Food Certification Market Size, Share, Growth & Industry Analysis, By Certification Type (Food Safety Certification, Organic Certification, Quality Certification, Sustainability Certification, Religious Certifications, Non-GMO Certification), By Product Type, By End-use Industry, By Certification Body, and Regional Analysis, 2024-2031

Market Definition

The market encompasses regulatory and third-party certification processes that verify the compliance of food products with safety, quality, and sustainability standards. It involves rigorous inspection, testing, and auditing of raw materials, production methods, and final products to ensure adherence to industry-specific criteria, including organic, non-GMO, halal, and kosher certifications.

These certifications support product formulation by guiding ingredient sourcing and processing techniques while ensuring compliance with international food safety frameworks. The market serves applications across food manufacturing, packaging, and retail sectors, ensuring transparency and consumer trust in product labeling and claims verification.

Food Certification Market Overview

The global food certification market size was valued at USD 5.67 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 5.91 billion in 2024 to USD 8.27 billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.91% during the forecast period.

The market is expanding, due to food safety regulations and increasing consumer demand for transparency in food sourcing. Governments globally are enforcing stricter compliance standards, compelling manufacturers to obtain certifications for product safety and quality assurance.

Additionally, rising health consciousness among consumers is driving the demand for certified organic, non-GMO, and allergen-free products, further boosting the adoption of food certification programs across various industries.

Major companies operating in the food certification industry are SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA, PERRY JOHNSON REGISTRARS, INC., Intertek Group plc, DEKRA SE, AsureQuality Limited, DNV GL AS, TÜV SÜD AG, Kiwa N.V., ALS Limited, EAGLE Certification Group, INTL Certification Limited, Control Union Certifications, Eurofins Scientific, SCS Global Services, and Mérieux NutriSciences Corporation.

Governments and regulatory bodies globally are enforcing strict food safety laws, leading manufacturers to adopt certification programs to ensure compliance. Organizations such as the FDA, EFSA, and CFIA mandate rigorous standards, compelling companies to secure certifications like HACCP, ISO 22000, and BRC to access key markets.

Non-compliance results in heavy penalties, product recalls, and reputational risks, reinforcing the need for certified processes. The demand for third-party audits and accreditation services continues to rise, strengthening the market by ensuring adherence to legal frameworks and mitigating risks associated with contamination, mislabeling, and adulteration.

The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) represents the most comprehensive overhaul of the agency’s food safety regulations. This legislation grants the FDA expanded authority to safeguard consumers and strengthen public health protections.

The FDA has established multiple regulations to implement FSMA, emphasizing that maintaining food safety requires collaborations across various stages of the global supply chain for both human and animal food. These rules outline specific preventive measures that must be followed at each stage to reduce contamination risks and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Key Highlights:

1. The food certification industry size was valued at USD 5.67 billion in 2023.
2. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.91% from 2024 to 2031.
3. North America held a market share of 37.25% in 2023, with a valuation of USD 2.11 billion.
4. The food safety certification segment garnered USD 2.84 billion in revenue in 2023.
5. The processed foods segment is expected to reach USD 3.10 billion by 2031.
6. The food & beverage manufacturers segment secured the largest revenue share of 60.12% in 2023.
7. The in-house certification programs segment is poised for a robust CAGR of 6.36% through the forecast period.
8. The market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.90% during the forecast period.

Market Driver

Increase in Outbreaks of Foodborne Illness es

Rising cases of foodborne illnesses and product recalls have intensified the need for safety protocols, reinforcing the adoption of food certification programs. Contaminated products result in severe economic losses, legal actions, and reputational damage for food producers, making compliance with certification standards a priority.

Certifications such as GFSI-recognized schemes and FSMA requirements ensure preventive controls, traceability, and risk management to reduce contamination risks.

Public health concerns continue to drive regulatory scrutiny, compelling businesses to adopt certified food safety management systems. The food certification market is expanding as companies invest in robust quality assurance frameworks to mitigate health risks.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that foodborne diseases encompass a wide range of illnesses, from gastrointestinal disorders to severe conditions such as cancer. Digestive issues are the most common symptoms; however, these diseases can also lead to neurological, gynecological, and immunological complications.

Globally, one in 10 individuals experiences foodborne illness each year, resulting in over 420,000 fatalities. Children under five are particularly impacted, accounting for 125,000 deaths annually.

Diarrheal diseases are the leading cause, with additional serious consequences including kidney and liver failure, neurological impairments, reactive arthritis, cancer, and life-threatening health outcomes. Businesses are prioritizing certification programs to mitigate risks, ensure compliance, and enhance consumer trust in food safety.

