Plant-based dairy demand surges in Malaysia

It is mainly driven by dietary restrictions, vegan or vegetarian lifestyles, and health concerns.

The popularity of plant-based food and drinks is skyrocketing in Malaysia. 

According to a GlobalData report, this surge is driven by various factors, including dietary restrictions, vegan or vegetarian lifestyles, and health concerns.

Additionally, this has resulted in an increase of dairy-free innovations in the country.

Meenakshi Haran, consumer lead analyst at GlobalData, noted the significant shift towards healthier options, with 59% of Malaysians preferring plant-based alternatives for their perceived health benefits.

“Many consumers are highly conscious of the relationship between diet and health and are becoming increasingly motivated to take care of their health,” he said.

“Increased health consciousness and changes in lifestyle, coupled with awareness about the benefits associated with maintaining overall health, have led to significant changes in consumer behavior towards healthy food consumption in recent years,” he continued.

Paul Savuriar, senior business development manager for ASEAN at GlobalData, also emphasised the consumers' increasing environmental consciousness, with 46% viewing plant-based options as more sustainable.

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“Consumers understand that ethics represents the first step in leading a sustainable life and that food and drinks often represent the first area through which they can control their impact on the environment,” he said.

“Brands are recognising this evolving consumer desire to discover innovative and unique dairy alternatives, with 41% of Malaysians claiming that they consume this diet every day or up to 6 days a week,” Savuriar added.

He mentioned that Nestlé previously introduced its GOODNESS range of almond and oat milk, whilst So Good expanded its offerings with So Good Oat Extra Creamy.

Additionally, Savuriar also noted the demand for tailored products, with 64% of Malaysians seeking personalised food and drinks.