Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Bagged, Boxed, Other), By Applications Covered (Hypermarkets / Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Food Specialty Stores, Departmental Stores, Online Retailers, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) Market Size

The Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) Market was valued at USD 121,008 million in 2025 and is projected to grow from USD 124,759 million in 2025 to USD 159,273 million by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.

The U.S. Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) market is expected to experience steady growth over the forecast period, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenience, time-saving solutions, and ready-to-eat options. As busy lifestyles continue to shape consumer preferences, the market is likely to expand with a focus on offering diverse, nutritious, and high-quality meal options. Innovations in packaging, along with the rising popularity of health-conscious and customizable meal choices, are expected to further fuel market growth in the U.S. Additionally, the growing trend of online meal delivery services is anticipated to boost the availability and accessibility of prepared meals.

The ready meals (prepared meals) market has seen significant growth due to increasing consumer demand for convenience, affordability, and a wide variety of food choices. Ready-to-eat meals are gaining popularity as time-strapped consumers seek quick and easy meal solutions. These meals, which range from frozen to fresh offerings, cater to busy lifestyles and evolving dietary preferences. Additionally, the rise in single-person households and the growth of online food delivery platforms have further fueled the market. As a result, the demand for innovative and nutritionally balanced ready meals has increased, with manufacturers focusing on health-conscious offerings.

Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) Market Trends

The ready meals market is experiencing several trends that are shaping its future. A significant trend is the rising demand for healthy, organic, and clean-label products, accounting for nearly 30% of the market's growth. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the nutritional value of their meals, leading to a shift toward products made with natural, preservative-free ingredients. Additionally, there is an increasing demand for plant-based meals, which is expanding at a rate of approximately 18%, as more consumers opt for vegan and vegetarian diets. The convenience factor continues to drive growth, with ready-to-eat meals making up around 35% of the market, as busy consumers prefer meals that require minimal preparation. Technology advancements in packaging, such as eco-friendly materials and longer shelf life, are also contributing to the market’s growth, with a 10% increase in demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Moreover, the surge in e-commerce has made it easier for consumers to access a variety of ready meals, accounting for 20% of the market share. These trends indicate a shift towards healthier, more convenient, and sustainable meal options in the ready meals market.

Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) Market Dynamics

The dynamics of the ready meals market are driven by multiple factors, including changing consumer preferences, advancements in food technology, and increased consumer reliance on convenience foods. The demand for healthier and more varied meal options continues to rise, with consumers seeking meals that meet dietary requirements such as gluten-free, low-carb, and plant-based diets. In addition, the growth of delivery services and e-commerce platforms allows consumers to easily access a variety of ready meals, further expanding the market. However, concerns over the high cost of premium meals and quality issues in some product categories continue to influence market growth.

Drivers of Market Growth

"Growing demand for convenience and time-saving meals"

The growing demand for convenience is a primary driver in the ready meals market. Approximately 40% of consumers prefer ready-to-eat meals due to their ability to save time and effort in meal preparation. Busy lifestyles and increasing numbers of single-person households contribute to this demand, as consumers look for hassle-free meal options. Ready meals provide a quick solution for consumers who do not have the time or desire to cook from scratch. This trend is expected to continue as more consumers seek practical solutions that fit into their hectic schedules.

Market Restraints

"Concerns over the nutritional value of processed meals"

One of the primary restraints in the ready meals market is consumer concern over the nutritional content and health risks associated with processed meals. More than 25% of consumers are increasingly wary of the preservatives, artificial flavors, and high sodium content in many ready-to-eat options. This has prompted manufacturers to address these concerns by offering healthier, lower-sodium, and organic alternatives. However, these options often come at a premium price, which may limit their accessibility to certain consumer segments, particularly in price-sensitive regions.

Market Opportunity

"Growth in demand for plant-based and gluten-free options"

The demand for plant-based and gluten-free ready meals is providing significant opportunities for market growth. As more consumers adopt plant-based diets and avoid gluten for health or ethical reasons, the market for specialized ready meals continues to expand. Plant-based meal options, which make up approximately 15% of the market, are seeing a surge in demand as people seek vegan alternatives. Similarly, gluten-free ready meals are becoming increasingly popular, accounting for about 12% of the market share. Manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by developing a broader range of plant-based and gluten-free ready meals, thus tapping into a rapidly growing segment of health-conscious consumers.

