U.S. Frozen Food Market - Focused Insights 2024-2029

U.S. FROZEN FOOD MARKET INSIGHTS

The U.S. frozen food market was valued at USD 76 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 92.94 billion by 2029, with a CAGR of 3.41% during the forecast period. The market is experiencing substantial growth due to increasing demand for plant-based frozen food, a rising preference for premium frozen options, and a shift towards healthier and more nutritious frozen food alternatives. Factors such as growing millennial interest in frozen food, the need for convenient and time-saving meal options, extended product shelf life, innovative product offerings, and advancements shaping the frozen food sector are also fueling market growth in the U.S.

MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS

Rising Demand for Plant-Based Frozen Food

The U.S. frozen food market is witnessing a surge in demand for plant-based frozen food, driven by rising interest in plant-based diets, convenience, product innovation, health consciousness, and growing environmental awareness. Wholesale suppliers across the US are increasing their stock of vegetarian and vegan frozen food options to cater to evolving consumer preferences. As a response, frozen food manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by introducing meat alternatives to serve plant-based consumers. Many plant-based frozen meals are perceived as healthier, offering lower cholesterol, calorie, and saturated fat content compared to traditional frozen meals. Consumers increasingly seek vegan, vegetarian, or flexitarian diets due to ethical, environmental, and health-related concerns. The demand for plant-based frozen food aligns with this dietary shift while maintaining the convenience that frozen products offer. Food companies continue to enhance plant-based alternatives to mimic the texture and taste of meat, making them more appealing. Leading frozen food companies in the US are actively launching new plant-based products. For example, in 2022, Conagra’s Gardein brand introduced a new range of plant-based frozen food, contributing to the overall market expansion.

Surging Need for Time-Efficient and Convenient Food Choices

The need for convenient and time-saving food options is a key driver of growth in the U.S. frozen food market. Factors such as busy lifestyles, dual-income households, ease of storage, variety, and working parents contribute to this demand. With hectic schedules and limited time for meal preparation, many U.S. consumers turn to frozen meals as quick and hassle-free alternatives. Unlike fresh ingredients, frozen food requires minimal preparation and cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals and families. Households with both parents working full-time particularly benefit from ready-to-eat frozen meals that offer nutritional value while saving time. In addition, frozen food has an extended shelf life, facilitating better meal planning and reducing food waste. Food waste is a significant issue in the U.S., with approximately 140 billion meals wasted annually. The frozen food industry continues to innovate, providing a wide range of options beyond traditional frozen dinners, including healthy choices, single-serve portions, gourmet dishes, and ethnic cuisines. The increasing popularity of online grocery shopping further enhances accessibility, contributing to the growth of the frozen food market in the U.S.

INDUSTRY RESTRAINTS

Concerns Regarding Food Safety

Food safety remains a critical challenge in the U.S. frozen food market, with concerns related to pathogens, temperature control, consumer handling, and contamination. Harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes can withstand freezing temperatures and pose health risks if not properly handled during storage, processing, or preparation. Contamination can occur at various points in the supply chain, from manufacturing to transportation and storage. Maintaining consistent temperature control throughout the supply chain is essential, as temperature fluctuations can lead to partial thawing and refreezing, promoting bacterial growth. In addition, improper handling at the consumer level, such as inadequate reheating or thawing at room temperature, can further hinder market growth.

US FROZEN FOOD MARKET INSIGHTS

• Insight By Product Type: The U.S. frozen food market is categorized by product type, including prepared food, desserts, seafood, pizza, fully cooked meat, fruits & vegetables, frozen fresh meat, and others. Among these, the prepared food segment held the largest market share in 2023. Prepared frozen meals serve as a key driver for market growth, providing convenient and time-efficient meal solutions. The segment is expected to expand further due to its affordability and ease of preparation. With increasing health awareness, consumers seek healthier frozen-prepared options featuring lower sodium, plant-based proteins, whole grains, and more vegetables. In addition, portion-controlled frozen meals help consumers manage food waste and save money. The extensive variety available in frozen food aisles allows consumers to select products that align with their dietary preferences, boosting demand for prepared frozen food in the U.S. market.
• Insight By Age Group Type: The U.S. frozen food market is segmented by age group into 35 to 64, below 34, and 65 & above. The below 34 segment is anticipated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Young consumers, including students and working professionals, are more inclined to experiment with new food options. Being highly active on social media, this demographic segment is targeted by companies through promotional campaigns. Young adults often purchase frozen food for its portability, making it an attractive option for social gatherings and outings. Individuals in this age group, especially those living alone or with busy schedules, prefer frozen entrées for convenience. In addition, demand for plant-based frozen meals and smoothie mixes is growing among young adults, further driving market expansion.
• Insight By End-User Type: The U.S. frozen food market is segmented by end-user type, with the B2C segment holding the largest market share. This segment comprises direct-to-consumer sales through retail channels such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, discount grocers, and online retailers. Working adults frequently rely on frozen meals for quick and convenient breakfasts, lunches, and dinners that fit their busy schedules. Younger consumers prefer frozen food due to its affordability and variety, particularly frozen pizzas and snacks. In addition, frozen desserts are experiencing rising demand among younger consumers, further driving market growth.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

The U.S. frozen food market report provides exclusive data on 28 vendors. National brands continuously innovate by introducing new flavors, formats, and healthier options to align with consumer preferences. Companies focus on nutritional benefits to differentiate their products and remain competitive. Larger corporations are also acquiring smaller players to strengthen their premium product offerings and expand their market share. Many companies are entering the market with unique frozen dishes to attract consumers. Competition is largely driven by product quality and pricing, with private-label brands offering cost-effective frozen food options that appeal to price-conscious consumers. Leading companies in the market include Conagra Brands, Inc., General Mills, Hormel Foods, JBS Foods, Kellanova, Nestlé, Smithfield Foods, Sysco Corporation, The Kraft Heinz Company, and Tyson Foods.