Global Ready to eat Food Market Report | Market Size, Industry Analysis, Growth Opportunities, & Forecast (2025-2030)

Ready To Eat Food Market Overview

The global Ready-to-Eat Food Market is witnessing steady growth, with an estimated market size of USD 424.78 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach USD 519.10 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 4.14% during the forecast period 2025-2030. The global ready-to-eat food market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for convenient and time-saving meal options. The rise in busy lifestyles, longer working hours, and an increasing number of working-class individuals have fueled the need for easy-to-prepare, ready-to-eat food products. Key market segments include instant breakfasts, soups, ready meals, snacks, and meat products, with packaging types such as frozen, canned, and retort driving market expansion.

The market is segmented by product type, packaging, and distribution channels, with key players such as McCain Foods, Kraft Heinz, and General Mills leading the industry. Furthermore, the growth of online grocery shopping and convenience store expansions provide lucrative opportunities for market players. Despite challenges such as concerns over health impacts, the increasing consumer preference for ready-to-eat food presents significant opportunities. The market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, especially in regions like Europe and Asia-Pacific, where consumer demand for frozen meals is rising.

Market Report Coverage:

The “Ready to eat Food Market  Report—Future (2025-2030)” by Digiroads Research & Consulting covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments in the market.

Study Assumptions and Definitions

This report on the global ready-to-eat food market is based on several key assumptions that reflect the current and projected trends in the industry. It assumes steady growth in demand for convenience food products due to increasingly busy lifestyles and a growing preference for time-saving meal solutions. The market is expected to benefit from the continued expansion of convenience stores and the rise in online grocery shopping, especially in emerging economies. Additionally, the study assumes that consumer preferences will continue to shift towards healthier and more diverse ready-to-eat options, including plant-based and low-fat foods.

The definitions used in the report are as follows:

• Ready-to-eat food: Packaged meals or food items that require minimal preparation or cooking, available in various forms such as frozen, canned, or shelf-stable products.
• Market Size: The total value of the global ready-to-eat food market, measured in USD, accounting for all revenues generated from the sale of these products.
• CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate): A measure of the market’s growth rate over a specified period (2025-2030) that represents the consistent annual growth rate of the market.
• Distribution Channels: The pathways through which ready-to-eat food products reach consumers, including supermarkets, online retail, and convenience stores.

These assumptions and definitions provide a foundation for understanding market dynamics and forecasts.

Market Scope

The scope of the global ready-to-eat food market encompasses a comprehensive analysis of product types, packaging solutions, and distribution channels. The market includes a wide range of products such as instant breakfasts, ready meals, baked goods, instant soups, snacks, and meat products. These products are available in various packaging formats, including canned, frozen, chilled, and retort, catering to different consumer preferences and convenience needs.

The market is segmented by distribution channels, with major categories including hypermarkets/supermarkets, convenience stores, specialty stores, and online platforms, which are rapidly growing in importance. The report covers multiple regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and South America, offering insights into regional trends and consumer behavior.

Additionally, the study highlights key market drivers, such as busy lifestyles, increased disposable income, and the rise of e-commerce. It also addresses potential challenges, including health concerns related to processed foods and market competition. This scope provides a holistic view of the market landscape, enabling informed decision-making for industry stakeholders.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The global ready-to-eat (RTE) food market is poised for significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for convenience, time-saving meal options, and shifting consumer preferences toward quick, accessible food solutions. This growth is fueled by a combination of factors, including busy lifestyles, longer working hours, and the rising number of working-class individuals who seek convenient meal options without compromising on quality.

The market is segmented into various product types, including instant breakfasts, ready meals, soups, baked goods, snacks, and meat products. These products are primarily available in packaging formats such as frozen, chilled, canned, and retort, with frozen foods witnessing the highest demand. Distribution channels, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, specialty stores, and online platforms, play a crucial role in reaching a broad consumer base.

Geographically, Europe is the dominant region, driven by a high demand for frozen RTE foods and a growing awareness of their convenience. However, the Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to experience substantial growth due to the rising working-class population and their increasing reliance on ready-to-eat food options.

Despite the positive outlook, the market faces challenges such as concerns over the health impacts of processed foods and the presence of fats in many RTE products. Additionally, competition from both global and local brands remains strong. However, opportunities for growth exist, particularly in online grocery shopping, which is gaining traction globally, and innovations in healthier food options, such as plant-based meals, which are expanding the market further.

