Unboxed: 8 comforting heat-and-eat soups

Interest in shelf-stable soup is rising, as shoppers continue looking for quick and satisfying meal options.

Sales of shelf-stable soup grew 10.6% to reach $8.23 billion in the 52 weeks ending Oct. 2 in the multi-outlet and natural enhanced channels, according to market research firm SPINS. The category includes ready-to-eat soup, broth, ramen, udon noodle blocks, bouillon and more. 

Not only do shelf-stable soups offer comfort and convenience to consumers who are wrestling with winter colds and flus, but they also reflect several emerging trends in the marketplace.

Consumers are becoming more interested in products that support a healthy lifestyle. Brands are formulating more better-for-you choices with less sodium, plant-forward ingredients and organic certifications. More shelf-stable soup brands are offering traditional ingredients and fewer preservatives, as well. Moreover, soups are appearing with seasonal veggies such as butternut squash and beetroot apple.

Click through our gallery to find ready-to-heat soups—including some plant-forward styles—to scoop up for consumers.