Parafilm Trends 2025–2029: Surprising Growth Drivers & Game-Changing Innovations Revealed

Table of Contents

• Executive Summary: Key Insights for 2025–2029
• Market Overview: Size, Segments, and Growth Forecasts
• Emerging Technologies in Parafilm Preservation
• Key Players and Strategic Partnerships
• Regulatory Landscape and Compliance Updates
• Sustainability Initiatives and Eco-Friendly Alternatives
• End-User Industries: Labs, Pharma, Food, and More
• Breakthrough Applications and Case Studies
• Regional Hotspots and Expansion Opportunities
• Future Outlook: Disruptive Trends and Competitive Strategies
• Sources & References

Executive Summary: Key Insights for 2025–2029

The global landscape for Parafilm preservation solutions is entering a period of sustained demand and incremental innovation from 2025 through 2029. Parafilm, a versatile thermoplastic film, remains a gold standard for laboratory sealing and preservation applications, particularly in biosciences, pharmaceuticals, and food diagnostics. Key drivers in this period include increased R&D activities, heightened requirements for sample integrity, and a growing emphasis on sustainability and regulatory compliance.

Major manufacturers, led by Bemis Company, Inc.—the original producer of Parafilm—continue to refine product formulations to enhance flexibility, barrier properties, and chemical resistance. Recent product enhancements focus on improving performance under extreme conditions, ensuring long-term sample preservation, and reducing contamination risk. For instance, Parafilm M® remains a flagship product, widely adopted for sealing petri dishes, test tubes, and flasks, with ongoing improvements to address user feedback and evolving laboratory protocols.

From 2025 onwards, institutions in life sciences and diagnostics are projected to increase their consumption of Parafilm preservation solutions due to a surge in global bioscience research and expanded laboratory infrastructure in emerging markets. Companies such as MilliporeSigma and Thermo Fisher Scientific have broadened their distribution networks, making Parafilm more accessible to laboratories worldwide. This expansion correlates with the rising adoption of standardized laboratory practices and the need for secure sample management.

Sustainability is becoming a central theme, as laboratories seek to minimize environmental impact. Manufacturers are responding with initiatives to develop recyclable or partially bio-based Parafilm alternatives, aiming to balance product performance with ecological considerations. While conventional Parafilm remains non-biodegradable, research into new formulations is underway, supported by stakeholder calls for greener laboratory supplies.

Looking ahead to 2029, the outlook for Parafilm preservation solutions is positive, with consistent growth anticipated, especially in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Enhanced product innovation, expanded distribution, and sustainability initiatives are likely to define the sector. Stakeholders—including researchers, procurement managers, and compliance officers—should monitor advancements from leading suppliers and evolving best practices to ensure optimal laboratory preservation outcomes.

Market Overview: Size, Segments, and Growth Forecasts

The market for Parafilm preservation solutions is poised for sustained growth in 2025 and the coming years, driven by expanding applications in laboratory, medical, agricultural, and industrial segments. Parafilm, a semi-transparent, flexible, waterproof, and thermoplastic film, is widely used for sealing and protecting laboratory vessels, specimens, and sensitive materials. The increasing demand for reliable preservation and contamination prevention aligns with the ongoing expansion of research activities in life sciences, pharmaceuticals, and food technology.

As of 2025, the global Parafilm market is characterized by a robust supply chain anchored by established manufacturers such as Bemis Company, Inc. and distributed worldwide by companies like MilliporeSigma and Fisher Scientific. The laboratory segment remains the largest, with Parafilm serving as a standard for sealing petri dishes, flasks, and test tubes to prevent moisture loss and contamination. There is also growing adoption in the food sector, where Parafilm is utilized for packaging and preserving perishable samples, and in agriculture for grafting and protecting plant material.

Market segmentation in 2025 indicates that academic and research laboratories account for a significant share, followed by pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, environmental testing facilities, and food safety labs. The expansion of university research programs and an increase in pharmaceutical R&D investments are expected to drive up demand for Parafilm solutions. Moreover, with the rise of biospecimen banking and biorepositories, especially in Asia-Pacific and North America, the need for reliable sealing and preservation materials is set to increase.

Innovation in Parafilm products is underway, with manufacturers such as Thermo Fisher Scientific and VWR, part of Avantor offering improved formats, such as pre-cut sheets and rolls for enhanced convenience and reduced waste. Some suppliers are focusing on sustainability, exploring recyclable or biodegradable alternatives to conventional Parafilm to address environmental concerns.

