. However, these chemicals can lead to soil and water contamination, affecting biodiversity and potentially entering the human food chain. This has spurred a shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly post-harvest solutions, such as biological treatments and natural preservatives, which aim to minimize environmental footprint while maintaining product efficacy.

  In response to these environmental concerns, there is an increasing emphasis on the adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) practices and organic farming methods in the post-harvest sector. IPM combines biological, cultural, and mechanical practices with minimal chemical intervention, thus reducing the reliance on harmful chemicals. Additionally, regulatory bodies worldwide are tightening regulations on the use of post-harvest chemicals, further driving the demand for sustainable alternatives. Innovations in packaging technology, such as biodegradable and edible coatings, also play a crucial role in addressing environmental issues by reducing plastic waste and chemical usage. As consumer awareness and demand for sustainably produced goods grow, the market is likely to see continued advancement and adoption of environmentally friendly post-harvest treatments.

Opportunities

• Technological innovations in treatments
• Expansion into emerging markets
• Development of eco-friendly solutions
• Collaborations and partnerships

• Increased investment in R&D: The Global Post-harvest Treatment Market is witnessing a significant surge in investment in research and development (R&D) as companies and governments recognize the critical importance of reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring food security. This increased investment is aimed at developing advanced technologies and solutions that can enhance the shelf life, quality, and safety of harvested crops. Innovations in areas such as chemical treatments, biological agents, and smart packaging are being prioritized to address the diverse challenges faced by the post-harvest sector. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and scientific advancements, the industry aims to minimize spoilage, reduce waste, and improve the overall efficiency of the supply chain from farm to table.

  Increased R&D investment is driving the development of sustainable and eco-friendly post-harvest treatment solutions. With growing consumer awareness and regulatory pressures regarding the environmental impact of chemical treatments, there is a notable shift towards the adoption of natural and biodegradable alternatives. Research is focused on exploring the potential of natural preservatives, edible coatings, and biocontrol agents that can effectively mitigate post-harvest losses without compromising on food safety. These advancements are expected to not only enhance the profitability of agricultural practices but also contribute to global efforts in achieving sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food production and distribution.

Key players in Global Post-harvest Treatment Market include:

• Decco
• JBT
• Pace International Llc
• Xeda International
• Agrofresh
• Syngenta
• Nufarm
• FMC Corporation
• Fomesa Fruitech
• Corteva Agriscience
• RPM International
• Citrosol
• Sensitech Inc
• Post-Harvest Solutions
• Janssen PMP
• Bayer
• BASF

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