United States Frozen Food Market Trends & Growth Outlook 2025–2033

United States Frozen Food Market Overview

The United States Frozen Food Market, valued at US$ 79.66 billion in 2024, is entering a robust growth phase. According to Renub Research, the market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.91% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an impressive US$ 171.56 billion by 2033.

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This growth trajectory reflects changing consumer lifestyles, increased demand for convenient and ready-to-eat foods, rising consumption of frozen fruits and vegetables, and continuous advancements in freezing and cold-chain technologies. Additionally, the rapid expansion of e-commerce grocery platforms and modern retail distribution channels has significantly boosted frozen food accessibility across the country.

Frozen foods—ranging from meals, fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, snacks, and desserts—have evolved far beyond their earlier image as highly processed alternatives. With innovations such as flash freezing and cryogenic freezing, manufacturers are now able to preserve freshness, texture, and nutritional value while extending shelf life.

Why Frozen Foods Matter in the U.S. Food System

Frozen foods play a vital role in American households, foodservice outlets, cafeterias, and quick-service restaurants. Their long shelf life, reduced food waste, and cost efficiency make them a reliable option for families and institutions alike.

Beyond convenience, frozen foods contribute significantly to food security and emergency preparedness, offering stable meal solutions during natural disasters, supply disruptions, or extreme weather conditions.

The rise of organic, plant-based, gluten-free, and clean-label frozen foods has further expanded consumer acceptance. With online grocery shopping and home delivery gaining momentum, frozen food has become one of the most resilient and fastest-growing segments of the U.S. food industry.

Key Growth Drivers in the United States Frozen Food Market

1. Rising Demand for Convenient and Ready-to-Eat Foods

Busy lifestyles, longer working hours, and the rise of dual-income households have dramatically reshaped American eating habits. Consumers increasingly seek quick, easy-to-prepare meal options that do not compromise taste or nutrition.

Frozen foods meet this demand by offering:

Minimal preparation time

Extended shelf life

Reduced food waste

Consistent quality

According to a March 2025 National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) survey, frozen foods have become central to meal planning:

83% of shoppers say frozen foods make meal planning easier

71% prefer ready-to-eat and quick-prep meal options

67% appreciate organized frozen ingredients for creative cooking

These findings reinforce frozen food’s importance for modern American families.

2. Expansion of E-Commerce and Online Grocery Shopping

Online grocery shopping has transformed how Americans purchase frozen foods. Platforms such as Walmart, Amazon Fresh, and Instacart are significantly expanding frozen food selections and cold-chain delivery capabilities.

As of September 2024, more than 138 million Americans purchased groceries online. However, only around 9.5% of U.S. supermarkets currently offer online grocery services, highlighting enormous untapped digital potential.

Meal kit subscriptions and direct-to-consumer frozen food brands are further accelerating market growth by offering curated, high-quality frozen meal solutions delivered directly to consumers’ homes.

3. Growing Preference for Health-Oriented and Organic Frozen Foods

Health consciousness is reshaping frozen food offerings across the U.S. Consumers are actively seeking:

Organic and non-GMO options

Plant-based and vegan frozen meals

High-protein and low-sodium products

Gluten-free and allergen-friendly foods

Manufacturers are responding with cleaner labels, fewer preservatives, and sustainably sourced ingredients.

In September 2024, Amy’s Kitchen, a pioneer in organic frozen foods, expanded into frozen breakfast burritos, wraps, and entrées—reinforcing the demand for nutritious yet convenient frozen meals.

Challenges Facing the United States Frozen Food Market

Perception of Lower Nutritional Value

Despite major technological advancements, some consumers still perceive frozen foods as less nutritious than fresh alternatives. Concerns about preservatives, artificial additives, and sodium levels remain barriers to adoption.

Industry players are addressing this challenge through education campaigns highlighting the nutritional benefits of frozen fruits and vegetables, which are often frozen at peak freshness.

Cold Chain and Storage Constraints

Frozen food logistics rely heavily on cold storage infrastructure and temperature-controlled transportation. Rising fuel costs, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions have increased operational expenses.

Smaller and mid-sized manufacturers often face challenges in expanding distribution nationwide due to high capital requirements for cold-chain systems.

Key Market Segments Analysis

United States Frozen Breakfast Food Market

Frozen breakfast foods—including waffles, pancakes, burritos, and breakfast sandwiches—continue to gain popularity due to convenience and nutritional improvements.

In March 2024, Mason Dixie Foods launched single-serve breakfast sandwiches made with simple ingredients and no preservatives, reflecting growing demand for clean-label breakfast options.

United States Frozen Seafood Market

Frozen seafood remains a strong segment, driven by demand for shrimp, salmon, cod, and shellfish. Consumers favor frozen seafood for its availability, affordability, and omega-3 content.

In February 2023, Red Lobster® entered the retail frozen seafood category, allowing consumers to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home.

United States Frozen Poultry Food Market

Frozen poultry products such as nuggets, wings, and chicken breasts benefit from high protein demand and ease of preparation.

In June 2024, Hooters introduced frozen appetizers nationwide through Publix, expanding restaurant-branded frozen offerings in retail stores.

United States Frozen Ice Cream and Desserts Market

The frozen dessert segment is evolving with plant-based, dairy-free, keto-friendly, and sugar-free ice creams. Premium ingredients and innovative flavors continue to attract health-conscious and indulgence-seeking consumers alike.

United States Frozen Fruits and Vegetables Market

Frozen fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, and mixed vegetables, are staples in American households. Demand is fueled by plant-based diets, meal kits, and organic food trends.

Distribution Channel Insights

Hypermarkets & Supermarkets

Major retailers including Walmart, Kroger, and Target dominate frozen food distribution. Expanded freezer aisles and private-label frozen products are key strategies to meet growing demand.

Online Frozen Food Market

Online platforms are witnessing rapid growth, supported by improved cold delivery logistics and broader product availability. Direct-to-consumer frozen brands and subscription-based meal services are further strengthening this channel.

Regional Market Insights

East U.S.: Strong demand driven by dense urban populations and busy lifestyles

North U.S.: Higher frozen food consumption due to colder climates and seasonal stocking

West & South U.S.: Growing demand for organic, plant-based, and premium frozen products

Competitive Landscape: Key Companies Profiled

The market analysis covers leading players from four perspectives—overview, key personnel, recent developments, and revenue insights:

Unilever PLC

Nestlé S.A.

General Mills, Inc.

Nomad Foods Ltd.

Tyson Foods Inc.

Conagra Brands Inc.

Wawona Frozen Foods

Bellisio Parent, LLC

McCain Foods

The Kraft Heinz Company

Final Thoughts

The United States Frozen Food Market is undergoing a powerful transformation driven by convenience, health-focused innovation, and digital grocery expansion. With the market projected to grow from US$ 79.66 billion in 2024 to US$ 171.56 billion by 2033, frozen food is no longer a secondary grocery option—it is a core pillar of modern American consumption.

As manufacturers invest in clean-label products, sustainable packaging, and smarter cold-chain solutions, frozen foods are poised to remain one of the most dynamic and resilient segments of the U.S. food industry for years to come.