Food Certification

Food Certification Market Outlook

The global food certification market is projected to reach approximately USD 25 billion by 2035, growing at a noteworthy CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. This robust growth can be attributed to the rising consumer awareness regarding food safety and quality, stringent government regulations, and the increasing focus on traceability in the food supply chain. As global trade in food products expands, there is a growing need for standardized food safety practices, which is further driving the demand for food certification. Additionally, the surge in foodborne illnesses and recalls has heightened the emphasis on certified food systems, leading to an uptick in investment in food safety measures. The evolving consumer preferences towards organic, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced food products are also contributing to the growth of the food certification market. Furthermore, the adoption of advanced technologies such as blockchain for food traceability is anticipated to create new opportunities in the market.

Growth Factor of the Market

The growth of the food certification market is primarily fueled by the increasing demand for high-quality, safe, and sustainably produced food products from consumers. As global trade continues to expand, food products are often sourced from various countries, making it crucial for businesses to ensure compliance with international food safety standards. Additionally, the rising incidence of food safety issues, including contamination and adulteration, has led to an increased focus on obtaining food certifications, which are essential for building consumer trust. The expanding e-commerce sector for food and beverages has also spurred the need for certifications to assure consumers of quality and safety when purchasing products online. Furthermore, regulatory bodies worldwide are tightening food safety regulations, compelling businesses to adopt certified processes to avoid penalties and maintain market access. The growing trend towards sustainable and ethical food production practices is another significant contributor to the market's expansion, as certifications such as organic and fair-trade become more sought after.

Key Highlights of the Market

• Projected market size of USD 25 billion by 2035 with a CAGR of 6.5%.
• Increasing consumer demand for food safety and quality assurance.
• Rising incidence of foodborne illnesses and stringent regulations driving certification adoption.
• Expansion of e-commerce in the food sector necessitating certified practices.
• Growing focus on sustainability and organic certification among consumers.

By Type

ISO 22000:

ISO 22000 is an internationally recognized standard that outlines the requirements for a food safety management system (FSMS). This certification is crucial for organizations involved in the food supply chain, including producers, processors, and distributors. By implementing ISO 22000, businesses can effectively manage food safety hazards and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. The standard emphasizes the importance of a preventive approach to food safety, which includes identifying potential hazards, critical control points, and establishing monitoring procedures. Additionally, ISO 22000 helps organizations enhance their reputation by demonstrating a commitment to food safety, thereby improving consumer trust and confidence. The increasing adoption of this standard across various segments of the food industry is contributing to the growth of the food certification market.

FSSC 22000:

The FSSC 22000 certification is a global food safety management system that integrates ISO 22000 requirements with additional technical specifications developed by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). This certification is widely recognized across the food supply chain, particularly among food manufacturers and suppliers. FSSC 22000 is designed to provide a comprehensive framework for managing food safety, ensuring that organizations can consistently deliver safe products to consumers. As a result, many companies are seeking this certification to enhance their market presence and demonstrate compliance with industry standards. The emphasis on risk-based approaches outlined in FSSC 22000 allows organizations to proactively address food safety challenges, which is becoming increasingly important in today’s complex food supply chains.

BRC Global Standard for Food Safety:

The BRC Global Standard for Food Safety is a leading certification program that is recognized internationally by retailers and food service providers. It provides a framework for the assessment of food safety and quality management systems. Companies that achieve BRC certification can gain access to new markets and improve their operational efficiency. The standard focuses on several critical aspects, including hazard analysis, risk assessment, and effective management of food safety processes. By adhering to the BRC standards, organizations can enhance their reputation and build consumer confidence, driving higher demand for their products. The growing trend among retailers to source products from BRC-certified suppliers is further fueling the adoption of this certification within the food industry.

SQF:

Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification is another prominent benchmark in the food industry, emphasizing food safety and quality assurance throughout the supply chain. The SQF program is designed for all sectors of the food industry, including production, processing, and distribution. Organizations that obtain SQF certification can showcase their commitment to high food safety standards and quality, which is particularly appealing to retailers and consumers. The SQF certification is recognized by many major retailers as a reliable indication of effective food safety management, thus becoming a requirement for many businesses looking to enter or maintain their position in the marketplace. As consumer demands for transparent food sourcing increases, the relevance and importance of SQF certification are expected to grow significantly.

IFS:

The International Featured Standards (IFS) certification is another vital component of the food certification landscape, catering primarily to food manufacturers and suppliers. The IFS standards focus on the safety and quality of food products and are recognized globally, making them essential for businesses looking to enhance their credibility in international markets. Companies that pursue IFS certification benefit from a comprehensive framework that addresses not only food safety but also management practices, operational procedures, and process controls. The increasing adoption of IFS standards, particularly in Europe, is indicative of the growing emphasis on maintaining high food safety levels and consumer confidence in food products, contributing positively to the overall food certification market.

