In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for convenient meal solutions is at an all-time high. Ready meals with meat cater to this demand by providing pre-packaged and pre-cooked meals that are easy to prepare. These meals typically feature a meat-based main dish with one or more sides, appealing to busy professionals, families, and students alike. This article explores the commercial production processes, market scope, and key players in the ready meal industry.
Ready meals with meat encompass a wide range of options, including chicken, beef, pork, lamb, and fish dishes. They are often prepared through various cooking methods such as roasting, grilling, or braising, and can also include vegetarian or plant-based alternatives. These meals are available in different formats like frozen dinners, refrigerated meals, and shelf-stable meals, catering to individual servings or multi-serve meal preferences.
The global market for ready meals is significant and expanding, spurred by factors like urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and changing dietary habits. According to Allied Market Research, the market was valued at $72.83 billion in 2020, and is expected to reach $146.61 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2021 to 2028. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this growth, with more consumers opting for safe and convenient meal options.
Producing ready meals with meat on a commercial scale involves a series of well-coordinated steps to ensure quality and consistency:
As lifestyles continue to become busier, the popularity of ready meals with meat is set to grow. The industry, supported by technological advancements in food processing and food manufacturing engineering, ensures that these meals remain a convenient and nutritious choice for consumers worldwide. By staying innovative and addressing diverse dietary needs, key players in the market can maintain competitive advantage and continue to drive growth in this expanding sector.