• In November 2024, Perry Johnson Registrars Food Safety, Inc. (PJRFSI), a recognized leader in certification and compliance, introduced its latest initiative, a cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) program for Kratom. This initiative is designed to enhance oversight, establish regulatory standards, and improve consumer awareness within the expanding Kratom industry. By implementing this program, PJRFSI aims to support legitimate Kratom businesses in meeting stringent safety and quality requirements, addressing a critical gap in the market and reinforcing industry-wide best practices.

Market Challenge

Regulatory Complexity and High Compliance Costs

The food certification market faces a significant challenge, due to the complexity and high costs associated with compliance. Meeting diverse regulatory standards across different regions requires extensive testing, documentation, and audits, which can be financially burdensome for Small and Medium-sized nterprises (SMEs).

Additionally, variations in global certification requirements create operational challenges for companies exporting to multiple markets.

Several companies are investing in digital compliance management solutions that streamline documentation and audit processes, reducing administrative burdens. OpenSC, a joint venture between WWF Australia and BCG Digital Ventures, has developed a digital platform that enables supply chain tracking, allowing consumers to verify sustainability claims through QR code scanning.

Safefood 360° offers a web-based food safety and supplier management platform that integrates HACCP, auditing, and pest control management to ensure compliance with global food safety standards. Strategic partnerships with accredited certification bodies help businesses navigate complex regulations efficiently.

Additionally, automation in food safety testing is improving accuracy and cost-effectiveness, making compliance more accessible for all market players.

Market Trend

Technological Advancements in Food Testing

The integration of advanced testing technologies is enhancing food safety verification processes, driving the food certification market. AI-driven quality control systems, blockchain-based traceability solutions, and DNA authentication techniques are improving certification efficiency.

These innovations allow real-time monitoring of food production, ensuring compliance with stringent safety standards. Digital certification platforms are streamlining audit processes, reducing manual errors, and enabling faster regulatory approvals.

Companies are leveraging technology to enhance transparency in the supply chain, supporting consumer confidence in certified products. The adoption of cutting-edge testing methods continues to strengthen food certification frameworks and regulatory enforcement.

• In July 2024, Alden introduced the Suspended Simultaneous Sandwich Assay (SSSA), a groundbreaking advancement in food safety and quality testing. Compact enough to fit in the palm of a hand, this innovation leverages the Internet of Things (IoT) to redefine how food safety, quality, and compliance are ensured, setting a new industry standard.

Food Certification Market Report Snapshot

 Market Segmentation:

• By Certification Type (Food Safety Certification, Organic Certification, Quality Certification, Sustainability Certification, Religious Certifications, and Non-GMO Certification): The food safety certification segment earned USD 2.84 billion in 2023, due to regulatory requirements, increasing consumer demand for verified safe food products, and the rising adoption of globally recognized safety standards by food manufacturers to ensure compliance and market access.
• By Product Type (Processed Foods, Fresh Produce, Dairy Products, Meat & Poultry, Beverages, and Others): The processed foods segment held 40.12% share of the market in 2023, driven by stringent regulatory requirements, rising consumer demand for verified food safety & quality, and the extensive global trade of packaged and ready-to-eat products, necessitating rigorous certification to meet compliance standards.
• By End-Use Industry (Food & Beverage Manufacturers, Retailers & Supermarkets, Exporters & Importers, Food Service Providers, and Government & Regulatory Bodies): The food & beverage manufacturers segment is projected to reach USD 4.38 billion by 2031, owing to regulatory requirements, increasing consumer demand for certified products, and the need to ensure food safety, quality, and compliance across large-scale production and global supply chains.
• By Certification Body (Third-Party Certification Bodies, In-House Certification Programs): The in-house certification programs segment is poised for significant growth at a CAGR of 6.36% through the forecast period, due to its ability to provide customized compliance solutions, enabling food manufacturers to streamline certification processes, reduce third-party dependency, and maintain stringent quality control while adhering to evolving regulatory standards.

Food Certification Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

North America accounted for a market share of around 37.25% in 2023, with a valuation of USD 2.11 billion. The regulatory landscape in North America is among the most rigorous globally, driving the food certification market.

Government agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) enforce strict food safety regulations, including the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR).

These regulations mandate rigorous compliance with hazard analysis, preventive controls, and supply chain verification. Companies operating in North America must secure certifications such as HACCP, SQF, and ISO 22000 to meet legal requirements, fueling the market.

Consumers in North America increasingly prioritize organic, clean-label, and non-GMO food products, driving the demand for verified certifications. The USDA Organic Certification and Non-GMO Project Verified labels have become essential for food manufacturers to meet evolving consumer expectations.

According to the Non-GMO Project's August 2023 report, Non-GMO Project Verified plant-based products account for 57% of total plant-based food sales, with this share increasing annually. Consumer demand for these verified products continues to rise, growing at a rate of 9% per year.

