Japan Ready Meals Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, and Online Stores), By Type Growth Forecast, 2023 - 2030

The Japan Ready Meals Market size is expected to reach $14 billion by 2030, rising at a market growth of 7.3% CAGR during the forecast period. In the year 2022, the market attained a volume of 226.68 kilo tonnes units, experiencing a growth of 10.2% (2019-2022).

The ready meals market in the United States is evolving, reflecting the changing lifestyles, diverse culinary preferences, and growing demand for convenient yet wholesome food options. Shaped by the convergence of busy schedules, a desire for time-saving solutions, and an increasing emphasis on health and wellness, the industry has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years. Many factors, ranging from the rise of dual-income households to the influence of global cuisines, contribute to the vibrancy and complexity of the ready meals market.

Convenience remains a cornerstone of the ready meals market in the United States, with time-strapped consumers seeking quick, hassle-free meal solutions that maintain taste and nutrition. The industry caters to a spectrum of needs, from on-the-go snacks to fully prepared dinner options, aligning with U.S. consumers' diverse lifestyles and routines. Microwaveable and oven-ready formats continue to dominate, providing a seamless solution for those looking to balance busy schedules with the desire for satisfying, home-style meals.

Moreover, the expanding food industries in the U.S. significantly impact the demand for ready meals. U.S. Department of Agriculture states that the number of U.S. food and beverage manufacturing plants is huge-41,080 as of 2021. There are processing facilities for food and beverages all around the nation. With 6,301 food and beverage manufacturing facilities, California was leading the industry, followed by Texas (2,782) and New York (2,662). Therefore, as the food industry expands, consumers have greater awareness about different food options, including ready meals. This increased awareness can lead to a higher demand for ready meals as consumers become more familiar with their convenience and variety.

Market Trends

Growth in plant-based and protein-rich options

The ready meals market in the United States is experiencing a notable shift driven by a growing consumer preference for plant-based and protein-rich options. This transformative trend reflects Americans' evolving dietary choices and health-conscious lifestyles, seeking convenient yet nutritious meal solutions. As plant-based diets gain mainstream popularity, manufacturers in the ready meals sector are seizing the opportunity to innovate, offering a diverse array of plant-powered and protein-rich options that cater to the discerning tastes of the modern consumer.

The growing popularity of plant-centric diets is one of the main factors contributing to the explosion of plant-based quick meals. Consumers in the U.S. are actively looking for alternatives consistent with their ethical and nutritional beliefs as they become more conscious of the impact of meat manufacturing on the environment and focus more on their health and wellness. Producers are developing various plant-based protein sources, including tofu, tempeh, beans, and grains, to deliver plant-based meal options. Protein-rich ready meals have become a focal point for health-conscious consumers looking to conveniently meet their daily protein requirements.

Manufacturers in the United States include a wide range of protein sources in ready meals due to their recognition of the significance of protein in maintaining muscle health, weight management, and overall well-being. From traditional options like poultry and fish to innovative plant-based proteins like pea protein, chickpeas, and edamame, the industry is witnessing a proliferation of protein-rich choices to cater to various dietary preferences. The demand for plant-based and protein-rich options is reshaping the very nature of ready meals, prompting manufacturers to reevaluate and reformulate their product offerings. Plant-based burgers, vegetable-based pasta alternatives, and protein-packed grain bowls are just a few examples of the innovative solutions emerging in response to this trend.

Therefore, the focus is not solely on mimicking traditional meat-based dishes but on creating unique, flavorful, and nutrient-dense options that stand on their merit. In conclusion, the ready meals market in the United States is undergoing a significant transformation driven by the surging demand for plant-based and protein-rich options.

Shifts towards clean labels and transparency

The ready meals market in the United States is experiencing a profound transformation as customers increasingly prioritize clean labels and transparency in their food choices. This shift underscores a fundamental change in consumer values, emphasizing health, wellness, and a desire for a deeper understanding of the ingredients that make up their meals. Clean labels and transparency have become integral components shaping the landscape of ready meals, influencing product development, marketing strategies, and consumer purchasing decisions in the U.S.

At the core of this paradigm shift is the demand for clean-label ready meals-products with a simplified ingredient list free from artificial additives, preservatives, and unfamiliar or unpronounceable components. Consumers in the U.S. are becoming more discerning, seeking foods that align with their perception of what constitutes "real" and wholesome ingredients. Manufacturers are responding by reformulating recipes, removing artificial additives, and prioritizing whole, recognizable ingredients to meet the rising demand for clean-label options.

Transparency has emerged as a key driver in the ready meals market, with consumers seeking clear and comprehensive information about the sourcing, production, and processing ingredients. The call for transparency extends beyond the ingredient list to encompass aspects such as ethical sourcing, sustainability practices, and the overall supply chain. Brands that openly communicate their commitment to transparency build trust with consumers in the U.S. who value authenticity and accountability in the food industry. Hence, the ready meals market in the United States is currently experiencing a substantial shift as a result of the growing consumer expectation for transparent practices and unambiguous packaging.

Competition Analysis

The ready meals market in the United States is fiercely competitive, featuring industry giants like Nestle, Conagra Brands, and The Kraft Heinz Company. These major players leverage their global reach and diverse product portfolios to dominate various segments, offering a range of choices from traditional comfort foods to healthier options. Startups and specialty brands like Freshly and Sweet Earth Foods have disrupted the landscape, focusing on innovation and health-conscious meal options and catering to the preferences of busy professionals and health-conscious individuals.

The influence of plant-based and protein-rich trends has introduced new competition dynamics, with brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods challenging traditional players. Beyond Meat, in particular, collaborates with established brands to create plant-based meal options, intensifying competition in the protein-centric market segment. Private label and store brands from retailers such as Walmart and Target contribute significantly, offering quality alternatives at competitive prices and reshaping consumer choices.

E-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels play a critical role in the competitive arena, with companies like Amazon Fresh and meal kit services such as Blue Apron reshaping how consumers access and purchase ready meals. Retail dynamics, including strategic placement and exclusive partnerships, are pivotal in shaping the competitive landscape and influencing consumer choices

List of Key Companies Profiled (Global Leaders)

• Conagra Brands, Inc.
• The Kraft Heinz Company
• Nestle S.A
• Unilever PLC
• Kerry Group PLC
• Premier Foods PLC (Premier Foods Group Services Ltd.)
• Bakkavor Group PLC
• General Mills, Inc.
• Kellogg Company

Japan Ready Meals Market Report Segmentation

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online Stores

By Type

• Frozen Pizza
• Canned/Preserved Ready Meals
• Frozen Ready Meals
• Prepared Salads
• Chilled Ready Meals
• Dried Ready Meals
• Chilled Pizza