Looking forward, the outlook for Parafilm preservation solutions is optimistic. The market is expected to grow steadily through 2025 and the next few years, supported by ongoing investments in scientific infrastructure, heightened emphasis on sample integrity, and regulatory focus on contamination control. Regional growth in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, where laboratory infrastructure is expanding, is likely to outpace more mature markets. In summary, Parafilm preservation solutions are set for increased adoption and innovation, maintaining their vital role across multiple industries.

Emerging Technologies in Parafilm Preservation

The landscape of parafilm preservation solutions is undergoing significant transformation in 2025, driven by advancements in material science and increasing demand across laboratory, medical, and archival sectors. Parafilm, a pliable thermoplastic widely used for sealing and protecting laboratory samples, is seeing enhancements in both its composition and application technologies.

One of the key innovations this year is the integration of advanced polymer blends to improve the barrier properties of parafilm. Leading manufacturers such as Bemis Company, Inc.—the original developer of Parafilm®—have introduced new formulations that offer improved resistance to moisture vapor transmission and volatile organic compounds, extending the usability of preserved samples. These advancements are particularly relevant for sensitive biological and chemical specimens, where sample integrity is paramount.

Automation is another area witnessing rapid growth. Major laboratory equipment suppliers, including Thermo Fisher Scientific, are rolling out automated dispensers and applicators designed to enhance efficiency and provide consistent sealing. These technologies reduce manual handling, minimizing the risk of contamination and human error, which is especially crucial in high-throughput laboratory environments.

Digital integration is also emerging, with RFID-enabled parafilm rolls and sealing systems that can track usage, monitor storage conditions, and ensure compliance with laboratory protocols. This trend is being led by companies such as SARSTEDT AG & Co., which are embedding smart tracking features into preservation systems to support data-driven laboratory management and traceability.

• Sustainability Initiatives: The pressure to reduce environmental impact is prompting suppliers to develop biodegradable or recyclable parafilm alternatives. Pilot projects are underway at firms like MilliporeSigma (the life science business of Merck KGaA), which is testing plant-based plasticizers and compostable materials to create eco-friendly sealing films.
• Outlook for 2025 and Beyond: The coming years are likely to see further convergence of material innovation and digital technologies, with parafilm solutions playing a critical role in the reproducibility and reliability of scientific research. Expansion into new fields, such as art conservation and archival restoration, is anticipated as these sectors adopt laboratory-grade preservation standards.

Overall, the evolution of parafilm preservation solutions in 2025 reflects a blend of technological sophistication and environmental responsibility, setting the stage for more robust and sustainable sample protection methods in the years ahead.

Key Players and Strategic Partnerships

The landscape of parafilm preservation solutions in 2025 is shaped by a select group of key players and the strategic partnerships they forge to enhance product innovation, distribution, and sustainability. As laboratories, museums, and industrial users seek more reliable and environmentally conscious materials for sealing and preservation, market leaders are responding with collaborative initiatives and expanded global reach.

At the forefront is Bemis Company, Inc., the original developer and principal manufacturer of Parafilm® products. The company continues to innovate with its flagship Parafilm® M laboratory film, widely adopted for its flexibility, chemical resistance, and moisture barrier properties. In 2024 and 2025, Bemis has prioritized partnerships with scientific supply distributors, such as Fisher Scientific and Sigma-Aldrich, to ensure rapid availability and localized support for research institutions worldwide. These alliances facilitate not only efficient distribution but also the co-development of customized preservation solutions tailored to specific industry needs.

Sustainability is a growing focus in the sector, with key players investing in eco-friendly manufacturing and end-of-life disposal initiatives. Bemis has announced strategic collaborations with material science institutes and laboratory supply chains to develop next-generation films that offer improved biodegradability and recyclability, addressing increasing regulatory and institutional demands for greener laboratory practices. In parallel, Avantor, Inc. has entered into sourcing agreements with certified raw material suppliers to enhance the traceability and environmental compliance of its preservation film products.

Another noteworthy trend is the integration of parafilm solutions in museum and archival preservation. The Smithsonian Institution continues to work directly with leading manufacturers to test and validate the efficacy of parafilm products in preserving sensitive artifacts and biological samples, resulting in technical feedback that shapes product development.

