Food-grade Gases Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Nitrogen, Oxygen, Carbon Dioxide), By Application (Freezing & Chilling, Packaging, Carbonation) and Regional Forecast, 2026-2034

The global food grade gases market size was valued at USD 9.57 billion in 2025. The market is projected to grow from USD 10.34 billion in 2026 to USD 19.14 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.00% during the forecast period.

The Food-grade Gases Market is a vital segment within the global food processing and preservation industry, enabling improved shelf life, product safety, and quality maintenance across various food applications. Food-grade gases such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen are widely used in packaging, freezing, chilling, and carbonation processes. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 65% of packaged food products rely on modified atmosphere packaging using food-grade gases to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Increasing demand for processed and convenience foods is driving the Food-grade Gases Market Growth, strengthening the Food-grade Gases Market Outlook and expanding Food-grade Gases Market Opportunities globally.

The USA Food-grade Gases Market accounts for approximately 34% of global demand, driven by advanced food processing infrastructure and high consumption of packaged foods. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights that over 70% of food packaging companies in the United States utilize food-grade gases for preservation and quality enhancement. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal strong demand from meat processing, beverage carbonation, and frozen food industries. Increasing consumer preference for ready-to-eat meals and extended shelf-life products continues to support Food-grade Gases Market Growth. Technological advancements in packaging and cold chain logistics further strengthen Food-grade Gases Market Opportunities across the United States.

Key Findings

Market Size & Growth

• Global Market Size 2025: USD 9.57 billion
• Global Market Forecast 2034: USD 19.14 billion
• CAGR (2025–2034): 8.00%

Market Share – Regional

• North America: 34%
• Europe: 26%
• Asia-Pacific: 28%
• Rest of World: 12%

Country-Level Shares

• Germany: 5% of Europe’s market 
• United Kingdom: 4% of Europe’s market
• Japan: 4% of Asia-Pacific market
• China: 10% of Asia-Pacific market

Food-grade Gases Market Latest Trends

The Food-grade Gases Market Trends indicate a strong shift toward sustainable and eco-friendly food preservation methods, with over 60% of manufacturers adopting modified atmosphere packaging techniques to reduce food waste. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis highlights increasing demand for nitrogen and carbon dioxide in packaging applications due to their ability to extend product shelf life by nearly 30%. Another key trend in the Food-grade Gases Industry Analysis is the growing use of cryogenic freezing technologies, which improve food quality and texture retention. The Food-grade Gases Market Report shows rising adoption of high-purity gases to meet stringent food safety regulations. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing integration of automation in gas delivery systems, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs.

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The Food-grade Gases Market Trends also show growing demand for customized gas mixtures tailored to specific food products. Beverage carbonation continues to drive carbon dioxide demand. The Food-grade Gases Market Opportunities are expanding with the growth of online food delivery and cold chain logistics. These trends collectively support Food-grade Gases Market Growth and strengthen Food-grade Gases Market Outlook.

Food-grade Gases Market Dynamics

DRIVER

Rising demand for processed and packaged foods

The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is primarily driven by the rapidly increasing demand for processed and packaged food products across global markets. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 65% of urban consumers prefer convenience foods due to busy lifestyles and rising disposable income levels. Food-grade gases such as nitrogen and carbon dioxide play a critical role in extending shelf life by nearly 25–30%, ensuring product freshness and reducing spoilage. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong adoption in meat, dairy, bakery, and ready-to-eat food segments. Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has become a standard practice in over 60% of food packaging operations. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal that retailers and manufacturers are focusing on minimizing food waste through advanced preservation technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show increasing demand for high-purity gases that meet strict food safety standards. Growing urbanization and expansion of supermarket chains are further boosting demand. 

