Food Ultrasound Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Food Product (Meat and Seafood, Fruits and Vegetables, Beverages, Dairy, Bakery and Confectionery, Others), By Frequency Range (High-Frequency Low-Intensity, Low-Frequency High-Intensity), By Function (Quality Assurance, Microbial Enzyme, Inactivation, Cutting, Emulsification and Homogenization, Cleaning, Others), By Region and Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Food Ultrasound Market was valued at USD 162.71 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 243.65 million in the forecast period with a CAGR of 6.92% through 2030. The ultrasonic technique is employed for testing various materials and substances. In the food industry, these methods are widely used for the analysis and modification of food products. Low-intensity ultrasound provides valuable insights into physicochemical properties such as composition, structure, physical state, and flow rate. High-intensity pulse ultrasound is utilized to induce changes in the physical and chemical properties of foods, including emulsion creation, cell disruption, chemical reactions promotion, enzyme inhibition, meat tenderization, and modification and crystallization processes. Ultrasound finds diverse applications in the food sector, including freezing, harvesting, drying, tampering, bleaching, and sterilizing. The combination of ultrasonic radiation with sterilizing agents helps reduce the presence of microorganisms in food. By minimizing processing costs and ensuring food purity, ultrasound technology plays a crucial role in the food industry.

Ultrasound technology is increasingly gaining traction in the food processing industry due to its non-thermal, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly nature. It offers significant advantages over conventional methods by preserving nutritional value, improving texture, and enhancing flavor without the need for high temperatures or chemical additives. Applications such as ultrasonic-assisted extraction are becoming popular for recovering bioactive compounds, essential oils, and antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, and herbs. This not only boosts product quality but also supports the production of functional and clean-label foods. Furthermore, the scalability and adaptability of ultrasound equipment make it suitable for both small and large-scale operations.

The growing demand for innovative, sustainable, and high-quality food products is accelerating the adoption of ultrasound across various segments, including beverages, dairy, bakery, and meat processing. Governments and food safety authorities are also encouraging the use of non-invasive, residue-free technologies to meet stringent hygiene and labeling standards. As consumer preference shifts towards minimally processed foods with extended shelf life, manufacturers are investing in ultrasonic systems to improve operational efficiency while maintaining product integrity. With continuous advancements in transducer design and process integration, the global food ultrasound market is poised for robust growth over the forecast period.

Key Market Drivers

Rising in the Demand of Processed Foods

The rising demand for processed foods—ranging from frozen meals to packaged meats and beverages—continues to play a significant role in the growth of ultrasound technology in food processing. As modern lifestyles become increasingly fast-paced, consumers are turning to convenient, ready-to-consume options. In 2023, over 75% of urban households in Asia reported a weekly consumption of processed food items. This shift has intensified the need for efficient, non-invasive, and clean-label processing techniques. Ultrasound technology addresses this demand by enhancing product quality, extending shelf life, and preserving nutritional content without relying on heat or additives.

The growing elderly population and rising incidence of chronic diseases are further contributing to this trend. According to recent global health data, individuals aged 65 and older now make up over 10% of the world’s population, a demographic that prefers easy-to-digest, minimally processed, and allergen-free food options. Ultrasound technology is gaining importance in producing tailored food solutions for this segment by improving texture, breaking down tough structures, and enabling fat and sodium reduction without compromising taste or safety. These benefits make ultrasonic methods ideal for addressing dietary restrictions while maintaining the sensory appeal of processed foods.

Moreover, increasing regulatory focus on food safety and accurate labeling is encouraging manufacturers to integrate technologies that ensure purity and transparency. In 2024, nearly 61% of food recalls in Europe were linked to allergen mislabeling or contamination issues. Ultrasound-assisted processing plays a key role in deactivating allergens and improving homogeneity in processed products. By offering precise control during emulsification, sterilization, and crystallization stages, ultrasonic systems help reduce the risk of cross-contamination—thereby supporting compliance with global food safety standards and reducing the likelihood of costly recalls.

In developing countries, growing investments in food infrastructure and processing capabilities are accelerating the adoption of modern techniques like ultrasound. As per a 2023 survey, more than 48% of mid-sized food processors in Southeast Asia plan to adopt ultrasonic systems within the next two years. The ability of ultrasound to enhance efficiency, reduce water and energy usage, and preserve product integrity makes it especially appealing for cost-sensitive markets. Coupled with rising consumer demand for safe, high-quality processed foods, this trend is expected to drive further integration of ultrasonic solutions in the global food processing industry.

Rising Demand for Food Safety and Quality

The rising demand for food safety and quality is a major driver fueling the adoption of ultrasound technology in food processing and testing. With consumers becoming more conscious about what they eat, there is a growing expectation for transparency and assurance in food production. In 2023, around 68% of global consumers reported checking food labels for safety certifications before purchasing packaged products. This growing awareness is pressuring manufacturers to adopt advanced tools like ultrasound, which allows for real-time, non-invasive testing to detect contamination early and ensure the integrity of food products.

