Meat free meals and products expand in both frozen and fresh categories

Robert Gultig

25 March 2025

Meat free meals and products expand in both frozen and fresh categories

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Written by Robert Gultig

25 March 2025

Introduction

The demand for meat-free meals and products has been on the rise in recent years as more consumers are looking for healthier and more sustainable food options. This trend has led to the expansion of meat-free options in both the frozen and fresh categories, with companies innovating to meet the growing demand.

Growth in the Meat-Free Market

The meat-free market has seen significant growth in recent years, with consumers becoming more conscious of their health and the environmental impact of meat consumption. According to a report by Market Research Future, the global meat-free market is projected to reach $7.5 billion by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 8.4% from 2017 to 2023.

Financial Data

Companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods have seen tremendous success in the meat-free market, with Beyond Meat reporting a revenue of $406.8 million in 2020, a 37% increase from the previous year. Impossible Foods also reported a revenue of $500 million in 2020, showing the strong demand for meat-free products.

Industry Insights

The meat-free market is highly competitive, with several companies vying for market share. Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods are two of the most well-known companies in the industry, offering plant-based alternatives to meat products. Other companies like Quorn, Gardein, and Tofurky also offer a variety of meat-free options in both the frozen and fresh categories.

Meat-Free Products in the Frozen Category

The frozen food aisle has seen a surge in meat-free options, with companies offering plant-based burgers, sausages, nuggets, and more. These products are convenient for consumers looking for quick and easy meat-free meal options.

Market Trends

According to a report by Nielsen, sales of meat-free products in the frozen category grew by 30% in 2020, outpacing the overall frozen food market. This growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of plant-based diets and the availability of innovative meat-free products in the frozen aisle.

Companies in the Frozen Category

Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods are two companies that have successfully expanded into the frozen category, offering plant-based burger patties and sausages that mimic the taste and texture of meat. Other companies like Gardein and MorningStar Farms also offer a variety of meat-free options in the frozen aisle.

Meat-Free Meals in the Fresh Category

The fresh food section has also seen an increase in meat-free options, with companies offering plant-based alternatives to traditional meat dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and salads. These products cater to consumers looking for healthier and more sustainable meal options.

Market Demand

According to a report by Mintel, sales of meat-free products in the fresh category grew by 11% in 2020, reflecting the increasing demand for plant-based options. This growth is driven by a shift towards healthier eating habits and a growing awareness of the environmental impact of meat consumption.

Companies in the Fresh Category

Companies like Sweet Earth Foods and Lightlife have successfully expanded into the fresh category, offering a variety of meat-free options like plant-based deli slices, burgers, and bowls. Other companies like Amy’s Kitchen and Dr. Praeger’s also offer a range of meat-free meals in the fresh food section.

Conclusion

The meat-free market is experiencing significant growth, with companies innovating to meet the increasing demand for plant-based options. Both the frozen and fresh categories offer a variety of meat-free products, catering to consumers looking for healthier and more sustainable meal options. As the market continues to expand, we can expect to see more companies entering the meat-free space and offering innovative plant-based alternatives to traditional meat products.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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