Conagra Brands released its second annual Future of Frozen Food 2025 report, identifying key trends propelling growth in the $91.3 billion U.S. frozen food market. Among these trends are the rising use of GLP-1 medications, a growing appetite for spice and heat, and a significant shift towards indulgent in-home dining experiences.
According to the press release, the report highlights five transformative trends that are reshaping consumer behaviours, generational preferences, and innovations in the frozen food aisle.
“An increasingly diverse array of frozen foods are available, reflective of the overall shifts in what U.S. consumers are eating,” says Bob Nolan, senior vice president of demand science at Conagra Brands. “New insights indicate evolving generational habits and preferences, with Millennials and Gen Z prioritizing convenience and affordability as they enter family formation years — resulting in a 54 per cent increase in spending on frozen foods during this period.”
Emerging Trends for 2025:
- Modern Health: Health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking frozen products that support gut health and dietary needs. Over the past three years, frozen foods containing probiotics and nutrient-rich, gut-friendly ingredients have grown by 33 per cent.
- Elevated In-Home Experiences: As consumers shift towards more home dining to manage budgets, there’s a demand for premium, restaurant-quality frozen options. With an increase of 25.6 billion in-home eating occasions since pre-pandemic, buyers are recreating restaurant dishes at home, leading to a surge in premium, chef-inspired, and celebrity-backed frozen products that offer both value and unique culinary experiences.
- Global Cuisine: The frozen aisle is expanding to include a wider array of international flavours. Indian dishes like tikka masala and Japanese favourites such as teriyaki are gaining popularity, with global street food sales exceeding $543 million. Younger generations are particularly inclined to explore adventurous tastes, being 24 per cent more likely to purchase globally inspired frozen products.
- Bites and Minis: The trend toward smaller, bite-sized options continues to thrive, appealing to families and younger consumers alike. With sales reaching $2.4 billion and a 31 per cent year-over-year increase in consumption, these convenient products are now frequently enjoyed as meals, with 84 per cent being consumed beyond just appetizers.
- Spice and Heat: The demand for spicy frozen foods is on the rise, with U.S. sales surpassing $2.0 billion. Younger consumers, especially Gen Z, show a strong preference for spicy options—48 per cent are more likely to choose spicy frozen meals. Emerging spice profiles, such as gochujang, reflect the increasing influence of global cuisines.
For more detailed insights, the complete report is available here: Conagra Brands’ Future of Frozen Food 2025 Report.