Ultrasonic technology is increasingly used to identify microbial contamination, including bacteria and fungi, which are common culprits behind foodborne illnesses. According to recent health surveillance data, over 600 million people globally fall ill each year due to unsafe food. Ultrasound assists in reducing this risk by enabling rapid and reliable detection of pathogens at various stages of production. Its application in surface decontamination and internal structure analysis also enhances the ability to detect foreign particles or spoilage, thus improving overall product safety and minimizing the chances of compromised goods reaching consumers.

In addition to pathogen detection, ultrasound plays a key role in quality control of foods such as fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat. The technology can identify defects like bruises, internal rot, or ripeness levels that are not visible externally. In 2024, a study found that ultrasound-based assessment increased the accuracy of internal quality detection in perishable produce by 37% compared to traditional methods. This non-destructive approach supports producers in maintaining product consistency, reducing waste, and meeting the high-quality expectations of both retailers and end consumers.

Furthermore, rising international trade and tighter import/export regulations have amplified the demand for standardized food quality checks. Authorities in many countries now require scientific validation of product quality and safety before market entry. Ultrasound technology, with its ability to conduct fast, reliable, and residue-free testing, is gaining favor among exporters aiming to comply with diverse regulatory frameworks. As global supply chains expand and consumer scrutiny intensifies, the integration of ultrasound in food safety protocols is expected to become even more prevalent throughout the forecast period.

Technological Innovations

Food ultrasound solutions, like other industries, are embracing new technological approaches to enhance testing operations. The leading manufacturers in the food industry are constantly collaborating to develop cutting-edge ultrasonic detection devices. For instance, the collaboration between Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation and QIAGEN N.V. in 2015 aimed to achieve significant breakthroughs in molecular testing. The objective of this collaboration was to develop new automated PCR and NGS systems.

Traditional thermal food processing methods can alter the flavor, color, texture, or nutritional value of a product. The increasing demand for process efficiency and environmentally friendly technologies has led to a growing need for energy-efficient ultrasonic technology. Ultrasonic technology not only helps preserve sensory characteristics but also improves productivity. Moreover, it caters to the modern consumer's preference for natural, fresh, and minimally processed meals, as it eliminates the need for preservatives or additives in the manufacturing process.

Multiple Use in Food Industry

The ultrasonic technique is employed for the testing and analysis of various materials, with particular emphasis on its application in the food industry. Low-intensity ultrasound provides valuable insights into physicochemical properties such as composition, structure, physical state, and flow rate. On the other hand, high-intensity ultrasound is utilized to alter the physical or chemical characteristics of food, enabling the creation of emulsions, disruption of cells, promotion of chemical reactions, enzyme inhibition, meat tenderization, and modification and crystallization processes.

In the food sector, ultrasound finds diverse applications including freezing, harvesting, drying, tampering, bleaching, and sterilizing. The utilization of ultrasonic radiation in conjunction with sterilizing agents effectively reduces microbial contamination in food. By minimizing processing costs and ensuring the purity of food products, ultrasound plays a crucial role in enhancing food safety and quality.

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Key Market Challenges

Lack Of Skilled Labors

The lack of skilled labor poses a significant challenge to the adoption and scalability of ultrasound technology in the food industry. Despite its numerous advantages, including precision, energy efficiency, and versatility, the operation of ultrasonic equipment requires specialized training and a deep understanding of food science and processing dynamics. Many food processing facilities, especially in developing regions, struggle to recruit or retain personnel with the technical skills necessary to calibrate, operate, and interpret data from ultrasonic systems. Additionally, the integration of ultrasound with automated processing lines and digital quality control systems demands familiarity with advanced software and instrumentation. Without adequately trained staff, companies face increased downtime, improper usage, and even equipment damage—negating the intended benefits of the technology. This skill gap limits the widespread implementation of ultrasound, especially in small and mid-sized enterprises that often lack the resources to invest in ongoing training and technical support.

Moreover, the absence of skilled labor extends beyond equipment operation and impacts decision-making at the managerial and strategic levels. Food safety and quality control teams must understand how to align ultrasonic technology with regulatory requirements, product-specific variables, and emerging processing trends. In many cases, the workforce lacks sufficient exposure to non-thermal and novel food processing methods, making them hesitant to adopt or trust such solutions. This slows down the rate of innovation and leads to a continued reliance on outdated techniques, even when superior alternatives like ultrasound are available. Training institutions and food tech programs often lag in updating their curricula to include modern processing technologies, contributing to a talent shortage in this niche field. Bridging this knowledge gap is critical for maximizing the potential of ultrasound in food safety testing and production environments.

High Cost of Maintenance

Food ultrasound equipment necessitates substantial initial investment from end-users, posing a barrier for small and medium-sized food manufacturers with limited budgets. This high cost of technology also restricts the entry of new players, resulting in decreased competition and ultimately leading to higher prices for customers. These factors present challenges to the growth of the market at hand.

