Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the innovative advancements in plant-based meat products, particularly focusing on the transformation of soybean protein into high-quality meat alternatives that closely mimic the texture and juiciness of real meat [2][3]. Group 1: Technological Innovations - The research team has developed a new processing technology for high-moisture plant-based meat, addressing the industry's long-standing challenges of texture and moisture retention [2]. - Key technologies include the separation of soybean protein components, modification of functional groups, and the creation of new processing equipment for high-moisture extrusion [2][3]. - The team employs a unique gradient temperature and pressure control technique, allowing for flexible adjustments to maintain high protein content while simulating the fibrous texture and juiciness of animal muscle [2]. Group 2: Market Development - The plant-based lunch meat product has achieved industrialization and is performing well in online sales, particularly appealing to health-conscious consumers [3]. - The research team has established close collaborations with various companies in the fields of plant-based meat, milk, and beverages, indicating a strong market presence and potential for growth [3]. Group 3: Future Directions - The team is expanding its research into the field of plant fermentation, aiming to develop products such as plant-based yogurt and ice cream from soybean protein [3][4]. - The potential applications of soybean protein are vast, suggesting ongoing innovation and exploration in the plant-based food sector [4].

Core Insights - The plant-based food market has gained momentum since 2025, with major food corporations like Nestlé, Danone, and Kraft Heinz announcing significant developments in this sector [1][2]. Group 1: Market Trends - Plant-based foods include plant-based meat, milk, and eggs, driven by health and environmental concerns, as well as the global need for alternative protein sources [2][9]. - The global plant-based food market is rapidly growing, although consumer acceptance in China is relatively low compared to international markets, leading to a decrease in market buzz compared to previous years [2][19]. Group 2: Corporate Developments - In April 2025, Nestlé increased its stake in Orgain, a leader in plant-based nutrition, highlighting its growth in the first quarter [3]. - Kraft Heinz launched its first plant-based dessert under the JELL-O brand, indicating a strategic move towards plant-based offerings [3]. - Danone announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Kate Farms, a U.S. plant-based brand focused on nutritional products [8]. Group 3: Consumer Preferences - Health is a primary motivator for consumers purchasing plant-based products, with a reported 11% increase in sales of plant-based protein powders and liquid products in the U.S. retail market [9]. - Environmental benefits are also a significant selling point, as plant-based foods have a much lower carbon footprint compared to animal products [10]. Group 4: Regional Insights - The North American market is the largest for plant-based foods, while Europe has the highest maturity level, and the Asia-Pacific region is experiencing the fastest growth [17]. - In China, consumer acceptance of plant-based foods is still developing, with plant-based drinks like oat milk gaining more traction than plant-based meats [19][20]. Group 5: Future Outlook - The shift towards plant-based foods is seen as a long-term strategy to reduce reliance on animal protein, with significant investments and policy support expected to drive growth in this sector [16][18]. - The market for plant-based foods is projected to grow rapidly in various regions, driven by health awareness and government initiatives promoting sustainable food systems [18].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint emphasizes the rising importance of weight management as a public health issue, with predictions indicating that by 2030, the overweight and obesity rates in adults and children in China could reach 70.5% and 31.8%, respectively [1] - The National Health Commission is promoting a three-year action plan for "weight management," focusing on public awareness of healthy lifestyles and dietary habits [1] - The theme of this year's National Nutrition Week is "Energy Balance, Healthy Weight, National Action," which aims to address common misconceptions about weight control and promote a balanced diet [1] Group 2 - The 2025 World Obesity Report indicates a global trend of increasing overweight and obesity rates, predicting that nearly 3 billion adults will be affected by high BMI by 2030 [2] - Effective weight management relies on the principle of energy balance, where energy intake must be less than energy expenditure [2] - The 2023 Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) recommend a daily caloric intake reduction of 30% to 50% for weight loss, translating to a reduction of 500 to 1000 kcal per day [2] Group 3 - The National Health Commission's 2024 Adult Obesity Dietary Guidelines provide tailored dietary plans for different regions, suggesting caloric intake limits of approximately 1200 kcal, 1400 kcal, and 1600 kcal [3] - Protein intake is crucial for muscle maintenance and metabolic efficiency, with recommendations of 55 grams for women and 65 grams for men per day [6] - Plant-based proteins are highlighted as a sustainable and healthy alternative, with policies encouraging the innovation and promotion of soybean products [9][14] Group 4 - The introduction of innovative plant-based products by companies like "Xingqi Ling" aims to enhance protein intake while maintaining a low-fat profile, catering to health-conscious consumers [11][13] - Research indicates that diets rich in plant-based proteins can aid in weight control, lower BMI, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases [13] - The emphasis on diverse and balanced diets, including a variety of protein sources, is supported by national dietary guidelines [9][14]

Group 1 - Unilever is planning to sell its plant-based meat brand The Vegetarian Butcher due to its poor scalability within the company's food portfolio and differing technology and R&D capabilities [1] - The potential buyer for The Vegetarian Butcher is Dutch plant-based food company Vivera, which aims to explore new plant-based ingredients [1] - The plant-based meat market is expected to grow in China, the largest meat production and consumption country, with 19.3% of Gen Z consumers identifying as flexitarian [1] Group 2 - Consumer awareness of cultured meat is currently at 17.6%, but willingness to purchase increases to 20.4% after concept exposure [1] - Future development of plant-based meat in the market will depend more on price and taste rather than consumer awareness [1]