The global prepared meals market size was valued at $166.62 billion in 2023 & is projected to grow from $177.58 billion in 2024 to $305.68 billion by 2032

The Ready Meals Market Report Segments the Industry Into Product Type (Frozen Ready Meals, Chilled Ready Meals, and More), Ingredient (Conventional and Free-From), Category (Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, and More), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The report covers Ready-to-eat Meals Market Brands in North America and is segmented by Product Type (Frozen Ready Meals, Canned Ready Meals, and Dried Ready Meals); by Category (Conventional Meals and Free-from Meals); Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores/Grocery Stores, Online Retailers, Other Distribution Channels); Geography (United States, Canada, Mexico, and Rest of North America).

The global ready meals market was valued at USD 143.94 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% during the forecast period.

In 2022, the Ready Meals Market attained a value of USD 152.29 billion, and it is projected to grow to USD 276.10 billion by 2030.

The Frozen-Cooked Ready Meals Market report segments the industry into Product Type (Vegetarian Meals, Non-Vegetarian Meals), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retailers, Other Distribution Channels), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa). Get five years of historical data alongside five-year market forecasts.

The global frozen ready meals market is projected to grow from USD 46.5 billion in 2025 to USD 77.5 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 5.3%. Market growth is driven by rising urbanization, increasing demand for convenience foods, and evolving consumer lifestyles seeking quick meal solutions.

The report covers Ready-to-Eat Meals Companies in Saudi Arabia and is Segmented by Product Type (Frozen Ready Meals, Chilled Ready Meals, and Ambient Ready Meals) and Distribution Channel (Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retail Stores, and Other Distribution Channels).

The global ready meals market size is expected to reach USD 219.43 billion by 2030 according to a new study by Polaris Market Research.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Ready Meal market size will be USD 171245.6 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.90% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 68498.24 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 51373.68 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD39386.49 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.9% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 8562.28 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 3424.91 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% from 2024 to 2031.
The Food Services category is the fastest growing segment of the Ready Meal industry

Market Dynamics of Ready Meal Market

Key Drivers for Ready Meal Market

Increasing Demand For Convenient And Quick Meal Options Due To Busy Lifestyles To Boost Market Growth

The growing need for convenient and fast meal solutions is significantly driving the Ready Meal Market. As people's lives become busier with demanding work schedules and other commitments, the preference for ready-to-eat meals is rising. These meals offer the advantage of saving time and effort while providing a variety of food options. The convenience of not requiring extensive cooking or preparation makes them a popular choice among urban populations. Additionally, advancements in packaging and preservation techniques ensure the freshness and quality of ready meals, further attracting consumers. This shift toward hassle-free meal options is a key factor boosting the growth of the Ready Meal Market globally. For instance, in October 2024, Swiggy has launched a new 10-minute food delivery service called Bolt, operational in major cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune. This service focuses on quick-to-prepare meals from over 2,700 partnered restaurants, offering popular items like burgers, breakfast dishes, and snacks within a 2-kilometer radius. With the aim of enhancing customer convenience, Bolt is designed to meet the growing demand for instant food delivery while ensuring quality and freshness.

Growth In The Working Population And Urbanization Driving Ready Meal Consumption Drive Market Growth

The increasing working population and rapid urbanization are major factors driving the growth of the Ready Meal Market. As more people move to cities and adopt fast-paced lifestyles, the demand for convenient meal solutions has surged. Ready meals provide a quick and hassle-free option for individuals with limited time for cooking due to work commitments. Urban areas, with their growing number of single households and dual-income families, are especially boosting this trend. The availability of diverse ready meal options catering to different tastes and preferences further supports their rising consumption. This shift toward easy-to-prepare food options aligns with the changing lifestyle patterns of urban and working populations, fueling the market's expansion.

