Lunch boxes have established themselves as one of the most dynamic and promising segments of the delivery market in Brazil. According to a survey conducted by iFood in 2024, Brazilian cuisine, strongly represented by this type of dish, leads the orders at lunchtime, with 38% of the total, followed by the snacks.
No overall ranking, meal boxes rank sixth among the most requested cuisines on the platform. In restaurants classified as "super", this category ranks eighth, reinforcing its growing relevance in the sector.
This demand reflects significant changes in consumer behavior. During the 36th Abrasel Congress, the specialistSérgio Molinarianalyzed: "The lunchboxes represent the balance between the search for convenience and the appreciation of Brazilian cuisine. This market combines tradition and modernity, especially in the context of delivery.”
The study also revealed other important trends. At breakfast, the bakery cuisine dominates, with 54% of orders in the second quarter of 2024. Already at lunch, besides the lunchboxes, snacks also have a strong presence. In the afternoon and at night, snacks and açaí stand out, while in the early morning snacks lead with an impressive 70% of the order volume.
Molinari further emphasizes how this data highlights the increasing diversification of consumer choices throughout the day and reinforces the importance of a varied offering to meet different demands: according to him, restaurants that invest in personalized solutions, efficient logistics and menus adapted to diverse audiences can yield significant results.
The expert also mentions that another point that contributes to the success of meal prep is its flexibility. The offer ranges from simple and affordable options to premium meals, with sophisticated ingredients and a focus on healthiness. This versatility is aligned with global consumption trends, in what practicality, personalization and quality are competitive differentiators.
The meal prep market in Brazil emerges as a strategic opportunity for bars and restaurants looking to expand their operations. For consumers, meal boxes are consolidating as a practical and tasty option, combining tradition and innovation in every meal and meeting the demands of everyday life
