Protein-Boosted Dairy Products Gain Momentum in China

China’s dairy industry is undergoing a revolutionary shift, with protein-enriched products emerging as the new trendsetters. Spearheaded by dairy giant Mengniu, the focus is now on innovating localized protein-rich dairy products, particularly in ready-to-drink (RTD) formats.

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From milk scandal to cross-border e-commerce opportunities for brands

This move aligns with China’s Health China 2030 initiative, which recognizes dairy as a key nutritional element.

China’s Health China 2030 initiative key trend:

1. Rising Demand for Protein-Enriched Dairy: Chinese consumers are increasingly drawn to dairy products as essential sources of nutrition. Mengniu foresees a growing consumer preference for protein-focused dairy products, outpacing traditional dairy categories like milk and yogurt.
2. Health and Nutrition at the Forefront: According to Ben Wu, GM of Mengniu Nutrition and Health, protein is crucial across all life stages, particularly in China where diets are heavily carbohydrate-based. Protein-rich dairy can significantly reduce health risks like diabetes.
3. Opportunity for Localized Products: The current market is ripe for locally developed protein products. Imported protein products, often not tailored to Chinese tastes, offer limited growth potential. Mengniu sees this as an opportunity to introduce flavors that resonate with local preferences, including those with cultural significance.
4. Demographic Shifts Driving Demand: China’s aging population is another catalyst for the rise in protein products. With a significant portion of the population over 55 facing protein deficiency, high-protein dairy products are well-positioned to meet these dietary needs. Additionally, the growing prominence of professional athletes in China underscores the need for high-protein diets.
5. Gender-Based Product Differentiation: Mengniu’s new M-Action range exemplifies the trend towards gender-specific products. The range includes a ‘mid-active’ product with 15g of protein per bottle, aimed at female consumers, and a ‘high-active’ variant with 25g of protein per bottle, targeted at male consumers. These products, incorporating ingredients like aloe vera, avocado, and banana extracts, are designed to cater to specific energy and nutritional needs, while aligning with the lighter flavor preferences of Chinese consumers.
6. the shift towards protein-enriched dairy in China is more than just a trend – it’s a response to changing dietary needs, cultural preferences, and demographic shifts, paving the way for innovative and health-focused dairy products in the market.

China’s Shift Towards Fermentation-Based Protein: Market Perspective

The market of protein consumption in China is BOOMING, with a growing inclination towards fermentation-based and cell-cultured proteins. This shift is part of a broader strategy to diversify protein sources beyond traditional meat, aligning with China’s ambitious net-zero emissions goal.

A deeper analysis reveals several factors driving this trend:

1. Investor Interest in Sustainable Protein Sources: There’s a marked increase in investor enthusiasm for alternative protein sources. Fermentation and cell-based technologies are garnering attention due to their potential for sustainable, long-term application.
2. Policy Backing and Presidential Endorsement: The push towards alternative protein sources has received a significant boost from the top echelons of Chinese leadership. In a March meeting, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of developing proteins from plants, microorganisms, and fermentation processes.
3. Strategic Diversification of Protein Supply: China’s pivot towards these innovative protein sources is a strategic move to diversify its protein supply. This shift is not just about offering alternatives to meat but also about ensuring food security and reducing reliance on traditional animal farming.
4. Environmental Considerations: One of the key motivations behind this trend is the reduction of food-related carbon emissions. Fermentation and cell-cultured proteins are seen as more environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional meat, which is associated with high carbon footprints.
5. Addressing Limitations of Plant-Based Meat: While plant-based meat alternatives have gained popularity, they face challenges in terms of texture, taste, and nutritional profile. Fermentation and cell-based proteins offer a promising solution to these issues, potentially offering products that are closer in quality and taste to real meat.

In summary, China’s growing interest in fermentation-based and cell-cultured proteins reflects a multifaceted approach to tackling environmental, nutritional, and food security challenges.

Full report about Food market in China 2024

5 Power Tips for Selling Dairy and Food Protein Products Online in China

1. Dominate E-Commerce Giants: Master Tmall and JD.com, the titans of Chinese e-commerce. Perfect for launching and scaling your dairy and food protein products.
2. Flavor to Impress: Craft your products to match Chinese palates. Innovate with flavors and formats that resonate with local culinary preferences.
3. Rule Social Commerce: Dominate Douyin, China’s TikTok, with dazzling marketing campaigns. Turn entertainment into sales for a younger, health-focused demographic.
4. Be the Protein Guru: Educate and enthrall. Use your online platforms to become the go-to source for the benefits and science behind your protein-rich dairy foods.
5. Unleash Influencer Power: Partner with the health and wellness gurus of China. Influencers can skyrocket your brand’s trust and visibility in the food and dairy sector.

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GMA: Your Partner to China’s E-Commerce

GMA (Gentlemen Marketing Agency) is your ideal partner for start to sell to the complex world of e-commerce in China. Specializing in platforms like Douyin, Tmall, and JD.com, GMA offers comprehensive marketing solutions with a focus on:

• Tailored Market Strategies: Developing strategies that align with the nuances of the Chinese market.
• Social Media Expertise: Leveraging platforms like WeChat and Weibo for brand engagement.
• KOL Collaborations: Connecting brands with influential personalities for targeted campaigns.
• Content Localization: Adapting content to meet the cultural and linguistic expectations of Chinese consumers.
• E-Commerce Optimization: Enhancing your presence on leading e-commerce platforms for maximum visibility.
• Data-Driven Insights: Utilizing analytics to refine marketing approaches and drive sales.
• Cross-Platform Campaigns: Integrating campaigns across multiple channels for cohesive brand messaging.

With GMA’s expertise, your journey into China’s online marketplace can be both successful and seamless, ensuring that your protein products stand out in this thriving market.