Frozen Cooked Ready Meals Market Size - By Product Type, Packaging Type, Distribution Channel, Growth Forecast, 2025-2034

Frozen Cooked Ready Meals Market Size

The global frozen cooked ready meals market size reached USD 44.2 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 46.5 billion in 2025 to USD 76.2 billion in 2034, at a CAGR of 5.6%, as per the latest report published by global market insights, Inc.

• The frozen cooked ready meals market is fueled by busy lifestyles and the growing need for healthier and faster food options. Dual earning families have contributed to increasing demand, as has increased urbanization and online shopping. Additional new and improved packaging methods, as well as food preservation technologies, have allowed for the proliferation of frozen cooked meals that appeal to busy consumers.
   
• The market is conquered by non-vegetarian meals, which constituted 58.1% of the market share in 2024 and are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% through 2034. Vegetarian meals are still smaller market by number.
   
• Trays remain a significant principal portion in packaging format type for frozen cooked ready meals in 2024 with a 21.1% share of market. Pouches and flexible packs have gained acceptance with share of market and CAGR of 5.9%, primarily for ease of use and portion control benefits. Bags and boxes are also large contributors but are growing at rates less than trays. The popularity of changing packaging choices and packaging types is driven by consumers choosing convenience as well as sustainability and packaging advances.
   
• Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the primary distribution channels for frozen cooked ready meals with over 44.6% share of total sales with full-speed growth of 6.1% CAGR. Online retail have the chief growth rate of 5.3% CAGR driven by digital adoption and consumer behavior changes.
   
• Specialty retail channels have niche growth, improving diversity and access. On-premise foodservice retail continues to maintain our definition of the whole product category but shows little growth through 2034.
   
• The overall market growth trend continues to show strong growth in frozen cooked ready meals across all major regions. Each major region being modeled will approximately double its total market volume by 2034. Strong growth continues driven by increasing urbanization people looking for new meal solutions using their increased disposable income. While disparate regional food preferences and culture, retail infrastructures, and innovations will affect the absolute, relative, and competitive market for frozen cooked ready meals.
   

Frozen Cooked Ready Meals Market Trends

• The increasing consciousness among consumers regarding their health is resulting in more demand for frozen cooked meals that are ready to serve and low on calories but high on proteins without any preservatives. To match this demand, manufacturers are progressively launching organic, gluten-free, keto, and even plant-based varieties.
   
• The adoption rate of plant-based diets has increased the demand for readily available frozen vegan and vegetarian meals. There is a substantial demand for easier, protein sourced plant-based substitutes than consumers previously relied on for ethical eating. Many brands are changing their meat-based recipes to include plant-based proteins like soy, pea, and lentils. This shift is supported by the reduction in consumption rate of meat, environmental impact and demand for non-violent food.
   
• There is increase in interest towards gourmet chef inspired frozen meals. There is an increased demand of high quality, exotic restaurant-style for its range of dishes. These unique offerings often come with a price tag as well as costlier and different type of packaging but are meant to offer a luxurious dining experience with flavors at home. This shift is mostly driven by the convenience of dining in post-pandemic era without worrying about quality of food.
   

Frozen Cooked Ready Meals Market Analysis

Based on product type, the frozen cooked meals market is segmented into vegetarian meals and non-vegetarian meals. Non vegetarian meals holds a significant share at a valuation of USD 25.7 billion in 2024.
 

• Non-vegetarian meals have taken a larger share of the market at 58.1% in 2024 and are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7%.  The strength of this segment is likely due to consumers' preference for meals rich in protein and a fan for variety.  Vegetarian meals are gaining market growth.
   
• The demand for vegetarian meals is fueled by health consciousness, dietary transitions, and the adoption of plant-based eating. Non-vegetarian meals will continue to have a dominant market share due to an established consumer base. The expansion of the total market is also supported by urbanization and increasingly busy lifestyles in which convenience is vital, indicating that ready-to-eat is part of a solution for nutrition.
   
• As both segments innovate with flavor and healthier ingredients in the frozen cooked ready meals market, the frozen cooked ready meal market will continue to be competitive across various dietary preferences, and consumer needs.
   

Based on packaging type, the market is segmented into pouches, trays, bags, and boxes.
 

• Pouches are increasingly popular in the frozen cooked ready meal market and are expected to reach USD 21.3 billion by 2034. Pouches are lightweight and easy to transport, which makes them appealing to busy consumers who put a premium on easy meal options. Pouches will significantly impact the development of frozen and ready meal packaging as new, innovative and sustainable products are released into the market.
   