Overall, the ready-to-eat food market presents lucrative opportunities for industry stakeholders, with ongoing growth driven by consumer convenience and evolving food preferences.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

The ready to eat food market is moderately fragmented, with regional and multinational players competing fiercely for market share.

Key Market Players

• The Hain Celestial Company 

• AGRARFROST GMBH & CO. K.G. 

• Agristo 

• Bart’s Potato Company bvba 

• Royal Cosun 

• Farm Frites 

• Greenyard 

• Himalaya Food International Ltd

• J.R. Simplot Company 

• McCain Foods Ltd. 

• Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. 

• General Mills, Inc. 

• Mondelez International, Inc. 

• THE KRAFT HEINZ COMPANY 

Market Share Analysis

The global ready-to-eat food market is highly competitive, with key players commanding significant market share through diverse product offerings and extensive distribution channels. As of 2023, companies like McCain Foods Ltd., The Kraft Heinz Company, and General Mills, Inc. hold prominent positions, particularly in the frozen ready-meal segment, which continues to see the highest demand. These companies benefit from robust global supply chains, extensive R&D capabilities, and established brand recognition, enabling them to capture large shares in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

McCain Foods Ltd., for instance, leads the frozen food segment, with its broad portfolio of frozen potato products and ready-to-eat meals available worldwide. The Hain Celestial Company and Mondelez International have also expanded their market presence by introducing healthier, organic ready-to-eat meals, appealing to the growing demand for health-conscious options.

Regional players, such as Farm Frites and AGRARFROST GMBH & CO. K.G., dominate in specific markets, especially in Europe, where frozen and chilled ready meals are in high demand. Meanwhile, companies like Himalaya Food International Ltd. are capitalizing on emerging markets, especially in Asia, where urbanization and the working-class population are driving the consumption of ready-to-eat foods.

Overall, the market share analysis shows that the industry is characterized by a combination of large multinational corporations and regional leaders, each contributing to the market’s expansion with diverse product innovations and strategic investments in distribution channels.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

The global ready-to-eat food market is driven by several key factors that reflect changing consumer lifestyles and preferences. The primary driver is the increasing demand for convenience as consumers seek quick, easily prepared meals due to busy work schedules and longer hours. This trend has resulted in a growing preference for frozen, canned, and shelf-stable ready-to-eat foods that require minimal preparation, appealing to time-constrained individuals and families.

Another key driver is the rising disposable income in emerging economies, which is expanding the market’s customer base. As more people can afford packaged foods, the demand for convenient meal options, such as ready-to-eat meals and snacks, continues to rise. Additionally, the shift in consumer habits, where eating out is replaced by home consumption of packaged foods, further accelerates market growth.

Key innovations in the market include the development of healthier ready-to-eat meals that cater to growing health-consciousness among consumers. Companies are increasingly offering low-fat, gluten-free, organic, and plant-based meal options. The introduction of plant-based ready meals is one of the most notable innovations, with brands like Lazy Vegan capitalizing on the vegan trend. Similarly, companies are improving packaging technology to enhance product shelf-life, maintain food quality, and reduce environmental impact.

Moreover, advancements in online grocery shopping platforms and mobile apps are making it easier for consumers to access ready-to-eat meals, contributing to the growth of the online distribution channel. These innovations, alongside increasing product variety and convenience, are propelling the ready-to-eat food market forward.

Market Challenges

1. Health Concerns: Increasing awareness about the negative health impacts of processed foods, including high levels of fats, sugars, and preservatives, is deterring some consumers from opting for ready-to-eat meals.
2. Perception of Frozen Foods: Many consumers associate frozen ready-to-eat meals with poor nutritional value or lower food quality, which can limit market growth, especially in health-conscious demographics.
3. Competition from Fresh Foods: The preference for freshly cooked meals and the growing demand for organic and natural foods pose a significant challenge to the growth of ready-to-eat foods, especially in regions where fresh food consumption is high.
4. High Packaging Costs: The cost of packaging, particularly for maintaining product freshness and ensuring long shelf-life, adds to the overall cost of ready-to-eat foods, affecting pricing and profitability.
5. Supply Chain Disruptions: Issues in the supply chain, such as raw material shortages, transportation delays, and fluctuating costs, can impact the availability and cost-effectiveness of ready-to-eat food products.
6. Regulatory Constraints: Stringent food safety regulations, import-export restrictions, and labeling requirements can create barriers for companies looking to expand in different regions or introduce new products.
7. Environmental Concerns: The growing focus on sustainability and reducing packaging waste challenges companies to innovate in eco-friendly packaging while maintaining food quality and safety standards.
8. Cultural Preferences: In some regions, traditional cooking methods and cultural preferences for homemade food can limit the adoption of ready-to-eat meals.