RESTRAINT

High operational and storage costs

The Food-grade Gases Market faces significant restraints due to high operational costs associated with gas production, storage, and transportation infrastructure. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that logistics and storage expenses can increase total operational costs by nearly 20%, particularly for companies operating in remote or underdeveloped regions. Specialized storage systems such as cryogenic tanks and pressurized cylinders require continuous monitoring and maintenance, adding to overall expenditure. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights challenges in maintaining gas purity during transportation, which is critical for compliance with food safety regulations. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal that small and medium-sized enterprises often struggle to invest in advanced gas handling systems. Additionally, fluctuating energy costs impact gas production expenses, further increasing financial pressure. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show growing emphasis on cost optimization and efficient supply chain management. However, infrastructure limitations in emerging markets remain a key concern. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is partially hindered by these financial and logistical constraints. Companies are focusing on improving distribution networks to reduce costs. 

OPPORTUNITY

Growth in cold chain and food preservation technologies

The Food-grade Gases Market Opportunities are expanding significantly due to the rapid development of cold chain logistics and advanced food preservation technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis shows that over 50% of global food distribution systems now rely on temperature-controlled supply chains to maintain product quality. Cryogenic freezing technologies using nitrogen and carbon dioxide are increasingly adopted, improving food texture and nutritional retention by nearly 20%. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from frozen food, seafood, and meat processing industries. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing investments in refrigerated transport and storage facilities, particularly in emerging economies. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising adoption of individually quick freezing (IQF) techniques. These technologies help extend shelf life and maintain food safety standards. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by increasing global trade of perishable food products. Government initiatives promoting food safety and infrastructure development are also driving demand. The Food-grade Gases Market Opportunities are further enhanced by growth in online food delivery services. 

CHALLENGE

Regulatory compliance and safety standards

The Food-grade Gases Market faces ongoing challenges related to strict regulatory compliance and safety standards governing food-grade gas production and usage. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that compliance with international food safety regulations increases operational complexity and requires continuous monitoring. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights that manufacturers must adhere to stringent purity standards and certification requirements, which can increase operational costs by nearly 15%. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal that maintaining consistent gas quality across supply chains is a critical challenge. Regulatory bodies enforce strict guidelines for storage, transportation, and usage, requiring advanced quality control systems. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show increasing adoption of automated monitoring technologies to ensure compliance. However, smaller companies often face difficulties in meeting these requirements due to limited resources. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is influenced by regulatory pressures and evolving standards. 

Food-grade Gases Market Segmentation

By Type

Nitrogen dominates the Food-grade Gases Market Share with approximately 45% due to its inert chemical properties and widespread use in food packaging and preservation applications. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that nitrogen is used in over 65% of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) processes to prevent oxidation and microbial growth. Its ability to displace oxygen helps extend shelf life by nearly 30%, making it essential in packaged snacks, dairy products, and ready-to-eat meals. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from the bakery and confectionery sectors. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing adoption in coffee packaging and beverage applications. Nitrogen also maintains product texture and prevents moisture absorption. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising use in nitrogen flushing techniques. Its non-reactive nature ensures food safety and quality. Additionally, nitrogen is widely available and cost-effective. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by growing demand for packaged foods. Innovations in gas delivery systems are enhancing efficiency. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains highly favorable for nitrogen due to its versatility and effectiveness.

Oxygen accounts for approximately 20% of the Food-grade Gases Market Share and plays a crucial role in controlled atmosphere storage and food respiration processes. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that oxygen is used in specific packaging applications where maintaining freshness and color is essential, such as fresh meat and produce. Controlled levels of oxygen help preserve the red color of meat, improving consumer appeal. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights its importance in preventing anaerobic bacterial growth. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing use in fresh fruit and vegetable packaging. Oxygen also supports respiration processes that maintain product quality. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show growing demand in cold storage facilities. Precise control of oxygen levels is critical for effectiveness. Advanced packaging technologies are improving oxygen management. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by rising demand for fresh and minimally processed foods. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains stable as demand continues across specialized applications.

Carbon dioxide holds approximately 35% of the Food-grade Gases Market Share and is widely used for its antimicrobial properties and carbonation applications. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that carbon dioxide is used in over 70% of beverage carbonation processes, making it essential in soft drinks, beer, and sparkling water production. Its ability to inhibit microbial growth extends shelf life by nearly 25%, particularly in meat and dairy products. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from the beverage industry. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing adoption in modified atmosphere packaging. Carbon dioxide also helps maintain product freshness and quality. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising use in chilled and frozen food applications. Its versatility across multiple applications supports market demand. Additionally, carbon dioxide is cost-effective and readily available. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is driven by increasing beverage consumption. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains highly favorable due to its multifunctional benefits.