• Trays are forecasted to continue as the leading packaging type with a strong CAGR of 6% from 2024 to 2034. Trays' heavy construct and ability for microwaving makes them a preference of consumers. Trays are still preferred for meals that provide structure, reheating convenience and one and done meal solutions, thus they will continue to be a viable packaging option in the quickly evolving market.
   
• Bags will hold a significant portion of the frozen cooked ready meal market share, 23.9% in 2024, as they represent a cost-effective and practical solution for both manufacturers and consumers. While bags remain praised for their layout, usability and electronic usage by retailers, manufacturers, and consumers using the bags experience increased market competition from more rigorously constructed and innovative packages.
   
• Boxes will increase in value to USSD 11.7 billion in the frozen cooked ready meal market by 2034 but have a slower growth compared to other packaging and recent performance of this segment, strongly suggests a fundamental change in the thinking of the consumer when it comes to packaging considering convenience and sustainability are more relevant elements for consumers.
   

Based on distribution channel, the frozen cooked ready meals market is segmented into supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retail, specialty stores, and foodservice/restaurants.
 

• Supermarkets and hypermarkets will remain the largest distribution channel with an estimated USD value of 35.5 billion by 2034 with a CAGR of 6%. The extensive reach of supermarket chains, broad variety of products, and overall trust from consumers will keep them as the consumer's primary choice for frozen cooked ready meals in retail because of the largest footprints in the marketplace, they offer a one-stop meal solution for shoppers in urban and suburban settings looking for convenience and variety.
   
• Convenience stores are forecast to take a 23.2% share of the market in 2024 by providing quick access to consumers on-the-go wanting frozen cooked ready meals. Convenience stores are also located near residential and workplace areas that encourage impulse purchasing and last-minute meal solutions. They have grown in channels because of urbanization and the market demand for fast, on-demand meals.
   
• Online retail is forecast to take a USD of 13.9 billion by 2034 a CAGR of 5.3% as the hurried shift to digital shopping, home delivery, and subscription meal services are ever-increasing. The ease of navigating online shopping and everything you are able to purchase online provides the consumer with ample selection and ability to price-shop frozen cooked meals while ordering frozen ready meals from the comfort of their home.
   
• Specialty stores are projected to experience a CAGR of 5% from 2023 to 2034, reflecting growing consumer interest in premium, health-focused, and niche frozen cooked ready meals. These specialty stores address unique dietary needs and food preferences. The market itself in specialty stores is fairly limited, but appeals to a certain kind of consumer that is willing to pay more for a curated collection of products to meet their dietary restrictions, cultural traditions, unique flavors, organic ingredients or gourmet meal experience.
   
• Foodservice and restaurants are expected to account for USD 2 billion in 2034 at a slower CAGR of 2.6%. While foodservice and restaurants are a smaller footprint in the overall market, there is an opportunity for ready meal brands to partner with foodservice and restaurants to extend their reach to consumers. This channel's growth has been limited by the dominance of retail channels and changing consumer dining habits.
   

U.S. dominated the frozen cooked ready meals market in North America with around 80.1% share and generated USD 12.9 billion in revenue in 2024.
 

• The U.S. frozen cooked ready meals market is mature and has very strong product innovation and growth driven by fast-paced lifestyles, dual incomes in households, and a general culture of convenience.  Consumption has increased in traditional retail channels (large supermarkets, hypermarkets), with rapid growth of online sales that accelerated during the pandemic.
   
• Brands continue to innovate by offering growing numbers of ethnic, organic, and health-oriented products. Non-vegetarian meals will continue to be the largest segment of the market, but vegetarian and plant-based frozen ready meals will grow their market share and value, as health consciousness continues to grow and consumers shift dietary preferences towards plant-based diets.
   
• There is increasing regulatory scrutiny on food safety and labelling, along with an increasing consumer demand for clearer, clean-label products, which is influencing product development. As the market matures, brands will find points of differentiation in three areas: premiumization, customization, and consumer digital engagement.
   

The frozen cooked ready meals market in India is projected to experience robust and sustained growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• India’s market is expanding rapidly, mainly driven by urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a young aspirational population.   This market is highly unique in comparison to other countries due to the strong cultural preference for fresh, home-cooked food, which is often a significant barrier to the adoption of frozen cooked meals.
   
