Core Insights - The sudden popularity of "奶皮子糖葫芦" (milk skin candied hawthorn) has led to significant price increases and consumer interest, with prices reaching as high as 98 yuan per skewer [1][4][6] - The demand for milk skin has surged, causing shortages and driving prices up from 10 yuan per 100g to 30 yuan per 100g, surpassing the price increase of gold this year [6][12] - The rise of this product is attributed to its alignment with current consumer trends, particularly the emotional value it provides, combining nostalgia with novelty [7][12] Market Dynamics - The order volume for candied hawthorn has increased over three times since October, with milk skin candied hawthorn orders growing by 109% month-over-month [4] - The product's popularity has led to a significant increase in social media engagement, with related videos on platforms like Douyin (TikTok) garnering over 11 billion views and 240 million likes [9] - The rapid rise in popularity has also led to discussions about the sustainability of such trends, as many similar food fads have faded after initial success [13] Consumer Behavior - Consumers are drawn to the visual appeal and social sharing potential of milk skin candied hawthorn, which has become a "social currency" on platforms like Weibo and Xiaohongshu [7][12] - The product's success is not solely due to its taste but also its presentation and the cultural resonance it has with consumers, particularly younger demographics [12] - The phenomenon reflects a broader trend in the food industry where traditional elements are reinterpreted for modern consumption, creating a blend of nostalgia and innovation [12] Supply Chain Implications - The increase in demand has strained supply chains, leading to reports of milk skin shortages and affecting the availability of related products [4][6] - The logistics of producing and transporting milk skin are complex, requiring cold chain management, which adds to the overall cost and pricing dynamics [6] - The rapid commercialization of such products relies on low-cost, fast-iteration supply chains that can quickly respond to market trends [12]