Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Research Report By Meal Type (Main Courses, Appetizers and Sides, Desserts), By Cooking Method (Conventional Cooking, Microwave Cooking, Oven Cooking), By Packaging (Trays, Bags, Bowls), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retailers), By Dietary Restrictions (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegan) and By Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa) - Forecast to 2032.

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Overview

As per MRFR analysis, the Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Size was estimated at 161.29 (USD Billion) in 2022. The Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Industry is expected to grow from 169.85(USD Billion) in 2023 to 270.5 (USD Billion) by 2032. The Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 5.31% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032).

Key Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Trends Highlighted

Convenience and time constraints are key drivers in the Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market, leading to increasing demand for quick and easy meal solutions. Consumers seek nutritious and flavorful options that cater to their busy lifestyles and dietary preferences, such as gluten-free and low-sodium options.

Moreover, the growing popularity of online grocery shopping and meal delivery services has expanded the market's reach, making it easier for consumers to access a wider variety of frozen cooked ready meals. This trend is expected to continue, creating opportunities for market players to innovate with new products and flavors to meet evolving consumer demands.

Furthermore, advancements in packaging technology have enhanced the shelf life and quality of frozen cooked ready meals, making them more appealing to consumers. The increasing focus on health and wellness is also shaping the market, with a growing demand for meals that are low in calories, fat, and salt. Market players are responding by introducing healthier options that meet these dietary requirements.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Drivers

Increasing Demand for Convenience

The fast-paced lifestyles and hectic work schedules of consumers are leading to an increased demand for convenient and time-saving food options. Frozen cooked ready meals offer a convenient solution for individuals and families seeking quick and easy meal preparation. These meals can be easily heated and consumed, eliminating the need for extensive cooking and meal preparation. The growing popularity of single-person households and the rising number of working women are further contributing to the demand for convenient food options, such as frozen cooked ready meals.

Growing Health Consciousness

Consumers are becoming increasingly health-conscious and seeking healthier food choices. Frozen cooked ready meals can cater to this demand by offering healthier options that are low in calories, fat, and sodium. Many manufacturers are focusing on developing frozen cooked ready meals that are made with fresh and natural ingredients, and that are free from artificial additives and preservatives. This growing health consciousness among consumers is driving the demand for healthier frozen cooked ready meals in the Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Industry.

Expansion of Retail and Distribution Channels

The expansion of retail and distribution channels is another key factor driving the growth of the Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Industry. The increasing availability of frozen cooked ready meals in supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores is making it easier for consumers to purchase these products. Additionally, the growth of online grocery shopping and home delivery services is providing consumers with even greater convenience and access to frozen cooked ready meals.

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Segment Insights

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Meal Type Insights

The Meal Type segment of the Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market holds significant importance, contributing to the overall market growth. Within this segment, Main Courses dominate the market, accounting for a substantial share of the Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market revenue in 2023. The growing demand for convenient and time-saving meal options, particularly among working professionals and busy families, drives the growth of the Main Courses segment. Appetizers and Sides also hold a significant position in the market, offering a variety of options to enhance the dining experience.These products provide convenience and add flavor to main courses, making them a popular choice among consumers. The increasing popularity of home entertaining and the growing trend of snacking further contribute to the growth of the Appetizers and Sides segment. Desserts, while representing a smaller share of the Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market, play a crucial role in completing a meal and satisfying sweet cravings. The growing demand for indulgent and convenient dessert options, especially among millennials and Gen Z consumers, fuels the growth of this segment.Overall, the Meal Type segment is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years, driven by changing consumer lifestyles, the rising popularity of convenience foods, and the increasing availability of innovative and flavorful products.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Cooking Method Insights

The Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market is segmented based on Cooking Method into Conventional Cooking, Microwave Cooking, and Oven Cooking. Among these segments, Conventional Cooking held the largest market share of around 44.5% in 2023. This is due to the fact that conventional cooking methods such as boiling, frying, and grilling are still the most popular methods of preparing food in many households. However, Microwave Cooking and Oven Cooking are expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, owing to the increasing popularity of convenience foods and the growing number of working professionals who have less time to spend on cooking.

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Packaging Insights

The packaging segment of the Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market holds significant importance, influencing market growth and consumer preferences. Trays, bags, and bowls are the primary packaging options used in this industry. Trays offer durability and convenience, making them ideal for ready-to-heat meals. Their ability to withstand high temperatures during cooking and reheating enhances their practicality. In 2023, the global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market revenue for trays was valued at USD 12.5 billion and is projected to reach USD 18.9 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.1%.Bags provide a flexible and cost-effective packaging solution. Their lightweight nature and ability to conform to the shape of the meal contribute to their popularity. The Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market data indicates that bags accounted for a market share of approximately 28.4% in 2023 and are expected to maintain a steady growth trajectory in the coming years. Bowls offer a premium and convenient option for frozen cooked ready meals. Their microwave-safe feature and aesthetically pleasing design appeal to consumers seeking a convenient and presentable meal solution.The Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market statistics suggest that the bowls segment is anticipated to witness a substantial growth rate, reaching a market size of USD 7.2 billion by 2032. Overall, the packaging segment in the Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market industry plays a crucial role in product differentiation, preservation, and consumer convenience. Manufacturers are investing in innovative packaging solutions to enhance the shelf life, functionality, and overall appeal of frozen cooked ready meals.