• Changing lifestyles, and more time-constrained nuclear families are also affecting the adoption of easily prepared meal options, and as a result, demand for cooked frozen ready meals has increased, especially in metropolitan areas. There is high adoption of vegetarian meals, largely, but not exclusively, due to religious and cultural reasons, but there is also growing appetite to eat non-vegetarian meals and taste international cuisine among younger urban youth.
   
• The market does face significant challenges including limited cold chain warehousing and infrastructure in remote rural areas and low consumer trust in using preservatives and food safety.
   
• There are plenty of opportunities for brands that can localize the tastes, provide preservative free or minimally processed options and build trust with consumers through honest labelling, branding and diverse marketing approaches. Rising modern retail and e-commerce platforms mean that brands can reach consumers further afield than formerly possible, and celebrity endorsements, influencer marketing campaigns are being used to try and overcome some of the stigma.
   
• In parallel, as general awareness continues to grow, both domestic and international brands are able to compete for their share of this unexplored market with many new, young, and evolving consumers across India.
   

The frozen cooked ready meals market in Germany is forecasted to optimistic growth between 2025 and 2034.
 

• Frozen cooked meals position a mature and quality-driven market, where consumer preferences on health and sustainability take center stage. This market segment offers a high-level of trust in food safety standards, as well as an increased trust in foods made of natural ingredients and free from artificial additives.
   
• The German consumer is now looking for more vegetarian and vegan ready meals. This consumer trend of alternative plant-based food options is prominent in Europe, and Germany is a leader in this market. The market is also influenced by an aging population, contributing to the increasing demand for easy-to-prepare food options, reflecting the nutrient-dense easy meal solutions that seniors tend to prefer. Private label products from discounters and supermarkets present serious competitive challenges for branded competitors at both the quality and innovation level.
   
• Competition is ever-present regarding prices in head-to-head comparisons, as well as differentiation in continual innovation. However, there is room for brands that can develop niche and innovative delicacies or meals that are organic or symbolize international cuisines, including brands that have demonstrated sustainability actions in regards to food and eco-friendly operating practices.
   
• Germany has some of the strictest regulatory requirements for disclosures around ingredients as well as sustainability. Although these stringent regulations encourage consumers to have greater overall confidence towards food, they also raise the bar in regards to the initial entry in the market.
   

The frozen cooked ready meals market in Brazil is projected to undergo remarkable and steady growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The frozen cooked ready meal market in Brazil is growing rapidly, driven by urbanization, a growing middle class, and shifts in family structures. The market is expanding, with robust demand for traditional Brazilian foods modified into frozen convenience formats.
   
• Younger consumers are becoming more open to international cuisines, driving more product development. The market benefits from an embedded grocery channel with many supermarkets in urban areas, but rural distribution can be poor due to the cold chain not being as strong. Pricing is still a barrier, especially for lower income consumers, and so value packs and price promotions are very important for market access.
   
• The pandemic (COVID-19) drove the volume of frozen ready meals; it was a simple solution to dine out as social distancing became a requirement. However, frozen meals are still not considered as "healthy" as fresh, and frozen brands will need to address this perception through education and innovation.
   

Saudi Arabia’s frozen cooked ready meals market is set to experience dynamic and substantial expansion during the period from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The frozen cooked ready meal market in Saudi Arabia is on the rise, thanks to a combination of a growing young population, increasing female workforce participation, and an evolution of work/life balance into a more modern lifestyle from a predominately rural heritage. The market is distinct for its assortment of both traditional Middle Eastern and international cuisines.
   
• The majority of ready cooked meals are not vegetarian, as many establishments are culturally directed toward meat consumption as a dominant cuisine. The Vision 2030 program has led to investment in food processing and cold chain infrastructure initiatives, allowing to expand this market, while improved product availability to consumers.
   
• There are some obstacles that will remain on the path of growth. For example, many consumers distrust frozen meals with preservatives, prefer freshly prepared meals or, in many instances, require a solid logistics plan due to their remote countryside position. Increasing acceptance of e-commerce and food delivery apps in Saudi Arabia will make frozen cooked meals a more popular and accepted choice, particularly for consumers living in growing population centers / major cities in Saudi Arabia.
   
• Companies that are able to establish a strong brand identity on high quality ready meals and convenience will win. The increasing health awareness has also begun to influence consumers' expectations of food, leading to a demand for clean-label, organic and premium ready meals in Saudi Arabia.
   

Frozen Cooked Ready Meals Market Share

The top 5 companies in the frozen cooked ready meals industry includes Conagra Brands, Dr. Oetker, Frosta, General Mills and Kerry Group representing around 40.3% of the market in 2024.
 

