Meal Kit Delivery Services Market

Meal Kit Delivery Services Market Size and Share:

The global meal kit delivery services market size was valued at USD 28.43 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 97.47 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 13.94% from 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 45.9% in 2024. The increasing preference for home-cooked and chef-cooked food, the rapidly growing e-commerce industry, and the rising expenditure capacities of consumers represent some of the key factors driving the market in the North American region.

It is quite convenient for individuals to have meal kits since no cooking is required and one gets a healthy option. This is why the meal kit industry is growing as there are several factors that improve the satisfaction of the consumers. First, the convenience that comes with having to order packaged ingredients and recipes that one can cook is something that people with busy schedules are willing to pay for. This is especially helpful for those people who cannot prepare the meal from scratch or do not have much time to go to the store and prepare the meal. The ability to try out different meals from different cultures in these packs is also exciting and informative thereby making it an enjoyable process.

The United States holds a crucial position in the market because of changing food preferences among people. A significant factor is the increasing demand for convenience among American consumers, particularly in urban and suburban areas where busy routines dominate daily life. Meal kit delivery services fulfill this requirement by offering pre-portioned ingredients and clear recipes, making it easier for individuals and families to prepare homemade meals without the extensive tasks of meal planning and grocery shopping. Many businesses leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and data analysis to provide personalized meal recommendations tailored to a customer’s dietary preferences, past orders, and even current culinary trends. The IMARC Group predicts that the US AI market is expected to reach USD 97,084.2 million by 2032.

Meal Kit Delivery Services Market Trends:

Rising Demand for Convenience in Meal Preparation

The growing demand for convenience is another positive influence on the market. As life becomes busier, the need for convenience will continue to grow. In particular, more people are moving to urban locations and living in two-income households, which have increased the demand for convenience options such as meal kits. Meal kit services cut out grocery shopping and cooking time because the company delivers pre-measured ingredients and simple recipes directly to the customer's home. This value proposition has specially appealed to working professionals, young families, and individuals looking for easy cooking solutions, which do not compromise on the taste as well as the quality. In 2024, new ultra-convenient RTE food items have been launched. Convenience has cemented RTE food products as a favorite of consumers looking for a hassle-free, high-quality culinary experience. According to the projections of the IMARC Group, the global RTE food market size is likely to reach USD 269.4 billion by 2033. This will further heighten the sale of meal kits.

Increased Health Awareness and Focus on Dietary Customization

A significant factor boosting the demand for meal kit delivery services is the growing interest in health and wellness. As shoppers recognize the significance of balanced diets and the dangers linked to processed foods, they are opting for meal kits that offer fresh, nutritious, and customizable dining choices. A 2024 IFIC survey indicated that 63% of American consumers are pursuing healthier meal options and steering clear of processed foods, a trend beneficial for the meal kit industry. Providers tackle this by presenting a range of menus that cater to particular dietary preferences, such as keto, paleo, vegan, and gluten-free selections. Moreover, the comprehensive nutritional details offered by meal kit companies assist customers in making knowledgeable decisions regarding their food, resulting in enhanced trust and engagement with the meals. The capability to customize meals based on dietary requirements and limitations has emerged as a necessity for numerous individuals aiming to maintain their health, thus driving market expansion.

Sustainability and Environmental Consciousness

Sustainability has become a central focus in the meal kit delivery services market, as consumers demand eco-friendly solutions that align with their environmental values. Meal kits naturally reduce food waste by providing pre-measured ingredients, a feature that resonates with environmentally conscious consumers. According to the global environmental action NGO WRAP, around 30 percent of food products goes to waste every year and wastage of food will reach 2.1 billion tons per year by 2030. Additionally, meal kit companies are adopting green delivery methods, such as electric vehicle fleets and optimized routing algorithms, to reduce their carbon footprints. As sustainability remains a top priority for consumers, meal kit providers are leveraging eco-conscious initiatives to attract and retain customers, while also contributing to broader environmental goals. This focus on sustainability is not only a market differentiator but also a driver of long-term growth in the industry. 

Meal Kit Delivery Services Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global meal kit delivery services market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on offering, service, meal type, and platform.

