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Harrisburg, Pa. – As Americans dive into their New Year's resolutions, the frozen and dairy aisles are emerging as crucial allies in achieving health, budget, and convenience goals. According to a recent National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) survey, 66% of Americans rely on pre-portioned ingredients to meet health objectives, and 75% cite cost savings as a primary reason for choosing frozen and refrigerated products.
The findings are part of NFRA's ReDiscover Dairy & Frozen campaign, encouraging consumers to explore the frozen and refrigerated aisles. These insights reflect a shift in shopping and eating habits as families and individuals prioritize efficiency and value.
"Resolutions can be challenging, especially with tight schedules and budgets," said Tricia Greyshock, President & CEO of NFRA. "Frozen and dairy items provide practical, delicious options that make it easier to eat well, save money, and simplify meal prep."
Smart Choices for Families
Parents are leading the charge as savvy shoppers, with 77% utilizing pre-portioned ingredients to align family meals with health goals. The survey revealed several strategic habits:
- 52% reorganize their freezers and refrigerators in January to prepare for the year ahead.
- 50% opt for yogurt over traditional snacks to make healthier choices.
- 75% use frozen options to streamline busy mornings.
- 78% buy in bulk to save money and reduce waste.
Younger Generations Drive Change
Younger consumers, mainly Gen Z and millennials, are redefining how frozen and dairy products are used:
- 86% explore global flavors through frozen foods.
- 88% prioritize quick meals prepared in 45 minutes or less.
- Frozen food purchases among these groups have shown year-over-year growth since 2023.
Health and Savings Align
The survey underscores the growing connection between health-conscious and budget-friendly shopping:
- 66% rely on pre-portioned items to stay on track with health goals.
- 67% use bulk buying to cut costs and reduce food waste.
- Popular essentials include milk (52%), cheese (51%), and yogurt (48%, rising to 55% among parents).
Meeting Modern Lifestyles
With busy schedules a persistent challenge, consumers are turning to time-saving solutions:
- 58% prioritize healthful eating as part of their "New Year, New You" resolutions.
- 42% of parents look for quick snack or meal options for school mornings.
- 49% have increased frozen food purchases in response to rising grocery costs.
The NFRA commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of 2,005 adults throughout the United States, including 1,002 parents of children under 18.
For more insights and to view the full survey findings, visit NFRA's interactive platform.
