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Prepared Meals - US - May 2016
Overview

This report provides in-depth analysis and insight supported by a range of data. At the same time, introductory and top-level content is provided to give you an overview of the issues covered.

Overview
Executive Summary

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Prepared Meals - US - May 2016
Market

Mintel provides a range of market information, frequently through the category level, including market size and forecasting, complete with market drivers that illustrate the forces that shape a category or market.

The Market – What You Need to Know
Market Size and Forecast
Market Breakdown
Market Factors
Market Perspective

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Prepared Meals - US - May 2016
Consumer

Mintel's proprietary consumer research provides our analysts with the attitudinal and behavioral data used to provide valuable insight to topical issues.

The Consumer – What You Need to Know
Changes in Prepared Meals Consumption
Reasons for Eating Prepared Meals
When Prepared Meals are Eaten
Desired Features
Importance of Health Attributes
Attitudes toward Prepared Meals

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Prepared Meals - US - May 2016
Brand/Company

Mintel provides overviews of the top brands and manufacturers, and uses consumer research to explore attitudes and reactions to brands, as well as insight into what will resonate with consumers.

Key Players – What You Need to Know
Manufacturer Sales of Prepared Meals
What’s Working?
What’s Struggling?
What’s Next?

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Prepared Meals - US - May 2016
Data

Reports provide appendices of data to support the research and insight produced. Our tables of data are easily manipulated and downloadable to support your research needs and covers factors from consumer attitudes to market forecasts.

Appendix – Data Sources and Abbreviations
Appendix – Market
Appendix – Key Players
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What you need to know

Sales of prepared meals turned slightly positive in 2015 after three consecutive years of declines, but remain below their 2010 level, weak results in line with a broader move away from more processed foods in favor of fresher and healthier alternatives. Still, the category’s defining convenience benefit remains compelling, and there is considerable opportunity for brands offering products made from natural ingredients and highlighting specific health benefits. Greater cuisine variety and packaging geared to snacking occasions could help to boost consumption, especially among young adults.

Definition

This Report builds on the analysis presented in Mintel's Prepared Meals and Sides – US, November 2015 and Prepared Meals & Side Dishes – US, May 2014, in addition to Frozen Meals – US, May 2013, as well as the same title in May 2012, September 2010, 2008, 2007, 2006, and previous years. This Report also builds on the analysis presented in Mintel’s Side Dishes – US, June 2010 as well as the same title in June 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2003.

For the purposes of this Report, prepared meals are defined as complete meals or entrées that are precooked and frozen or refrigerated. These meals usually include a side dish and require minimal preparation or cooking time.

Side dishes are defined in this Report as products intended to be used alongside an entrée or meal center. These items can be frozen or refrigerated. Please note that while the industry has a clear definition of side dishes, the demarcation is not so clear to the consumer, who may well use specific side dishes as a meal or a snack.

The primary segments include the following:

  • Single-serve frozen meals

  • Multiserve frozen meals

  • Refrigerated meals

  • Frozen side dishes

  • Refrigerated side dishes (including refrigerated side dishes that are sold in meat and deli cases and require only microwaving), and refrigerated salads

Excluded from this Report are meals and side dishes prepared in-store and sold in the fresh deli or other departments. Also excluded are meals and side dishes sold through foodservice venues.

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