Market Opportunities

1. Rise in E-commerce and Online Grocery Shopping: The growing trend of online shopping, especially for groceries and ready-to-eat meals, offers significant opportunities for brands to reach a wider audience, especially through mobile apps and online grocery platforms.
2. Health-Conscious Product Development: There is an increasing demand for healthier ready-to-eat meals, such as organic, gluten-free, low-calorie, and plant-based options. Innovating in these segments can attract health-conscious consumers.
3. Expansion in Emerging Markets: Rapid urbanization, rising disposable income, and busy lifestyles in emerging economies like India, China, and Brazil provide a huge growth potential for ready-to-eat food products in these regions.
4. Plant-Based and Vegan Food Trends: The rising popularity of plant-based diets presents an opportunity for companies to introduce vegan and vegetarian ready-to-eat meals, tapping into a growing consumer segment.
5. Premium and Gourmet Ready Meals: Consumers are increasingly looking for premium, gourmet, and international cuisine in ready-to-eat formats. Offering high-quality, chef-inspired meals can cater to this demand.
6. Sustainable Packaging: The demand for eco-friendly, sustainable packaging is on the rise. Companies that innovate with biodegradable or recyclable packaging materials can appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers.
7. Product Customization and Meal Kits: Offering personalized meal options or ready-to-cook meal kits with a focus on customization allows companies to cater to specific dietary preferences and increase consumer engagement.
8. Technological Advancements in Food Preservation: Advancements in food preservation techniques, such as better freezing, can improve food quality, shelf-life, and safety, further enhancing market growth opportunities.

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

• Acquisitions and Mergers:
  • Nomad Foods acquired Fortenova Grupa’s Frozen Food Business in 2021 for USD 724 million, expanding its presence in Eastern Europe with a wider range of frozen meals.
  • Conagra Brands Inc. launched a series of summer line products in 2021, focusing on new ready-to-eat meals from brands like Banquet, Marie Callender’s, and Wholesome Alternative®.
• Product Innovation:
  • Lazy Vegan, a Dutch startup, introduced its vegan frozen meal range, including Thai Green Curry in 2020, which is gluten-free and soy-free. This caters to the increasing demand for plant-based options.
  • General Mills expanded its range of ready-to-eat meals, focusing on healthier options with lower sodium, fats, and preservatives.
• Plant-Based and Vegan Offerings:
  • Increased focus on plant-based ready-to-eat meals, with brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods collaborating with large manufacturers for new product introductions, targeting the growing vegan consumer base.
  • McCain Foods introduced a new line of vegan-friendly frozen snacks and meals in response to increasing consumer demand for plant-based options.
• Sustainability Initiatives:
  • Companies like McCain Foods and Himalaya Food International are investing in eco-friendly packaging solutions, such as biodegradable and recyclable materials, aligning with sustainability trends.
  • The Hain Celestial Group has committed to reducing its carbon footprint and improving the sustainability of its packaging in its ready-to-eat food lines.
• Expansion in Emerging Markets:
  • The Kraft Heinz Company expanded its product offerings in India and China, focusing on local flavors and catering to the growing middle-class population in these emerging economies.
  • McCain Foods has been increasing its footprint in Asia-Pacific, with more frozen ready meals tailored to regional tastes and preferences.
• Online Retail and Delivery Expansion:
  • Companies are strengthening their online presence with improved e-commerce platforms and home delivery options. For example, General Mills has been enhancing its online grocery partnerships and delivery networks to reach more consumers, especially during the pandemic.
  • Amazon and Walmart have been expanding their ready-to-eat food offerings, integrating meal delivery services to cater to the growing demand for convenience foods.

These strategies reflect the market’s shift towards healthier, plant-based, sustainable products, and the growing importance of e-commerce and global expansion.