Retail giants and e-commerce platforms emphasize certified organic and non-GMO products, accelerating adoption across the region. The growing preference for certified natural ingredients and sustainable food choices continues to expand the market.

The food certification market in Asia Pacific is poised for significant growth at a robust CAGR of 5.90% over the forecast period. The market in Asia-Pacific is registering significant growth in the packaged and processed food sector, fueling the demand for food certifications.

Urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and evolving dietary habits are driving the consumption of ready-to-eat meals, frozen foods, and convenience snacks. Certifications such as BRCGS, SQF, and HACCP ensure food safety and quality compliance for manufacturers catering to domestic and export markets.

Amid increasing concerns about contamination and product recalls, food brands prioritize certifications to strengthen consumer trust and regulatory adherence, reinforcing the market's expansion.

Furthermore, the growing Muslim and Jewish populations in Asia-Pacific are driving the demand for halal and kosher-certified food products. Countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and India have registered a surge in halal-certified food consumption, with regulatory bodies like JAKIM (Malaysia), MUI (Indonesia), and MUIS (Singapore) playing key roles in standardization.

Halal food exports from the region are also increasing, requiring certification to access international markets. Similarly, kosher-certified food products are gaining traction in urban centers where the demand for specialty foods is rising. This trend is strengthening the market, as manufacturers invest in religious and dietary compliance.

Regulatory Frameworks

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food safety under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, ensuring that food products meet strict safety standards. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees organic certifications through the National Organic Program (NOP), ensuring compliance with strict organic farming and production standards.
• The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) coordinates food safety across EU member states under Regulation (EC) No. 178/2002, which establishes the General Food Law framework. The EU Organic Certification ensures compliance with organic farming regulations. The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system is mandatory across all food production sectors to prevent contamination and ensure traceability.
• China's State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) enforces the Food Safety Law, establishing comprehensive standards for food production, processing, and distribution. The China Organic Certification (COFCC) ensures that products meet strict organic farming standards. The General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) regulates imported food products, requiring foreign suppliers to meet stringent safety and quality standards.
• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) enforces the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, setting stringent safety and labeling requirements. The India Organic Certification is regulated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), ensuring compliance with organic farming standards. FSSAI also enforces HACCP and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) to ensure food safety across the production and distribution process.

Competitive Landscape:

The food certification industry is characterized by several participants, including both established corporations and rising organizations. Market players are actively pursuing strategies such as expansion, acquisitions, and regulatory approvals to strengthen their certification services and drive the market.

Expansion into new geographical markets allows companies to cater to the increasing demand for food safety and compliance certifications, especially in regions with evolving regulatory frameworks. Acquiring smaller certification bodies enables firms to broaden their expertise, integrate advanced testing technologies, and offer a more comprehensive portfolio of certification solutions.

Regulatory approvals from recognized bodies enhance credibility, ensuring adherence to industry standards and improving consumer trust. These strategies are reinforcing market leadership, increasing global reach, and accelerating the adoption of certified food safety solutions.

• In May 2024, SCS Global Services, a leading provider of third-party food & agriculture certifications and standards development, announced its approval by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to offer Proposition 12 Certification. Proposition 12, also known as the Farm Animal Confinement Initiative, sets essential regulations to enhance the living conditions of farm animals in California, ensuring compliance with animal welfare standards.

List of Key Companies in Food Certification Market:

• SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA
• PERRY JOHNSON REGISTRARS, INC.
• Intertek Group plc
• DEKRA SE
• AsureQuality Limited
• DNV GL AS
• TÜV SÜD AG
• Kiwa N.V.
• ALS Limited
• EAGLE Certification Group
• INTL Certification Limited
• Control Union Certifications
• Eurofins Scientific
• SCS Global Services
• Mérieux NutriSciences Corporation

Recent Developments (M&A/Agreements)

• In January 2025, Mérieux NutriSciences announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Bureau Veritas' food testing operations in the U.S. and Canada. This milestone represents a key step in the previously disclosed global transaction, strengthening Mérieux NutriSciences’ position as a leading provider of food testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) services globally.
• In May 2024, Control Union Certifications announced its accreditation and proposed recognition to certify under the new EU Organic Regulation (EU) 2018/848), making it one of the few certification bodies to attain this status. The EU Organic Regulation (EU 2018/848) established comprehensive guidelines for the production, certification, labeling, and marketing of organic food, feed, and other products, including cotton and essential oils, ensuring compliance with stringent organic standards.
• In October 2024, Mérieux NutriSciences announced an agreement to acquire the food testing business of Bureau Veritas for an enterprise value of approximately USD 390 million USD. Supported by its parent company, Institut Mérieux, this strategic acquisition strengthens Mérieux NutriSciences’ commitment to advancing global food safety, health, and sustainability.