As dairy consumption continues to grow globally, Fonterra is becoming increasingly focused on diversifying and specialising its products to meet customer demand.
While most established dairy markets have an already well-defined product mix, consumer preference is quickly moving in new directions off-shore as markets across wider Asia and the Middle East begin to define the way they consume dairy.
Fonterra Chief Operating Officer Global Consumer and Foodservice, Jacqueline Chow believes we are entering into a renaissance period for dairy, where product research and development will start shaping the diets of future generations.
“It’s an exciting time for Fonterra as we look to play a leading role in how the world sources dairy nutrition,” says Ms Chow.
“Sales trends show consumers around the world are demanding a more protein rich diet, and with tastes varying from region to region we’re working closely with our customers to make sure we deliver the products to match.”
Products like cheese are only now beginning to feature prominently in some of the world’s dairy growth markets says Ms Chow, and a lot of product innovation is going on behind the scenes to make sure these products hit the mark.
“Our customers in Korea, for example, are very conscious of the amount of salt in their diets, and many see dairy as a nutritious, low salt protein option. To cater to this specific demand, we have formulated a low salt cheese down at our Stirling site in the South Island that has become extremely popular with young children as an introduction to dairy.”
In Hong Kong, Fonterra’s customers wanted to see healthier snack options in supermarkets for their children. Because of this demand, Fonterra launched ‘Anchor Candy Cheese’.