Market Overview
The global ready-to-eatfoods market size was USD 404.78 billion in 2024. The market is set to risefrom 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 comefully 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 PropelsDemand for Ready Meals
In terms of product type, the market is classified intobakery 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 RTEFoods at Affordable Prices
By distribution channel, the market is divided intohypermarkets/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 intoEurope, Asia Pacific, South America, North America, and the Middle East &
Africa.
Report Coverage
The market research report presents a complete marketexamination, 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 toBolster Market Development
Convenience remains a key driver reshaping the food industryglobally. 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 infrastructureis hindering the ready-to-eat foods market growth.
Regional Insights
Rising Gluten-free, Natural, and Organic Food TrendsBoosted Market Growth in Europe
The market size in Europe is valued at USD 135.25 billion in2024, 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 torising 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 TheirCompetitive Edge
The global market is highly fragmented, with bothinternational 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.
