Ready Meals Market – Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity and Forecast, By Product Type (Frozen, Chilled, Canned, Others), By Sales Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online, Others), By Meal Type (Vegetarian, Non-vegetarian), By Region & Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Ready Meals Market was valued at USD 91.07 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 109.36 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 3.15% during the forecast period. The global ready meals market is witnessing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer preference for convenient, time-saving food options amid fast-paced lifestyles. Urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the growing number of working individuals are boosting demand for ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook, and frozen meals. Manufacturers are focusing on improving nutritional profiles, clean labeling, and diverse product offerings to cater to evolving consumer preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and organic options. Technological advancements in packaging and preservation techniques are enhancing shelf life and product safety. Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce and retail channels is further fueling market accessibility and growth across developed and emerging regions.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Convenience and Time-Saving Solutions

One of the most significant drivers of the global ready meals market is the increasing consumer demand for convenience. As modern lifestyles become increasingly hectic, particularly in urban centers, consumers are seeking time-efficient food solutions that do not compromise on taste or quality. The surge in dual-income households, longer working hours, and a decline in home cooking skills have further contributed to the popularity of ready meals. These products offer a practical alternative to cooking from scratch, providing a quick, easy-to-prepare solution for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Ready meals whether frozen, chilled, or shelf-stable require minimal preparation, often involving just heating before consumption. This convenience factor strongly resonates with millennials, Gen Z, and busy professionals who prioritize ease and speed in meal preparation. According to a 2024 study, over 83% of U.S. consumers reported consuming frozen or ready-to-eat meals weekly to save time and simplify meal planning.

Urbanization and Changing Demographics

Rapid urbanization is playing a pivotal role in boosting the ready meals market. As more people migrate to cities for employment opportunities and better lifestyles, smaller living spaces and compact kitchens have made elaborate cooking less feasible. Additionally, younger generations living independently or with roommates often prefer single-serve ready meal portions that are hassle-free and reduce food waste. Alongside urbanization, demographic shifts such as the rising number of single-person households and elderly individuals living alone are increasing the demand for pre-packaged meals that offer both nutrition and convenience. These demographic changes are prompting manufacturers to develop tailored meal solutions, such as portion-controlled and microwaveable packaging, that appeal to smaller households and seniors seeking independence in food preparation. According to data from the United Nations (2024), over 57% of the global population now lives in urban areas, a figure expected to reach 60% by 2030, highlighting the sustained momentum of urbanization driving convenience-led food choices.

Innovation in Food Processing and Packaging Technology

Technological advancements in food processing and packaging have significantly enhanced the appeal and safety of ready meals. Innovations such as vacuum sealing, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), high-pressure processing (HPP), and aseptic packaging are helping extend product shelf life without compromising nutritional value or taste. These advancements allow ready meals to maintain freshness over extended periods, whether they are stored in ambient, chilled, or frozen conditions. Moreover, intelligent packaging solutions, including time-temperature indicators and smart labels, are improving consumer confidence by ensuring food safety and traceability. Enhanced packaging not only ensures product integrity but also offers sustainable options such as recyclable materials and biodegradable trays, which align with growing consumer preferences for environmentally friendly choices. These technological breakthroughs are instrumental in maintaining quality while offering convenience and supporting sustainability goals. According to the European Food Information Council (EUFIC, 2024), over 68% of food manufacturers in Europe have adopted advanced packaging technologies like MAP and smart labeling to improve shelf life and sustainability in convenience foods.

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Key Market Challenges

Health and Nutrition Concerns

Despite the growing popularity of ready meals, health and nutrition remain a major challenge for the market. Consumers are increasingly aware of the potential health risks associated with processed foods, including high levels of sodium, saturated fats, preservatives, and artificial additives. Many traditional ready meals are perceived as being unhealthy, contributing to issues like obesity, hypertension, and heart disease. This negative perception creates a barrier to market growth, especially among health-conscious consumers who prioritize fresh, minimally processed meals.

While there has been a push towards reformulating ready meals to make them healthier, maintaining taste, texture, and shelf life while reducing unhealthy ingredients is complex and costly. Additionally, clean-label requirements such as the removal of synthetic additives, artificial colors, and flavor enhancers are putting pressure on manufacturers to invest in new recipes and ingredient sourcing. These changes must also comply with stringent food regulations across various regions, adding further complexity and expense.

High Competition and Price Sensitivity

The global ready meals market is highly competitive, with numerous multinational food companies, private labels, and regional players offering a wide array of products. As the market expands, price wars are becoming more frequent, particularly in developing countries where consumers remain highly price sensitive. This competition often forces companies to lower their prices or offer promotional discounts, which can hurt profit margins.

Private label products, especially those offered by major supermarkets and discount retailers, pose another threat. These products are typically priced lower than branded ready meals, attracting budget-conscious consumers and intensifying the pressure on established brands to differentiate through innovation, quality, or marketing. However, consistent innovation and premium product development require significant investment, and not all companies especially smaller or regional players have the resources to compete at that level.

Key Market Trends

Rise of Health-Conscious and Clean-Label Ready Meals

One of the most significant trends transforming the global ready meals market is the growing consumer preference for healthier, clean-label products. As awareness of diet-related health issues increases, consumers are scrutinizing ingredient lists more closely. This trend is driving demand for ready meals that are free from artificial preservatives, colors, and additives, and instead made with natural, whole-food ingredients. According to 2024 Clean Label Consumer Study, over 75% of global consumers prefer ready meals with simple, recognizable ingredients and no artificial additives, highlighting strong momentum for clean-label innovation.