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Distribution Channel Insights

The Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online retailers. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are expected to account for the majority of revenue in 2023, due to their wide distribution and variety of products. Convenience stores are expected to see significant growth over the forecast period, as more consumers seek convenient and quick meal options. Online retailers are also expected to experience growth, as more consumers shop for groceries online.

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Dietary Restrictions Insights

The dietary restrictions segment of the Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing prevalence of food allergies and intolerances, as well as the growing popularity of plant-based diets. The gluten-free sub-segment is projected to account for a major share of the market, with a CAGR of 6.2% over the forecast period. This growth is attributed to the rising awareness about celiac disease and gluten intolerance, leading to a surge in demand for gluten-free products. The dairy-free sub-segment is also expected to register a notable CAGR of 5.8%, driven by the increasing adoption of vegan and lactose-free diets.The vegan sub-segment is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.1%, owing to the growing popularity of plant-based lifestyles and the increasing availability of vegan-friendly frozen meals.

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Regional Insights

The Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market is segmented into North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA. North America is the largest market for frozen cooked ready meals, followed by Europe. The increasing demand for convenience foods, coupled with the growing popularity of e-commerce platforms, is driving the growth of the frozen cooked ready meal market. Regional Insights: North America is the largest market for frozen cooked ready meals, accounting for over 35% of the global market share. The high disposable income and busy lifestyles of consumers in this region are the key factors contributing to the growth of the market.Europe is the second-largest market for frozen cooked ready meals, with a market share of around 30%. The growing popularity of convenience foods and the increasing number of working women are driving the market growth in this region. APAC is the fastest-growing market for frozen cooked ready meals, with a projected CAGR of over 6% during the forecast period. The increasing demand for convenience foods in developing countries such as China and India is fueling the market growth in this region. South America is a relatively small market for frozen cooked ready meals, but it is expected to grow at a steady pace during the forecast period.The growing middle class and the increasing urbanization are the key factors driving the market growth in this region. MEA is a niche market for frozen cooked ready meals, with a market share of less than 5%. The low penetration of modern retail and the cultural preferences for home-cooked meals are the key factors limiting the market growth in this region.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Key Players And Competitive Insights

Major players in Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market are focusing on expanding their product portfolio by introducing new flavors and varieties of frozen cooked ready meals. For instance, in 2023, Nestle launched a new range of plant-based frozen cooked ready meals under its Garden Gourmet brand. Similarly, Unilever introduced a new line of frozen cooked ready meals under its Knorr brand, which offers a variety of global cuisines. These companies are also investing in research and development to improve the taste, texture, and nutritional value of their frozen cooked ready meals.Leading Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market players are also focusing on strategic partnerships and acquisitions to expand their market reach and strengthen their competitive position. For example, in 2023, McCain Foods acquired the frozen food business of Nestle in Europe, which significantly expanded its portfolio of frozen cooked ready meals. Similarly, Nomad Foods acquired the frozen food business of Findus Group in 2022, which strengthened its presence in the European frozen food market. These strategic moves are expected to intensify competition in the Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market industry.Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market development is being driven by several factors, including the growing popularity of convenience foods, the increasing number of working women, and the rising demand for healthy and affordable meal options. The market is also benefiting from the growing popularity of online grocery shopping, which makes it easier for consumers to purchase frozen cooked ready meals.

Key Companies in the Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Include

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  Conagra Brands

  
  


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  Campbell Soup

  
  


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  Dean Foods

  
  


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  General Mills

  
  


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  Unilever

  
  


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  Ajinomoto

  
  


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  Kraft Heinz

  
  


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  Tyson Foods

  
  


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  Nestle

  
  


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  Mars

  
  


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  Kellogg

  
  


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  Mondelez International

  
  


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  Premier Foods

  
  


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  McCain Foods

  
  


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  Birds Eye Iglo Group

  
  

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Industry Developments

The Global Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market is anticipated to reach a valuation of USD 270.5 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 5.31% from 2023 to 2032. Growing consumer demand for convenience, urbanization, and changing lifestyles are key factors driving market growth.In recent years, the market has witnessed advancements such as the introduction of plant-based and organic ready meals, catering to evolving consumer preferences for healthier options. Additionally, partnerships between food manufacturers and delivery services have expanded distribution channels, increasing market penetration. Key market players are focusing on product innovation and strategic acquisitions to gain a competitive edge.

Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Segmentation Insights

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  Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Meal Type Outlook

  
  
  
  
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    Main Courses

    
    
  
  
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    Appetizers and Sides

    
    
  
  
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    Desserts

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Cooking Method Outlook

  
  
  
  
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    Conventional Cooking

    
    
  
  
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    Microwave Cooking

    
    
  
  
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    Oven Cooking

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Packaging Outlook

  
  
  
  
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    Trays

    
    
  
  
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    Bags

    
    
  
  
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    Bowls

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Distribution Channel Outlook

  
  
  
  
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    Supermarkets and Hypermarkets

    
    
  
  
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    Convenience Stores

    
    
  
  
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    Online Retailers

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Dietary Restrictions Outlook

  
  
  
  
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    Gluten-Free

    
    
  
  
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    Dairy-Free

    
    
  
  
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    Vegan

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Frozen Cooked Ready Meal Market Regional Outlook

  
  
  
  
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    North America

    
    
  
  
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    Europe

    
    
  
  
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    South America

    
    
  
  
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    Asia Pacific

    
    
  
  
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    Middle East and Africa