Rapid Food Safety Testing Growth Driven by SGS Leadership

Overview

The Global Rapid Food Safety Testing Market is set to rise from USD 7.1 billion in 2024 to USD 17.6 billion by 2034, advancing at a strong 9.5% CAGR, with North America holding 39.40% (USD 2.7 billion) of the market. Rapid food safety testing includes quick analytical techniques that detect contaminants, pathogens, or harmful substances, enabling manufacturers and regulators to act before unsafe products reach consumers. These tools and kits are becoming essential as companies face stricter scrutiny on ingredients, processing practices, and labelling—especially with the rise of ultra-processed and reformulated foods.

Market growth is reinforced by increasing investments targeting cleaner and safer food production. Companies developing preservative-free products now require frequent testing to ensure safety and consistency. Recent funding momentum underscores this shift, such as Tender Food transitioning into Lasso after raising USD 6.5 million, Khetika securing USD 18 million, Modern Baker receiving €2.8 million, and Actual Veggies attracting USD 7 million. Rising food exports—up 10% during April–August—have further intensified the need for reliable, rapid testing technologies.

Opportunities are expanding in dynamic food-innovation ecosystems. India’s processing sector alone has witnessed over INR 70 billion in PLI-driven investments, while startups like Fambo (INR 21.55 crore) and SuperGround (€2.5 million) are increasing demand for faster, more dependable food safety validation solutions.

Top Key Players in the Market

• SGS S.A.
• NSF International
• Bureau Veritas
• Intertek Group PLC
• Merieux Nutrisciences
• TUV SUD
• AsureQuality Ltd
• Agilent Technologies, Inc.
• QIAGEN
• Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.

1. SGS S.A.

SGS S.A. is a global Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) company supporting food producers with laboratory testing, audits, and compliance processes across global supply chains. Its lab network and expertise help businesses perform routine checks and risk-based programs where turnaround speed is crucial.

In 2024, SGS recorded CHF 6,794 million in sales, reflecting growing demand for assurance services. Géraldine Picaud became CEO in March 2024 as the company continues focusing on execution and strategic expansion. The company remains a leading provider of testing and verification solutions worldwide.

2. NSF International

NSF International is a not-for-profit organization providing standards development, testing, certification, and training programs supporting food, water, and consumer product safety. Its certification systems and technical expertise serve producers who require strong compliance and verification protocols.

Founded in 1944, NSF works globally to support public health. Its CEO, Pedro Sancha, leads the organization’s efforts to strengthen safety through scientific validation and independent oversight, helping food manufacturers meet evolving global expectations.

3. Bureau Veritas

Bureau Veritas provides testing, inspection, and certification services for safety, traceability, and quality improvement across global industries. Its structured audit and compliance services are widely used by food producers seeking to meet strict regulatory and buyer expectations.

Founded in 1828, the company is led by CEO Hinda Gharbi. With operations in more than 140 countries, Bureau Veritas continues expanding its verification, laboratory, and assurance capabilities as outlined in its strategic reports and financial disclosures.

4. Intertek Group PLC

Intertek is a global assurance, testing, inspection, and certification company supporting industries with Total Quality Assurance solutions. In food sectors, Intertek’s laboratories and supplier verification programs help businesses ensure compliance and reduce risk.

The company was founded in 1885 and is led by CEO André Lacroix. Intertek reported £3,393 million in revenue in 2024, demonstrating continued demand for world-class testing, inspection, and certification services across markets.

5. Mérieux NutriSciences

Mérieux NutriSciences provides laboratory testing, advisory, certification, and scientific solutions that support global food safety, quality, and sustainability. Its services help companies meet the expectations of regulators, consumers, and buyers.

With over 50 years of scientific specialization, the company is led by CEO Nicolas Cartier. Its network includes more than 100 accredited laboratories and 8,000+ employees worldwide, supporting both regional and global food safety needs.

6. TÜV SÜD

TÜV SÜD is a global provider of testing, inspection, certification, and advisory services, supporting industries including food processing, manufacturing, and transportation. It helps companies meet compliance expectations and strengthen quality systems.

Founded in 1866, TÜV SÜD reported €3,429 million in revenue in 2024. The company continues to invest in digitalization, acquisitions, and testing infrastructure, supporting faster and more reliable assurance services worldwide.

7. AsureQuality Ltd

AsureQuality is a New Zealand–based assurance company serving food and primary industries. Its services include auditing, laboratory testing, inspection, and global certification services that support export markets.

For FY 2024, AsureQuality reported revenue of $228.4 million and served more than 7,000 customers. Its Integrated Annual Report outlines strong performance across inspection and auditing divisions, reinforcing its role in New Zealand’s food systems.

8. Agilent Technologies, Inc.

Agilent provides analytical instruments, software, consumables, and lab services used in food safety testing and rapid contamination detection. Its systems are widely deployed across chromatography, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopy workflows.

The company reported $6.51 billion in revenue in FY 2024 and is led by CEO Padraig McDonnell, who assumed the role in May 2024. Agilent continues to focus on innovation and expanding its scientific instrument portfolio.

9. QIAGEN

QIAGEN delivers molecular testing tools, sample technologies, and diagnostics used across medical and applied testing laboratories. In rapid testing workflows, its systems support high-throughput pathogen detection and precise molecular analysis.

Headquartered in Venlo, The Netherlands, QIAGEN was founded in 1984 and is led by CEO Thierry Bernard. Its 2024 annual results reflect its continued focus on diagnostics, applied testing, and Sample-to-Insight workflows.

10. Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.

Bio-Rad manufactures life science research instruments and clinical diagnostics products used in laboratories requiring high reliability and accuracy. Its systems support rapid analysis in microbiology and molecular workflows.

Founded in 1952 and headquartered in Hercules, California, Bio-Rad reported $2.6 billion in sales in 2024. The company is led by CEO Norman Schwartz and continues to serve global life science and diagnostics applications.

Conculsion

Rapid food safety testing is becoming a core requirement for modern food supply chains because it helps detect risks early and supports faster decision-making. As products move quickly from farms and factories to retailers, companies need reliable testing methods that reduce delays while protecting consumers. These solutions also strengthen quality controls, improve traceability, and support compliance with stricter regulations and buyer standards. With more innovation in ingredients, cleaner labels, and complex global sourcing, rapid testing provides practical assurance that food remains safe and consistent. Overall, it builds trust across the market while helping brands prevent costly disruptions and protect their reputation.