The freeze-dried food market - France

By 2020, the global market for freeze-dried foods will be growing strongly. According to previous estimates, it is set to reach a value of $58 billion by 2021, with an annual growth rate of around 7%. Europe holds the largest market share, at around 30%, while the Asia-Pacific region is experiencing the fastest growth, driven by changing lifestyles in emerging economies. The French market, calculated on the basis of the value of the global market and France's proportion of Europe's GDP, was valued at just over $2 billion.

Demand drivers include the superior quality and extended shelf life of freeze-dried products, as well as growing consumer interest in healthy snacks and convenient meal solutions. Outdoor activities, in particular hiking - one of the most popular sports in France - as well as the rise of survivalism and the needs of space missions, are fuelling demand considerably. The market is competitive, with a few major players such as OFD Foods and Nestlé, alongside specialist companies like Lyophilisé & Co. Despite the advantages of the nutritional quality preserved after rehydration, the high energy requirements of freeze-drying represent a cost constraint compared to rehydration.despite the advantages of retaining nutritional quality after rehydration, the high energy requirements of freeze-drying represent a cost constraint compared with other drying technologies such as spray drying or simple dehydration.

The dynamics of the freeze-dried food market in France

The French market for freeze-dried foods has enjoyed a dynamic, upward trajectory, reflecting strong, sustained demand, fuelled mainly by certain consumer segments looking for high-quality preserved foods. With an estimated value of over 2 billion dollars, the market shows a preference for freeze-dried products due to their long shelf life and preservation of original food qualities.

A significant proportion of demand comes from people involved in outdoor activities such as trekking and hiking - sports that are among the most popular in France, along with swimming.With between 15 and 20 million people taking part in land-based activities every year, there is a clear propensity to buy portable and convenient food options such as freeze-dried products. What's more, the freeze-dried food market in France is benefiting from the growth of the survivalist movement in the country. Between 100,000 and 150,000 people in France adhere to the survivalist ideology, which emphasizes self-sufficiency and emergency preparedness, which involves stocking up on long-life foods. The growing importance of this segment is underlined by the first annual exhibition on survivalism in France. In addition, the space sector has a unique demand for freeze-dried foods due to the specific conditions and limitations of space travel. Astronauts need food that is compact, light, nutritious and adapted to the unique environment of space missions, underlining the essential role of freeze-dried foods in their diet. Freeze-drying technology, which is the main subsistence option during space missions, meets the need for food that can be effortlessly rehydrated or reheated on board the International Space Station.

Despite its apparently strong position, this market faces constraints such as high energy consumption and costs associated with the freeze-drying process.s associated with the freeze-drying process, making products generally more expensive than other preservation methods such as spray drying or conventional dehydration. However, the superior quality of freeze-dried products in terms of nutrient and flavor retention makes them a preferred option over less efficient methods that compromise food quality. The French market distributes freeze-dried foods through a variety of channels, with industry giants taking advantage of supermarkets and online sales platforms, whether proprietary or through resellers. Smaller specialists prefer direct online sales or specialized outdoor sports retailers to reach their niche markets. These strategies reflect a market keen to exploit a variety of channels to ensure product availability for its diverse customer base.

In summary, the French market for freeze-dried foods is showing significant growth, fuelled by the outdoor sports community, the survivalist movement and the food needs of the space sector, in the face of operational challenges such as the production, distribution and marketing of freeze-dried foods

Key companies shaping the freeze-dried foods market landscape

In the booming field of freeze-dried foods, a constellation of key players is making a unique contribution to the industry's growth, touching on diverse segments ranging from convenience foods to specialized needs such as space exploration and outdoor activities. This chapter highlights some of the key entities in the freeze-dried foods market, including their specializations and market presence.

Industry giants with a diversified offering The titans of the global food industry

• Nestlé and Unilever lead the pack - familiar names synonymous with a vast range of food products, of which freeze-dried foods represent just one facet. Nestlé, with its extensive footprint, supplies an assortment of freeze-dried products, from coffee to culinary ingredients, drawing on its vast distribution channels. Following suit, Unilever presents freeze-dried options through trusted brand lines, reaching consumers worldwide.

The specialists

• European Freeze Dry and Heat Freeze Dried bring a touch of expertise to the market. These companies have carved out a niche for themselves by focusing primarily on the production of a variety of high-quality freeze-dried foods. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to high standards, they ensure that everything from fruit to complete meals meets consumer and industry requirements.

The vanguard of outdoor adventure and specialty foods

• OFD Foods and smaller niche players such as Lyophilisés & Co and Falières Nutrition. OFD Foods, one of the giants with its impressive range, has become a staple for backcountry hikers, military personnel and emergency preparedness kits. For their part, Lyophilisés & Co and Falières Nutrition cater to a demanding market that favors tailor-made freeze-dried products, adapted to the unique needs of travelers, survivalists and the most adventurous palates.

Innovators in freeze-dried culinary delights

• Chaucer Freeze Dried adds a gourmet touch to blending, with a focus on preserving the flavor and nutritional integrity of its freeze-dried fruits and ingredients. The company's approach preserves farm-fresh taste, making it a popular choice for culinary applications and health-conscious consumers.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 09/05/2023

Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Trends in the value of the freeze-dried foods market
• Market share of freeze-dried foods by distribution channel
• Freeze-dried food market share in Europe
• Market share of freeze-dried foods by product type
• Answers to the question: Over the last three years, what outdoor activity(ies) have you enjoyed at least once?
• Share of regular practitioners among all practitioners
• Answers to the question: Do you pay attention to food waste or not?
• Percentage of people who waste this type of food at least once a month