The Korea Food Industry Cluster Promotion Institute reported on the 3rd that its survey of last year’s production for “늘편푸드” (elder-friendly certified foods) showed total sales of about 12.7 billion KRW (approximately $9.53 million), a jump of about 34% from the previous year.
According to the institute, the survey covered 194 products that still held the 늘편푸드 designation as of December of last year.
Over the past five years the 늘편푸드 market has expanded markedly — sales rose from 230 million KRW (approximately $172,500) and 27 certified products in 2021 to 12.787 billion KRW (approximately $9.59 million) and a cumulative 268 products last year. The institute credits this growth to an increasing elderly population since 2022 and to a broader range of designated items, including side dishes and ready-made lunches.
Sales to facilities jumped 39% year-on-year, with growing B2B demand driving much of the revenue increase. By product type, side dishes made up 59% of sales, porridges 31%, other items 8.6%, and soups/stews 1.7%. By specification level, sales were distributed as Stage 1 — 60.7%, Stage 3 — 37.8%, and Stage 2 — 1.5%.
Small and medium-sized businesses accounted for 65% of production. Revenue shares were more evenly split: large companies 37.1%, SMEs 35%, and mid-sized firms 27.9%. The institute said this shows the elder-friendly food program is working across the industry without favoring a particular company size.
In a related survey, more than 70% of respondents said they are satisfied with the current system. Their top requests going forward were increased promotion (41%), continued government support (21%), and help with distribution channels (14%).
Kim Deok-ho, director of the institute, said, “As we move into a super-aged society, the food industry’s importance grows. We will actively promote 늘편푸드 and expand the elder-friendly food market by refining the certification system and strengthening distribution and marketing.”
