28 August 2007, 20:17 PM

  • Consumers are turning their backs on ready meals and takeaways and are treating themselves to a home-cooked meal instead, according to research from IGD.

The study, What Next for Premium, said consumers will indulge in eating meals they enjoy cooking and this has more than doubled in the last five years at 23%.

Only 14% of those surveyed said they would indulge in a quick to cook meal, which is down from 20% five years ago.

Geradine Padbury, the report author, said, “This is a clear trend. There is a growing group of people, we call them foodies, who are more interested in their food and see value over and above simple nourishment.

“They are living to eat rather than eating to live.”

Research showed quality ingredients are the most important consideration in buying premium food products.

Ms Padbury added, “Companies should recognise that when people buy premium food products, people are first and foremost looking for quality.

“Any compromise on quality will be very poorly received by consumers.”