Nestlé to build new plant-based production line in China

21 May 2020 --- Nestlé has unveiled a series of new investment measures aimed at further strengthening its layout in China and expanding its product portfolio through technological innovation and high-end product development. As part of a US$103 million investment package, Nestlé will introduce its first plant-based production line in Asia in Tianjin and increase investment in its confectionery business, upgrade its “true” wafer production line, and further develop the capabilities of Tianjin Nestlé Quality Assurance Center.

Nestlé says this investment shows its determination to help China's food industry “transform and upgrade.” The food industry continues to sharpen its focus toward healthy, nutritious and environmentally-friendly foods that are increasingly popular among global consumers. As a result, some time ago Nestlé decided to focus on the high-growth category of plant-based products. 

In an exclusive interview with FoodIngredientsFirst yesterday, Nestlé USA detailed its latest launch of the new Life Cuisine brand, created to fit evolving definitions of wellness. It also aims to meet the demand for frozen nutritious meals – something that has been pushed up during the COVID-19 pandemic as consumers spend more time eating at home. 

Nestlé also notes how it brings innovative products to the Chinese market. Among them, the “true” wafer is the Nestlé flagship wafer series launched in 2019. This capital increase will further invest in the wafer product line, expand production capacity, and upgrade product production technology to provide consumers with a more diverse and healthy choice of casual snacks.

“Nestlé has always maintained a firm commitment to the Chinese market and has continuously consolidated its foundation for development in China. Since Nestlé opened its first factory in Tianjin in 1994, Tianjin Economic Development Zone has always been one of our important bases for development in China, and the company has continued to increase investment,” says Luo Shide, Chairman and CEO of Nestlé Greater China.

“We hope that the new investment plan can promote the upgrade and expansion of food manufacturing and product innovation, and bring new impetus to the sustainable economic development of local communities,” he adds. 

With Nestlé's initiatives to increase the production capacity and increase production of more mid- to high-end food products in Tianjin, the company will also increase the upgrading of the Tianjin Quality Assurance Center to further enhance the laboratory's ability in quality testing and monitoring, and Provide more extensive quality assurance training and technical support in food safety compliance testing.

Other investments are also being made within Nestlé’s pet food portfolio. 

Edited by Gaynor Selby 

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