Frozen-cooked Ready Meals Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Frozen-cooked Ready Meals Market Analysis

The Frozen-cooked Ready Meals Market size is estimated at USD 43.10 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 54.88 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.95% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The frozen food industry is experiencing significant transformation driven by digital innovation and changing retail landscapes. E-commerce has become an essential component of the retail landscape, with online platforms offering unprecedented convenience and accessibility to consumers. According to the Office for National Statistics (UK), approximately 29% of retail sales were attributed to online channels in 2021, highlighting the growing significance of digital distribution channels. Major retailers are increasingly partnering with e-commerce platforms to enhance their digital presence, while manufacturers are investing in direct-to-consumer channels to better serve evolving consumer preferences.

The market is witnessing a notable shift toward premium and international cuisine offerings, influenced by growing multicultural populations and evolving taste preferences. According to the Census Bureau's monthly Current Population Survey (CPS), the total expatriate population in the United States reached 47 million in April 2022, contributing to the increased demand for diverse ethnic frozen ready meals. Manufacturers are responding by expanding their product portfolios to include authentic international cuisines, premium ingredients, and gourmet offerings such as artisanal pizzas, authentic Asian dishes, and Mediterranean specialties.

Sustainability has emerged as a crucial factor shaping industry dynamics, with manufacturers increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices across their value chains. Companies are investing in sustainable packaging solutions, with many introducing recyclable and biodegradable packaging materials to reduce environmental impact. The industry is witnessing innovations in packaging technology, such as fiber-based, recyclable, and home-compostable food trays, while manufacturers are also focusing on reducing food waste through portion control and improved preservation techniques.

The market is experiencing significant evolution in product development, particularly in response to changing workforce demographics and lifestyle patterns. In China, where 45.2% of women are part of the workforce according to World Bank data from 2021, there is increasing demand for convenient yet nutritious meal solutions. Manufacturers are innovating with new product formulations that combine convenience with health benefits, including products with reduced sodium content, clean label ingredients, and enhanced nutritional profiles. The industry is also witnessing the introduction of specialized products catering to specific dietary requirements, such as gluten-free, high-protein, and plant-based options.

Frozen-cooked Ready Meals Market Trends

SURGE IN DEMAND FOR CONVENIENT AND HEALTHY READY MEALS

The increasing demand for convenient and instant food, particularly frozen food and frozen ready meals, is driven by significant changes in social and economic patterns across global markets. The rising participation of women in the workforce, coupled with longer and more variable work hours, has created a fundamental shift away from traditional daily cooking patterns. This is evidenced by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report showing an employment-population rate of 60.1% in May 2022, compared to 58.0% in May 2021, indicating more people are joining the workforce and seeking convenient meal solutions. Additionally, the growing expatriate population, with the United States hosting 47 million expatriates as of April 2022 according to the Census Bureau's Current Population Survey, and the United Arab Emirates having 8.84 million expatriates in 2021 as per United Nations data, has significantly influenced the demand for ready-to-eat meal options.

The evolution of consumer preferences has led to a notable increase in the demand for healthy and nutritious frozen prepared meals, particularly among Gen Z and millennial consumers. These demographics are actively seeking convenient options that complement their busy lifestyles while maintaining nutritional value. The food industry has responded with technological innovations, offering ready meals in various formats including portion-controlled, shelf-stable, microwaveable, and prepared-mix variations. The increasing participation in outdoor recreational activities has further boosted market demand, with the TurfMutt Foundation reporting that the 'backyard' trend continued to expand in America through 2022. Moreover, according to the Outdoor Foundation, the number of regular camping participants increased to approximately 35.9 million in 2021, compared to 28.18 million in 2019, highlighting the growing need for convenient, portable meal solutions.

GROWING AFFINITY TOWARD ETHNIC AND ORGANIC FROZEN READY MEALS

The market is experiencing a significant shift toward ethnic and organic frozen ready meals, driven by increasing cultural diversity and growing health consciousness among consumers. According to the Ethical Consumer Research Association Ltd, the sales revenue of vegetarian and plant-based food and beverage alternatives in the United Kingdom demonstrated substantial growth, increasing from GBP 1000 million in 2018 to GBP 1490 million in 2021. This trend reflects consumers' growing interest in diverse, plant-based meal options and ethnic cuisines. The penetration of Korean, Japanese, Chinese, and Indian cuisine-ready meals has been particularly strong over the last decade, with younger consumers exposed to global cuisines through television and the internet driving this growth.

The industry has responded to this trend with major food retailers increasing their inclusion of aromatic and intricate ethnic cuisine ready meals in their product portfolios. For instance, in 2023, CJ Foods expanded its range of frozen Asian ready meals, including Bibigo Korean-Style Crunchy Chicken in Soy Garlic and Sweet & Spicy varieties, along with Bibigo Korean-Style Fried Rice available in various flavors such as Shrimp with Soy Garlic Flavor and Chicken with Korean BBQ Flavor. Health-conscious consumers across regions have also pushed manufacturers to launch new frozen-cooked ethnic ready meals in the plant-based segment as a substitute for meat and seafood options. This is exemplified by companies like Saffron Road, which introduced clean-label frozen Chinese ready meals featuring vegetarian whole plant-based General Tso's meals without protein isolates or artificial ingredients.

