Chilled ready meals more popular as consumers opt to stay in

CHILLED ready meals have seen a growth of 10% in retail volume and value as consumers have decided that staying in is the new going out.

Research by Bord Bia has found the market for chilled prepared foods has returned to growth in 2010, with a rise of 3% in volumes recorded as the value of the market rose 2%. Having seen a surprising decline in 2009, home cooking has bounced back over the past 12 months.

Keith Crowe of Bord Bia’s meat division explains: “This was due to strong demand from young professionals and middle income consumers, who have reduced spending due to the economic downturn but still crave a tasty and convenient meal that could be prepared from home.