In recent years, the frozen food sector has witnessed significant transformations as consumer preferences evolve. With families increasingly opting to eat at home, and convenience taking precedence, the frozen food aisle has become a focal point in grocery stores. According to data from Circana, a prominent insights firm based in Chicago, up to 28% of grocery store visits now include at least one frozen food item. This statistic, among others, was prominently featured in the “Future of Frozen Food 2025 Report” released by Conagra Brands, highlighting both enduring behaviors and emerging trends shaping frozen food research and development.
Stock-Up Trips and Generational Insights
The importance of frozen foods during grocery “stock-up trips” cannot be overstated, as revealed by Bob Nolan, Senior Vice President of Demand Science at Conagra. His team emphasized the need to understand not just what consumers purchase but also their evolving tastes. Notably, younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, exhibit distinct preferences compared to older ones. For instance, sushi has surged in popularity among younger families, a stark contrast to the food experiences of earlier generations.
Nolan noted, “When we look at Millennials and Gen Z, we are trying to understand what they eat today and how everyone will eat tomorrow.” This introspection has been crucial for brands looking to adapt to changing consumer preferences.
A Taste for Global Flavors
One striking trend is the increasing demand for globally inspired flavors in frozen foods. Conagra’s report highlighted that 24% of younger consumers are inclined to choose frozen meals featuring international cuisines, such as Indian-style tikka masala or authentic street foods. Moreover, Gen Z consumers particularly gravitate towards spicy options, making them 48% more likely to purchase spicy frozen meals. This trend reflects a broader shift towards adventurous eating and a willingness to explore diverse culinary traditions, even within the convenience of frozen options.
Snack-Sized, Meal-Sized: The Shift to Bite-Sized Foods
Additionally, the rise of bite-sized frozen offerings cannot be overlooked. As younger shoppers, who often grew up snacking, enter the market, the sales of mini portions and bites soared to $2.4 billion, with a remarkable 31% increase in year-over-year consumption. As many as 84% of these products are now being embraced as complete meals, suggesting a redefinition of how frozen foods can fit into modern dining experiences.
Health Conscious Choices
Beyond flavor and convenience, health considerations remain paramount for many consumers. The “better-for-you” trend is increasingly driving frozen food purchases. Conagra’s research noted a 33% growth in frozen foods that focus on gut health, portion control, and dietary preferences. With over 15 million Americans currently using GLP-1 medications to manage weight and health conditions like diabetes, there’s a noticeable shift in product development. Conagra’s new Healthy Choice Bowls feature an on-package badge indicating they are “GLP-1 friendly,” catering specifically to these health-conscious consumers.
A Redefinition of Dining at Home
As consumer preferences shift, many are steering towards recreating restaurant-quality meals at home. Premium, chef-inspired frozen foods are gaining traction, as shoppers appreciate the convenience of ready-to-eat meals that do not compromise on quality. Recent data highlights a growing expectation among consumers for high-quality products in the frozen food aisle, reflecting a move towards both indulgence and health.
Innovations in Cooking Methods
The way consumers prepare frozen meals is also changing. The usage of air fryers has surged, with more households acquiring additional air fryer accessories or even a second air fryer. This increased demand for convenience and efficiency in meal preparation has led to greater interest in frozen foods that can be quickly and easily cooked. Additionally, many families now utilize secondary freezers and refrigerators to stock up on a variety of frozen products, ensuring they have quick meal options readily available.
The Future is Bright for Frozen Foods
Moving forward, the landscape of frozen foods appears promising. With millennials and Gen Z leading the charge in redefining consumption patterns, brands like Conagra are adapting their strategies to focus on innovative flavors, health-conscious choices, and convenience. The shift away from traditional meal structures toward a more flexible and exploratory approach to dining complements the busy lifestyles of modern consumers.
Understanding these trends will empower marketers and retailers in the frozen food sector to effectively engage with their audience and capitalize on the growing demand for diverse and healthy frozen offerings. A keen focus on quality, innovation, and consumer preferences will redefine the frozen food experience in ways that can resonate with both new and existing customers.