Analysis by Offering:

• Heat and Eat
• Cook and Eat
   

Cook and eat stand as the largest component in 2024, holding 67.3% of the market. Cook-and-eat meal kits offer many advantages that attract a broad section of consumers, especially those looking for a combination of convenience, culinary discovery, and healthy eating. Cook-and-eat meal kits are convenient for people and families with busy lives. They save significant time because they eliminate the need for meal planning and grocery shopping, while the food is prepared fresh. All ingredients are pre-portioned, which reduces prep time and simplifies the cooking process. Convenience appeals to working professionals, parents, and students who may not have enough time or energy to organize meals in an elaborate manner. Cook-and-eat kits keep the experience of freshly cooked food, providing a far superior quality of taste in comparison to reheated or frozen.

Analysis by Service:

• Single
• Multiple
   

Single service providers allow customers the flexibility to personalize meals according to preference, either keto, vegan, low caloric, or for a family size. A one-time purchase or subscription meal kit is known as a one-time meal kit, purchased to prepare one meal or a single dish for a specific amount of servings. Single meal kits, on the other hand, offer consumers a chance to try out a certain recipe or dish without entering into a commitment to buy them repeatedly or in bulk. They are pre-portioned and include all ingredients needed, as well as step-by-step instructions, to produce a fresh, home-cooked meal. This is an ideal choice for an individual or family seeking occasional convenience, variety, or a different experience at cooking.

Multiple meal kit delivery services necessitate that consumers subscribe to or purchase from multiple providers simultaneously. Customers can mix various deals from multiple suppliers to gain access to a wider variety of cuisines, recipes, and dietary options. By subscribing to several services simultaneously, customers can take advantage of introductory deals, discounts, or promotions from various brands, leading to savings. Various services enable households to address the diverse dietary requirements of their members.

Analysis by Meal Type:

• Vegan
• Vegetarian
• Non-Vegetarian
   

Non-vegetarian leads the market with 64.8% of market share in 2024. Non-vegetarian meal types are one of the most significant segments of the meal kit delivery services market, as they cater to consumers who include meat, seafood, and other animal-based proteins in their diets. These meal types are highly popular due to their nutritional benefits, taste appeal, and versatility, offering a wide range of dishes inspired by global cuisines. Animal-based proteins comprise chicken, fish, lean beef, and all constitute "complete proteins" which have all the amino acids needed for muscle building, for energy, and cellular repairs. Non-vegetarian meal types are more heterogeneous in terms of flavor options, cooking techniques, as well as cuisines than the vegetarian meal types. Meat and seafood are an introduction to this world of possibilities for many classic American-style BBQ dishes to Indian curries, Mediterranean seafood, and Asian stir-fries. Non-vegetarian meal kits appeal more to consumers who crave a change in their daily meal.

Analysis by Platform:

• Online
• Offline
   

Online leads the market with 63.7% of market share in 2024. Online meal kit delivery services have revolutionized the way consumers prepare and enjoy meals at home by offering a convenient, flexible, and personalized approach to cooking. These services provide pre-portioned ingredients, in confluence with easy-to-follow recipes, to the doorsteps of consumers. Online meal kit delivery services excel at catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences. Consumers can customize their meal plans based on factors such as portion size, dietary restrictions, and cooking difficulty. Common dietary choices consist of vegetarian, vegan, low-carb, keto, paleo, gluten-free, and high-protein diets. This level of personalization is a significant driver of customer retention and satisfaction. The primary appeal of online meal kit delivery services lies in the convenience they provide. By eliminating the need for meal planning and grocery shopping, these services save significant time for busy individuals and families. Consumers can order meal kits from a smartphone app or website, choosing from a variety of menus that cater to different dietary preferences, skill levels, and schedules.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Others
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of 45.9%. The increasing demand for convenience in meal preparation. As urbanization continues and dual-income households become more common, consumers are seeking time-saving solutions that simplify their daily routines. Meal kit services meet this need by eliminating the hassles of meal planning and grocery shopping, providing pre-portioned ingredients along with easy-to-follow recipes delivered directly to consumers' doorsteps. This convenience is particularly appealing to working professionals, young families, and individuals balancing busy schedules. The growing focus on health and wellness among North American consumers is another significant driver of the market. Heightened recognition of the long-term health effects of poor diets has led consumers to seek out meal options that emphasize fresh, high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition. Meal kit providers have successfully tapped into this trend by offering diverse menus tailored to specific dietary preferences, including low-carb, keto, vegan, and gluten-free options. Transparency in ingredient sourcing and detailed nutritional information has further enhanced consumer trust. Moreover, the online availability of meal kits is making it easier for people to purchase them. As per the predictions of the IMARC Group, the North America online food delivery market is expected to reach US$ 97.3 billion by 2032.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Meal Kit Delivery Services Market Analysis

