5 Trending Foods in the Freezer Aisle

Frozen foods continue to ramp up the innovation pipeline across all dayparts and reflect multiple types of occasions.

With a preponderance of at-home meal consumption, the frozen appetizer and snack category experienced another year of double-digit growth. It is up 10.6% to $3.5 billion based on a 52-week period ending April 17, 2022, according to data from Chicago-based IRI, which reflects multi-unit outlets plus convenience.

According to Fortune Business Insights (Pune, Maharashtra, India), the global frozen food market is expected to grow at a compound annualized growth rate of 6% through 2028.

The rediscovery of the frozen food aisle has resulted in increased innovation across the industry. Click ahead for a snapshot of recent innovation driving volume within the supermarket frozen foods case.

Cali’flour Foods expanded its frozen food entree lineup with two keto-friendly comfort classics: Beef & Broccoli (Asian-inspired cauliflower rice bowl with beef, broccoli, carrots, red pepper and edamame and 12 grams of net carbs); and Cheesy Chicken & Rice (cauliflower rice bowl with chicken, cheese and broccoli). The items join the company’s existing frozen entrees: Lasagna with Meat Sauce, Vegetable Lasagna, Chicken Enchilada Bake and Vegetable Enchilada Bake.

Pasta Roni Heat & Eat debuted in Penne Alfredo and Rotini Marinara flavors. Microwavable in 60 seconds, Pasta Roni Heat & Eat makes creating meals easier with no extra ingredients, the manufacturer says. Pasta Roni Heat & Eat (SRP of $2.39) joins the broader Rice-A-Roni Heat & Eat line that’s offered in five flavors: Chicken, Beef, Herb & Butter, Garlic & Olive Oil and Spicy Spanish.

White Castle and Bellisio Foods partnered to bring White Castle Chicken Rings to the retail channel. Sold frozen, White Castle Chicken Rings come in Original and Spicy flavors and are made with white meat chicken and lightly breaded in a ring shape.

Hot Pockets Deliwich offers a simple lunchbox option in four flavors: Cheddar & Ham, Turkey & Colby, Cheese Melt and Pepperoni & Mozzarella. Featuring full slices of deli meat and real cheese wrapped in a soft roll, each Hot Pockets Deliwich sandwich is frozen fresh and intentionally made to be taken on-the-go for a thaw-and-eat lunchtime option, according to the manufacturer. A four-count box has a SRP of $7.49.

Brazi Bites’ line of Pizza Bites are formulated with the brand’s cheese bread dough (made with tapioca flour) and stuffed with classic pizza fillings. Three flavors are available: Pepperoni, Four Cheese and Supreme. Pizza Bites, which can be prepared in the oven or air fryer, have a SRP of $5.99 per bag.