Frozen and Freeze-Dried Pet Food Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Wet food, dry food, semi-moist food), By Application (Pet Food Stores, supermarkets, eCommerce), and Regional Forecast From 2026 To 2035

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FROZEN AND FREEZE-DRIED PET FOOD MARKET OVERVIEW

The global Frozen and Freeze-Dried Pet Food Market is estimated to be valued at approximately USD 15.1 Billion in 2026. The market is projected to reach USD 31.87 Billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 8.39% from 2026 to 2035.North America leads with ~45% share, followed by Europe at ~30% and Asia-Pacific at ~20%. Growth is driven by premium pet nutrition trends.

The increasing demand of consumers for natural, minimally processed, and nutrient-rich food diets for pets is propelling the demand of the frozen and freeze-dried pet food market. Stores with frozen and freeze-dried options preserve the nutritional integrity of ingredients and trend more towards health-conscious pet owners. They have a longer shelf life, are convenient, and do not need artificial preservatives. Rising pet humanization trends and rampant retail availability are supporting market growth. This trend will in turn continue as awareness of pet nutrition grows.

KEY FINDINGS

• Market Size and Growth: Global Frozen and Freeze-Dried Pet Food Market size is valued at USD 15.1 billion in 2026, expected to reach USD 31.87 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 8.39% from 2026 to 2035.
• Key Market Driver: Rising premium nutrition preference with about 77% of pet owners valuing high-quality diets and 42% feeding raw or semi-raw diets weekly.
• Major Market Restraint: Cold chain infrastructure limits availability for many retailers, with more than 53% lacking proper freezing facilities and 34% higher shipping expenses vs dry food.
• Emerging Trends: Online and e-commerce channels showing growth with over 23% total sales and freeze-dried segments increasing product launches near 30%.
• Regional Leadership: North America holds around 45% of the market, Europe has about 30%, and Asia-Pacific contributes roughly 20% of global share.
• Competitive Landscape: Leading companies control over 50% share, with private label and specialty product segments growing near 35%.
• Market Segmentation: Among types, frozen formats dominate with about 80% share, while freeze-dried holds around 20%, and semi-moist niches show emerging traction.
• Recent Development: Functional and single-ingredient innovations now account for nearly 40% of new products, reflecting health-focused formulation trends.

GLOBAL CRISES IMPACTING FROZEN AND FREEZE-DRIED PET FOOD MARKET

Frozen and Freeze-Dried Pet Food Industry Had a Positive Effect Due to Pandemic boost during COVID-19

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing higher-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to the market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

On the back of lockdowns, resulting in a significant increase in pet ownership, the frozen and freeze-dried pet food market also experienced an upsurge, in turn driven by higher demand for premium pet food. More time spent at home made pet-loving ones more sensitive to pet nutrition, choosing to go for healthier and high-quality items such as frozen or freeze-dried products. The growth of e-commerce also helped the market grow as these specialty products became more easily available. Major players managed to manage supply chain disruptions, keeping product availability. In terms of market growth, overall the pandemic is said to have accelerated awareness and adoption of those premium pet food categories.

LATEST TRENDS

Market Growth Driven by Customization, Sustainability, and Evolving Pet Care Trends

The frozen and freeze-dried pet food market is growing endlessly due to new technology and changing consumer desires. One noticeable trend has been the growing demand for customized pet nutrition to meet the pets ' specific needs, such as age, breed, and health conditions. This shows a broader trend of treating pets as family members and focusing on their health and well-being. In addition, the market is observing innovations of sustainable, ethically sourced ingredients that fulfill the needs of people who care about the environment. The trend is expected to continue shaping the industry, which is why companies are developing products that meet these consumer values and thus expanding the market.

• According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), over 60% of pet owners in the U.S. are seeking pet food tailored to their pet’s age, breed, and health needs, driving demand for personalized frozen and freeze-dried pet diets.

• As per the Pet Food Institute (PFI), 42% of pet owners prefer products made with sustainably sourced ingredients, reflecting a shift toward environmentally conscious purchasing.

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FROZEN AND FREEZE-DRIED PET FOOD MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on Type, the global market can be categorized into Wet food, dry food, semi-moist food

• Wet Food: Pet food that is wet frozen and freeze-dried provides a simplified product that has a high moisture content, so it is appropriate for animals who need hydration or have certain dietary requirements. Because of its similar palatability and closer approximation to a natural diet, it is often preferred. Given that this segment attracts pet owners on the hunt for premium and nutritious choices, this segment is gaining traction. With more pet humanization trends on the rise, it is, in fact, growing in popularity.

