We take a closer look at five of the top trends that look set to shape the Asia Pacific food and beverage industry in 2024, from the newly-emerged ‘premium affordability’ to the evolution of plant-based protein, the rise of RTD beverages and more.
Japanese brewery giant Kirin has announced the launches of two beverages – one alcoholic and one non-alcoholic – as it continues its efforts to tap novel ready-to-drink innovation opportunities.
Green shoots: Kirin exports first non-alcoholic beer range to China following successful pilot Kirin Brewery has exported its first non-alcoholic beverage, Kirin Greens Free, to China, following successful pilot sales last year.
Kirin Greens Free is a non-alcoholic beer (0.00%) made from Nelson Sauvin hops, with no added artificial flavours or sweeteners.
First launched in Japan last April, the firm has since sold more than 23 million cans (350mL) as of December 2020, and targets to sell 40 million cans this year (Jan-Dec 2021).
Last year, Kirin conducted a test sale for Greens Free in China, selling about 408,000 cans from July to December 2020. It was sold at high-end supermarkets, department stores, Japanese-brand convenience stores, online, golf courses, and restaurants.