Market Challenge

"High cost of premium ready meals"

One of the major challenges facing the ready meals market is the high cost associated with premium products, particularly those made with organic or sustainably sourced ingredients. Around 20% of consumers report concerns over the affordability of these premium meal options, especially in emerging markets where income levels may be lower. While there is increasing demand for healthier, premium meals, the cost factor can limit market expansion in certain regions. To address this challenge, manufacturers are focusing on finding a balance between product quality and affordability to cater to a broader consumer base.

Segmentation Analysis

The ready meals (prepared meals) market is segmented by type and application, offering insight into the various packaging options and sales channels that drive market growth. The segmentation by type includes bagged, boxed, and other packaging formats, each catering to specific consumer preferences. Bagged meals are typically favored for their convenience, while boxed meals appeal to consumers looking for premium, well-packaged options. Other formats may include trays or containers that provide easy-to-heat solutions. In terms of application, ready meals are widely distributed through various retail channels such as hypermarkets/supermarkets, convenience stores, food specialty stores, and online retailers. Each application channel has its unique benefits, such as the convenience offered by convenience stores and the variety and availability in hypermarkets and supermarkets. As demand for convenience increases, online retail platforms also play a growing role in the sale and delivery of ready meals.

By Type

• Bagged:Bagged meals hold a significant share of the market, accounting for approximately 40%. These meals are typically lightweight, cost-effective, and designed for single-serve or family-size portions. Bagged ready meals are often favored by consumers looking for quick and easy meal solutions. The packaging allows for quick heating, and it is particularly popular in frozen meal formats. The popularity of bagged meals can be attributed to their affordability and the growing consumer preference for convenient, portion-controlled meals.

• Boxed:Boxed ready meals make up around 35% of the market. This packaging is often used for premium or gourmet meals, offering consumers higher-end options with more elaborate ingredients. Boxed meals are typically associated with higher quality and better presentation, making them popular in the middle-to-upper-income demographic. These meals are also known for their longer shelf life and more protective packaging, which helps preserve the meal’s taste and texture. Their increasing popularity is linked to the growing demand for ready-to-eat but high-quality meals.

• Other:Other types of packaging, including trays, containers, and pouches, make up about 25% of the market. These formats are designed for varying consumer needs, from individual servings to family-sized meals. They often cater to specific requirements such as easy reheating, portion control, and sustainable packaging options. The variety in this segment provides flexibility for manufacturers to offer meals in different sizes and for various dietary preferences, such as organic or vegan options.

By Application

• Hypermarkets / Supermarkets:Hypermarkets and supermarkets are the largest distribution channel for ready meals, making up approximately 45% of the market. These retail outlets offer a wide variety of meal options, from frozen meals to fresh, refrigerated meals. The demand for ready meals in these stores is driven by consumer preference for convenience and the ability to choose from a wide range of options. Consumers are increasingly looking for quick and easy meal solutions while shopping for groceries, which has contributed to the growth of ready meals in these stores.

• Convenience Stores:Convenience stores account for around 20% of the market. These stores cater to on-the-go consumers who are looking for fast and easy meal solutions. Ready meals in convenience stores are often designed for single servings and are typically sold as microwave-ready or pre-packed meals that can be consumed quickly. The popularity of convenience store ready meals is increasing due to the fast-paced lifestyles of many consumers who seek meals that are quick, affordable, and easy to prepare.

• Food Specialty Stores:Food specialty stores make up approximately 15% of the ready meals market. These stores typically offer high-quality, premium ready meals, often focusing on organic, fresh, or locally sourced ingredients. They cater to consumers looking for gourmet options or specific dietary preferences, such as gluten-free or vegan meals. The market for ready meals in specialty stores is driven by the growing interest in healthier and more diverse meal options, as well as the increasing popularity of premium, convenience-driven products.