By Application

Food & Beverage Industry:

The food and beverage industry is one of the primary applications driving the food certification market. As this sector encompasses a vast range of products, from raw ingredients to packaged goods, maintaining high safety and quality standards is paramount. Companies in this sector seek certifications to ensure compliance with local and international regulations, enhance product traceability, and meet consumer demands for safe and high-quality products. The growing scrutiny of food safety practices, coupled with increased competition, is pushing manufacturers to invest in certification processes. As a result, the food and beverage industry represents a significant segment of the food certification market, reflecting a commitment to continuous improvement in safety and quality practices.

Food Retailers:

Food retailers play a crucial role in the food certification market, as they are the direct link between producers and consumers. Retailers are increasingly requiring their suppliers to hold certifications to ensure safety and quality in the products they offer. This trend is driven by heightened consumer awareness of food safety issues and the demand for transparency in sourcing practices. Retailers with certified products can gain a competitive edge, attract more customers, and build trust with consumers. The emphasis on providing safe, high-quality products is leading to a rise in partnerships with certified suppliers, further contributing to the growth of the food certification market within the retail segment.

Food Service Providers:

The food service sector, which includes restaurants, catering companies, and food trucks, is another vital application for food certification. As these businesses handle and serve food directly to consumers, they face strict regulations regarding food safety and hygiene. Obtaining food certifications not only demonstrates compliance with these regulations but also boosts consumer confidence in the safety and quality of the food served. With the increasing focus on health and wellness, food service providers are more frequently adopting certifications to highlight their commitment to safe and high-quality food. This trend is expected to drive notable growth within the food certification market as more food service establishments seek to enhance their reputation and customer satisfaction.

Government Bodies:

Government bodies are key stakeholders in the food certification market, as they establish the regulatory frameworks that guide food safety practices across industries. These organizations often implement food safety standards and certifications to protect public health and ensure that food products meet minimum safety and quality thresholds. The involvement of government bodies in food certification programs is crucial for maintaining industry credibility and consumer trust. By supporting and promoting certification initiatives, government agencies can help foster a culture of food safety that benefits both consumers and producers. The growing collaboration between government bodies and certification organizations is expected to have a positive impact on the overall food certification landscape.

Others:

Other applications of food certification extend beyond the primary sectors mentioned above and include agricultural producers, food packaging suppliers, and logistics companies. These entities play a vital role in the food supply chain and must adhere to food safety standards to ensure the integrity of the products they handle. Certifications for these sectors help ensure that raw ingredients, packaging materials, and transportation methods meet safety and quality requirements. As consumers continue to place emphasis on the origins and safety of their food, the demand for certifications across these varied applications is anticipated to rise, further contributing to the growth of the food certification market.

By Certification Bodies

NSF International:

NSF International is a leading global organization that provides certification, testing, and auditing services across various industries, including food safety. The organization is recognized for its comprehensive programs aimed at ensuring the safety and quality of food products. NSF International focuses on developing standards and certification programs that comply with regulatory requirements, helping businesses achieve compliance and enhance consumer trust. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, NSF is continuously advancing its certification processes, ensuring that they remain relevant in an evolving market. As consumer demand for safe food continues to rise, NSF International's role as a certification body is expected to grow significantly within the food certification market.

Bureau Veritas:

Bureau Veritas is another prominent certification body that offers a wide range of services, including food safety certification, inspections, and audits. With a global reach, Bureau Veritas is known for its rigorous standards and commitment to helping organizations improve their food safety practices. The company works closely with businesses to develop tailored certification solutions that meet specific needs and regulatory requirements. Bureau Veritas is recognized for its expertise in various sectors, including food manufacturing, retail, and hospitality, making it a trusted partner for organizations looking to demonstrate their commitment to food safety. As the demand for food certification continues to grow, the significance of Bureau Veritas in the market is set to increase.

SGS S.A.:

SGS S.A. is one of the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification companies. With a dedicated food safety division, SGS offers a comprehensive range of certification services aimed at ensuring the quality and safety of food products. The organization’s certifications are recognized globally, making it a key player in the food certification market. SGS provides audits, inspections, and training programs to help organizations comply with international food safety standards. Its extensive network and expertise across various sectors enable SGS to address the diverse needs of its clients effectively. As food safety concerns continue to rise, SGS S.A. is poised to play a critical role in the growth of the food certification market.

Intertek Group plc:

Intertek Group plc is a prominent global provider of quality and safety solutions across multiple industries, including food certification. The company offers certification services that help organizations comply with international food safety standards and regulations. Intertek's expertise in conducting audits and inspections ensures that clients can demonstrate their commitment to food safety and quality. The organization is known for its customer-centric approach, providing tailored certification solutions that align with the specific needs of its clients. With the increasing importance of food safety and consumer trust, Intertek Group plc is expected to have a significant impact on the growth of the food certification market.

