NONGFU SPRING(HK:09633) 3 6 Ke·2025-12-01 08:08Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of birch sap as a health drink, highlighting its nutritional claims and the skepticism surrounding its benefits, while noting the significant interest from major beverage companies in entering this market [3][5][18]. Industry Overview - Birch sap, priced between 8 to 30 yuan, with some premium products exceeding 50 yuan, has gained traction in supermarkets and online platforms, driven by influencer marketing [3][5]. - The market for birch sap is projected to exceed 100 million yuan in sales by mid-2025, with over 20,000 influencers promoting it online [5][18]. Nutritional Claims - Birch sap is claimed to contain 17 amino acids, 8 trace elements, and various polyphenols and flavonoids, marketed as a "liquid gold" with health benefits such as anti-fatigue and hangover relief [5][9]. - However, some experts argue that the health benefits are overstated, with actual nutritional content being relatively low compared to other beverages [12][18]. Market Entry by Major Brands - Major beverage companies like Nongfu Spring, Huiyuan, and Yuanqi Forest have launched their own birch sap products, each with distinct marketing strategies and pricing [13][14]. - Huiyuan offers NFC birch sap at a competitive price of approximately 5.99 yuan per bottle, while Yuanqi Forest targets younger consumers with a low-sugar variant priced at 12 yuan [13][14]. Quality and Supply Chain Concerns - The birch sap market faces challenges regarding product quality and supply chain integrity, with reports of misleading labeling and varying product standards [12][19]. - The raw material cost for birch sap has surged from 1,700 yuan to 6,000 yuan per ton, leading to inflated product prices and concerns over sustainability [16][19]. Consumer Behavior and Market Sustainability - Despite the initial excitement, there are concerns about the long-term sustainability of birch sap as a health drink, with questions about consumer repurchase rates and the potential for market saturation [21][22]. - The industry is urged to focus on product innovation and quality control to avoid the pitfalls of being labeled a "fad" and to ensure a healthy market development [21][22].