There are times when consumer insights inform sensory attributes around product development —aspects of taste, texture, color and smell. In other instances, research findings provide a deeper look at shopper preferences, behaviors and ultimately, purchase patterns.
Last year saw The NPD Group, Chicago, share two consumer insight studies with implications for prepared meals and entrees. In its June “Future of Dinner” report, NPD said at-home dinner consumption still remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. Authors added, “Little or no prep and fast dinner fixes, like frozen meals and ready-to-eat snacks, especially during the work week, will grow through 2024. Consumers will also increasingly turn to retail on-the-go meals to help with meal prep, like ready-to-eat chicken from the grocery store. Retail ready-to-eat foods are forecast to grow by double-digits through 2024.”