As consumer lifestyles shift and the demand for convenient, longer-lasting food products rises, the frozen vegetable sector has emerged as a promising frontier for agricultural producers. Among the pioneers embracing this transformation is Sema Foods, a Costa Rican company with over two decades of experience in fresh produce and now nine years of success in the frozen segment.
Sema Foods’ flagship product is the frozen carrot, cultivated at high altitudes that ensure superior taste, higher Brix values (a measure of sweetness), and better texture. “Our biggest advantage is that after defrosting, our carrots retain almost all of their taste and nutritional value,” says company manager Pablo Ballestero.
From Fresh to Frozen: A Strategic Shift
Exporting frozen vegetables, Ballestero notes, is an entirely different industry compared to fresh produce. Sema had to build its frozen processing operation from the ground up, including investing in equipment for slicing carrots into cubes, chunks, and slices, and packing them into 10-kg boxes for distribution.
To ensure international competitiveness and product quality, the company achieved certifications such as Primus GFS, Kosher, and BASC, and is currently pursuing the British Retail Consortium (BRC) standard—essential for penetrating the European market. Post-harvest management practices further help maintain product quality across the cold chain.
Export Footprint and Market Strategy
Sema Foods exports eight containers of frozen vegetables per week, primarily to the Caribbean. However, the company is actively seeking expansion into Germany, the UK, and Spain, particularly for frozen carrots, onions, and pineapples. The broader portfolio includes cabbage, beets, broccoli, taro, cassava, sugarcane, pumpkin, and banana.
Despite logistical and production cost challenges, Sema is committed to efficiency-driven logistics solutions, tailored packaging formats, and a high degree of customization to meet the evolving needs of international buyers. This adaptability positions the company favorably in a market that continues to grow.
Industry Outlook
Globally, the frozen vegetables market was valued at USD 32.6 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2024 to 2030, driven by rising demand in both developed and developing countries. Carrots, due to their versatility and health benefits, remain a top-selling frozen item, especially in foodservice and retail sectors.
Sema Foods exemplifies how small and medium-sized agri-businesses can successfully pivot from traditional fresh produce to value-added frozen products. Through strategic investment, certifications, and market diversification, frozen carrots are not just a commodity—they are a gateway to global growth. As demand for convenient, nutritious food accelerates, companies that innovate like Sema will be well-positioned to thrive.
