Dried processed foods are a preservation method that involves extracting moisture from food and crops to prolong shelf life, enhance nutritional value and flavour, and prevent the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, and fungi. This traditional technique enables the availability of food throughout the year and offers a wide range of options, including pasta, noodles, ready-to-eat meals, and soups. The drying process effectively halts the growth of harmful microorganisms, ensuring food safety and quality. As a result, dried processed foods represent a valuable opportunity for businesses looking to provide year-round, convenient, and nutritious options to their customers while mitigating the risks of food spoilage.
The global dried processed foods market isexpanding rapidly , owing to factors such as increased demand for pre-packaged and processed foods and a growing preference for gluten-free and organic options among health-conscious consumers. Additionally, the demand for convenient and prepared foods, particularly among busy working individuals, is also contributing to market growth. To address these changing consumer needs, manufacturers are expanding their product lines to incorporate more gluten-free and organic options. Leading players such as Nestle, General Mills, and Alpineaire Foods have introduced gluten-free versions of their popular cereal brands and gluten-free meal options to cater to this growing demand.
Furthermore, the market is also witnessing technological advancements in packaging technology and product differentiation. Companies such as Kellogg's have introduced innovative packaging solutions to extend the shelf life of their products and enhance convenience for consumers. However, some challenges, such as the loss of nutrients and original taste in processed foods and high production and assembly costs, may limit the growth of the market. Nevertheless, the market for gluten-free and original flavor processed foods is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
Key developments and new product introductions in the dried processed foods market.In January 2022, Crispy Green launched a new variant of its freeze-dried pineapple snack called Piña Picante, featuring a 'Chilli Lime' flavor made from imported Costa Rican pineapples infused with a special blend of spices and air-dried. European Freeze Dry will expand its vegan freeze-dried meal range in March 2021, including couscous-based dishes and vegan bolognese. They also introduce vegan mince, chicken, and freeze-dried jackfruit to their existing range of vegetables and pulses.
In March 2021, Sow Good Inc. (SOWG) introduced its direct-to-consumer (DTC) freeze-dried consumer packaged goods (CPG) food brand, Sow Good, aimed at transforming the food industry. The brand provides fruits and vegetables that are nutrient-rich and have a longer shelf life, thus reducing food waste.
Segment overview:By product type: The dried processed foods market is segmented into pasta and noodles, soups, baby food, ready meals, and others Among these, the pasta and noodles segment dominates the market due to their convenience and ease of preparation, leading to a surge in demand globally. This growth is mainly attributed to the busy lifestyles of consumers who seek fast and effortless meal solutions. The baby food category has also seen growth in recent years, with an increasing number of parents opting for convenient, shelf-stable options. Ready, meals are another popular segment, catering to busy consumers looking for quick and easy meal solutions. The market also includes various other product types, such as snacks and dried fruits.
By category: The market is categorized into conventional and organic. Conventional products are usually produced using conventional farming techniques that involve the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. These products are mass-produced and widely available at lower prices, making them attractive to consumers who prioritize affordability and convenience over other factors. Organic dried and processed foods, on the other hand, are produced using organic farming practices that prohibit the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and GMOs. These products are often perceived as healthier and more environmentally sustainable, appealing to consumers who prioritize health and environmental concerns over price and convenience.
By distribution channel: The market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retailers, and others. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the primary distribution channels for dried processed foods, owing to their extensive product variety and competitive pricing. Convenience stores are also significant channels, with their high-traffic and easy accessibility. Meanwhile, the rise of e-commerce has seen online stores emerge as a rapidly growing distribution channel, with consumers drawn to the convenience of shopping from home and access to specialty products. Additionally, other distribution channel, including, discount stores, specialty stores, and food service outlets, provide alternative avenues for dried processed food sales. Successful businesses in the market may benefit from leveraging multiple distribution channels to maximize sales opportunities and reach a wider consumer base.
Based on region: The global market for dried processed foods is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. North America dominates the market with the largest share due to the high demand for convenience foods and the presence of major market players. The United States, being the largest economy in the region, contributes significantly to the growth of the dried processed food market. According to the USDA, the demand for shelf-stable and ready-to-eat foods has been increasing in the United States, thereby driving the growth of the dried processed food market. In Europe, the market is driven by changing consumer lifestyles and an increasing demand for healthy and convenient food options. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate, with China and India being the major contributors to market growth. According to the Indian Brand Equity Foundation, the Indian food processing industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9% during the period 2021-2026. The LAMEA region is expected to witness moderate growth in the dried processed food market due to the increasing demand for convenience foods and the expansion of the retail industry in the region.
Competitive analysis and profiles of the major players in the dried processed foods market, such as Campbell Soup Company, Conagra Brands, Inc., Del Monte Food, General Mills, Inc., ITC Ltd. Nestle SA, The Kraft Heinz Company, The J.M. Smucker Company, Tyson Foods, Inc., and Unilever.
Key Market Segments
- By Product Type
- Pasta and Noodles
- Soups
- Baby Food
- Ready Meals
- Others
- By Category
- By Distribution Channel
- Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- Convenience Stores
- Online
- Others
- By Region
- North America
- Europe
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- UK
- Russia
- Rest of Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- Australia
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
- LAMEA
- Brazil
- South Africa
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
- Argentina
- Rest of LAMEA
Key Market Players
- General Mills, Inc.
- Conagra Brands, Inc.
- The J.M. Smucker Company
- Campbell Soup Company
- ITC Ltd
- Unilever
- Tyson Foods, Inc.
- Nesle SA
- Del Monte Food
- The Kraft Heinz Company