Global IQF Fruits Market - 2025-2032

Global IQF fruits market reached US$ 10.12 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 16.14 billion by 2032, growing with a CAGR of 6.01% during the forecast period 2025-2032.

The IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) fruits market is experiencing robust growth, driven by rising consumer demand for convenient, healthy, and preservative-free food options. Increasing awareness of the nutritional benefits of frozen fruits, coupled with busy lifestyles, has fueled market expansion globally. The foodservice and retail sectors, including smoothies, bakery, and ready-to-eat meals, are major end users. Technological advancements in freezing techniques have improved product quality and shelf life, enhancing consumer appeal. North America and Europe dominate the market, while Asia-Pacific shows significant growth potential due to urbanization and changing dietary habits.

IQF Fruits Market Trend

Convenience and versatility are key trends in the IQF fruits market as they offer consumers an easy and time-saving way to incorporate fruits into their daily routines. With busy lifestyles, pre-packaged IQF fruits eliminate the need for washing, peeling, or chopping, making meal preparation quicker and more convenient. These fruits can be used in a variety of applications, from smoothies and desserts to savory dishes and snacks. Their long shelf life allows for better inventory management and reduces food waste, while offering the flexibility to use only the desired amount.

This trend is evident in various recent developments and product launches. For instance, in April 2021, Food and drink industry veterans launched REMS Frozen Foods, aiming to become the supplier of choice for major UK and Irish food manufacturers. The company will import frozen ingredients worldwide, specializing in IQF fruit, vegetables, spices, and herbs.

Market Dynamics

Preference for Non-Seasonal Fruits

The preference for non-seasonal fruits is significantly driving the IQF fruits market by meeting consumer demand for year-round availability. Traditionally, fruits are seasonal, meaning they are only available during specific times of the year. However, IQF technology allows fruits to be frozen immediately after harvest, preserving their taste, texture, and nutritional value, making them available throughout the year. The ability to enjoy off-season fruits has made IQF fruits a popular and convenient choice among health-conscious consumers. This shift in consumer behavior towards non-seasonal availability is a key growth factor for the market.

According to the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI), in the US, penetration of frozen fruits and vegetables is very high, with 94% of households purchasing them. This indicates widespread consumer adoption of frozen produce as a convenient and accessible option. This widespread adoption reflects a growing preference for convenient, long-lasting, and healthy food options, boosting demand for IQF fruits, which are ideal for year-round availability, ease of storage, and retaining nutritional value. As more consumers opt for frozen produce, including non-seasonal fruits, the IQF market is expanding to meet these needs.

High Storage and Energy Costs

High storage and energy costs are significant restraints for the IQF fruit market because the freezing process requires specialized equipment and large cold storage facilities, which can be expensive to maintain. The energy-intensive nature of IQF technology increases operational costs, affecting the overall profitability for producers. These costs are often passed on to consumers, making IQF fruits more expensive compared to fresh options, potentially limiting consumer demand. Additionally, rising energy prices further exacerbate these challenges, especially for smaller companies with limited resources. The need for constant refrigeration also increases logistical costs, especially during transportation.

Global IQF Fruits Market Segment Analysis

The global IQF fruits market is segmented based on fruit, nature, end-user and region.

Berries Hold a Significant Share in the IQF Fruits Market Due to High Demand for Convenient, Nutritious Options

Berries hold a significant share in the IQF fruit market due to their high demand and versatile use in various food products. Popular berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are commonly used in smoothies, desserts, baked goods, and beverages, driving their widespread consumption. According to the USDA, retail per capita consumption of blueberries has seen a significant increase of 97% over the past decade, rising from 1.2 pounds in 2011 to 2.3 pounds in 2022. The significant increase in blueberry consumption is driving the growth of the IQF fruit market as more consumers demand year-round access to fresh-tasting, nutritious options.

Moreover, berries’ small size and delicate nature make them ideal for IQF freezing, as they retain much of their flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Additionally, berries are often harvested in specific seasons, and IQF technology allows them to be available year-round, meeting consumer demand for fresh fruit. With the growing trend of healthy eating and convenient food options, berries remain a go-to choice for health-conscious consumers. Their popularity in both the retail and foodservice sectors further contributes to their large market share. This strong demand is expected to continue fueling the growth of the IQF fruit market.

Geographical Penetration

North America Dominates the IQF Fruits Market with Robust Growth and Consumer Demand

North America holds a significant share in the IQF fruits market due to high consumer demand for convenient, healthy food options and a well-established cold chain infrastructure. The region’s preference for frozen fruits, including berries, mangoes, and tropical fruits, has been driven by the growing popularity of smoothies, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. Additionally, the increasing awareness of the nutritional benefits of frozen fruits, which retain most of their vitamins and minerals, contributes to their widespread adoption.

The rise of e-commerce and online grocery shopping in North America has further boosted the availability and convenience of IQF fruits. Furthermore, the robust foodservice industry, including restaurants and smoothie bars, increasingly relies on IQF fruits for consistency and ease of use. These factors, combined with a strong retail presence and consumer awareness, solidify North America's dominant position in the IQF fruit market.

Global IQF Fruits Market Sustainability Analysis

The IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) fruits market is increasingly aligning with sustainability trends as consumer demand for eco-friendly products rises. The market benefits from the growing preference for locally sourced and organic produce, reducing carbon footprints associated with transportation and conventional farming methods. Additionally, the IQF process helps minimize food waste by extending shelf life without compromising nutritional value. Companies are adopting energy-efficient freezing technologies and eco-conscious packaging, further enhancing sustainability.

Global IQF Fruits Market Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the market include Alasko, Fruktana, SunLeaf Foods, RDM International, Himgiri Group, BS Foods, AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG, IQF Foods Private Ltd., SAS SICA SICODIS, ABC Fruits and others.

Key Developments

• In August 2024, Key Technology, part of Duravant's Food Sorting and Handling Solutions group, has unveiled its Compass optical sorter for IQF products, including snacks, fruits, vegetables, seafood, poultry, and meat. The sorter is designed to detect and remove foreign materials (FM) and product defects, ensuring food safety and maintaining product quality

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