IQF Fruits And Vegetables Market Size (2025 – 2030)

The IQF Fruits And Vegetables Market was valued at USD 5.36 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach a market size of USD 8.6 Billion by the end of 2030. Over the forecast period of 2025-2030, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.2%.

The Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) Fruits and Vegetables Market is experiencing strong growth due to rising consumer demand for convenient, nutritious, and longer-lasting food products. IQF technology rapidly freezes fruits and vegetables individually at extremely low temperatures, preserving their texture, flavor, color, and nutritional value while preventing clumping. This method has gained popularity across both retail and foodservice sectors, driven by the increasing preference for ready-to-use ingredients in home cooking, restaurants, bakeries, and industrial food processing. The market is also benefiting from the shift toward healthier eating habits, with frozen produce seen as a viable alternative to fresh due to minimal nutrient loss. Furthermore, expanding global cold chain infrastructure, advancements in freezing technology, and growing consumption of packaged and processed foods are contributing to market expansion.

Key Market Insights:

Rising global consumption of frozen fruits and vegetables is evident, with annual per capita intake increasing by over 15% in the past five years as consumers shift toward convenience-based diets.

The foodservice sector accounts for more than 40% of total IQF fruits and vegetables demand, driven by quick-service restaurants, bakeries, and smoothie chains requiring ready-to-use, high-quality produce.

Strawberries, blueberries, and mangoes are among the most in-demand IQF fruits, together representing over 30% of total fruit category volume, while peas, corn, and spinach dominate the vegetable segment.

Product innovation is accelerating, with value-added IQF offerings such as organic, pre-cut, and mixed fruit/vegetable blends growing at a rate of more than 12% annually.

Advancements in freezing technology have reduced average freezing times by nearly 25% over the past decade, improving operational efficiency and product quality retention.

Market Drivers:

Rising Consumer Demand for Convenience and Longer Shelf Life is Driving Market Growth
The growing preference for convenient, ready-to-use food products is a key factor boosting the IQF fruits and vegetables market. Consumers, especially in urban areas, are increasingly opting for frozen produce due to its extended shelf life, reduced food waste, and year-round availability regardless of seasonal constraints. This demand is further supported by busy lifestyles, dual-income households, and the expanding quick-service restaurant and ready-meal industries, all of which rely heavily on IQF products for consistent quality and ease of preparation.

Increasing Health Awareness and Shift Toward Nutrient-Rich Diets is Boosting IQF Product Adoption
Rising global awareness about the importance of nutrient-rich and minimally processed foods is significantly influencing the adoption of IQF fruits and vegetables. Since the IQF process preserves vitamins, minerals, and flavor without the need for chemical preservatives, health-conscious consumers perceive these products as a superior alternative to canned or heavily processed options. The trend toward organic, non-GMO, and clean-label products is also pushing producers to expand their IQF offerings, thereby driving market growth across both developed and emerging regions.

Market Restraints and Challenges:

The IQF fruits and vegetables market faces significant restraints and challenges, primarily stemming from high production and operational costs associated with advanced freezing technology, specialized storage facilities, and cold chain logistics. The need for consistent low-temperature maintenance from processing to final delivery increases energy consumption and adds to overall expenses, making it difficult for smaller producers to compete. Seasonal fluctuations in raw material availability can also affect supply consistency and pricing, while dependence on efficient infrastructure in emerging markets often leads to distribution inefficiencies. Additionally, the market contends with stiff competition from alternative preservation methods like canned and dried products, along with consumer misconceptions about frozen foods being less fresh or nutritious, which can hinder adoption despite the proven quality of IQF products.

Market Opportunities:

The IQF fruits and vegetables market holds substantial opportunities driven by the rising global demand for convenient, ready-to-use, and nutritionally rich food products, especially among urban and health-conscious consumers. Increasing adoption of IQF products by foodservice providers, quick-service restaurants, and packaged meal manufacturers creates a strong growth channel, as these businesses seek consistent quality and year-round availability of produce. Technological advancements in freezing equipment, energy efficiency, and packaging innovations present scope for cost optimization and extended product shelf life, enhancing market competitiveness. Moreover, the expanding penetration of e-commerce grocery platforms and the growth of the frozen food segment in emerging economies open new avenues for market expansion, supported by evolving dietary patterns, busy lifestyles, and the rising preference for plant-based diets that heavily rely on frozen fruits and vegetables.