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

• Increased Market Reach:
  • Stakeholders such as manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can benefit from the growing demand for ready-to-eat meals, especially in emerging markets and online retail platforms, leading to increased sales opportunities and market reach.
• Product Diversification:
  • By introducing new product lines (e.g., plant-based, organic, or low-calorie meals), stakeholders can tap into new consumer segments, responding to changing dietary preferences and health-conscious trends. This diversification enhances brand loyalty and attracts a wider customer base.
• Higher Profit Margins:
  • Premium and gourmet ready-to-eat meals offer higher profit margins. Stakeholders can capitalize on this by introducing upscale meal options that cater to more affluent consumers seeking convenience without compromising on quality.
• Sustainability and Brand Reputation:
  • Stakeholders involved in sustainable packaging innovations and eco-friendly practices will benefit from enhanced brand reputation. Consumers are increasingly valuing sustainability, which can lead to increased customer loyalty and competitive advantage.
• Increased Consumer Engagement:
  • Stakeholders can benefit from direct consumer engagement through online retail and customized meal offerings. By leveraging e-commerce platforms and personalized food services (e.g., meal kits), stakeholders can strengthen customer relationships and build long-term brand loyalty.
• Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations:
  • Partnerships with technology firms (for e-commerce solutions) or local distributors (for regional market penetration) can open up new avenues for growth. Collaborations with health-conscious or vegan brands also allow stakeholders to access niche markets and expand their product offerings.
• Improved Operational Efficiency:
  • Innovations in food preservation, packaging, and supply chain management help stakeholders reduce operational costs, improve efficiency, and ensure consistent product quality, which can lead to higher profitability and competitiveness.
• Expansion into New Geographies:
  • Stakeholders can capitalize on opportunities in high-growth regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America, where urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increasing disposable income present significant growth potential.

At DigiRoads Research, we emphasize reliability by employing robust market estimation and data validation methodologies. Our insights are further enhanced by our proprietary data forecasting model, which projects market growth trends up to 2030 This forward-thinking approach ensures our analysis not only captures the current market landscape but also anticipates future developments, equipping stakeholders with actionable foresight.

We go a step further by offering an exhaustive set of regional and country-level data points, supplemented by over 60 detailed charts at no additional cost. This commitment to transparency and accessibility allows stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of the industry’s structural and operational dynamics. By providing exclusive and hard-to-access data, DigiRoads Research empowers businesses to make informed strategic decisions with confidence.

In essence, our methodology and data delivery foster a collaborative and data-driven decision-making environment, enabling businesses to navigate industry challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

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Table of Contents

• INTRODUCTION

  • Market Overview
  • Years Considered for Study
  • Market Segmentation
  • Study Assumptions and Definitions
  • Market Scope

• RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

• MARKET OUTLOOK

  • Executive Summary
  • Market Snapshot

• Market Segments 

  • Product Type:
    • Instant Breakfast/Cereals
    •  Instant Soups and Snacks
    • Ready Meals
    • Baked Goods
    • Meat Products
    • Others
  • Packaging Type:
    • Canned
    • Frozen or Chilled
    • Retort
    • Others
  • Cuisine Type:
    • American
    • Asian
    • Mexican
    • Italian

• • COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

    • Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
    • Market Share Analysis
    • Company Profiles

• The Hain Celestial Company (U.S.)

• AGRARFROST GMBH & CO. K.G. (Germany)

• Agristo (Belgium)

• Bart’s Potato Company bvba (Belgium)

• Royal Cosun (Netherlands)

• Farm Frites (Netherlands)

• Greenyard (Belgium)

• Himalaya Food International Ltd. (India)

• J.R. Simplot Company (U.S.)

• McCain Foods Ltd. (U.K.)

• Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (U.K.)

• General Mills, Inc. (U.S.)

• Mondelez International, Inc. (U.S.)

• THE KRAFT HEINZ COMPANY (U.S.)

• MARKET DYNAMICS

  • Market Drivers
  • Market Challenges
  • Market Opportunities
  • Porter’s Five Forces’ Analysis
    • Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • Threat of New Entrant
    • Threat of Substitutes
    • Competitive Rivalry

• GLOSSARY OF PROMINENT SECONDARY SOURCES

• DISCLAIMER

• ABOUT US