DNV GL:

DNV GL is a global quality assurance and risk management company that offers a wide range of certification services, including those focused on food safety. The organization is recognized for its rigorous approach to auditing and certification, helping businesses ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. DNV GL's certification programs are designed to enhance food safety practices across the supply chain, providing organizations with the tools needed to improve their processes. The company’s commitment to sustainability and quality management further strengthens its position in the food certification market. As food safety continues to be a priority for consumers and businesses alike, DNV GL's role is expected to expand significantly.

By Level

Primary:

Primary certification levels focus on the fundamental aspects of food safety and quality management systems. This level of certification is typically aimed at production facilities, farms, and initial processing entities that handle raw ingredients. Achieving primary certification is essential for organizations in the food supply chain as it lays the groundwork for subsequent certifications and helps establish a foundation for food safety practices. Organizations that prioritize primary certifications can effectively manage food safety risks and ensure compliance with industry regulations. As the importance of food safety continues to grow, the demand for primary certification is expected to rise significantly, supporting the overall growth of the food certification market.

Secondary:

Secondary certification levels are designed for organizations that engage in further processing, packaging, or distribution of food products. This level of certification builds upon primary certifications by integrating additional standards and requirements specific to these operations. Secondary certifications are vital for ensuring that food products remain safe and of high quality as they move through the supply chain. Organizations that achieve secondary certification can demonstrate their commitment to food safety and enhance their market competitiveness. The increasing complexity of food supply chains and the demand for transparency are expected to drive the growth of secondary certifications in the food certification market.

Tertiary:

Tertiary certification levels apply to organizations that provide services within the food supply chain, such as transportation, storage, and retail. This certification level focuses on ensuring that food safety practices are maintained throughout the distribution process. Achieving tertiary certification is essential for businesses that want to demonstrate their commitment to food safety standards and enhance consumer trust. As the food supply chain becomes more intricate and interconnected, the demand for tertiary certifications is likely to grow, further contributing to the overall expansion of the food certification market. Organizations that prioritize tertiary certifications will be better positioned to meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.

By Region

In terms of regional analysis, North America is expected to hold the largest share of the food certification market, accounting for approximately 35% of the total market size by 2035. The region's stringent food safety regulations, coupled with a high level of consumer awareness regarding food quality, drive the adoption of certification programs. As food manufacturers, retailers, and service providers increasingly seek to comply with regulatory standards and enhance their product offerings, the demand for food certification services in North America is projected to grow significantly. Additionally, the presence of established certification bodies and organizations further supports market expansion in this region.

Europe follows closely, estimated to capture around 30% of the food certification market by 2035. The region benefits from a robust regulatory framework that emphasizes food safety and quality assurance, leading to a high demand for various certifications. The European consumer market is increasingly focused on sustainability and ethical sourcing, driving the need for certifications related to organic and fair-trade products. With a CAGR of 6.8%, Europe is expected to witness steady growth in the food certification market, as businesses in the region adapt to evolving consumer preferences and regulatory requirements. Other regions, such as Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa, are also experiencing growth, with increasing consumer awareness and government regulations contributing to the demand for food certification services.

Opportunities

The food certification market is poised for significant opportunities in the coming years, largely driven by the growing global demand for safe and high-quality food products. As consumers become more health-conscious and concerned about food safety, the need for transparent supply chains and compliant practices is more critical than ever. Companies that invest in certification programs can differentiate themselves from their competitors and build customer loyalty by demonstrating their commitment to food safety and quality. Moreover, the rise of e-commerce in the food industry presents an opportunity for businesses to reach a broader audience while ensuring that their certified products meet consumer safety standards. The integration of technology, such as blockchain and IoT, into food certification processes also provides opportunities for enhanced traceability and transparency, addressing consumer concerns regarding food origins and safety.

Another significant opportunity lies within the expanding regulatory landscape surrounding food safety. Governments worldwide are increasing their scrutiny of food safety practices, resulting in more stringent regulations that compel businesses to obtain certifications. This trend creates a favorable environment for certification bodies and organizations that provide compliance services. Additionally, as the market for organic and sustainably sourced products continues to grow, there is an increasing demand for certifications that validate these claims. Businesses seeking to capture this consumer segment can benefit from obtaining relevant certifications, thereby enhancing their market positioning. The collaboration between certification bodies and industry stakeholders to develop new and improved certification programs can further drive growth and innovation within the food certification market.

