China: Observations from the Food and Beverage Innovation Forum in Hangzhou

In July 2021, FAS China staff attended the 7th Food and Beverage Innovation Forum (FBIF). This report includes information and noteworthy trends as presented and discussed at the FBIF, not FAS China’s official data or position. Presenters and attendees shared insights on food trends in China that may be worth considering when crafting trade promotion strategies for U.S. food products, beverages, and ingredients. Main takeaways from the show include the importance (and definition) of ‘light food’; demand and trends in dairy and related beverages; and various hotel, restaurant, and institutional (HRI) trends. The conference revealed opportunities for non-GE soybeans, poultry, nuts and dried fruit, and beans and specialty crops.