July 18, 2024 – Globally, consumers are increasingly opting for frozen foods due to their convenience, long shelf life, and variety of options that cater to diverse dietary preferences. Innova’s 360 research into frozen food trends allows for identification of growth-driven factors and key insights shaping the market across the globe.
Frozen Food Product Launches
Global launches of frozen foods have been increasing since 2019, with a 7% rise in average annual growth over the past five years. The Middle East and Africa lead in new frozen food and beverage product launches, followed by Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the US and Canada.
Frozen food market trends research shows the Middle East and Africa account for 7% of new frozen product launches in the past year. This growth is driven by innovation in frozen meat, fish, and eggs, followed by desserts and ice cream.
Brazil is the fastest growing country for frozen food launches and frozen finger foods have boosted the category launches in the region. China, South Korea, and the United Kingdom are also growing in launches.
Globally, frozen meat substitutes are the fastest growing frozen category in product launches, followed by meat, fish and eggs, ready meals and side dishes, and bakery.
Frozen Food Home Cooking Trends
Consumer trend research shows that 43% of consumers globally have preferred eating at home in the past year. This aligns with Innova’s 2024 annual trend, ‘Home Kitchen Heroes.’ This trend highlights a shift towards home dining to manage food expenditures, experiment with flavors, explore global cuisines, and use local ingredients. Consumers are transforming their homes into exciting venues for social occasions that fit budget concerns, making cooking at home a good opportunity to try something new.
Frozen food trends research displays that frozen cooking solutions are tapping into the need for enhanced home cooking. 42% of consumers globally consider convenience an important factor when consuming food and beverages at home. In response, brands are launching frozen meal products that offer healthier and more convenient options.
This trend not only caters to consumer preferences but also enhances the overall home dining experience, making it easier for individuals and families to enjoy meals without compromising on quality.
Frozen Food Healthy Indulgence Trends
Over the past year, 20% of consumers globally have bought more freshly prepared frozen meals. This reflects the growing demand for healthy indulgence, where consumers seek natural ingredients to make indulgent food and beverages healthier. Frozen food trends research shows more than 1 in 3 consumers believe using natural ingredients is the best way to achieve this balance. This rise in convenient, healthy frozen meals meets the evolving demands of consumers seeking variety and simplicity.
Claims and Positionings in Frozen Food Trends
No additives or preservatives is the most common claim seen on new frozen food launches in the past year. Brands are targeting claims that emphasize healthy consumption, which has led to a rise in health-related positioning, highlighting vegan, halal, and vegetarian options. Additionally, plant based claims are rapidly emerging in the space.
What’s Next in Frozen Food Market Trends?
The frozen food market is evolving rapidly, with the Middle East and Africa leading in new product launches. This presents abundant opportunities for brands to innovate and expand their offerings. Healthy indulgence drives the frozen food and beverage trend as consumers increasingly seek plant-based alternatives. Brands can capitalize on this trend by diversifying their plant-based options to attract environmentally conscious consumers.
With growing environmental concerns, consumers globally are looking for sustainable products. Brands can emphasize clean labels and ethical and environmental packaging claims, such as carbon labeling, plant based packaging, and less packaging, to convey their commitment to nature. Future product innovations will likely offer consumers a variety of healthy indulgence options in frozen food and beverages, enriching their overall experience and promoting sustainability.
This article is based on our report, “Trending in Frozen Foods – Global
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