Europe Food Cans Market Size and Forecast (2025–2033)

The Europe Food Cans Market was valued at US$ 8.73 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 10.82 billion by 2033, growing at a steady CAGR of 2.44% from 2025–2033. The market is driven by the rising demand for convenient and long-shelf-life food packaging, increasing urbanization, and advancements in eco-friendly material technologies. Moreover, European legislation promoting green, recyclable, and BPA-free cans is further accelerating industry growth.

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Market Overview

Food cans are sealed metal containers—primarily made of aluminum or steel coated with tin—that preserve food for extended durations by protecting it from light, oxygen, bacteria, and other contaminants. They are widely used for packaging vegetables, fruits, meat, seafood, soups, powdered products, and ready-to-eat meals.

In Europe, food cans have become a mainstream packaging solution due to their convenience, affordability, long shelf life, and recyclability. With growing urbanization and fast-paced lifestyles, consumers are increasingly purchasing ready meals, canned vegetables, and packaged seafood, which require minimal preparation while maintaining freshness.

Moreover, the push towards sustainability and eco-conscious consumption has made metal cans more appealing. Since aluminum and steel cans are fully recyclable, they align perfectly with Europe’s circular economy goals and government regulations on sustainable packaging.

Growth Drivers in the Europe Food Cans Market

1. Rising Demand for Convenience and Long Shelf-Life Foods

Urbanization, changing work cultures, and busier lifestyles have fueled demand for ready-to-eat and easy-to-store foods. Canned foods provide long shelf life without refrigeration, making them suitable for households, workplaces, and even outdoor consumption.

According to Eurostat, fast-food spending in European metropolitan areas rose 35% between 2022 and 2024, with more than 60% of young consumers stating they prefer quick, convenient food solutions. This shift toward “food on the go” continues to boost canned food demand.

2. Push Toward Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Packaging

Environmental awareness and governmental regulations are shaping the future of the food cans industry. Cans made of recyclable aluminum and steel align with EU sustainability goals and support the circular economy model.

In March 2024, the European Parliament introduced new rules to ensure that all packaging is recyclable, reduce harmful chemicals, and promote the use of recycled materials. Manufacturers are also shifting toward BPA-free coatings to alleviate consumer concerns over food safety.

This strong policy push, coupled with eco-conscious consumer behavior, is making sustainable food cans a preferred choice among European households.

3. Growth in Processed and Packaged Food Consumption

Europe is experiencing a steady rise in processed and packaged food demand, supported by urban migration, dual-income households, and changing dietary patterns.

Canned vegetables, meat, seafood, and fruits offer not only nutritional preservation but also affordability and convenience. Growth in pet food, baby food, and plant-based ready meals is further expanding market opportunities.

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For instance, in September 2022, UK-based THIS launched three new plant-based ready meals in Tesco supermarkets, including This Isn’t Pork Meatballs & Spaghetti and This Isn’t Chicken Thai Green Curry. Such innovations in plant-based canned meals highlight the shift toward healthier and sustainable diets across Europe.

Market Challenges

1. Health Concerns Over BPA and Toxic Coatings

Despite progress in BPA-free technologies, consumer concerns over toxic linings in food cans persist. Stricter EU food safety regulations are compelling manufacturers to reformulate coatings, which increases production costs. Failure to meet these safety standards could undermine consumer trust and brand reputation.

2. Competition from Alternative Packaging

The growing popularity of flexible pouches, glass jars, and biodegradable packaging presents competition to traditional cans. Many food brands are adopting lightweight, resealable, and eco-friendly packaging formats to appeal to modern consumers. Advances in food preservation technologies are also enabling companies to extend shelf life without metal cans, adding further pressure on the market.

Segment Insights

By Product

·        Aluminum Cans – Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and fully recyclable, aluminum cans dominate the packaging of soups, vegetables, seafood, and ready meals. The focus on 100% recyclability and sustainable practices makes aluminum cans a preferred choice for manufacturers.

·        Steel Cans – Strong and durable, steel cans are widely used for meat, vegetables, and pet food. New innovations in lightweight steel cans and BPA-free linings are making them safer and more sustainable for consumers.

By Application

·        Ready Meals – Rising demand for ready-to-eat curries, pasta dishes, and soups is fueling growth.

·        Vegetables – Canned vegetables remain a household staple, with organic and preservative-free options gaining popularity.

·        Meat & Fish – Canned meats and seafood remain popular due to affordability and storage ease.

·        Pet Food – A fast-growing category, supported by rising pet ownership and demand for premium, grain-free canned food.

·        Fruits & Powder Products – Popular for seasonal availability and convenience.

Country Insights

France

France’s food can market thrives on demand for vegetables, seafood, and gourmet ready meals. French consumers are also embracing eco-friendly, BPA-free cans. Companies are innovating with organic and premium canned products, elevating canned food beyond utility to a culinary experience.

In March 2022, Gopuff entered the French market, offering fast delivery of high-quality food and canned goods, expanding convenience for urban consumers.

Germany

Germany is Europe’s second-largest food can market, supported by strict recycling laws and high demand for meats, vegetables, and pet foods. Manufacturers are innovating with lightweight and reusable food cans to comply with Germany’s eco-conscious culture.

In August 2023, Crown Holdings acquired Helvetia Packaging AG in Saarlouis, expanding its European beverage can capacity by nearly one billion units annually.

United Kingdom

The UK market is witnessing rising demand for organic, additive-free canned foods. British consumers are increasingly health-focused, driving growth in sustainable and premium canned food products.

In January 2024, NOMOQ launched blank aluminum cans for UK brands, allowing businesses to mix digitally printed cans with traditional labels in a streamlined supply chain.

Spain

Spain has a strong tradition of consuming canned fish, olives, and vegetables, making it a robust market. Increasing consumer demand for premium-quality and organic canned foods is prompting companies to adopt eco-friendly practices while retaining Spain’s culinary heritage.

Key Market Segments

Product: Aluminum, Steel
Application: Ready Meals, Meat, Vegetables, Fish, Fruits, Powder Products, Pet Food, Others
Countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Belgium, Netherlands, Russia, Poland, Greece, Norway, Romania, Portugal

Competitive Landscape

The Europe Food Cans Market is highly competitive, with both packaging giants and food processing companies playing crucial roles.

Key Companies

·        Ardagh Group

·        Ball Corporation

·        Can-Pack S.A.

·        CPMC Holdings Limited

·        Crown Holdings Inc.

·        Nestlé S.A.

·        Zwanenberg Food Group

·        Silgan Holdings Inc.

·        Lucky Star Ltd. (Glenryck)

·        Sarten Romania SRL

These players focus on sustainability, innovation, and regional expansion, with mergers and acquisitions further strengthening their European footprint.

Conclusion

The Europe Food Cans Market is undergoing a transition shaped by urbanization, sustainability regulations, and evolving consumer preferences. While aluminum and steel cans remain the backbone of packaging, the industry faces challenges from alternative eco-friendly packaging solutions and stricter safety regulations.

However, with strong demand for ready meals, organic canned vegetables, and pet food, combined with Europe’s push for 100% recyclable packaging, the market is well-positioned for stable long-term growth. Manufacturers that can balance convenience, health, and sustainability will emerge as key winners in the years ahead.

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