• Departmental Stores:Departmental stores account for about 10% of the market share. These stores usually offer a more limited selection of ready meals compared to hypermarkets and supermarkets but still serve a significant portion of the population. The meals sold in department stores are often targeted at higher-income consumers who are looking for more premium meal options and quality convenience foods.

• Online Retailers:Online retailers represent about 5% of the ready meals market but are growing rapidly as e-commerce continues to expand. Online platforms offer consumers the convenience of ordering ready meals directly from home, with the added benefit of home delivery. This segment is expected to grow as more consumers turn to online shopping for convenience foods, especially as they seek variety and niche meal options. The rise of subscription-based meal services and home delivery options is also contributing to the growth of this distribution channel.

Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) Regional Outlook

The global ready meals market is spread across several regions, with each experiencing unique growth trends driven by consumer preferences, economic factors, and cultural influences. North America and Europe are the largest markets for ready meals, owing to the strong demand for convenience and ready-to-eat food options. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth, fueled by changing lifestyles and urbanization. The Middle East & Africa region is also seeing increased demand for ready meals as consumer preferences evolve.

North America

North America holds a dominant share in the global ready meals market, accounting for approximately 40% of the market demand. This is primarily driven by the high demand for convenience, particularly in the U.S., where busy lifestyles have led to increased consumption of ready meals. Consumers in this region prefer a wide variety of meal options, including frozen meals, microwaveable meals, and pre-packaged meals. The demand for healthier, organic, and specialty-ready meals is also on the rise, contributing to the market's growth.

Europe

Europe accounts for about 30% of the global market for ready meals. The demand in this region is largely driven by consumer preference for quality, as well as a shift towards convenience-driven food options. Countries like the U.K., France, and Germany have seen increased sales in both frozen and fresh ready meals. Furthermore, the growing trend of health-conscious eating has led to a rise in demand for organic and diet-specific ready meals, contributing to market growth in this region.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is rapidly growing in the ready meals market, holding about 20% of the global market share. The rise of urbanization, changing eating habits, and increased disposable incomes are driving the demand for ready meals. Countries like China and India are seeing a shift towards convenience foods, with more consumers opting for ready-to-eat meals due to busy lifestyles. The growth in the foodservice industry, coupled with greater availability and variety of ready meals, is further boosting the market in this region.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region contributes about 10% to the global ready meals market. While the market is relatively smaller compared to other regions, it is expanding due to rapid urbanization and changing consumer preferences. The growing availability of retail outlets and the increasing demand for convenience foods are contributing factors. Additionally, the rising middle class in countries like the UAE and South Africa is driving the demand for ready meals, especially those that offer quick, high-quality meal solutions.

LIST OF KEY Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) Market COMPANIES PROFILED

• Nestle

• ConAgra

• Unilever

• Kraft Heinz

• Campbell Soup

• Hormel Foods

• The Schwan Food

• JBS

• Sigma Alimentos

• Iglo Group (Nomad Foods)

• Sisters Food Group

• Tyson Foods

• Fleury Michon

• Grupo Herdez

• Greencore Group

• Maple Leaf Foods

• McCain

• Advanced Fresh Concepts

• Chao Xiang Yuan Food

• Dr. Oetker

• BRF S.A.

• Berkshire

• General Mills

• Massa Leve

• Tingyi Holding

• Haidilao

• Shuanghui International Holdings

• Uni-President Enterprises Corporation

Top companies having highest share

• Nestle: 20%

• ConAgra: 15%

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The Ready Meals market has seen a significant increase in investments due to the demand for convenience, health-conscious options, and innovative solutions in the food industry. About 35% of investments are directed towards the development of healthier and more nutritious ready meal options. These include meals with reduced sodium, no preservatives, and enhanced with organic or plant-based ingredients. The growing trend of consumers seeking healthier food options is driving this surge in innovation.

Approximately 30% of investments are concentrated in the development of premium ready meals, targeting consumers with higher disposable incomes. These premium meals often focus on organic ingredients, gourmet flavors, and specialized dietary needs, such as keto, gluten-free, or allergen-free options. This shift is evident in the increasing market share of premium meal categories, which now account for about 25% of the total market.

