Market Overview
In 2024, the global ready-to-eat foods market was valued at USD 404.78 billion. It is expected to grow to USD 425.39 billion in 2025 and reach USD 626.13 billion by 2032, with a projected CAGR of 5.68% over the forecast period. Europe led the market in 2024, holding a 33.41% share.
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:
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.