Looking ahead, industry outlook points to the continued expansion of strategic partnerships, especially in emerging markets across Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Key players are establishing joint ventures with regional suppliers to address local regulatory requirements and unique preservation challenges. Additionally, digitalization efforts—such as e-commerce platforms and automated inventory systems—are expected to streamline procurement and support for parafilm solutions, further cementing the role of strategic alliances in driving innovation and market growth through 2025 and beyond.

Regulatory Landscape and Compliance Updates

The regulatory landscape for parafilm preservation solutions is evolving in 2025, driven by heightened global attention to laboratory safety, environmental sustainability, and compliance with chemical handling standards. Parafilm, a flexible, thermoplastic film commonly used for sealing and protecting labware, must adhere to strict regulations regarding its composition, usage, and disposal, especially as laboratories worldwide increase their focus on sustainable practices.

In the United States, parafilm products must comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines for laboratory safety and chemical exposure, as well as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations on plastic waste and recycling. Bemis Company, Inc., the primary manufacturer of Parafilm M, has worked to update its Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and product labeling to align with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), which is now mandatory for laboratory consumables distributed in North America and Europe.

The European Union has also made significant regulatory changes impacting parafilm preservation solutions. The Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation requires detailed documentation of the chemical composition and potential hazards associated with parafilm products. In 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) introduced stricter requirements for plastics used in laboratory environments, emphasizing the need for traceable supply chains and reduced environmental impact. Manufacturers like Sigma-Aldrich (part of Merck KGaA) have updated their compliance protocols and product transparency in response, offering detailed recycling and disposal guidelines to support laboratory clients.

In Asia-Pacific, regulatory harmonization efforts are underway, with countries such as Japan and South Korea aligning their chemical safety standards with those of the EU and US. Suppliers, including Fisher Scientific, have responded by providing multilingual regulatory documentation and supporting laboratories in navigating import/export requirements for parafilm products.

Looking ahead, the outlook for parafilm preservation solutions in 2025 and beyond will be shaped by ongoing efforts to reduce single-use plastics in laboratories, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Industry stakeholders are exploring biodegradable alternatives and closed-loop recycling programs, which may soon fall under new regulatory frameworks. Manufacturers, distributors, and end-users are expected to face increasing scrutiny regarding the environmental lifecycle of parafilm products, prompting further innovation and adaptation to meet both safety and sustainability mandates.

Sustainability Initiatives and Eco-Friendly Alternatives

In 2025, the laboratory and packaging sectors that rely on Parafilm preservation solutions are witnessing a concerted push toward sustainability and eco-friendly alternatives. Parafilm, a paraffin-based flexible film, has long been valued for its excellent sealing and moisture barrier properties, especially in laboratories and food preservation. However, growing environmental concerns regarding single-use plastics and paraffin derivatives—typically sourced from petroleum—have prompted manufacturers and users alike to explore greener options.

In response, leading Parafilm producer Bemis Company, Inc. (now part of Amcor plc) has initiated research into reformulating Parafilm with bio-based feedstocks. While petroleum-based Parafilm remains the industry standard, 2025 has seen pilot projects aiming to incorporate plant-derived waxes and biodegradable polymers into new product lines. Amcor, the parent company, has publicly committed to increasing the use of recycled and renewable materials across its portfolio, aiming for all packaging to be recyclable, reusable, or compostable by 2025—a goal that extends to laboratory films and wraps as well (Amcor).

On the distribution and supply side, companies like Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and Sigma-Aldrich (now part of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany) have expanded their catalogs to include eco-friendlier film alternatives. These include options made with biodegradable or compostable polymers, as well as reusable silicone-based wraps. In 2025, Thermo Fisher’s “Green Choices” program highlights products that reduce environmental footprints, with increased visibility for alternatives to conventional Parafilm (Thermo Fisher Scientific).

• Merck KGaA has introduced laboratory films with enhanced recyclability and lower environmental impact, and is collaborating with industry groups to develop standardized criteria for “green” lab consumables (Merck KGaA).
• Industry-wide, the ASTM International and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) are working on updated standards for biopolymer-based packaging and laboratory films, expected to be published in late 2025, which will further drive adoption of sustainable Parafilm alternatives.

Outlook for the next few years suggests continued innovation, with bio-based and compostable preservation films increasingly available in laboratory and food safety supply chains. As regulatory and institutional pressure mounts—especially in Europe and North America—adoption of eco-friendly Parafilm solutions is expected to accelerate, ultimately reducing reliance on fossil-derived materials and aligning laboratory operations with broader sustainability goals.