Manufacturers are responding by reformulating existing products or introducing new lines that emphasize low sodium, low sugar, reduced fat, high protein, and fiber-rich content. In addition, there’s a growing popularity of ready meals that cater to specific dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, keto, paleo, low-carb, and organic options. Clean-label transparency also means including fewer but more recognizable ingredients, often with clear front-of-pack labeling. This health-focused trend is not only reshaping the product landscape but also positioning premium, better-for-you options as key growth drivers within the market.

Growth in Plant-Based and Vegan Ready Meals

The increasing shift toward plant-based diets is having a profound impact on the ready meals sector. Environmental concerns, animal welfare, and health benefits are encouraging consumers to reduce or eliminate meat consumption. This has led to a surge in demand for plant-based, vegetarian, and vegan ready meals.

Food manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by launching a wide array of plant-based products that replicate traditional meals without using animal-derived ingredients. These meals often feature plant-based proteins such as lentils, tofu, tempeh, beans, and meat substitutes made from soy, pea protein, or jackfruit. Moreover, international cuisines with naturally plant-based staples like Indian, Mediterranean, and Asian dishes are gaining popularity in the ready meals category. According to The Good Food Institute, U.S. retail sales of plant-based ready meals grew by 29% in 2023, outpacing growth in conventional ready meals and highlighting strong consumer interest in meat-free convenience foods.

Premiumization and Gourmet-Inspired Offerings

Another emerging trend in the ready meals market is premiumization, where consumers seek high-quality, restaurant-style meal experiences at home. As food culture becomes more sophisticated and global, consumers are showing interest in gourmet ready meals that offer bold flavors, chef-inspired recipes, and authentic regional cuisines. These premium offerings often include artisanal ingredients, exotic spices, or sustainable and ethically sourced components.

Packaging innovations are also playing a role in reinforcing a premium image. Sleek, recyclable trays, eco-friendly containers, and microwave-safe packaging with appealing design elements help convey quality and convenience simultaneously. This trend is especially prevalent in developed markets, where consumers are willing to pay more for indulgent, high-end meals that combine the ease of ready-to-eat with the experience of fine dining. The growth of premium and gourmet options reflects a shift from ready meals being considered a last-minute solution to becoming a deliberate and desirable choice for quality-conscious shoppers.

Segmental Insights

Product Type Insights

Frozen ready meals represent the dominating segment in the global ready meals market, owing to their extended shelf life, convenience, and wide product variety. These meals are easy to store and prepare, making them ideal for busy lifestyles. Advancements in freezing technology have improved taste, texture, and nutritional retention, enhancing consumer acceptance. The availability of diverse cuisine options from traditional comfort foods to international dishes has further boosted demand. Additionally, strong retail penetration, especially in supermarkets and hypermarkets, has made frozen meals more accessible. As consumers prioritize convenience without compromising quality, frozen ready meals continue to lead the market segment.

Sales Channel Insights

Supermarkets/hypermarkets was the dominating distribution segment in the global ready meals market due to their widespread presence, extensive product variety, and convenient shopping experience. These retail outlets offer consumers easy access to a wide range of ready meals, including frozen, chilled, and ambient options, under one roof. Attractive promotions, discounts, and organized product placement further enhance visibility and consumer engagement. The availability of both branded and private-label products also caters to diverse income groups. As consumers prefer physical inspection before purchase, especially for food items, supermarkets and hypermarkets remain the preferred and leading channel for ready meal sales.

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Regional Insights

North America was the dominating region in the global ready meals market, driven by busy lifestyles, high disposable incomes, and a strong demand for convenient food solutions. The region's well-established retail infrastructure, including widespread supermarket and hypermarket networks, ensures broad access to a variety of ready meal options. Additionally, growing health awareness has led to increased demand for clean-label, organic, and nutritious ready meals. Innovation in frozen and microwaveable meals, along with the rise of plant-based and premium offerings, further supports market growth. The strong presence of leading food manufacturers and high consumer acceptance solidify North America’s leadership in this sector.

Recent Developments

• ​In March 2025, Yo! has recently launched a Japanese-inspired frozen meal range at Tesco, introducing four new dishes: Chicken Teriyaki, Korean‑style BBQ Beef, classic Chicken Katsu, and a Chicken Katsu Bao Bun Kit bringing restaurant-quality meals straight from freezer to table

• In Feb 2025, Bonduelle has launched a new line of ready‑to‑eat Lunch Bowls in the U.S., featuring 100% plant‑powered ingredients, over 10 g protein per bowl, and no artificial preservatives. Available in four globally inspired flavors Spanish Fusion, Southwest Fusion, Mediterranean Fusion, and Indian Fusion these shelf‑stable, microwave‑safe bowls can be eaten hot or cold

• In Jan 2025, SPAR Gran Canaria has introduced a new "Fresh To Go" ready-meals range, offering 40–50 hot and cold dishes (including local Canarian recipes) in over 55 stores, produced at its new energy‑efficient factory at Mercalaspalmas

Key Market Players

• Nestle S.A.
• Conagra Brands Inc.
• The Kraft Heinz Company
• Nomad Foods Limited
• Tyson Foods Inc.
• Unilever PLC
• Hormel Foods Corporation
• Mars, Incorporated
• Campbell Soup Company
• Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Ready Meals Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

•   Ready Meals Market, By Product Type:

o   Frozen

o   Chilled

o   Canned

o   Others

• Ready Meals Market, By Sales Channel:

o   Supermarkets/Hypermarkets

o   Convenience Stores

o   Online

o   Others

• Ready Meals Market, By Meal Type:

o   Vegetarian

o   Non-vegetarian

• Ready Meals Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  Japan

§  India

§  South Korea

§  Indonesia

o   South America

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

§  Brazil

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

§  Turkey

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Global Ready Meals Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Ready Meals Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).