Fresh prepared foods (FPF) is a catch-all term for convenient grab-and-go and deli items that are sold at grocery stores—typically ready-to-eat (RTE) or ready-to-cook items (e.g., pre-marinated, pre-seasoned). FPF was a large and high-growth market prior to the pandemic, with sales in the U.S. accelerating 7–10%+ year-over-year during the decade before COVID-19.1 The market benefited from increased consumer trial during COVID-19 as restaurants shut down and Americans searched for convenient products at their local grocery stores. Post-pandemic, demand has remained strong for these items, and grocery stores are investing in the FPF section of the store. This is driving an increased focus on, and need for, food safety for FPF.
FPF includes a variety of product types (see Figure 1) that meet different consumer needs. This market includes branded, packaged, ready-to-eat (RTE) products, also known as "home meal replacement," hot bar and deli (behind-the-glass) products, deli meats and cheeses, un-branded prepared meals, soups, dips, and even in-store bakery items.