• Dry Food: Because dry, frozen, and freeze-dried pet food are convenient for consumption, they have a they have a long best-before date and store well. This is a cost-effective option for many pet owners but still has high nutritional value. Freeze-drying technology is something that has been improved; the tastiest and quality of dry formulations have been enhanced. A major share of the market consists of this segment because of the practicality and affordability.

• Semi-Moist Food: Semi-moist pet foods are the balance between and dry food, containing enough moisture and benign very tasty. By appealing to pets with chewing problems and owners seeking an easy-to-serve solution, it is a ‘yes’ for almost everyone. Smaller market share but has worked well on people because of its convenience and variety of texture. Manufacturers continue to add healthier, preservative-free options to this segment, which is also growing.

By Application

Based on Application, the global market can be categorized into Pet Food Stores, supermarkets, eCommerce

• Pet Food Stores: Frozen and freeze-dried pet food products remain a cornerstone in the distribution method of their products through pet food stores,, which provide an extensive variety of specialized and premium offerings. And these stores also already mate with pet owners with recommendations that are personalized and educational support. Customer experience and trust are improved with in-store promotions and staff that know what they are talking about. They are known to focus exclusively on pet care such that they are a favorite in pet food niches and also high-quality pet food.

• Supermarkets: However, rising consumer demands for fresh options have increasingly prompted supermarkets to expand their pet food sections to include frozen and freeze-dried options. One-stop shopping draws pet owners, who are time-conscious; therefore, they provide them with convenience. Supermarkets thus allow premium pet food products to be mainstream products, with increasing shelf space and promotion. That is one of the ways their wide reach helps to increase product visibility and market penetration.

• eCommerce: The pandemic has led to eCommerce becoming the major way that people buy frozen and freeze-dried pet food. Buying online is easy, memberships are an option, and there are many more products to choose from. Increased use of digital and direct-to-consumer strategies has boosted how engaged brands are with consumers. Because of e-commerce, pet food companies are continually finding new ways to serve and reach customers.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market dynamics include driving and restraining factors, opportunities and challenges stating the market conditions.                          

DRIVING FACTOR

Market Growth Fueled by Pet Humanization and Health-Conscious Choices

A major reason for the development of the frozen and freeze-dried pet food industry is pet owners humanizing their animals. More pet owners are regarding their animals as family members and focusing on their well-being. Because of this, people are choosing natural, quality, and naturally processed foods. The rise in knowledge about pet health leads more pet owners to choose nutrient-rich frozen and freeze-dried foods.

• According to the U.S. Pet Ownership Statistics (2025), around 71 million U.S. households own a pet, with owners increasingly treating pets as family members, fueling demand for premium frozen and freeze-dried foods.

• A report by the National Retail Federation (NRF) notes that online pet food sales grew by 28% in 2025, enhancing accessibility of frozen and freeze-dried products.

Market Growth Boosted by E-Commerce, Convenience, and Direct Consumer Sales

E-commerce growth has allowed pet parents to easily order frozen and freeze-dried food for their pets. Convenience, a large selection, and marketing interest health-conscious shoppers on the internet. Using subscriptions and direct sales to consumers has raised sales and customer loyalty. The quick growth of the market after COVID-19 is largely due to the way things have moved towards the internet and resulting frozen and freeze-dried pet food market growth.

RESTRAINING FACTOR

High Costs Limit Market Growth Despite Advanced Production Technologies Used

A major factor that is limiting the frozen and freeze-dried pet food market is that its products are more expensive than traditional pet food. Complex technology and methods used in freeze-drying and freezing make production more expensive. So, only a portion of pet owners can afford the end product, which prevents widespread use.

• According to the USDA, freeze-drying processes can increase manufacturing costs by up to 35% compared to standard dry food, limiting adoption in price-sensitive markets.

• The FDA highlights that frozen pet foods require storage at temperatures below -18°C, making logistics and retail distribution challenging.

AI-Driven Personalization to Create Opportunity for the Product in the Market

Opportunity

In the future, banking and insurance will rely on AI to provide services that match a person’s actions, risk factors, and financial ambitions. It lets the company write insurance more accurately, offer better products to customers, and interact with them more successfully. AI technology will help organizations reduce the costs needed to operate their services. Those organizations that start using intelligent analytics sooner can gain important advantages in the market.

• According to Euromonitor International, Asia-Pacific pet ownership grew by 15% in 2025, indicating potential for increased demand in frozen and freeze-dried pet food.

• The Pet Food Institute reports that 33% of pet owners now prefer foods with added functional ingredients such as probiotics and antioxidants, opening new product development avenues.

