CECAEN Rev 3
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Group 108

Manufacture of prepared meals

This CAEN category covers the production of ready-to-eat meals, such as preparations from meat, fish, vegetables or fruits, either frozen, refrigerated or at room temperature. It concerns factories that transform ingredients into finished products, ready to serve after simple reheating or even directly from the packaging.

Included Activities & Applicability

  • ✅ Manufacture of ready-to-eat preparations from meat
  • ✅ fish
  • ✅ vegetables
  • ✅ fruits Production of frozen or refrigerated meals Manufacture of soups
  • ✅ broths and concentrates Preparation of salads
  • ✅ sandwiches and savory pastry products Packaging and labeling of prepared meals

Excluded Activities & Restrictions

  • ❌ Manufacture of unprepared fresh foods (from divisions 101-107) Production of semi-finished products for the food industry (e.g.
  • ❌ flour
  • ❌ oil) Catering and restaurant activities (CAEN 56) Manufacture of beverages (CAEN 11) Retail trade of prepared meals (CAEN 47)

Subordinate Structure

1081 Manufacture of sugar
→
1082 Manufacture of cocoa, chocolate and sugar confectionery
→
1083 Processing of tea and coffee
→
1084 Manufacture of spices and ingredients
→
1085 Manufacture of prepared meals
→
1086 Manufacture of homogenized food preparations and dietetic foods
→
1089 Manufacture of other food products n.e.c.
→

Detailed Analysis & Commercial Insights

Manufacture of Prepared Meals (CAEN 108) - Industry Overview

The prepared meals manufacturing industry, coded CAEN 108, represents a dynamic and rapidly expanding segment in Romania, driven by the increasing demand for fast, safe, and tasty food products. This division includes the production of a wide range of preparations, from frozen and refrigerated meals to soups, salads, and packaged sandwiches. Entrepreneurs operating in this field benefit from growing consumption, fueled by the busy urban lifestyle and the preference for 'ready-to-eat' solutions.

At the macroeconomic level, this sector contributes significantly to the added value of the Romanian food industry, being one of the most innovative, with constant investments in processing, packaging, and preservation technologies. The post-pandemic evolution has accelerated the adoption of modern distribution channels, including e-commerce and direct deliveries to consumers. The main challenges for entrepreneurs include complying with strict food safety standards, managing the cold chain, and fierce competition from imported products. Additionally, fluctuations in raw material prices and specialized labor represent significant obstacles. Nevertheless, the growth potential remains high, especially in niches such as ethnic, organic, or low-preservative preparations. To succeed, a solid branding strategy, investments in automation, and a good knowledge of European and national food regulations are essential.