Threats

Despite the positive outlook for the food certification market, several threats could potentially hinder its growth. One major concern is the increasing competition among certification bodies, which can lead to price wars and a dilution of certification standards. As new players enter the market, the pressure to offer lower fees may compromise the integrity of certification processes, resulting in a lack of consumer trust in the value of certifications. Furthermore, the proliferation of unaccredited certification programs may create confusion among consumers and businesses alike, undermining the credibility of established certification bodies. This scenario could lead to challenges in maintaining high safety and quality standards within the food industry, ultimately affecting consumer confidence and market growth.

Another threat to the food certification market is the potential for regulatory changes that could impact the certification landscape. Governments may periodically revise food safety regulations, leading to shifts in certification requirements and processes. Organizations that have invested significantly in obtaining specific certifications may find themselves facing additional compliance burdens, which can result in increased operational costs and resource allocation. Additionally, the rise of food fraud and mislabeling issues poses a threat to the integrity of the food certification market, as consumers may become skeptical of certification claims. It is imperative for certification bodies and organizations to remain vigilant and adaptable to these evolving challenges to ensure the continued reliability and effectiveness of food certification programs.

Competitor Outlook

• NSF International
• Bureau Veritas
• SGS S.A.
• Intertek Group plc
• DNV GL
• QAI Global
• Food Safety Net Services
• Certisys
• Eurofins Scientific
• HACCP International
• Vigilant Compliance
• Control Union Certifications
• ICR Services
• Organic Certifiers
• UL Environment, Inc.

The competitive landscape of the food certification market is characterized by a diverse range of players, including established certification bodies and emerging organizations. Major players such as NSF International, Bureau Veritas, and SGS S.A. dominate the market due to their global reach, extensive service offerings, and robust credibility in the food safety sector. These organizations have built strong relationships with various stakeholders across the food supply chain, allowing them to provide tailored certification solutions that meet the specific needs of businesses. The increasing complexity of food safety regulations and consumer expectations further intensifies competition, as organizations strive to enhance their certification processes and maintain their market positions.

In addition to established players, numerous emerging certification bodies are entering the market, focusing on niche certification services or regional markets. These newcomers often leverage technology and innovative approaches to differentiate themselves from traditional certification organizations. The rise of digital platforms and automated auditing processes is enabling new entrants to streamline their services and offer cost-effective solutions. However, this competitive environment also poses challenges for traditional certification bodies, as they must continuously adapt to the evolving landscape and address emerging consumer demands for transparency and sustainability.

As the market evolves, key companies are continuously investing in research and development to enhance their certification standards and processes. Organizations such as Intertek Group plc and DNV GL are focusing on expanding their service portfolios to include specialized certifications that cater to the growing demand for organic, fair-trade, and environmentally friendly products. These companies are also actively collaborating with industry stakeholders to develop new certification frameworks that align with evolving consumer preferences and regulatory requirements. By staying at the forefront of industry trends and embracing innovation, these major players can further solidify their positions in the competitive food certification market.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 DNV GL
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 Certisys
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 SGS S.A.
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 QAI Global
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 ICR Services
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 Bureau Veritas
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 NSF International
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 Intertek Group plc
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 Organic Certifiers
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 Eurofins Scientific
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 HACCP International
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 Vigilant Compliance
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 UL Environment, Inc.
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 Food Safety Net Services
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Control Union Certifications
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Food Certification Market, By Level
    • 6.1.1 Primary
    • 6.1.2 Secondary
    • 6.1.3 Tertiary
  • 6.2 Food Certification Market, By Application
    • 6.2.1 Food & Beverage Industry
    • 6.2.2 Food Retailers
    • 6.2.3 Food Service Providers
    • 6.2.4 Government Bodies
    • 6.2.5 Others

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.1.1 By Country
      • 10.1.1.1 UK
      • 10.1.1.2 France
      • 10.1.1.3 Germany
      • 10.1.1.4 Spain
      • 10.1.1.5 Italy
  • 10.2 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 India
      • 10.2.1.2 China
      • 10.2.1.3 Japan
      • 10.2.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.3 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.3.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.3.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.4 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 USA
      • 10.4.1.2 Canada
  • 10.5 Food Certification Market by Region
  • 10.6 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.6.1 By Country
      • 10.6.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.6.1.2 Africa

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Food Certification market is categorized based on

By Application

• Food & Beverage Industry
• Food Retailers
• Food Service Providers
• Government Bodies
• Others

By Level

• Primary
• Secondary
• Tertiary

By Region

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

Key Players

• NSF International
• Bureau Veritas
• SGS S.A.
• Intertek Group plc
• DNV GL
• QAI Global
• Food Safety Net Services
• Certisys
• Eurofins Scientific
• HACCP International
• Vigilant Compliance
• Control Union Certifications
• ICR Services
• Organic Certifiers
• UL Environment, Inc.