The United States accounts 73.80% of the total market share in the North American region. Meal kit delivery services in the United States are influenced by the rising desire for convenient and efficient meal preparation options. The hurried lifestyle of many city dwellers demands accessible, pre-portioned meal choices that minimize planning and cooking time. Consumer awareness regarding health is increasing, leading to a preference for organic, balanced, and dietary-specific meal selections, which meal kit companies address through customizable menus. A robust digital framework facilitates smooth subscription and ordering experiences, simplifying access to these services via mobile applications and websites. For instance, food delivery apps like Grubhub, UberEATS, and DoorDash have revolutionized meal services, with UberEATS growing by 230% in 2017 and an average customer spending over USD 220 annually. The rise of these platforms presents new challenges in customer service, branding, and profitability in the United States. The growing phenomenon of experiential dining at home, in which consumers look for gourmet-quality dishes without going to restaurants, has further propelled the market. Sustainability stands out as another vital consideration, as companies provide eco-friendly packaging and locally sourced ingredients to attract environmentally aware consumers. Furthermore, competitive pricing tactics and discounts from service providers have increased the availability of meal kits to various income brackets. Consumer curiosity in international cuisines also prompts providers to present a wide array of culinary choices, catering to adventurous eaters. Lastly, collaborations with grocery stores and partnerships with fitness and wellness platforms have enhanced visibility and consumer outreach for these services.

Asia Pacific Meal Kit Delivery Services Market Analysis

In the Asia-Pacific area, meal kit delivery services are driven by urban growth and the increasing acceptance of dual-income families, which provide less time for conventional meal preparation. The cultural focus on fresh and authentic ingredients has encouraged providers to include region-specific recipes and ingredients, appealing to various tastes. The growing internet access and smartphone usage in this area enhance the popularity of app-based meal kit subscriptions. Younger populations, especially millennials, are attracted to meal kits as they combine the ease of delivery with the pleasure of cooking at home. The expanding middle-class demographic with disposable income has also added to the demand for high-end and gourmet meal kits. For instance, India's per capita GDP is projected to rise from USD 2,268 to USD 5,140 by 2031, the proportion of households earning over USD 5,000 annually is expected to grow from 26% to 54%. This increase in disposable income will significantly boost demand for meal kit delivery services, unlocking new growth opportunities. Social media channels significantly influence this trend, as visually attractive meal kits and their preparation spark buying decisions. An additional important aspect is the increasing awareness of health and wellness, leading to a need for health-oriented kits, such as keto, low-carb, and protein-rich selections. Partnerships with food influencers and local celebrity chefs also promote market expansion, providing distinctive culinary experiences customized to local preferences.

 Europe Meal Kit Delivery Services Market Analysis

In Europe, meal kit delivery services are becoming more popular thanks to the region’s commitment to sustainability and reducing food waste. European consumers are progressively embracing eco-conscious consumption practices, and meal kits offer pre-measured ingredients that minimize excess and spoilage. The demand for high-quality, locally sourced ingredients matches the principles of meal kit providers who focus on farm-to-table choices. Furthermore, an older demographic looking for easy, convenient cooking solutions sees value in meal kits customized to personal dietary requirements. According to the European Commission, the geriatric population in the EU countries is expected to rise from 90.5 Million in 2019 to 129.8 Million in 2050. Europe’s rich culinary heritage fuels innovation, with businesses providing meal kits inspired by both traditional and modern European cuisines, enabling customers to prepare gourmet meals at home. This trend is beneficial for meal kit delivery services, capitalizing on the increasing consumer interest in authentic European meals. The increasing trend of remote work has changed dining patterns, raising the demand for easy and healthy meal options at home. Online marketing and focused advertising efforts, especially through email and social media platforms, have improved consumer awareness and interaction. Additionally, collaborations with food delivery services have broadened access and enhanced logistical efficiencies, making meal kits more attractive to both urban and suburban populations.

