Unbox the Biggest Trends in Ready-to-Eat Food

From Plant-Based to Premium: The New Era of Healthy Convenience

As the holiday season drives demand for ease and accessibility, the global ready-to-eat (RTE) meals sector is witnessing unprecedented growth. By 2031, this market is projected to reach a staggering value of $570 billion worldwide.

Far from its earlier associations with unhealthy, heavily processed options, this sector is no longer associated with processed unhealthy offerings. Growth is fuelled by key trends like plant-based options, functional foods, and health-focused meals.?

These shifts present a wealth of opportunities for businesses to tap into an expanding market and meet consumer demands for convenience, quality, and nutrition.

But what trends are influencing this sector? And what is driving growth in key markets?

Key Global Players in the RTE Market

The ready-to-eat market is rapidly expanding, with major players across the globe expected to hit record highs by 2034. Growth rates in key regions underscore the vast opportunities available:

• USA: 6.5% CAGR
• India: 6.9% CAGR
• Germany: 5.3% CAGR
• China: 7.3% CAGR

Emerging Trends in the Ready-to-Eat Market

1. Plant-Based & Vegan Meals

The surge in plant-based diets is reshaping the RTE sector, with the global plant-based food market set to reach $77.8 billion by 2025. Vegan curries, plant-based burgers, and dairy-free desserts are leading this transformation as consumers seek ethical, environmental, and health-conscious options.

Companies leading the way:

• Impossible Foods: Renowned for its plant-based RTE products, including Impossible Bowls, plant-based meatballs, chicken nuggets, and snacks.
• Agthia Group PJSC: Offers a diverse range of plant-based snacks and lactose-free options like vegan yoghurt cups.

2. Health-Focused Meals

There's a growing demand for healthier RTE options, including meals with superfoods, low-processed ingredients, and plant-based alternatives. 78% of consumers across Europe are prioritising health and nutrition and dietary needs in their menu planning.

Companies leading the way:

• Hunter Foods LLC: Produces vegan chips, quinoa crisps, and high-protein lentil snacks with global flavours.
• Truebell Marketing and Trading L.L.C.: Distributes health-focused RTE solutions, including keto and gluten-free options.

3. Functional Foods

Functional ingredients are redefining convenience foods, offering meals that deliver more than just sustenance. Protein-packed soups, probiotic smoothies, and vitamin-enriched snacks are gaining endless popularity with consumers in multiple markets.

Companies leading the way:

• Del Monte: Stocks plant-based RTE options like fresh-cut fruit bowls and fortified juices.
• Parle Agro Pvt. Ltd.: Known for its functional beverages, including fortified water tonics and dairy-based drinks.

4. Premium Ready Meals

Consumers are exploring diverse cuisines through premium ready meals that offer authentic flavours and high-quality ingredients, providing an alternative to dining out. Quality is becoming a hallmark of the RTE sector, with consumers seeking upscale options like truffle risotto, gourmet pasta, and artisanal baked goods for fine dining experiences at home.

Companies leading the way:

• Gulf Marketing Group: Distributes marinated chicken skewers, premium beef cuts, and shrimp platters.
• Americana: Offers high-quality pre-marinated and pre-cooked meats and seafood.

5. Hybrid Meals

The hybrid meals approach to at-home preparation is playing a growing role in consumers' food-at-home eating. In 2023, more hybrid meals are accounting for consumers' dinners than last year, while making dinner totally from scratch has dipped. The fusion of indulgence and health is driving demand for nutrient-dense comfort foods. Low-fat gourmet meals and health-conscious versions of traditional favourites exemplify this trend.

Companies leading the way:

• Tata Consumer Products: Offers high-end traditional Indian meals and gourmet spice-infused options.
• Haldiram’s: Provides RTE gourmet Indian sweets and savoury delicacies for global exports.

6. Sustainable Solutions

Sustainability is at the forefront of consumer priorities, with increasing demand for responsibly sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging being a prominent factor in the decision making of consumers when meal-planning.

Companies leading the way:

• IFFCO: Provides sustainably sourced RTE snacks and packaged goods using recyclable and biodegradable materials.
• Baqer Mohebi Enterprises: Distributes sustainably packaged RTE goods.

Join us at Gulfood 2025

If you are looking to source new products, grow your business, or learn about the latest trends, Gulfood 2025 is the place to be. It's the perfect opportunity to connect, learn, and take your company to the next level.?

? Dubai World Trade Centre

? 17-21 Feb 2025

? Know more and register now at www.gulfood.com