As tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt global energy supplies, Indian households are increasingly turning to ready-to-eat meals, frozen snacks
and no-cook foods amid concerns over shortages of Liquefied Petroleum Gas. Retailers say demand for convenience foods has jumped sharply as consumers look for alternatives to traditional gas-based cooking. The ongoing conflict involving Israel, Iran and the United States has rattled global energy markets, raising concerns about potential disruptions to LPG supplies. With uncertainty over gas cylinder availability, many families are stocking up on quick-to-prepare food options that require minimal cooking. Retailers say categories such as instant noodles, frozen snacks, ready meals and ready-to-cook products have seen a notable spike in demand. According to industry estimates, sales in these segments have climbed 10–20% month-on-month as households adjust their cooking habits. “Categories like ready meals, frozen snacks, instant noodles and ready-to-cook products have seen strong traction, resulting in a 10–12% rise in demand,” said Karan Ahuja, spokesperson at premium grocery retailer Le Marche. He added that while the surge may be temporary, the retailer is increasing inventory to ensure adequate supply. The situation intensified last week as supply disruptions linked to the Gulf conflict created shortages of LPG cylinders across several sectors, including restaurants, factories, school and corporate cafeterias, as well as households. Food brands are already seeing noticeable shifts in consumer behaviour. Deb Mukherjee, founder of Asian packaged foods brand Moi Soi, said the company’s Thai curry ready-to-cook pastes are experiencing their highest sales since launch two years ago. “This could potentially lead to a longer-term shift in consumer habits, with more people adopting ready-to-eat pastes even after the situation stabilises,” Mukherjee said. Companies are responding to the demand surge with targeted promotions. Mother Dairy recently revived advertising for its frozen vegetable range, while Swiggy Instamart has started promoting induction-compatible cookware as consumers explore alternatives to gas-based cooking. Food manufacturers are also witnessing rising interest in packaged meal solutions. A spokesperson for LT Foods, which produces Daawat ready-to-cook biryani kits and rice mixes, said demand for its convenience food range has been steadily increasing. The company expects the segment to see stronger sales if the LPG supply uncertainty continues. Analysts say the current trend could mirror the shift seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, when lockdowns led to a surge in ready-to-cook and frozen food consumption. While growth later stabilised, the latest disruptions may again push households toward more convenient food solutions. Health-focused packaged foods are also gaining traction. Ankit Jha, founder and chief marketing officer at nutrition brand Doctor’s Choice, said products such as protein oats and millet muesli are seeing strong demand, particularly among working professionals and health-conscious consumers. Despite efforts by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas to prioritise domestic LPG supplies from early March, shortages continue in several areas. Some households have reported price increases of up to 30% for gas cylinders, further encouraging consumers to explore alternative cooking options. The disruption is also boosting sales of electric cooking appliances. Infiniti Retail, which operates the Croma stores, said demand for induction cooktops has surged dramatically. “We have seen a sharp increase in demand for induction cooktops, with daily sales running nearly three times the usual levels,” said managing director Shibashish Roy. If supply disruptions persist, analysts say the shift toward convenience foods and electric cooking solutions could reshape everyday cooking habits in Indian households well beyond the current crisis.