Restraint Factor for the Ready Meal Market

Health Concerns Over Preservatives And Additives In Ready Meals, Will Limit Market Growth

Health concerns about the use of preservatives and additives in ready meals are restricting the growth of the Ready Meal Market. Many consumers are increasingly aware of the potential health risks associated with processed food ingredients, such as artificial preservatives, flavor enhancers, and high sodium content. This has led to skepticism about the nutritional value of ready meals, particularly among health-conscious individuals. As people prioritize healthier eating habits, they are often opting for fresh or minimally processed food alternatives over ready meals. The perception that ready meals may contribute to long-term health issues has become a significant challenge for market growth. Addressing these concerns is essential for maintaining consumer tr...

The Europe Ready Meals Market report segments the industry into Product Type (Frozen Ready Meals, Chilled Ready Meals, Canned Ready Meals, Dried Ready Meals), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retail Stores, Other Distribution Channels), and Geography (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Rest of Europe).

Global Ready Meals market size is expected to reach $303.09 billion by 2029 at 10.7%, segmented as by product, frozen, chilled, canned, dried

The size of the North America Ready Meal Market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 4.17% during the forecast period. Ready meals, also known as convenience meals or prepared meals, are pre-cooked dishes that require minimal preparation before consumption. These meals are designed to offer convenience and time savings for consumers who seek quick, easy, and nutritious dining options without the need for extensive cooking. Ready meals come in various forms, including frozen, chilled, and shelf-stable options. Frozen meals, like frozen pizzas or TV dinners, are typically stored at low temperatures and require reheating. Chilled meals, such as salads or pre-cooked pasta dishes, are kept at refrigeration temperatures and are often ready to eat with minimal additional heating. Shelf-stable meals, like canned soups or stews, have a longer shelf life and do not require refrigeration. The industry caters to diverse consumer preferences by offering a range of options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free varieties. Nutritional content, taste, and convenience are key factors driving consumer choices. The sector is influenced by trends such as health-conscious eating, demand for organic ingredients, and advancements in food preservation technology. Key drivers for this market are: Health Benefits Promoting Apple Cider Vinegar Demand, Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar Being Popular. Potential restraints include: Rising Demand for Other Vinegar Types. Notable trends are: Growing Affinity toward Ethnic Ready Meals.

The North America ready meals market size was valued at USD 54.49 Billion in 2024. The market is further projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.00% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of USD 80.66 Billion by 2034.

The Germany Ready Meals Market size is expected to reach $20.1 billion by 2030, rising at a market growth of 6.0% CAGR during the forecast period. In the year 2022, the market attained a volume of 338.77 kilo tonnes units, experiencing a growth of 8.8% (2019-2022). The ready meals market in Germany

The Prepared Meals Production industry has faced positive operating conditions over recent years. Revenue has benefited from consumers increasingly signing up to ready meal delivery services like My Muscle Chef and Lite n' Easy. Demand from time-poor consumers has been strong, as many have cut back on meal preparation. Producers that promote health as a core benefit have reported strong revenue growth. However, some companies have struggled to compete against private-label products launched by major supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths, as these products are often priced substantially lower compared to industry goods due to strong economies of scale. This trend has contributed to strong price competition and has constrained industry growth in recent years. Overall, industry revenue is expected to increase at an annualised 1.1% over the five years through 2024-25, to $1.9 billion. This includes an anticipated revenue rise of 1.8% in the current year. Prepared meal producers have shifted towards producing different meal types over recent years. Many smaller players have entered the market targeting healthy or specialty food areas due to rising health consciousness and growing demand for foods suited to vegan and vegetarian diets. Some producers have been able to take advantage of this opportunity, expanding significantly at the expense of firms that offer lower quality and cost foods. These meals typically demand higher prices, helping to push up industry profit margins. Industry revenue is set to continue growing in the coming years. An increasingly diverse range of products, including higher quality and easier to prepare meals, is forecast to boost overall industry demand. Specialty prepared meals are projected to rise in popularity as health consciousness and consumers with dietary preferences continue to shape the Australian food supply chain. Demand from time-poor consumers is also forecast to grow as more consumers enter the workforce. However, competition is set to remain high, limiting price-growth opportunities for producers. Industry revenue is projected to increase at an annualised 1.3% through the end of 2029-30, to $2.0 billion.