The growth of the market is further hindered by technological complexities and the need for significant capital investment. Additionally, stringent food safety regulations and a lack of skilled technicians impede market growth. Moreover, ultrasound often impacts the chemical and physical properties of food, resulting in off-flavors, discoloration, and other undesirable effects. These factors serve as obstacles to market expansion.

Key Market Trends

Adoption of Technology by Dairy Industry

Ultrasound food testing is gaining popularity in the dairy industry, as highlighted in the report. This technology is being adopted by dairy companies for the analysis of milk and dairy products, offering advantages over manual testing methods that are both time-consuming and costly. Ultrasound analysis allows for the detection of changes in milk composition, such as fat and protein content, which play a critical role in maintaining product quality. Additionally, it enables the measurement of milk homogenization, cheese texture, and other parameters that are vital in the dairy industry. As a result, the increasing utilization of ultrasound technology in the dairy industry is expected to have a positive impact on market growth during the forecast period.

Increasing Use in the Packaging of Food Products

The growing adoption of ultrasound technology in the packaged food and beverage industry presents a significant opportunity for the market. Moreover, ultrasonic food technology offers a solution to these challenges, while also improving energy efficiency in the process. Additionally, the food industry benefits from various applications such as crystallization, degassing, freezing, extraction, drying, filtration, and bleaching, which contribute to the market's growth during the forecast period. Furthermore, factors such as increasing demand for adaptation, growth in food processing industries and food sectors, as well as the need for food modification and examination, are expected to drive the growth of the food ultrasound market. Lastly, the market is anticipated to be propelled by the increasing demand for higher quality and affordable food products.

Segmental Insights

Food Product Insights

In 2024, the Meat and Seafood segment was dominating the global food ultrasound market due to the high demand for quality assurance and preservation in these perishable food categories. Ultrasound technology plays a crucial role in improving tenderness, enhancing marination, and extending shelf life without compromising nutritional value. It also enables non-destructive testing for detecting microbial contamination, structural defects, and freshness levels. With increasing consumer demand for safe, high-protein foods and strict regulatory standards for meat and seafood products, manufacturers are adopting ultrasound to ensure consistency, safety, and quality, thus driving its widespread use in this segment.

Function Insights

In 2024, Quality Assurance was dominating the global food ultrasound market as manufacturers prioritize delivering safe, consistent, and high-quality products. Ultrasound technology enables non-invasive, real-time evaluation of food properties such as texture, moisture content, and internal defects, ensuring adherence to regulatory and consumer standards. With rising concerns over food authenticity, labeling accuracy, and contamination, ultrasound supports efficient quality checks across various food categories without altering the product. Its ability to detect inconsistencies early in the production cycle minimizes waste and recalls. As consumer expectations for transparency and product integrity grow, ultrasound-driven quality assurance is becoming a critical industry standard.

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Regional Insights

The North American market is anticipated to dominate the food ultrasound market in 2024, driven by strong regulatory frameworks, advanced food processing infrastructure, and growing demand for clean-label, high-quality products. The region’s stringent food safety standards enforced by agencies such as the FDA and USDA are pushing manufacturers to adopt innovative, non-thermal technologies like ultrasound for quality control, preservation, and pathogen detection. Additionally, increasing consumer awareness of food safety, coupled with the rising consumption of processed and convenience foods, is fueling demand for efficient and sustainable processing methods. Ongoing technological advancements and strong investment in R&D further position North America as a leader in ultrasound adoption within the food industry. 

Recent Developments

• In April 2025, Sonofai Inc., in collaboration with Fujitsu, Ishida Tec, and Tokai University, has unveiled the SONOFAI T‑01, an AI‑driven ultrasonic inspection device capable of assessing the fat content of frozen albacore tuna non‑destructively. Delivering results in just 12 seconds with up to 80% labor efficiency gains the device ensures consistent quality, reduces reliance on expert assessors, and supports scalable deployment across seafood processing facilities.

Key Market Players

• Hitachi Corporation
• Siemens Healthcare
• Analogic Corporation
• FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation
• Koninklijke Philips N.V
• Esaote S.p.A
• Mindray Medical International Ltd.
• Robert Bosch GmbH
• Emerson Electric Co.
• Buehler’s Fresh Foods
  

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Food Ultrasound Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

            ·         Food Ultrasound Market, By Food Product:

o   Meat and Seafood

o   Fruits and Vegetables

o   Beverages

o   Dairy

o   Bakery and Confectionery

o   Others

            ·         Food Ultrasound Market, By Frequency Range:

o   High-Frequency Low-Intensity

o   Low-Frequency High-Intensity

            ·         Food Ultrasound Market, By Function:

o   Quality Assurance

o   Microbial Enzyme

o   Inactivation

o   Cutting

o   Emulsification and Homogenization

o   Cleaning

o   Others

            ·         Food Ultrasound Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Food Ultrasound Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Food Ultrasound market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).