Core Insights - The light food industry in China is experiencing significant growth, with the market size projected to reach approximately 1.76 trillion yuan in 2024, up from over 1.6 trillion yuan in 2023 [12][15][29] - The industry has evolved from a niche concept to a broader category encompassing various healthy food options, driven by changing consumer preferences towards healthier eating habits [12][29] Industry Overview - Light food is defined as low in sugar, fat, and salt, while being high in fiber and nutrient density, categorized into six types: staple foods, snacks, meal replacements, beverages, baked goods, and dairy products [1][2] - The supply chain consists of upstream suppliers (packaging, equipment, and raw materials), midstream product suppliers (various light food categories), and downstream sales channels (e-commerce, delivery platforms, own stores, and supermarkets) [4][6] Industry Development History - The light food concept entered the Chinese market in 2013, gaining traction from 2015 to 2017 due to significant capital investment, followed by a period of consolidation from 2018 to 2019 due to market challenges [9] - Post-2020, the industry saw a resurgence driven by increased consumer demand for healthy eating, influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic [9] Policy Environment - Since the introduction of the "Healthy China 2030" initiative in 2016, the government has implemented various policies to promote healthy eating, including guidelines on food pairing, calorie control, and nutritional intake [11][12] - The Chinese Culinary Association has established standards for light food and is supporting businesses in the sector, with further initiatives planned for 2025 [11][13] Market Dynamics - The number of light food-related restaurants peaked in 2021 at 4,905, with a more rational growth phase expected, projecting 3,738 new establishments in 2024 [15] - Zero-sugar diets are particularly popular, accounting for nearly 50% of the product consumption structure in the light food sector by 2024, followed by low-sugar diets at approximately 35% [17] Competitive Landscape - The top five brands in the light food sector by store count as of 2025 include Jinshi Fitness Nutrition Meal, Shaye Light Food, Manwei Light Food, Chaoneng Deer Battle Team, and Shiye SAYYEAH Creative Light Food [22][24] - The distribution of light food enterprises is concentrated in economically developed regions with active consumer markets and well-established supply chains [26] Future Outlook - The light food market is expected to exceed 3 trillion yuan by 2030, driven by policy support and increasing consumer health awareness [29] - Trends indicate a diversification of product offerings, with innovations in flavors and ingredients, as well as a growing emphasis on functional light food products tailored to specific nutritional needs [33]