The Asia-Pacific Ready Meals Market Report is Segmented by Product Type (Frozen Ready Meals, Chilled Ready Meals, and More), Ingredient (Conventional, Free-From), Category (Vegetarian, Non-Vegetarian), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retailers, Other Distribution Channels) and by Geography (China, India, Japan and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

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Frozen Ready Meals Market Size 2025-2029

The frozen ready meals market size is forecast to increase by USD 66.3 billion at a CAGR of 11% between 2024 and 2029.

The market In the global food industry is witnessing significant growth due to several key factors. New product launches, featuring innovative flavors and personalized nutrition, are driving market expansion. Consumers' increasing preference for convenient and nutritious meal options, particularly In the context of busy lifestyles, is another major growth driver. The popularity of private-label frozen meals, offering competitive pricing and quality, is also contributing to market growth. However, challenges remain, including the complexities of warehousing and logistics for frozen foods, which require cold storage facilities and efficient transportation methods. Key product categories, such as frozen pizza, meat dishes, dumplings, and snacks, continue to dominate the market.
Trends in packaging, such as microwavable and vacuum-sealed containers, enhance the convenience and shelf life of these meals. The market is further expected to be influenced by emerging trends, such as the use of plant-based proteins and the integration of technology for improved cold chain management and personalized nutrition.

What will be the Size of the Frozen Ready Meals Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for convenient, healthy, and personalized meal options. Consumers are prioritizing healthy eating habits and seeking out balanced, diet-friendly meals that cater to various dietary restrictions, including nut-free, gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and low-carb options. The market also caters to busy individuals and families with meal prep services, food subscription boxes, and microwaveable meals. Additionally, there is a growing focus on ethical food sourcing, sustainable packaging, and reducing food waste. Nutritional considerations, including the inclusion of vitamins, minerals, and lean proteins, are also important factors influencing consumer choices. Online grocery sales are increasingly driving the growth of the market in North America, with beef, chicken, and fish-based meals being particularly popular. Healthy snacks and balanced meals are also popular choices for those following a healthy lifestyle or managing their weight. Overall, the market is expected to continue expanding as consumers seek out convenient, nutritious, and sustainable meal solutions.

How is this Frozen Ready Meals Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The frozen ready meals industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Frozen entree
  Frozen pizza
  Others


Geography

  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France


  North America

    Canada
    US


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Middle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The frozen entree segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

This segment encompasses single-serve dinners/entrees, handheld entrees, and multi-serve dinners/entrees. Frozen entrees provide a vast array of cuisines and dietary choices, including vegetarian, vegan, lean cuisine, and plant-based meals, aligning with health-conscious consumers' preferences. Online grocery stores, such as e-commerce platforms and independent retailers, facilitate the purchasing of these convenient meals, offering recipe suggestions, dietary information, and portion control.

Frozen entrees come in various packaging options, including recyclable, biodegradable, and eco-conscious materials, addressing environmental demands. Key players are also focusing on sustainability, with initiatives like QR codes for nutritional information and microwave-safe, single-serve containers for convenience. The market is expected to continue growing, catering to the busy lifestyles and dietary requirements of the working population, offering low-calorie, high-protein, and fiber-rich meals, as well as meals for specific dietary needs, such as omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and allergen-free options.

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The Frozen entree segment was valued at USD 26.30 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

Europe is estimated to contribute 74% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The USA Frozen Ready Meals Market is projected to reach USD 13,450.48 million in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 5% over the next decade to an estimated value of USD 22,220.20 million by 2035.

The UK Frozen Ready Meals market is poised to reach a value of USD 2,007.3 million in 2025, and further expand at a CAGR of 6.4% to reach USD 3,734.9 million by the year 2035.