IQF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

IQF Fruits And Vegetables Market Segmentation:

IQF Fruits And Vegetables Market Segmentation by Product Type:

• Fruits
• Vegetables

Fruits dominate the IQF fruits and vegetables market, largely due to their widespread application across diverse food and beverage categories such as smoothies, bakery products, confectionery, dairy products, and breakfast cereals. The convenience, year-round availability, and preserved nutritional profile of IQF fruits make them a preferred choice for both industrial users and household consumers. The demand is further fueled by the growing popularity of health-focused diets, functional foods, and clean-label products, with IQF fruits offering an ideal balance of taste, nutrition, and ease of use. Additionally, their extended shelf life without the need for preservatives makes them an attractive option for manufacturers aiming to meet consumer expectations for natural and minimally processed food products.

Vegetables are projected to be the fastest-growing segment in the IQF fruits and vegetables market, supported by increasing consumer focus on balanced diets and nutrient-dense meals, along with the rapid expansion of plant-based and vegetarian product offerings. The adoption of IQF vegetables is rising in ready-to-eat meals, soups, sauces, frozen snacks, and institutional catering services due to their consistent quality, ease of preparation, and ability to retain taste and texture after cooking. Moreover, shifting consumer lifestyles, particularly in urban areas, have created strong demand for convenient cooking solutions that reduce preparation time without compromising nutrition. The growing emphasis on reducing food waste also boosts the popularity of IQF vegetables, as they allow portion control and extended storage. As global culinary trends embrace more diverse vegetable-based cuisines, the segment is expected to witness accelerated adoption across both developed and emerging markets.

IQF Fruits And Vegetables Market Segmentation by Application:

• Bakery & Confectionary
• Dairy & frozen Desserts
• Ready Meals
• Soups and Sauces
• Smoothies and Beverages

Bakery & confectionery holds the dominant position in the IQF fruits and vegetables market, driven by the increasing demand for premium baked goods, pastries, chocolates, and desserts that incorporate natural fruit flavors and vibrant colors. IQF fruits, in particular, are widely used in pies, muffins, tarts, and artisan bakery products due to their consistent quality, year-round availability, and ability to maintain shape, flavor, and nutritional value after baking. The segment benefits from the surge in consumer preference for indulgent yet healthier treats, with many brands using IQF fruits as a natural alternative to artificial additives.

Smoothies and beverages represent the fastest-growing application segment, fueled by the global trend toward health-focused, convenient, and on-the-go nutrition. The use of IQF fruits and vegetables in smoothies, juices, and functional beverages allows manufacturers to deliver fresh-tasting products with preserved nutrients, without the need for added preservatives or extensive processing. The segment is gaining momentum due to the increasing popularity of clean-label and plant-based beverages, particularly among fitness-conscious and younger consumers. Additionally, the versatility of IQF ingredients enables innovative flavor combinations and seasonal offerings, further boosting market growth. As smoothie bars, juice chains, and ready-to-blend smoothie kits expand worldwide, the demand for IQF fruits and vegetables in this application is expected to see sustained acceleration.

The remaining applications—dairy & frozen desserts, ready meals, soups and sauces, and clinical and functional nutrition—also play a significant role in the IQF fruits and vegetables market. Dairy & frozen desserts benefit from the integration of IQF fruits into ice creams, yogurts, and parfaits, enhancing flavor and texture. Ready meals increasingly rely on IQF vegetables for their convenience, portion control, and ability to retain quality during cooking. Soups and sauces gain from the consistent flavor profile and reduced preparation time offered by IQF ingredients.

IQF Fruits And Vegetables Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel:

• On-trade
• Off-trade

On-trade dominates the IQF fruits and vegetables market, driven by the high demand from hotels, restaurants, cafés, juice bars, and catering services that require consistent quality, flavor, and availability of ingredients year-round. These establishments rely on IQF products for their convenience, reduced preparation time, and ability to maintain freshness without spoilage, making them ideal for large-scale food preparation. The growth of the foodservice sector, coupled with the rising trend of gourmet dining, specialty beverages, and exotic fruit-based dishes, has significantly strengthened the on-trade segment’s position.

