New Research Reveals Changing Dairy Habits in Chinese Consumers
Recent research conducted as part of the Riddet Institute’s NZ Milk Means More research program has unveiled noteworthy insights into the evolving landscape of Chinese dairy consumption.
Surveying 1,000 Chinese milk consumers aged between 45 and 75 in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Shenyang, the research sheds light on the changing dynamics in this significant market.
Dr. Ao Chen, the project lead, emphasized the historical absence of milk as a staple in the Chinese diet. However, in the past two to three decades, there has been a considerable surge in its consumption, revealing a transformative shift in dietary preferences.
Initially, the popularity of UHT milk prevailed across the nation due to a lack of cold chain distribution and home refrigeration. Nevertheless, the research indicates a growing interest in imported milk, often in powdered form, particularly observed in the city of Guangzhou.
"The consumption of pasteurized milk has largely depended on the development of domestic dairy manufacturers in various regions," Chen notes.
He adds that embracing dairy requires a shifted mindset, with new ideas and exotic foods and drinks gaining traction first in major cities where people are more open-minded and affluent.
This research underscores the dynamic nature of China's dairy market, with a notable shift in consumer preferences and a growing openness to diverse dairy products, providing valuable insights for industry stakeholders and businesses aiming to navigate this evolving landscape.
Dr. Ao Chen, the project lead, emphasized the historical absence of milk as a staple in the Chinese diet. However, in the past two to three decades, there has been a considerable surge in its consumption, revealing a transformative shift in dietary preferences.
Initially, the popularity of UHT milk prevailed across the nation due to a lack of cold chain distribution and home refrigeration. Nevertheless, the research indicates a growing interest in imported milk, often in powdered form, particularly observed in the city of Guangzhou.
Chen highlights the role of domestic dairy manufacturers in shaping consumption patterns. Successful examples include Sanyuan Foods Co. Ltd in Beijing and Bright Dairy & Food Co. in Shanghai, the latter being a significant shareholder of the New Zealand-based Synlait.
"The consumption of pasteurized milk has largely depended on the development of domestic dairy manufacturers in various regions," Chen notes.
He adds that embracing dairy requires a shifted mindset, with new ideas and exotic foods and drinks gaining traction first in major cities where people are more open-minded and affluent.
This research underscores the dynamic nature of China's dairy market, with a notable shift in consumer preferences and a growing openness to diverse dairy products, providing valuable insights for industry stakeholders and businesses aiming to navigate this evolving landscape.