End-User Industries: Labs, Pharma, Food, and More

Parafilm, a flexible, thermoplastic film primarily used for sealing and protecting laboratory vessels, continues to be an essential preservation solution across a range of end-user industries in 2025. Its unique properties—moisture resistance, stretchability, and chemical inertness—make it indispensable for maintaining sample integrity, preventing contamination, and extending shelf life in diverse environments.

In laboratories, Parafilm remains a staple for sealing flasks, petri dishes, and reagent bottles. Demand is projected to remain strong through 2025 and beyond, fueled by the global growth in life sciences research and academic laboratory activities. Leading suppliers such as Bemis Company, Inc. (the manufacturer of Parafilm M) continue to innovate packaging and roll formats to fit the evolving needs of research institutions and quality assurance labs.

The pharmaceutical sector, which relies heavily on contamination-free sample handling, represents another major end-user. Parafilm’s chemical resistance and tight-sealing ability play a critical role in the storage of active pharmaceutical ingredients and biological samples. Companies such as MilliporeSigma and Fisher Scientific list Parafilm M among their core laboratory consumables, underscoring its continued importance in pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality control, and R&D applications.

In the food and beverage industry, Parafilm is increasingly employed to extend the freshness of samples, ingredients, and even artisanal products during processing and storage. With heightened scrutiny over food safety and traceability, particularly in 2025’s globalized supply chains, Parafilm offers a reliable barrier against moisture loss and microbial ingress. Companies like VWR International supply Parafilm to food laboratories, packaging operations, and inspection agencies, supporting compliance with food safety protocols.

Emerging applications are also being explored in sectors such as cosmetics, agriculture, and environmental testing. For example, agricultural research stations use Parafilm to seal plant tissue culture vessels, while environmental labs employ it to preserve soil and water samples for trace analysis.

Looking ahead to the next few years, sustainability concerns are encouraging manufacturers to assess recyclable or biodegradable alternatives while maintaining the protective qualities that make Parafilm valuable. However, no direct substitute with identical properties has yet achieved mainstream adoption. As regulatory and end-user demands evolve, the versatility and proven performance of Parafilm preservation solutions are expected to sustain robust demand across laboratories, pharmaceuticals, food, and other sectors through at least 2027.

Breakthrough Applications and Case Studies

Parafilm, a versatile thermoplastic, has long been a staple in laboratories for sealing and preserving samples. In 2025, its applications continue to expand beyond traditional boundaries, with breakthrough use cases emerging across scientific research, healthcare, and industrial sectors.

One notable recent development is the adoption of Parafilm in the preservation of genetic and biological samples under extreme conditions. Researchers at leading biorepositories have reported success in using Parafilm to enhance the longevity of DNA, RNA, and protein specimens, minimizing evaporation and contamination during long-term storage. These advances are especially relevant as global biobanking expands and the need for reliable sample integrity rises. For instance, MilliporeSigma—a major supplier of Parafilm—has highlighted its utility in cryopreservation workflows, where it is used to seal vials and microplates, ensuring airtight storage at ultra-low temperatures.

In the field of agriculture and botany, Parafilm is being leveraged for innovative grafting and propagation techniques. Recent studies demonstrate that Parafilm-wrapped graft unions reduce desiccation and improve graft success rates, facilitating the preservation of endangered plant species and the development of resilient crop varieties. Institutions such as Thermo Fisher Scientific have documented case studies where Parafilm applications in plant tissue culture have contributed to higher viability and reduced contamination, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

Another breakthrough application involves the use of Parafilm in microfluidics and biomedical engineering. Engineers are utilizing Parafilm as a flexible, biocompatible substrate for prototyping lab-on-a-chip devices. The material’s stretchability and sealing properties enable rapid development and iterative testing, which accelerates diagnostics innovation. Case studies from Parafilm M itself highlight collaborations with academic labs to create custom microfluidic channels and chambers, demonstrating Parafilm’s value in next-generation analytical devices.

Outlook for the coming years suggests further integration of Parafilm into preservation solutions, particularly as research standards for reproducibility and sample security tighten. Companies are investing in enhanced grades of Parafilm with improved barrier properties and chemical resistance to meet specific preservation challenges. With ongoing input from end-users across life sciences, agriculture, and material sciences, the next wave of breakthrough applications is expected to further cement Parafilm’s role in reliable, innovative preservation strategies.

