Arla Foods Ingredients develops first clean label ambient yogurt concept

30 Apr 2020 --- Arla Foods Ingredients (AFI) has launched a clean label ambient yogurt concept to meet Chinese demand which it pegs as a “first of its kind.” It uses Nutrilac YO-4575, a 100 percent natural whey protein, to give unrefrigerated yogurts a premium positioning with all-natural ingredients. AFI says that Nutrilac YO-4575 is unique due to its heat-stability and texturizing properties. It keeps ambient products smooth and stable throughout shelf life without the need for additives or preservatives.

Yogurt sales are growing faster in China than anywhere else in the world, with ambient yogurt the fastest growing segment in the country’s liquid dairy market. The category accounted for almost 30 percent of China’s entire yogurt market in 2019, according to data from Innova Market Insights.

AFI says there is clear potential for unrefrigerated yogurts with clean labels and it’s latest ambient yogurt solution, which contains just five all-natural ingredients, will help manufacturers meet this need. 

It contains more than 3 percent protein, with Nutrilac YO-4575 providing high nutritional value due to its high amino acid content. Like all of Arla Foods Ingredients whey products, it is sourced from the milk of grass-fed cows in the European Union. 

“Ambient yogurts with a natural label are looking more and more like a major opportunity to capture a slice of China’s growing yogurt market. But to be part of this journey, manufacturers need to offer something different,” says Torben Jensen, Senior Category Manager, FDP, at AFI.

“Clean label products are the perfect way for brands to differentiate in the category while tapping into demand for premium products. We’re proud to have developed the first clean label ambient yogurt. Our concept is delicious, convenient and made with all-natural ingredients. It offers a premium edge, with an ideal texture, fresh taste and great stability.”

To highlight the concept’s flavor possibilities, AFI is offering it in three varieties: vanilla, peach and green tea. In addition to flavoring, the yogurt contains skimmed milk, cream (38 percent fat), Nutrilac YO-4575, sugar and native tapioca starch.

Edited by Gaynor Selby