By Application

Freezing and chilling applications account for approximately 30% of the Food-grade Gases Market Share, driven by increasing demand for high-quality frozen food products. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that cryogenic freezing using nitrogen and carbon dioxide improves product quality by nearly 20% compared to conventional methods. These gases enable rapid freezing, preserving texture, flavor, and nutritional value. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from seafood, meat, and ready-to-eat food industries. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing adoption of individually quick freezing (IQF) techniques. These methods prevent ice crystal formation, maintaining product integrity. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising investment in cold chain infrastructure. Freezing technologies are becoming more energy-efficient. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by global food trade. Consumer preference for frozen foods is increasing. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains highly promising for freezing and chilling applications.

Packaging dominates the Food-grade Gases Market Share with approximately 50%, driven by widespread use of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 60% of packaged food products rely on gas mixtures to extend shelf life and maintain freshness. Nitrogen and carbon dioxide are commonly used to control oxygen levels and prevent spoilage. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from snacks, bakery, and processed food industries. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing adoption of advanced packaging solutions. These technologies reduce food waste and improve product quality. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising demand for eco-friendly packaging materials combined with gas solutions. Automation in packaging processes is improving efficiency. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by urbanization and changing lifestyles. E-commerce food delivery is also driving demand. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains highly favorable for packaging applications.

Carbonation applications account for approximately 20% of the Food-grade Gases Market Share and are primarily driven by the beverage industry. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that carbon dioxide is used in nearly all carbonated beverage production processes. It enhances taste, texture, and shelf life of beverages such as soft drinks, beer, and sparkling water. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage segments. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing consumption of carbonated drinks globally. Carbonation also provides preservative benefits by inhibiting microbial growth. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising demand for flavored and functional beverages. Technological advancements are improving carbonation efficiency. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by expanding beverage industries. Emerging markets are contributing significantly to demand. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains positive due to continuous innovation and consumer preferences.

Food-grade Gases Market Regional Outlook

North America

North America accounts for approximately 34% of the Food-grade Gases Market Share, driven by advanced food processing infrastructure and high consumption of packaged and convenience foods. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 70% of food manufacturers in this region utilize modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) technologies. The United States dominates the regional market with nearly 75% share within North America, supported by strong demand from the beverage, meat, and dairy industries. Canada contributes around 20%, driven by expanding cold chain logistics and frozen food demand. Mexico holds approximately 5%, supported by growing food processing activities and export-oriented production. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights increasing adoption of nitrogen and carbon dioxide in packaging and freezing applications. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal strong investment in automated gas delivery systems. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly preservation methods. E-commerce grocery expansion is also boosting demand. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by technological advancements. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains highly favorable due to strong infrastructure and consumer demand.

Europe 

Europe holds approximately 26% of the Food-grade Gases Market Share, driven by stringent food safety regulations and high adoption of advanced preservation technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 65% of food packaging companies in Europe use food-grade gases to extend shelf life and ensure product quality. Germany accounts for nearly 20% of the regional market, supported by strong industrial and food processing sectors. The United Kingdom contributes around 15%, driven by high consumption of packaged foods and beverages. France holds approximately 14%, supported by dairy and bakery industries. Italy contributes nearly 12%, with strong demand from processed food exports. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights increasing use of nitrogen and carbon dioxide in packaging applications. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal growing adoption of sustainable gas solutions. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising investment in eco-friendly technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by regulatory compliance. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains stable across Europe.

