Frozen Foods Will Continue Trending Up in 2021, predicts industry association

Frozen foods are expected to be among the hottest items on US grocery lists in the year ahead, according to the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI).

From fruits and snacks to entire meal solutions, the frozen category in the United States is experiencing all-time (retail) sales highs over the past year. Consumer research indicates this momentum will continue even after the pandemic subsides.

Alison Bodor, American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) President and CEO:

"Strong [retail] sales data only tells part of the story. Frozen foods align with the times we’re living in, offering consumers nutrition, variety, ease of preparation and certainty at a moment we’re needing it more than ever in our kitchens and on our tables."

The Arlington, Virginia-headquartered trade association has detailed five key reasons that frozens will be on 2021 trend lists and shopping lists:

• They meet the growing demand for plant-based foods. For decades, frozen has been the gateway to plant-based foods and alternative meat. Think veggie burgers. With the plant-based trend on the rise among vegetarians, flexitarians and other consumers, frozen’s innovative plant-based product offerings provide a plethora of on-trend options for those all-in or just dipping their forks into the movement.
• They check the box for immunity-boosting foods. Consumers will continue seeking foods that feed their immune systems, and the frozen aisle is filled with what’s on their lists, from berries and salmon to spinach, broccoli and mushroom blended burger patties.
• Frozen fits the growing demand for personalized nutrition. A new year will likely mean consumers are downloading personal nutrition planners and dialing up daily fitness/meal planning subscriptions. Whether it’s fruit packs for smoothies or single-serve healthy and light lunches, frozen features a variety of single-serve items with clear nutritional information to help consumers meet their personal nutrition needs.
• They beat back cooking fatigue. After months of home cooks trying and sampling new foods, and with winter coming, research finds cooking fatigue is settling in. Frozen foods help home chefs by providing simple, pre-prepped or cooked ingredients, side dishes and entrées that feed the whole family and deliver quality time together.
• Frozen staples offer certainty during uncertain times. While it remains to be seen if panic buying and grocery supply issues will rise to the same level as spring 2020, the future is uncertain. Frozen foods let shoppers stock up on an array of healthy and easy-to-prepare foods, and reduce the frequency of their shopping trips.