Nestle (M) Bhd is witnessing strong uptake and acceptance of plant-based food among consumers in general and is expecting this business segment to grow in future and this trend towards alternative meat has become a global phenomenon.

Nestle has launched the dairy-free range including Milo and Nescafe which has had a very good response from consumers. Besides this, they have introduced Harvest Gourmet and these plant-based alternatives have aroused great curiosity and interest.

The company sees these food categories developing very quickly. They also have the ability to reach consumers from their plants in Malaysia, especially the large pool of middle class consumers.

The group also announced that it had upgraded its research and development (R&D) facilities in Singapore and it also marked the 40th anniversary since the inception of the R&D centre.

Nestle disclosed that there are three reasons for the rate of uptake in alternative plant-based food.

This includes health reasons as more consumers become aware of the benefits of plant-based food. The second reason being sustainability since it is good for the environment and the third reason being a rising interest in animal welfare.

Catering to this new development in the industry is also in line with its Environmental, Social and Governance or ESG goals as a company.

The alternative to meats also has a favourable impact on the carbon footprint which is another commitment of the group.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE