Ambient drinking yogurt shows potential in China

Ambient drinking yogurt, an entirely new category of dairy drinks, is taking China by storm. The market for this product is growing at an astounding rate, accounting for 13% of the country’s total yogurt category in 2014 and is expected to achieve sales of almost €5 billion by the end of 2017, illustrating the scale of opportunity this product presents globally, according to Tetra Pak.

The success of ambient drinking yogurt in China has been driven by consumer demand for convenience, taste and nutritional benefits, trends that are reflected in many other countries. It seems that consumers across the world are increasingly opting for snacks and treats that fit their busy and complex lifestyles.

Alongside its contemporary look, the convenience packaging of ambient drinking yogurt suits this modern way of life. It offers similar nutritional value as fermented chilled yogurt delivers and can be consumed easily on the go with Tetra Pak processing lines.

Dan Björklund, manager at the centre of expertise dairy at Tetra Pak, says, “We have been delighted to work with our customers to develop a new dairy category in China. Ambient drinking yogurt is flourishing because it appeals to the lifestyle of the modern day consumer, not just in China but globally. Dairy brands have recognised this and we are getting requests for the product from small local producers, as well as international companies, from all around the world.”