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Quarterly Industry Bulletin

Frozen Foods

Frozen food has evolved from a backup option to a planned, everyday staple for many households. According to the 2026 Power of Frozen in Retail report from the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI), 77% of consumers now purchase frozen foods with a specific meal or day in mind—up from 71% in 2023. This shift toward intentional, routine use is reflected in the market’s growth, with Grand View Research projecting the U.S. frozen foods market will reach $97 billion in 2026, a 7% increase over last year.

As frozen product assortments expand beyond traditional meals to include snacks, desserts, and single‑serve options, corrugated packaging plays an increasingly critical role. From protecting products through cold‑chain distribution to supporting shelf-ready presentation and brand differentiation at retail, packaging is central to meeting both operational and consumer expectations.

40%

of consumers use frozen foods every few days or daily.

Source: Power of Frozen in Retail Report

What’s Driving Growth?

Impact Icon

  • Frozen food can help families stretch food
    dollars and reduce waste.
  • An increased interest in at-home cooking.
  • Time-saving benefits.
  • Variety and better-for-you options now
    available.

Top U.S. Frozen Food Producers*

  • UnileverMarket Position Icon
  • Nestlé
  • General Mills

*Source: Grand View Research

Frozen Food in a supermarket

Packaging Trends and Influences Within This Segment

  • Right-sized cartons that align with portioned frozen formats (single-serve, multi-pack, meal kits).
  • Strong moisture-resistant coatings to maintain integrity through freezer storage.
  • High-quality graphics to communicate meal type and prep ease.
  • Durable structures that withstand freezer-to-doorstep delivery but are lightweight to keep shipping costs manageable.

 

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