Speciality-Food-Magazine-March-2025

specialityfoodmagazine.com 25 STOCK CHECK SHAPING THE SECTOR The soup and ready meal market is experiencing a profound transformation, with personalized nutrition emerging as a key driver. Consumers are moving away from generic, mass-produced options and increasingly seeking meals tailored to their specific dietary needs, whether it be high-protein, keto, or gut-health- focused. This shift reflects a deeper understanding of how nutrition influences long-term well-being and is pushing brands to innovate with ingredients like collagen, probiotics, and nutrient- dense superfoods. The rise of premiumization is also a significant factor shaping this market. Consumers are now willing to invest in high-quality, chef-inspired meals that offer the same culinary experience as dining out. The pandemic amplified this trend, as people sought to replicate restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of their homes, and this elevated expectation has persisted. Quality and authenticity have become central to consumer choices, with a preference for gourmet, artisanal options over traditional ready meals. Transparency and sustainability have further redefined consumer expectations. Shoppers are increasingly focused on where their food comes from, leading to a growing demand for locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Brands that prioritize ethical sourcing and provide full transparency about their production processes are gaining trust and loyalty, particularly as consumers become more eco- conscious. In essence, the evolution of the soup and ready meal market is being shaped by demands for personalized nutrition, premium offerings, and ethical practices, positioning it as a forward-thinking, health-conscious sector poised for continued growth. Insights from Nataly Komova, nutritionist at It’s Me and You Clinic Brands that prioritize ethical sourcing andprovide full transparency about their productionprocesses are gaining trust and loyalty produced frozen readymeals, we use fresh, local and knowingly clean ingredients.” With the utilisation of authentic family recipes, no wonder customers have relished levelling-up their Indian cuisine game. “Our meals are rooted in Gujarati traditions andmade to taste just like I grew up eating in Bradford, West Yorkshire (curry capital of the world and 2025 City Of Culture) – being full of warmth, comfort, and authentic flavours.” Truly worlds apart from the alternatives available at supermarkets, it’s perhaps no surprise that the range is made using the upmost attention to detail and quality. “Using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients makes all the difference,” says Bini. “I have a unique relationship withmy suppliers, having forged a trustworthy bond amongst them all. I visit the suppliers and knowing where the ingredients are sourced, how they are produced and having the same ethos creates trust and reassurances for me. When you start with amazing fresh ingredients the curry has already had a fantastic start. These high standards, paired with traditional recipes, make Bini readymeals that truly taste homemade. People who care about where their food comes from and require something convenient and wholesome are drawn to what we do and howwe embrace true culture.” No longer do fine food shoppers – and the retailers who serve them– need to sacrifice their time or ethical standards to enjoy convenient food at home. With a raft of high quality and consciously producedmeals ready for us all to enjoy, 2025 is just the start of the convenience revolution. BYRUBY FISH PIE Generously filled with sustainably sourced smoked haddock, cod and salmon, combined with sweet leeks in a rich and creamy sauce. Topped with buttery mashed potato and a sprinkling of Cheddar cheese. byruby.co.uk FIELDGOODS AUBERGINE PARMIGIANA Plum tomato and basil ragu layered up with roasted aubergine and cooling crème fraiche, topped with crunchy lemon zest breadcrumbs. fieldgoods.co.uk LADA MAKES CHICKEN PAD KRAPAO Made using premium ingredients including fresh Asian herbs and vegetables. ladamakes.com BINI FINE FOODS CHICKENMOGHUL CURRY A creamy curry with generous pieces of chicken and perfectly balanced and aromatic spicing. binifinefoods.com WOODMILL GAME GREEN THAI PHEASANT CURRY Made using pheasant breasts that are marinating in a creamy coconut milk sauce, spruced up with apricots, green chillies and fresh coriander. woodmillgame.co.uk FIELDFARE CRISPY CALAMARI A modern-day family favourite. Tender cuts of calamari are coated and crumbed for a crispy, moreish finish. Serve with spicy chilli sauce or Thai dips. field-fare.com