Regional Hotspots and Expansion Opportunities

In 2025, the global landscape for parafilm preservation solutions is marked by both established regional strongholds and emerging zones of high growth potential. North America and Europe continue to lead in terms of market maturity and adoption, driven by robust research infrastructures, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and food quality control sectors. The United States, in particular, remains a pivotal hub, with demand sustained by an extensive network of laboratories and life science companies. Bemis Company, Inc., the manufacturer of Parafilm M, maintains a significant production and distribution presence in this region, ensuring supply continuity and innovation in line with regulatory requirements.

Europe, with its stringent standards for laboratory consumables and active investments in biosciences, is witnessing steady adoption of advanced preservation techniques. Countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are increasing their focus on research and development, which correlates with a heightened need for reliable sealing and preservation solutions like parafilm. In response, suppliers and distributors such as VWR International are expanding their logistics and storage capabilities across the continent to meet growing demand.

Asia-Pacific stands out as a rapidly expanding regional hotspot. The region’s pharmaceutical manufacturing boom, particularly in China and India, is fueling heightened consumption of laboratory supplies. Ongoing investments in biotechnology and food safety—supported by both government initiatives and private sector expansion—are expected to significantly increase the demand for parafilm preservation materials through 2025 and beyond. Local distributors, such as Fisher Scientific in India, are actively enhancing their portfolios to cater to this growing market segment.

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are at earlier stages of market development but represent notable expansion opportunities. In Brazil and South Africa, growth in agricultural research and food export industries is spurring increased utilization of preservation solutions. International suppliers are partnering with local distributors to improve access and technical support for parafilm products.

Looking ahead, the next few years are expected to bring further regional diversification in the parafilm market, with strategic investments in supply chain localization and tailored product offerings. Companies are likely to focus on eco-friendly formulations and packaging to meet evolving regulatory and sustainability standards, especially in Europe and North America, while expanding reach in high-growth Asia-Pacific and Latin American markets.

Future Outlook: Disruptive Trends and Competitive Strategies

As global laboratory and industrial sectors move into 2025, Parafilm preservation solutions are at a pivotal crossroads, characterized by disruptive technological trends and evolving competitive strategies. Parafilm, a flexible, thermoplastic film primarily used for sealing and preserving laboratory samples, is witnessing significant shifts driven by sustainability concerns, automation, and regulatory changes.

One of the most influential trends is the demand for environmentally responsible alternatives. Key players like Bemis Company, Inc. (producer of the original Parafilm M®) are investing in research to create biodegradable or compostable variants of Parafilm, in response to mounting regulations on single-use plastics and laboratory waste. Recent product development announcements suggest that new lines of parafilm, incorporating plant-based polymers, are in advanced testing phases and may enter the market by 2026, aiming to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance.

Automation and digital integration are also shaping the competitive landscape. Laboratories are increasingly adopting automated sample processing and storage systems, requiring preservation materials compatible with robotic handling and high-throughput workflows. Leading suppliers, such as MilliporeSigma (a subsidiary of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), are responding by offering parafilm rolls and sheets in standardized dimensions and dispensers tailored for automated systems. This shift is not only boosting operational efficiency but also expanding market opportunities for solution providers who can offer customization and integration services.

Furthermore, global supply chain resilience is becoming a strategic focus. Events in recent years, including pandemic-related disruptions, have highlighted vulnerabilities in sourcing raw materials and distributing laboratory consumables. Companies are exploring local manufacturing partnerships and digital inventory management to ensure steady supply, with Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. enhancing its global logistics and distribution networks to maintain rapid delivery of parafilm and related products.

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, the competitive strategy for parafilm preservation solution providers will revolve around innovation in sustainable materials, compatibility with laboratory automation, and robust supply chain management. Market leaders are expected to intensify their investments in R&D, form strategic alliances with automation firms, and proactively address regulatory requirements for eco-friendly laboratory practices. As these trends converge, the sector is set for both substantial transformation and growth in the coming years.

Sources & References

• Bemis Company, Inc.
• Thermo Fisher Scientific
• Fisher Scientific
• VWR, part of Avantor
• SARSTEDT AG & Co.
• Avantor, Inc.
• Smithsonian Institution
• Amcor
• ASTM International
• International Organization for Standardization (ISO)