Another 25% of the investments are being utilized to expand production capacity and improve logistics to meet the growing demand for ready-to-eat meals. With the increasing popularity of online grocery shopping and meal delivery services, companies are making significant investments in supply chain optimization and e-commerce platforms. These efforts are aimed at reducing delivery times and ensuring that fresh products reach customers efficiently.

The remaining 10% of investments are focused on packaging innovations, such as eco-friendly and biodegradable materials, which cater to the growing demand for sustainable solutions in food packaging. More than 10% of consumers are now prioritizing environmentally friendly packaging, which has become a key differentiator for brands in the market.

NEW PRODUCTS Development

The Ready Meals market continues to evolve with the increasing demand for healthier, more sustainable, and convenient options. About 40% of new product development focuses on catering to the health-conscious consumer. This includes innovations in plant-based meals, low-calorie options, and ready meals with added nutritional benefits, such as high protein or fiber content. A rising number of products also cater to specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free, keto, or vegan diets, which now represent approximately 30% of all new product launches.

Around 25% of new products are focused on international and regional flavors to appeal to diverse consumer tastes. The demand for ethnic cuisines is rising, with many consumers seeking authentic and convenient options. Ready meals with flavors from Asian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American cuisines have grown in popularity, reflecting the broader trends in the food industry towards greater diversity in meal choices.

Approximately 20% of product development is directed toward convenience and portability. Ready-to-eat meals that are easy to store, heat, and consume on the go have become a priority, as more people turn to quick and easy meal solutions, particularly busy professionals and young consumers. This includes innovations such as microwaveable meals, single-serve portions, and meals in eco-friendly, on-the-go packaging.

The remaining 15% of new product developments are geared toward enhancing the sustainability of ready meals, focusing on reducing food waste, improving energy efficiency in production processes, and using sustainable ingredients. Companies are also incorporating clean-label practices, with a growing number of consumers seeking transparency about the ingredients used in their meals.

Recent Developments

• Nestle: In 2023, Nestle expanded its portfolio by launching a new line of plant-based ready meals under its Garden Gourmet brand. The line includes vegan-friendly versions of traditional meals such as lasagna and spaghetti, responding to the rising demand for plant-based alternatives. The new products accounted for a 10% increase in sales within the plant-based meal category.

• Kraft Heinz: In 2025, Kraft Heinz launched a range of low-sodium, heart-healthy frozen meals as part of their health-focused ready meal expansion. This range includes meals that are 50% lower in sodium compared to regular products. The introduction has gained traction in the U.S. market, where heart health is a growing concern.

• Tyson Foods: In 2023, Tyson Foods introduced a range of protein-rich ready meals designed for fitness enthusiasts. The meals contain high-protein content and are marketed to those following active lifestyles, accounting for a 15% increase in sales for the brand's protein meal segment.

• Greencore Group: In 2025, Greencore launched a series of sustainably packaged ready meals. The company switched to 100% recyclable and biodegradable packaging for its ready-to-eat meals, attracting environmentally conscious consumers. This shift helped increase Greencore's market share by 5%.

• Unilever: In 2023, Unilever unveiled a line of gluten-free ready meals under its Knorr brand. These meals cater to the growing demand for gluten-free products, particularly in the European and North American markets. The launch contributed to a 12% growth in Unilever's frozen food division.

REPORT COVERAGE

The Ready Meals (Prepared Meals) market report provides a thorough analysis of the current market dynamics, trends, opportunities, and challenges. Approximately 40% of the report focuses on consumer trends, emphasizing the growing demand for healthier, sustainable, and convenient meal options. The report also delves into the popularity of plant-based and allergen-free products, which have seen substantial growth in recent years, representing about 25% of the market.

The next 30% of the report discusses innovations in packaging, emphasizing the shift toward eco-friendly and recyclable materials. This is driven by consumer preference for sustainability, with 12% of consumers prioritizing environmentally friendly packaging in their purchasing decisions.

Another 20% of the report highlights the competitive landscape, detailing the strategies of key players in the market and their product development efforts. The remaining 10% of the report covers the regional analysis, particularly focusing on North America, Europe, and Asia, which together represent about 70% of the global market share. These regions have seen the most significant adoption of ready meals, driven by busy lifestyles and changing dietary preferences.