• In developed markets, notably the U.S. and Germany, Nestlé, Conagra, Kraft Heinz, and Dr. Oetker are well-respected brands with vast distribution capabilities, substantial brand equity, and consistent product innovation. Retailer branded offerings through private label brands are able to deliver quality at competitive prices, contributing to price based competition.
   
• Meanwhile in emerging markets such as India and Brazil, local companies, ITC, MTR Foods, Seara and Sadia, have been growing quickly and commonly have direct appeal to the regional tastes and dietary preferences of the respective Nations people, where frozen prepared meals are a new for most of the local market.
   
• New food retail and food delivery alternatives have made it easier for new entrants and niche brands to reach consumers through direct delivery methods. Packaging differences through convenient packaging, health options and competitive formulations including plant-based and premium meals have become increasingly competitive attributes in these markets.
   
• Investment in marketing by players includes promotional advertising and social media marketing, in addition to celebrity endorsements and sponsorship methodologies to brand build and create loyalty. The marketplace will also continue to see a trend toward players expanding on their portfolios through partnerships, mergers and acquisitions with other opportunities.
   

Frozen Cooked Ready Meals Market Companies

Conagra Brands: Conagra Brands is a leading U.S. food company with a diverse portfolio of frozen ready meals, including Healthy Choice, Marie Callender’s and many other household brand names. Conagra Brands is committed to innovation, convenience, and health-oriented products to fulfill changing tastes and preferences in North American markets, while establishing itself in new global markets. 
 

Dr. Oetker: Dr. Oetker is based in Germany, and is a major player in the European frozen ready meal market, with a strong emphasis on quality in its frozen pizzas, pasta dishes, international cuisine and dining offerings. Dr. Oetker has a strong commitment to high-quality products and delicious tasting prepared meals, and convenience; in addition, Dr. Oetker has been able to create brand loyalty and significant penetration in European and other international markets.
 

Frosta: Frosta is a German company with an offering of frozen ready meals and is defined by a number of key attributes including 100% natural, additive-free meals. Frosta is also unique in its commitment to clean-label and sustainability and appeals to a health-conscious consumer. Frosta is now a household name in Germany, growing rapidly throughout Europe by focusing on clean-label ingredients, no additives, sustainable packaging and meal solutions that are innovative to meet consumer preferences for clean and healthy eating.
 

General Mills: Based in the U.S., General Mills is a food establishment that brings a wide range of frozen ready meals under brands like Old El Paso and Green Giant. The company differently offers customers ways to retain their competitive advantage via distribution, product development, and health-focused solutions in North America and certain international markets.
 

Kerry Group: Based in Ireland, Kerry Group is a leading supplier of food ingredients and ready meal options for market segments of retail and foodservice. The company prides itself on taste, nutrition, and clean-label innovation and supplies a range of frozen meal products and culinary solutions to major brand groups, mass market retailers, and emerging markets in Europe, North America, and overseas.
 

Frozen Cooked Ready Meals Industry News

• In 2025, ITC Limited entered into a definitive agreement with Prasuma an Indian based manufacturer for frozen and ready-to-cook foods Their presence has been noted in more than 100 cities via offline and online modes, including cloud kitchens. Prasuma's specialty products include momos, deli meats, and other pan-Asian cuisines.
   
• In 2025 the Green Giant brand of General Mills expanded its range of products to include a new line of plant-based frozen meals. The new offerings include dumplings, pot pies and vegetable stir-fry’s all free of meat.
   
• In 2024, Dr. Oetker introduced a wider selection of frozen meals, including gluten-free pizzas, gluten-free pasta, and gluten-free ready-to-eat meals. With the increasing need for gluten-free meals among consumers, Dr. Oetker aims to serve those markets while ensuring good quality and class in their products.
   
• In 2022 Conagra Brands incorporated more than 50 new Healthy Choice cauliflower-crust flatbread pizzas, Marie Callender's Duos meals, and etc. These new products reflect Conagra’s vision for modern taste, ease of preparation, and environmental sustainability while ensuring the health and dietary needs of consumers.
   

The frozen cooked ready meals market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Mn) and volume (Tons) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Product Type

• Vegetarian meals
• Non-vegetarian meals

Market, By Packaging Type

• Pouches
• Trays
• Bags
• Boxes

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/hypermarkets
• Convenience stores
• Online retail
• Specialty stores
• Foodservice/restaurants

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Europe
• MEA
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Egypt
  • Rest Of Europe