Balancing Innovation with Regulation Could Be a Potential Challenge for Consumers

Challenge

Since digital innovations are developing quickly, it is very hard to keep up with the new regulations. Financial institutions are required to invent new ways of doing business that do not affect privacy or data safety. The existence of rules in several countries makes the process more challenging. Missing this balance may result in being sued and harm to the organization’s reputation.

• According to APPA, only 38% of global pet owners are fully aware of the benefits of freeze-dried nutrition, highlighting an education gap.

• As per the USDA, transporting frozen pet food requires a continuous cold chain, increasing operational complexity and costs for manufacturers.

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FROZEN AND FREEZE-DRIED PET FOOD MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

• North America

North America's Market Growth Driven by Pet Population and Quality Nutrition

In the forecast period 2026–2035, North America is expected to maintain dominance in the frozen and freeze-dried pet food market, capturing approximately 45% of the global market due to strong pet ownership and premium nutrition trends. There are solid pet food manufacturers in the area, and the distribution process is also strong. In North America, the United States is far ahead, offering about 90% of the products sold in the region. The success of the United States frozen and freeze-dried pet food market depends on a high population of pets and a strong concern for pet health and well care. Besides, large pet food companies and an organized retail network make this market strong in this region.

• Europe

European Market Growth Fueled by Pet Ownership and Health Awareness

Over the 2026–2035 projection window, Europe is anticipated to account for around 30% of the global market share, driven by increasing consumer preference for high-quality and natural pet food products. Demand in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and France is rising due to more people keeping pets and wanting healthier pet food. Experts anticipate that the European market will grow at an average rate of about 4.0% between 2024 and 2031. Because people are becoming more aware of proper pet nutrition and choosing natural and organic offerings, pet food markets are growing. Also, new developments in freeze-drying and more options for online shopping have made it easier and more convenient for Europeans to get pet food.

• Asia

Asia's Market Growth Driven by Pet Adoption and Rising Income

During 2026–2035, the Asia Pacific region is set to represent about 20% of the overall market, reflecting rapid growth in pet adoption and rising disposable incomes among urban households.Asia holds remarkable frozen and freeze-dried pet food market share because of rising pet ownership and increasing disposable income. More people are buying pets in Asia, along with a rise in disposable income, which is fueling growth in the frozen and freeze-dried pet food market. It is thought that the North American geriatric care market will increase to USD 1.07 billion in five years and maintain a CAGR of 9.2% till 2030. China and India are leading the expansion of the healthcare industry, and China is expected to have the biggest growth rate from 2025 to 2030. Because people treat pets more like family and seek healthy options for their diet, the demand for freeze-dried pet foods is going up. As well, modern retail places and online shops are making it simpler for people with pets to get products.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Innovation and Expansion by Key Players Drive Market Growth Globally

Significant changes in the frozen and freeze-dried pet food market come from main players by focusing on innovation, joining forces with other companies, and widening their product selection. Well-known pet food brands dedicate significant resources to research and development to increase the quality, healthy ingredients, and longevity of their products in response to more people seeking better and natural pet foods. Companies keep sustainability in mind and clearly label their products to reach buyers who care about the environment. Also, they rely on a range of channels, such as online stores and unique retailers, to enlarge their customer base. Enhancing products and expanding into developing markets allows major companies to speed up the growth of the market and introduce new standards.

• Stella & Chewy’s (USA): Provides 100% raw, minimally processed freeze-dried meals, capturing a niche in raw pet food segment.

• Primal Pet Foods (USA): Manufactures over 50 distinct freeze-dried products, focusing on tailored nutrition for dogs and cats.

List Of Top Frozen And Freeze-Dried Pet Food Companies

• Rolf C. Hagen Inc. (Canada)
• Stella & Chewy?s (U.S.)
• Primal Pet Foods (U.S.)
• Ziwi Pets (New Zealand)
• Bravo Pet Foods (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

February 2024:  Petsource by Scoular ended an expansion worth USD 75 million at its Nebraska plant to triple the amount of freeze-dried pet food it can produce. This plan makes it easier for them to keep pace with the rising need for premium nutrition for pets.

REPORT COVERAGE       

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential Applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

This research report examines the segmentation of the market by using both quantitative and qualitative methods to provide a thorough analysis that also evaluates the influence of strategic and financial perspectives on the market. Additionally, the report's regional assessments consider the dominant supply and demand forces that impact market growth. The competitive landscape is detailed meticulously, including shares of significant market competitors. The report incorporates unconventional research techniques, methodologies and key strategies tailored for the anticipated frame of time. Overall, it offers valuable and comprehensive insights into the market dynamics professionally and understandably.