Segment Analysis: Product Type

Non-Vegetarian Meals Segment in Frozen-Cooked Ready Meals Market

The non-vegetarian meals segment dominates the global frozen-cooked ready meals market, commanding approximately 66% of the total market share in 2024. This substantial market presence is driven by the segment's diverse product portfolio, which includes chicken meals, beef meals, and other non-vegetarian variants like pork and seafood meals. The segment's strong performance is attributed to the high consumer preference for protein-rich meals, particularly in developed markets like North America and Europe. Major manufacturers are continuously expanding their non-vegetarian product lines with innovative offerings that cater to different regional tastes and preferences. The segment's growth is further supported by technological advancements in freezing and packaging techniques that help maintain the quality and taste of meat-based products. Additionally, the availability of frozen entrées options in this segment enhances consumer convenience.

Vegetarian Meals Segment in Frozen-Cooked Ready Meals Market

The vegetarian meals segment is experiencing the fastest growth in the frozen-cooked ready meals market, with an expected growth rate of approximately 5% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily driven by the increasing adoption of plant-based diets, growing health consciousness among consumers, and rising environmental concerns associated with meat consumption. Manufacturers are responding to this trend by introducing innovative vegetarian options that replicate the taste and texture of meat-based products while maintaining nutritional value. The segment is witnessing significant product innovations with the incorporation of novel plant-based proteins, ancient grains, and superfood ingredients. Additionally, the rising number of flexitarian consumers who occasionally substitute meat with vegetarian options is contributing to the segment's rapid expansion. The introduction of frozen meal kits solutions in this segment is also gaining traction among health-conscious consumers.

Segment Analysis: By Distribution Channel

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Segment in Frozen-Cooked Ready Meals Market

Supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the frozen-cooked ready meals market, commanding approximately 72% of the total market share in 2024. This channel's dominance is attributed to several key factors, including extensive retail space, diverse product offerings, and convenient shopping experiences. These retail formats provide consumers with a wide selection of frozen ready meal brands, considerable shelf space, and frequent price promotions that attract cost-conscious shoppers. Major retail chains like Walmart, with over 10,500 stores worldwide, and Tesco, operating over 3,400 stores in the United Kingdom, significantly contribute to this segment's market leadership. The segment's strength is further enhanced by the dedicated 'free-from' sections in these stores, making it easier for consumers with dietary restrictions to find suitable products. Additionally, these retail formats offer bulk purchasing options with attractive discounts and promotional schemes, making them the preferred choice for both manufacturers launching new products and consumers seeking value for money. The availability of frozen microwave meals in these stores also adds to consumer convenience, catering to the demand for quick meal solutions.

Online Retailers Segment in Frozen-Cooked Ready Meals Market

The online retail channel is experiencing remarkable growth in the frozen-cooked ready meals market, projected to expand at approximately 8% during 2024-2029. This growth is driven by the increasing consumer preference for convenient shopping options and the expanding e-commerce infrastructure. Online retailers are revolutionizing the market through innovative services like priority delivery for ready-made meal orders, with some platforms promising delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. The segment's growth is further accelerated by strategic partnerships between online platforms and traditional grocers, creating a seamless omnichannel experience for consumers. Major e-commerce platforms are investing heavily in cold chain logistics and temperature-controlled delivery systems to ensure product quality and freshness. The convenience of comparing products, accessing detailed nutritional information, and the availability of exclusive online discounts are additional factors contributing to this segment's rapid growth. Furthermore, the integration of mobile apps and user-friendly interfaces is making it increasingly convenient for consumers to order frozen lunches and frozen entrées from the comfort of their homes.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The convenience stores and other distribution channels segments play vital complementary roles in the frozen-cooked ready meals market. Convenience stores serve as crucial touchpoints for consumers seeking quick purchases, particularly in urban areas and during non-traditional shopping hours. These stores are strategically located to cater to late-working customers and impulse buyers, offering a selected range of popular frozen ready meal options. The other distribution channels segment, which includes warehouse clubs, forecourt retailers, and specialty stores, caters to specific consumer needs and preferences. Warehouse clubs focus on bulk purchases at competitive prices, while specialty stores often stock premium and niche frozen ready meal products. These segments contribute to the market's overall accessibility and provide consumers with diverse purchasing options based on their shopping preferences and requirements. The availability of frozen prepared foods in these channels further enhances consumer choice and convenience.

Frozen-cooked Ready Meals Market Geography Segment Analysis

Frozen-Cooked Ready Meals Market in North America

North America represents a mature market for the frozen ready meals market, characterized by high consumer acceptance and well-established distribution networks. The region's market is driven by busy lifestyles, an increasing working population, and growing demand for convenient meal solutions. The United States dominates the regional landscape, followed by Canada and Mexico, with major retail chains and supermarkets playing a crucial role in product distribution. The region benefits from advanced cold chain infrastructure and innovative product launches by key manufacturers focusing on healthier options and ethnic flavors.

Frozen-Cooked Ready Meals Market in United States

The United States leads the North American market with approximately 85% share of the regional market. The country's dominance is attributed to its large consumer base, high disposable income, and well-developed retail infrastructure. American consumers are increasingly embracing frozen foods due to their convenience and improving quality. The market is characterized by strong competition among major manufacturers who are continuously innovating with new product launches, particularly in the premium and health-conscious segments. The presence of numerous retail chains and the growing adoption of online grocery shopping have further strengthened the market position of frozen dinners in the country.

Frozen-Cooked Ready Meals Market in Mexico

Mexico emerges as the fastest-growing market in North America, with an expected growth rate of approximately 7% during 2024-2029. The country's market is experiencing rapid evolution driven by urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles. Mexican consumers are showing increased interest in frozen family meals that offer authentic local flavors alongside international cuisines. The market is witnessing significant investments in cold chain infrastructure and retail modernization. Manufacturers are focusing on introducing products that cater to local taste preferences while maintaining international quality standards, contributing to the market's robust growth trajectory.