Germany Food-grade Gases Market

Germany holds approximately 5% of the global Food-grade Gases Market Share and nearly 20% within Europe, driven by its strong industrial and food processing sectors. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 65% of packaged food companies in Germany utilize MAP technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights demand from bakery, dairy, and meat industries. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing adoption of nitrogen-based packaging solutions. Sustainability initiatives are influencing product development. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising investment in eco-friendly gas production. Automation in food processing facilities is improving efficiency. Export-oriented industries are driving demand. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by regulatory compliance. Advanced technologies are enhancing preservation quality. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains stable due to strong infrastructure and innovation.

United Kingdom Food-grade Gases Market

The United Kingdom contributes approximately 4% of the global Food-grade Gases Market Share and about 15% within Europe, driven by high consumption of packaged foods and beverages. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 60% of food manufacturers use gas-based preservation technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from ready-to-eat meals and beverage industries. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing adoption of carbon dioxide in carbonation processes. E-commerce grocery platforms are expanding demand. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising focus on sustainable packaging. Investments in cold chain logistics are increasing. Technological advancements are improving efficiency. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by consumer demand. Automation is enhancing production processes. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains positive with steady adoption of advanced technologies.

Asia-Pacific 

Asia-Pacific accounts for approximately 28% of the Food-grade Gases Market Share, driven by rapid urbanization, increasing disposable income, and growing demand for processed foods. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 60% of food manufacturers in this region are adopting gas-based preservation technologies. China dominates with nearly 35% of the regional market, supported by large-scale food production and consumption. India contributes approximately 20%, driven by expanding food processing industries and cold chain infrastructure. Japan holds around 15%, supported by advanced technology and high-quality standards. Australia contributes nearly 10%, driven by export-oriented food production. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand for nitrogen-based freezing and packaging solutions. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing investment in automation. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising adoption of cryogenic technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by industrial expansion. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains highly promising.

Japan Food-grade Gases Market

Japan contributes approximately 4% of the global Food-grade Gases Market Share and around 15% within Asia-Pacific, supported by advanced food processing technologies and strict quality standards. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 70% of food packaging operations in Japan utilize high-purity gases to maintain product freshness and safety. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from convenience foods, ready meals, and beverage industries. Nitrogen and oxygen are commonly used in controlled atmosphere packaging applications. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal increasing adoption of precision gas mixtures tailored to specific food products. Japan’s focus on quality and hygiene is driving demand for advanced preservation techniques. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising investment in automation and smart packaging technologies. Cryogenic freezing is widely used to maintain food texture and nutritional value. Technological innovation is improving efficiency and reducing waste. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by strong research and development activities. 

China Food-grade Gases Market

China dominates the Asia-Pacific Food-grade Gases Market Share with approximately 10% global contribution and nearly 35% within the region, driven by its massive food production and consumption base. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 70% of large-scale food manufacturers in China have adopted gas-based preservation technologies to enhance shelf life and maintain product quality. Rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes are increasing demand for processed and packaged foods. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights strong demand from beverage carbonation, frozen food, and ready-to-eat meal industries. Nitrogen and carbon dioxide are widely used in modified atmosphere packaging applications across supermarkets and export-oriented industries. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal growing adoption of cryogenic freezing technologies, improving food texture and reducing spoilage rates. Government initiatives supporting food safety and quality standards are accelerating market adoption. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show increasing investment in automation and digital gas delivery systems. Domestic production capacity for food-grade gases is expanding rapidly. Cold chain logistics infrastructure is also witnessing significant growth. 

Rest of World 

The Rest of World accounts for approximately 12% of the Food-grade Gases Market Share, with growing demand across Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that Brazil contributes nearly 30% of this segment, driven by strong food export industries. Saudi Arabia holds around 20%, supported by expanding food processing and import dependence. South Africa contributes approximately 15%, driven by increasing adoption of modern preservation techniques. Other countries collectively account for 35%, reflecting emerging demand. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights increasing investment in cold chain infrastructure. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal improving awareness of food safety standards. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising adoption of packaging technologies. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by urbanization and economic development. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains positive with increasing market penetration.

