Food Pathogen Testing Market Size, Trends and Growth Analysis by 2027

The global food pathogen testing market was valued at approximately US$ 5,360.94 million in 2019 and is anticipated to reach around US$ 9,731.91 million by 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9% from 2020 to 2027.

Food pathogen testing refers to the procedures used to detect harmful bacteria or microbes in food products. This testing is vital for the food industry, as there are around 31 known pathogens that can lead to serious foodborne illnesses. The implementation of food pathogen testing occurs at every stage of food production to guarantee safety. The increasing safety concerns and regulatory measures, driven by a rise in food poisoning incidents, are significant factors contributing to the market's expansion. Furthermore, innovations in testing methodologies, such as polymerase chain reaction and immunomagnetic separation, along with reduced detection times, enhance the adoption of food pathogen testing across various sectors of the food industry.

The market is categorized by pathogen type, including E. coli, salmonella, listeria, campylobacter, and others. In 2019, the salmonella segment dominated the market, holding the largest share, and is projected to exhibit the highest growth rate during the forecast period from 2020 to 2027. Salmonellosis, the illness caused by the salmonella bacteria, typically presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. Salmonella is prevalent in both wild and domesticated animals, particularly in livestock such as pigs, poultry, and cattle. The bacteria can traverse the food supply chain, from animal feed to production facilities and ultimately to consumers. Human infections are primarily linked to the consumption of contaminated animal products, including meat, poultry, and dairy, as well as vegetables tainted by manure. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), salmonella is one of the four leading global causes of diarrheal diseases. While most salmonellosis cases are mild, some can be severe or even fatal, depending on the individual's health and the specific salmonella serotype involved. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that salmonella causes over 1.35 million infections, leading to approximately 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths annually in the United States, with food being the primary source of these illnesses. The Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011 mandates that all packaged foods, particularly infant foods, must be free from salmonella.

Geographically, the global food pathogen testing market is divided into regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East and Africa. In 2019, North America held the largest market share, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The United States is the leading market in North America, with Canada and Mexico also contributing significantly. Numerous food pathogen testing companies have established a strong presence in North America, including SGS SA, Bureau Veritas, Intertek Group Plc, and Eurofins Scientific. These companies are focused on innovating and developing advanced food pathogen testing techniques to enhance food quality and attract a broader consumer base. Salmonella remains a major contributor to foodborne illnesses in this region, affecting a significant number of individuals. Additionally, health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking specialized foods for better health, further driving the growth of the food pathogen testing market in North America. The CDC estimates that approximately 1 in 6 Americans, or 48 million people, are affected by foodborne pathogens each year, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths annually.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which originated in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, has rapidly spread worldwide, significantly impacting various countries, including the US, India, Brazil, Russia, Spain, Argentina, and France, as of November 2020. The pandemic has disrupted economies and industries globally due to lockdowns, travel restrictions, and business closures. The food and beverage processing sector has faced severe challenges, including supply chain disruptions and manufacturing interruptions. The lockdowns of production facilities in China and other key regions like Asia Pacific and Europe have adversely affected global supply chains, impacting the manufacturing, delivery, and sales of numerous products. These factors have significantly influenced the global food pathogen testing market.

Key players in the global food pathogen testing market include Aramasa Co., Ltd., Asahishuzo CO., Ltd., Blue, Current Brewery, Gekkeikan Food Pathogen Testing Co., Ltd., Hakutsuru Food Pathogen Testing Brewing Co., Ltd., Kanpai London Craft Food Pathogen Testing, Ozeki Corporation, Sun Masamune Pty Limited, Takara Food Pathogen Testing USA Inc., and Tatsuuma-Honke Brewing Co., Ltd..

The overall size of the global food pathogen testing market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methods. The research process begins with extensive secondary research utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data related to the market. Additionally, multiple primary interviews are conducted with industry participants and experts to validate and analyze the findings. Participants in this research include industry professionals such as VPs, business development managers, market intelligence managers, national sales managers, and external consultants, including valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the food pathogen testing sector.