David Parekar's blog

Ready-to-Eat Foods Market Size, Share, Analysis, Future Outlook, 2032

David Parekar's photo
David Parekar
·

4 min read

Market Overview

The global ready-to-eat foods market size was USD 404.78 billion in 2024. The market is set to rise from USD 425.39 billion in 2025 to USD 626.13 billion by 2032 at a CAGR of 5.68% during 2025-2032.

Ready-to-eat foods offer unmatched convenience, as they come fully prepared, processed, and packaged for immediate consumption, eliminating the need for cooking. While these items can be enjoyed straight from the package, consumers often prefer to reheat them for enhanced flavor. Increasing consumer preference for convenient food items is boosting the sales of ready-to-eat foods.

List of Key Players Profiled in the Report:

  • Nissin Foods Holdings (Japan)

  • Nestle SA (Switzerland)

  • Ajinomoto Co. Inc (Japan)

  • General Mills Inc. (U.S.)

  • Conagra Brands Inc. (U.S.)

  • Unilever PLC (U.K.)

  • Associated British Foods Plc (U.K.)

  • The Kellogg Company (U.S.)

  • Mars Inc (U.S.)

  • McCain Foods Limited (Canada)

Segments

Increasing Consumer Appetite for Convenient Foods Propels Demand for Ready Meals

In terms of product type, the market is classified into bakery products, ready meals, breakfast cereals, instant snacks, meat products, instant noodles, and others. The ready meals segment commands the largest ready-to-eat foods market share, fueled by increasing consumer appetite for convenient and quick meal solutions. Various companies are rolling out innovative offerings to meet this surging demand.

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets Lead as They Offer Range of RTE Foods at Affordable Prices

By distribution channel, the market is divided into hypermarkets/supermarkets, specialty stores, convenience stores, online retail stores, and others. Supermarkets/hypermarkets take center stage in the global market, offering a diverse range of ready-to-eat foods at affordable prices. The expanding presence of these mass retailers contributes to rising global sales of ready-to-eat foods. Leading brands continue to broaden their reach across multiple retail channels.

From the regional ground, the market is classified into Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, North America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Source: fortunebusinessinsights.com/ready-to-eat-fo..

Report Coverage

The market research report presents a complete market examination, highlighting essential elements, including the competitive environment and noticeable product categories. Furthermore, the report provides valuable insights on market trends and significant industry developments. Apart from the factors above, the report includes several aspects that have fostered market expansion in recent times.

Drivers and Restraints

Growing Individual Preference for Prepared Foods to Bolster Market Development

Convenience remains a key driver reshaping the food industry globally. As urban dwellers manage demanding schedules, many find it challenging to allocate time for meal preparation. In this context, prepared and ready-to-eat foods have emerged as a popular solution, requiring only minimal heating before serving. Additionally, these products offer extended storage options – items, such as frozen meats, instant noodles, and cereals can be kept for long periods, providing a cost-effective and time-saving alternative for busy individuals.

On the other hand, the shortage of proper cold chain infrastructure is hindering the ready-to-eat foods market growth.

Regional Insights

Rising Gluten-free, Natural, and Organic Food Trends Boosted Market Growth in Europe

The market size in Europe is valued at USD 135.25 billion in 2024, driven by the increased consumption of RTE food products in Germany, Italy, France, Spain, the U.K, and the Netherlands. Surging demand for plant-based food products and rising gluten-free, natural, and organic food trends are propelling market growth in the region. Germany emerges as a leader in the European RTE foods market by holding over 20% of the share, owing to increased purchases of prepared salads, vegetables, bakery products, and ready meals.

North America accounts for a significant market share due to rising production of bakery products, frozen meals, instant noodles, and breakfast cereal products and surging demand for easy-to-prepare food products among working women. Rising consumption of convenient and nutritious food among adults and youths is fueling market expansion in the U.S.

Competitive Landscape

Key Companies Emphasize Partnerships to Improve Their Competitive Edge

The global market is highly fragmented, with both international giants and regional competitors actively shaping the landscape. Industry leaders, including Nissin Foods Holdings, Nestle SA, Ajinomoto Co. Inc., General Mills Inc., McCain Foods Limited, and Conagra Brands Inc., are driving innovation and influencing consumer expectations through continuous R&D, new product launches, and market penetration efforts. Together, these companies hold about 57% of the total market share. Technological advancements, product diversification, and expansion into new regions bolster their competitive edge. In December 2023, Nissin Foods (USA) Co., Inc. introduced its Hot & Spicy Fire Wok Packets, delivering fiery chili flavors across Walmart stores and online platforms.

Key Industry Development

  • February 2024: A Swiss multinational food producer named Nestle S.A. partnered with SOCIAL and BOSS Burger to release MAGGI Professional's plant-based offerings. This product series comprises frozen burger patty and mince.