Off-trade is the fastest-growing distribution channel, supported by the expanding presence of IQF products in supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online retail platforms. This growth is fueled by consumers seeking convenient, ready-to-use fruits and vegetables for home cooking, smoothies, desserts, and meal prep. The segment benefits from increasing freezer storage capacity in households and the rising awareness of the nutritional benefits of IQF products compared to traditional frozen options. E-commerce has particularly accelerated off-trade growth, enabling direct-to-consumer sales, subscription-based frozen fruit and vegetable delivery, and easy access to a wider variety of IQF options.

IQF Fruits And Vegetables Market Segmentation: Regional Analysis:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle East & Africa

North America currently stands as the dominant region in the IQF fruits and vegetables market, accounting for the largest share due to its advanced cold chain infrastructure, strong presence of major frozen food manufacturers, and high consumer inclination toward convenient and healthy food products. The region’s robust retail network and extensive adoption of frozen produce across foodservice, quick-service restaurants, and packaged food manufacturing further reinforce its leadership position. Additionally, rising consumer demand for off-season fruits and vegetables available year-round has strengthened market penetration in both retail and foodservice sectors.

Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the IQF fruits and vegetables market, driven by rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and the expanding presence of organized retail and e-commerce platforms. The growing popularity of Western-style diets, coupled with a rise in health-conscious consumers opting for frozen produce with preserved nutritional value, is fueling accelerated adoption in countries like China, India, and Japan. Furthermore, the booming ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook food segment in the region is creating significant growth opportunities, particularly among younger working populations seeking convenience without compromising on quality.

IQF Fruits And Vegetables Market COVID-19 Impact Analysis:

The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the IQF fruits and vegetables market, as initial supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and restrictions on transportation temporarily hindered production and distribution. However, the prolonged lockdown periods and rising concerns over food safety and shelf life led to a surge in demand for frozen and long-lasting food products, including IQF produce. Consumers increasingly stocked up on convenient, nutrient-rich frozen fruits and vegetables to minimize grocery store visits, while the foodservice industry adapted by incorporating more frozen ingredients to ensure consistent supply. This shift in consumer buying habits and industry operations has created long-term growth momentum for the IQF segment, with demand patterns stabilizing at higher levels post-pandemic.

Latest Trends and Developments:

The IQF fruits and vegetables market is witnessing a strong shift toward clean-label, organic, and sustainably sourced products as consumers increasingly demand healthier and environmentally responsible food options. Advancements in freezing technologies are improving texture, flavor retention, and nutritional value, making IQF products more appealing for both retail and foodservice applications. There is also growing innovation in product blends, such as mixed fruits for smoothies or vegetable medleys for ready meals, catering to the rising trend of convenience-focused eating. Additionally, partnerships between producers and food processors are expanding the range of IQF offerings, while e-commerce and direct-to-consumer channels are accelerating market accessibility and brand reach.

Key Players in the Market:

1. Greenyard NV

2. Dole Food Company, Inc.

3. Capricorn Food Products India Ltd.

4. Uren Food Group Limited

5. SunOpta Inc.

6. Conagra Brands, Inc.

7. Kerry Group plc

8. Ardo NV

9. Simplot Australia Pty. Ltd.

10. Berries del Plata S.A.

Market News:

• In January 2025, Greenyard NV announced the expansion of its IQF production facility in Belgium to meet the rising demand for frozen fruits in bakery and smoothie applications.
• In October 2024, Dole Food Company introduced a new range of organic IQF berries targeting the health-conscious consumer segment in North America and Europe.
• In August 2024, Ardo NV partnered with a leading foodservice distributor in Asia-Pacific to enhance its supply of IQF vegetables for ready meals and soups.
• In May 2024, Kerry Group plc launched a new line of functional IQF fruit blends aimed at the clinical nutrition and sports beverage sectors.