Kirin doubling down on beer innovation and R&D to fuel global growth
Kirin is ramping up focus on its beer and R&D businesses to drive international growth, boosting the use of new technology and localisation.
The beer giant is shifting its global strategy to prioritise Asia, Oceania and North America, focusing on locally tailored products and stronger regional partnerships.
The firm is also increasing R&D investment and aims to boost its R&D capabilities and AI infrastructure, acknowledging it must catch up with domestic and global competitors in health science and beverage research.
Japan moves to bolster food allergen controls after nut cases spike
Japan is introducing stricter nut allergy controls to address rising cases, based on new government data showing increased public health concerns linked to this category.
The government currently mandates allergen labels for eight foods and recommends labels for 20 others, with more nuts being reassessed for stricter regulation.
Ginger’s health and beauty appeal fuels Okinawan firm’s Europe, Asia push
An Okinawa-based ginger syrup firm is expanding into Europe and Asia, betting on rising demand for traditional food-as-medicine solutions linked to health and beauty.
The firm embraces nuchigusui – an Okinawan philosophy that views food and nature as sources of holistic nourishment for mind and body – positioning its ginger syrup within the broader “food as medicine” trend driving its overseas expansion.
This reflects a broader industry shift towards traditional and nature-derived ingredients across the globe, especially in Asia Pacific, where brands are increasingly tapping heritage foods for modern health positioning.
Balanced meals may matter more than protein alone, Japan study finds
A balanced diet, rather than single-nutrient optimisation such as protein, is more closely associated with healthier weight outcomes, say Japanese researchers.
Recent analyses of food-consumption trends among Japanese children have also reported declining intakes of fish, dairy products, and fruits, highlighting the need for early dietary interventions to encourage lifelong healthy eating habits.
Global beer consumption rises on growth in India, Russia and Thailand – Kirin
Beer consumption increased a marginal 0.5% globally, narrowly avoiding decline thanks to sharp gains in key emerging markets, according to Kirin.
This was based on the recently-published Global Beer Consumption Report 2024, which comprises data collected by beer giant Kirin Holdings across 170 global markets.