How Rapid Technology is Transforming the Food Safety Testing Industry

Food safety has become a global priority, with consumers, governments, and industry leaders demanding stricter standards and better testing methods. According to a recent report by MarketsandMarkets, the Food Safety Testing Market, valued at USD 21.1 billion in 2022, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% to reach USD 31.1 billion by 2027.

This growth reflects rising public concern about food safety and quality, amplified by social media and reinforced by regulatory frameworks such as the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Rising Need for Testing Across Food Categories

Among all food categories, the meat, poultry, and seafood segment is expected to witness the fastest growth. Contamination risks are high during slaughtering, defeathering, and processing, particularly due to poor hygiene practices and inadequate equipment cleaning. To tackle these risks, regulatory bodies like the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) enforce strict HACCP-based rules to minimize contamination.

Pathogens: The Leading Target for Testing

By target type, pathogen testing will hold the largest share of the food safety testing industry. Foodborne pathogens are responsible for millions of gastrointestinal infections annually, costing billions in healthcare and lost productivity. Emerging pathogens—driven by evolving farming practices and global trade—underscore the need for advanced detection technologies. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of robust food testing to reduce risks linked to contamination.

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Rapid Technology Driving Innovation

Traditional testing methods are being rapidly replaced by advanced, cost-efficient solutions. The rapid technology segment, which includes PCR, immunoassay, and chromatography & spectrometry, is expected to dominate the market. These methods are gaining traction, especially among SMEs and startups in regions like China and India, thanks to their speed, accuracy, and affordability. This shift highlights key food safety testing market trends that are reshaping the industry.

Europe Leading the Global Market

Europe is projected to hold the highest share of the market during the forecast period. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reported over 5,000 foodborne outbreaks in 2018, affecting nearly 50,000 people. Salmonella outbreaks linked to egg consumption were particularly prominent. Europe’s stringent testing policies, backed by National Reference Laboratories and EU Reference Laboratories, continue to strengthen consumer trust and accelerate food safety testing market growth.

Key Players Shaping the Market

Major players driving innovation and global reach in this space include leading food safety testing companies such as:

• SGS SA (Switzerland)
• Eurofins Scientific (Luxembourg)
• Intertek Group plc (UK)
• Bureau Veritas (France)
• ALS Limited (Australia)
• TÜV SÜD (Germany)
• NEOGEN Corporation (US)
• Mérieux NutriSciences (US)
• AsureQuality (New Zealand)
• FoodChain ID (US)

These companies are expanding through strategic collaborations, partnerships, and strong distribution networks across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

The global food safety testing market is entering a new era of innovation and regulation. With rising foodborne illnesses, stricter compliance standards, and rapid technology adoption, the industry is set for robust growth. Companies that invest in scalable, accurate, and cost-effective testing solutions will be best positioned to meet both regulatory demands and consumer expectations.