The Global Ready Meals Market size is expected to reach $275.9 billion by 2030, rising at a market growth of 7.7% CAGR during the forecast period. In the year 2022, the market attained a volume of 4,317.7 kilo tonnes experiencing a growth of 10.4% (2019-2022).
Consumers increasingly prioritize healthier eating habits and convenience. Prepared salads offer a convenient and quick meal option that is perceived as healthier than many other fast-food alternatives. Consequently, the prepared salads segment would generate approximately 11.1% share of the market by 2030. They provide a balance of vegetables, proteins, and often grains, appealing to health-conscious consumers looking for nutritious options. The intersection of health consciousness, convenience, variety, quality, and accessibility has fueled the demand for prepared salads, making them a favored choice among consumers seeking nutritious and easy meal solutions. Some of the factors affecting the market are changing lifestyle and preferences of consumers, growing awareness of health and wellness, and growing consumer demand for fresh foods.
Modern lifestyles are characterized by hectic schedules, longer working hours, and increased time constraints. As a result, consumers, especially in urban areas, often seek convenient meal options that require minimal preparation. Ready meals cater to the needs of consumers constantly on the go. As these factors continue to shape eating habits and lifestyles, the market will likely grow and diversify to meet the evolving needs of a time-conscious consumer base. Moreover, ready meals are evolving to include nutrient-dense ingredients such as whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. This shift addresses consumer concerns about the nutritional value of their meals, attracting those looking for healthier options. As these trends continue influencing consumer choices, the market will likely further diversify its offerings to meet evolving dietary preferences and wellness goals.
However, consumers associating freshness with minimally processed foods may view ready meals as heavily processed. Preservatives or additives to extend shelf life can further contribute to a negative perception, deterring those seeking fresh and natural options. Consumers increasingly prioritize local and seasonal ingredients for freshness and sustainability. Due to the above factors, market growth will be hampered in the coming years.
Distribution Channel Outlook
On the basis of distribution channel, market is segmented into supermarkets/hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online stores. The online stores segment acquired a substantial revenue share in the market in 2022. Online stores often feature customer reviews and ratings for ready meals, providing valuable insights for potential buyers. These details help consumers make informed decisions about the products’ taste, quality, and overall satisfaction. Online stores offer a wide range of ready meals, catering to various tastes, preferences, and dietary requirements. Consumers can explore diverse options, including traditional dishes, international cuisines, and specialty meals. Some online grocery platforms offer subscription services for ready meals, allowing customers to receive regular deliveries of their favorite meals.
Type Outlook
Based on type, the market is fragmented into frozen pizza, frozen ready meals, prepared salads, dried ready meals, canned/preserved ready meals, chilled ready meals, and chilled pizza. The canned/preserved segment garnered a significant revenue share in the market in 2022. Canned meals are inherently portable, making them suitable for on-the-go consumption. This is particularly appealing for individuals who need a quick and easy meal solution during outdoor activities, travel, or work breaks. Unlike fresh or frozen ready meals, canned or preserved options do not require refrigeration. This makes them convenient for storage in pantries or other non-refrigerated spaces, reducing the need for additional storage infrastructure.
Regional Outlook
Region-wise, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. The North America region recorded a remarkable revenue share in the market in 2022. Pre-packaged meal consumption is most prevalent in the United States. Increased health consciousness and concerns regarding food safety are motivating consumers to modify their food preferences, which in turn is stimulating product demand in the area. Furthermore, the value of pre-packaged gluten-free, vegan, and organic foods is primarily derived from consumer confidence and the perception that these foods are healthful. The growing popularity of ready-to-eat dishes can be attributed to their portability, convenience, and the increased availability of innovative options.
The market research report covers the analysis of key stakeholders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include Bakkavor Group PLC, Conagra Brands, Inc., General Mills, Inc., The Kraft Heinz Company, Nestle S.A, Fleury Michon, Unilever PLC, Kerry Group PLC, Premier Foods PLC (Premier Foods Group Services Ltd.), Kellogg Company
Scope of the Study
Market Segments covered in the Report:
By Distribution Channel (Volume, kilo Tonnes, USD Billion, 2019-2030)

  • Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets
  • Convenience Stores
  • Online Stores


By Type (Volume, kilo Tonnes, USD Billion, 2019-2030)

  • Frozen Pizza
  • Canned/Preserved Ready Meals
  • Frozen Ready Meals
  • Prepared Salads
  • Chilled Ready Meals
  • Dried Ready Meals
  • Chilled Pizza


By Geography (Volume, kilo Tonnes, USD Billion, 2019-2030)

  • North America


o US
o Canada
o Mexico
o Rest of North America

  • Europe


o Germany
o UK
o France
o Russia
o Spain
o Italy
o Rest of Europe

  • Asia Pacific


o China
o Japan
o India
o South Korea
o Singapore
o Malaysia
o Rest of Asia Pacific

  • LAMEA


o Brazil
o Argentina
o UAE
o Saudi Arabia
o South Africa
o Nigeria
o Rest of LAMEA
Companies Profiled

  • Bakkavor Group PLC
  • Conagra Brands, Inc.
  • General Mills, Inc.
  • The Kraft Heinz Company
  • Nestle S.A
  • Fleury Michon
  • Unilever PLC
  • Kerry Group PLC
  • Premier Foods PLC (Premier Foods Group Services Ltd.)
  • Kellogg Company


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