The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has led to many consumers seeking more affordable food options, and for many, frozen food has emerged as a clear winner in the midst of this trend. Recent reports suggest that frozen food is now beating fresh food in the supermarkets, as shoppers seek to save money and minimise waste in their homes. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this shift in consumer behaviour, and examine how the frozen food industry has adapted to meet the changing needs of its customers.
Retailers have reported that consumers are increasingly turning to frozen food as a way to combat rising grocery prices. Data from research firm Kantar shows that frozen food is currently outperforming fresh food in supermarkets, with frozen chicken, ready meals, pizzas, and chips being the most popular items. Mum-of-three Laura Tedder, from Ampthill in Bedfordshire, has switched to buying more frozen food due to budget constraints, as have many other consumers. Frozen food is generally cheaper and results in less waste. The quality of frozen food has also improved in recent years, with some experts saying that frozen items can be even better for you than fresh ones. Many supermarkets are now offering more deals on frozen food, and some, including Waitrose and M&S, are reporting a rise in popularity of their frozen food ranges. The trend towards frozen food is set to continue as consumers look for budget-friendly options in the face of rising costs of living.
In conclusion, it appears that frozen food is making a comeback as shoppers search for ways to save money while still enjoying nutritious and tasty meals. In addition to the increased convenience and longer shelf-life, frozen products have also been found to be more cost-effective than their fresh counterparts in many cases. While fresh produce and other perishable items remain important for a well-balanced diet, it seems that frozen food has become a viable and sensible option for many consumers. As the economic and social landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this trend develops and whether fresh food will be able to hold its own against the frozen competition. Only time will tell, but for now it seems that frozen food has established its place in the market and is here to stay.