Latin America Meal Kit Delivery Services Market Analysis

In Latin America, the primary forces behind meal kit delivery services are the expanding impact of contemporary lifestyles that emphasize convenience and efficiency. Urban migration has heightened the need for swift meal solutions designed for hectic schedules. According to Atlantic Council, as Latin America's urban population grows to 70% by 2050, meal kit delivery services stand to benefit from the region's increasing demand for efficient and convenient urban solutions, estimated to be worth over USD 3 Billion USD annually. Additionally, there is a growing curiosity about acquiring new cooking skills, encouraging consumers to try out curated meal kits. The rising awareness of health issues has resulted in a preference for fresh and less processed ingredients, which meal kit companies take advantage of by providing health-focused choices. The cultural and social importance of food in this area enhances the attractiveness of meal kits, as they combine convenience with the pleasure of traditional meal making.

 Middle East and Africa Meal Kit Delivery Services Market Analysis

In the Middle East and Africa, various elements are fueling the expansion of meal kit delivery services. The rising need for convenience, driven by hectic lifestyles, is prompting an increasing number of consumers to opt for ready-to-cook selections. Simultaneously, an enhanced emphasis on health-focused diets is rendering balanced, nutritious meal kits more attractive. The emergence of digital platforms and mobile applications is also simplifying access to these services for consumers, capturing a tech-savvy demographic. For instance, in 2024, with 9.46 Million internet users and 10.73 Million social media users in the UAE, digital platforms offer significant opportunities for meal kit delivery services to leverage high online engagement and mobile penetration for growth and customer reach. Furthermore, the increasing significance of sustainability and eco-friendly packaging is supporting the growth of these services as consumers become more environmentally conscious. Ultimately, the demand for diversity and global cuisine is encouraging meal kit companies to provide a wide range of distinct meal choices.

Competitive Landscape:

One of the primary ways meal kit providers are improving their business is by expanding their product lines and offering more personalized meal plans to appeal to a broader audience. Consumers today have diverse dietary needs and preferences, ranging from vegetarian and vegan diets to keto, paleo, gluten-free, and high-protein options. For instance, in 2024, LT Foods is entering the RTE and RTC segment and is foraying in the meal-kits market. In the meal kit segment, LT Foods has launched three variants of biryani kits and is planning to launch at least three more recipes in the segment next year. Leading companies are addressing this demand by continuously diversifying their menus and introducing new product categories. Sustainability is a critical focus for meal kit companies in 2024, as consumers increasingly seek out brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices. From ingredient sourcing to packaging and delivery, leading players are taking significant steps to reduce their environmental footprint and build stronger relationships with eco-conscious consumers. To grow their customer base, meal kit companies are focusing on expanding their geographic reach and offering faster delivery options. While the industry has traditionally been concentrated in urban centers, providers are now investing in infrastructure to serve suburban and rural areas, where demand for meal kits is rising.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the meal kit delivery services market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Blue Apron, LLC
• ButcherBox
• Fresh n' Lean
• Gobble Inc
• Gousto
• HelloFresh
• Home Chef (The Kroger Co.)
• Hungryroot
• Marley Spoon AG
• Purple Carrot
• Sun Basket Inc.

Latest News and Developments:

• January 2024: Factor, a US-based meal delivery service, expanded its operations to Canada. This move aimed to cater to the growing demand for convenient and healthy meal solutions in the Canadian market. By offering chef-prepared, dietitian-approved meals, Factor provides Canadians with a wider range of high-quality dining options, delivered directly to their doorsteps. This expansion not only benefits Canadian consumers but also strengthens Factor's position as a leading player in the global meal delivery industry.
• May 2024: Home Chef launched a new Family menu designed to simplify family meal prep for its meal kits. The menu features convenient recipes with pre-portioned ingredients and clear instructions. Aimed at busy families, it provides a stress-free cooking experience. This new offering enhances Home Chef's meal kit and delivery services.

Meal Kit Delivery Services Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the meal kit delivery services market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global meal kit delivery services market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the meal kit delivery services industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.