Many eyes are on China right now as its local pet food industry registers remarkable growth year-on-year. Get to know the China market and see how your business can fit in in this rapidly growing market.
Age of the millennials
More than 75% of pet owners in China are millennials. They belong to the high-income bracket that have a positive attitude about consumption. They have become the drivers of the local pet food industry. 54% of these pet owners have careers with a high-paying job, and are single, spending a big part of their salaries on their pets. They truly take pet parenting seriously that it reflects their lifestyles literally, giving a new meaning to humanization of pets.
Health is wealth… even for pets
In China, food has been considered as medicine for ages. From herbal resources to fruits, name it, China has some use for it health-wise. It’s no wonder that such a lifestyle is reflected in their choice of pet food that Chinese pet food manufacturers are developing health-driven pet foods derived from traditional superfoods.
Chinese herbal ingredients
Local brands have included herbal ingredients in their pet foods. These herbal ingredients are usually used in human food to promote good health. Most commonly used is the wolfberry goji which leads the pack. It is claimed that this is good for eyesight and liver of your pets. Ginseng, honeysuckle, and lily root have also been included in some pet foods.
Superfoods are part of it
Many health-conscious Chinese pet owners are also taken in by superfoods like avocado, blueberry, and cranberry. China has its own superfood with its Chinese yam, black Goji, sweet potato, and goat milk. All of these Chinese-style superfoods are now being included in pet foods, too.
Fruits and vegetables aren’t left behind. As young Chinese millennials subscribe to the health concept “degrease your lifestyle”, so does the pet foods reflect such concept. Local pet food manufacturers include fruits and veggies in their pet food to promote a balanced nutrition for pets. Check out fruity pet treats having pumpkin, apple, and banana as its ingredients.
Instant pet food and freeze-dried pet food
China is well-known for instant noodles. Such concept can now be found in pet food. With all the elements of real pieces of pet food ingredients that still fits the concept. Freeze-dried pet food has also entered the Chinese consciousness, mixing dried kibble with freeze-dried elements and even 100% freeze-dried diets.
Home-made pet food to-go
You can also find specialty take-away pet shops creating home-made pet food using gourmet delicacy, from starter to dessert! These home-made pet food to-go is very ideal for millennials who have no time preparing food for their pets but want to give them their nutritional needs the old-fashioned way.
Learning what’s trending in China right now will definitely help you and your brand explore the potential of the China Market. If you need more resources, here are helpful links:
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