Middle East & Africa Frozen Ready Meals Market Outlook, 2028

The market for frozen ready meals is expanding more quickly in the Middle East and Africa. One of the main factors driving this expansion is the increasing number of people who are changing their eating habits and adopting a balanced nutritional diet and an active lifestyle. The demand for organic frozen meals is rising as a result of changing convenience eating habits and rising organic food prices. With everything from frozen desserts to appetisers and meals, the organic frozen food and beverage market is another stop for consumers who are always on the go. Consumers choose organic frozen prepared meals because they are free of microbial and fungi infestations. Market demand has increased as a result of the nutritional and health benefits provided by organic frozen ready meals. Because of this, manufacturers of frozen packaged foods are combining nutritional value with flavour to appeal to a wider consumer base that values flavour and health, which is resulting in the expansion of the Middle East and Africa market. Increased demand for frozen ready meals in the Middle East and Africa market is a result of shifting customer preferences for plant-based, vegan products that are paving the way for organic, handy food products. The Middle Eastern frozen food market is exceptionally affected by expanding demand for comfort food items because of the occupied work routines of individuals. The increased level of employment and income level has expanded which has prompted high reliance on ready-to-make food arrangements. The requirement for trend setting innovations that protect product turns out to be progressively applicable on account of the Gulf nations given the area's dry atmosphere and absence of arable land in the district. According to the research report, “Middle East and Africa Frozen Ready Meals Market Outlook, 2028", published by Bonafide Research, the market is projected to reach market size of more than USD 2 Billion by 2028. The development of the Middle East & Africa frozen ready meals market is driven by the rising interest of the convenient and on the go frozen ready to eat items. Adaption of frozen ready meals is still at the growing stage in these regions due to a lack of awareness and low penetration in the region. However frozen food products are gaining popularity, especially in the Middle-Eastern region due to lack of agro-based products and arable land. Moreover, the frozen ready meals market is growing due to the consumer’s interest in frozen pizza and versatile breakfast. The rising interest in convenience and on-the-go frozen ready-to-eat items has increased the adoption of frozen ready meals in MEA. The rise of plant-based diets has influenced the frozen ready meals market as well. Manufacturers are introducing more plant-based and vegan options, including meals made with meat alternatives like tofu, tempeh, and seitan, as well as a variety of vegetables and legumes. Falafel, made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. Frozen falafel is a convenient option for those who want to enjoy this popular dish at home. Kibbeh is a traditional Levantine dish made with ground meat and bulgur wheat. Frozen kibbeh meals are available in various forms, such as baked or fried, and are enjoyed by consumers in the MEA region.

Halal certification is significant for Muslim consumers in the MEA region, who adhere to Islamic dietary laws. Frozen ready meals that are certified halal, indicating that they are prepared according to Islamic guidelines, are sought after by a large segment of the population. Frozen ready meals that reflect the diverse and rich culinary heritage of the MEA region can be highly popular. Consumers appreciate frozen meals that offer traditional dishes and authentic flavors, such as Moroccan tagines, Lebanese kebabs, or Egyptian koshari. The holy month of Ramadan holds great cultural importance in the MEA region. During this time, there is a significant demand for frozen ready meals specifically designed for iftar and suhoor, the meals consumed during fasting. These meals often include traditional dishes and are packaged with special Ramadan-themed branding. The MEA region has a strong tradition of hospitality and social gatherings. Frozen ready meals that can be easily shared and served at gatherings or events, such as parties or family get-togethers, are sought after. Larger portion sizes or platter options that accommodate group dining can be appealing. Various cultural and religious festivals are celebrated throughout the MEA region. Frozen ready meals that are specifically marketed and packaged for these occasions, featuring traditional festive dishes, can gain popularity during such times. Arab Federation for Food Industries (AFFI) is an organization that represents the food processing industry in the Arab region, including frozen food manufacturers. It aims to enhance cooperation and exchange knowledge among member countries and promote the growth and development of the food industry. Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing food safety and quality in Saudi Arabia. It sets standards and regulations for food products, including frozen ready meals, and ensures compliance with these standards. Emirates Culinary Guild (ECG) is a professional association for culinary professionals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). While not specifically focused on frozen ready meals, it promotes culinary excellence, organizes competitions and events, and provides a platform for chefs and foodservice professionals to connect. The ready meals include non-veg meals, frozen pizza and veg-meals. The non-veg meals are dominating the market in MEA. Many countries in the MEA region have a strong tradition of consuming non-vegetarian food. Meat, poultry, and seafood are commonly consumed as part of the local cuisine. Therefore, there is a higher demand for frozen non-vegetarian meals that cater to the local taste preferences. Frozen non-vegetarian meals offer convenience to consumers who have busy lifestyles or limited time for meal preparation. These ready-to-eat frozen meals provide a quick and hassle-free solution for individuals and families, allowing them to enjoy meat-based dishes without the need for extensive cooking or preparation. Some consumers perceive frozen non-vegetarian meals to be of higher quality and taste compared to their vegetarian counterparts. This perception may be due to factors such as the use of premium ingredients, specific cooking techniques, or the inclusion of meat, which is often associated with indulgence and flavor.

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Manmayi Raval

Research Consultant

Considered in this report • Geography: Middle East and Africa • Historic year: 2017 • Base year: 2022 • Estimated year: 2023 • Forecast year: 2028 Aspects covered in this report • Middle East and Africa Frozen Ready Meals market with its value and forecast along with its segments • Country-wise Frozen Ready Meals market analysis • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendation Countries Covered in the report: • UAE • Saudi Arabia • Israel • South Africa

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By Ready Meals: • Non-Veg Meal • Frozen Pizza • Veg-Meal By End User: • Residential • Commercial By Sales Channel: • Supermarket /modern retail/ hypermarket • Independent Retailers / Departmental /convenience store • On-line Shop The approach of the report: This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analysing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience: This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Frozen Ready Meals industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.