List of Top Food-grade Gases Companies

• Linde plc.
• Matheson Tri-Gas Inc.
• Gulf Cryo
• Air Liquide
• Airgas Inc.
• SOL Group
• Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation
• Wesfarmers Limited
• Massy Group
• Parker Hannifin GmbH

Top Two Companies by Market Share

• Linde plc. – 19%
• Air Liquide – 17%

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The Food-grade Gases Market is witnessing strong investment activity driven by increasing demand for advanced food preservation technologies and expansion of cold chain logistics worldwide. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates that over 55% of food processing companies are increasing capital investments in gas-based preservation systems to enhance product shelf life and reduce waste. Investments in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) technologies have grown significantly, contributing to nearly 40% of new infrastructure development in food packaging facilities. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights rising funding in cryogenic freezing systems, particularly in seafood and meat processing industries. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal that emerging economies account for nearly 35% of new investment opportunities due to rapid urbanization and changing food consumption patterns. 

Government initiatives supporting food safety and cold storage infrastructure are further boosting investments. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show increasing focus on sustainable gas production and energy-efficient systems. Strategic partnerships between gas suppliers and food manufacturers are expanding market reach. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by global trade in perishable goods. Investments in automation and digital monitoring are improving operational efficiency. The Food-grade Gases Market Opportunities are expanding across e-commerce food delivery platforms. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook remains highly favorable with continuous capital inflow and technological advancements.

New Product Development

The Food-grade Gases Market is evolving rapidly with continuous innovation in gas mixtures, packaging technologies, and delivery systems to meet changing industry requirements. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends highlight the development of customized gas blends tailored for specific food products, improving shelf life by nearly 25%. The Food-grade Gases Market Analysis indicates increasing use of high-purity nitrogen and carbon dioxide in advanced packaging applications. The Food-grade Gases Market Report highlights innovations in cryogenic freezing technologies that preserve food texture and nutritional value more effectively than traditional methods. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights reveal growing adoption of smart gas delivery systems equipped with sensors and automated controls. 

These systems improve efficiency and reduce wastage. The Food-grade Gases Market Trends show rising demand for eco-friendly and recyclable packaging solutions integrated with gas technologies. Manufacturers are also focusing on compact and modular systems for easier deployment. The Food-grade Gases Market Growth is supported by strong research and development investments. Advanced monitoring systems are enhancing product safety and quality. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook reflects continuous innovation and increasing demand for high-performance solutions.

Five Recent Developments (2023–2025)

• Expansion of nitrogen-based packaging solutions across global food processing industries, improving shelf life and reducing spoilage in packaged foods.
• Rapid growth in cryogenic freezing technologies, particularly in seafood and meat industries, enhancing product quality and preservation efficiency.
• Increased investment in sustainable gas production methods, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency.
• Development of automated gas delivery and monitoring systems, enabling real-time control and improving operational efficiency in food processing plants.
• Expansion of food-grade gas infrastructure in emerging markets, supporting growing demand for processed and packaged foods.

Report Coverage of Food-grade Gases Market

The Food-grade Gases Market Report provides a comprehensive evaluation of market dynamics, segmentation, and competitive landscape, offering valuable insights for B2B stakeholders and industry participants. The report includes detailed Food-grade Gases Market Analysis of key segments such as gas type, application, and form, highlighting their respective contributions to Food-grade Gases Market Share. It examines nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide usage across applications including packaging, freezing, chilling, and carbonation. The Food-grade Gases Market Research Report further explores Food-grade Gases Market Trends such as sustainable packaging, cryogenic technologies, and automation in gas delivery systems. It provides insights into Food-grade Gases Market Opportunities arising from cold chain expansion, increasing food safety awareness, and growing demand for processed foods. Regional analysis covers North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World, with country-level insights into consumption patterns and infrastructure development.

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Additionally, the Food-grade Gases Industry Report evaluates competitive strategies adopted by leading companies, including product innovation, partnerships, and expansion initiatives. It analyzes supply chain dynamics, production processes, and regulatory frameworks influencing the market. The Food-grade Gases Market Insights section highlights investment trends, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences. The Food-grade Gases Market Outlook is presented through a comprehensive qualitative framework, ensuring a holistic understanding of market expansion and future growth potential.

Segmentation