Asia-Pacific Plant-based Desserts Market Outlook, 2028

Desserts have been a universal indulgence for centuries, satisfying our sweet cravings and offering a delightful conclusion to a sumptuous meal. In recent years, there has been a remarkable shift towards healthier and more sustainable dessert options, driven by the growing awareness of the environmental and health impacts of our food choices. In the vast and diverse Asia-Pacific region, this shift has given rise to a fascinating and delectable trend – the emergence of plant-based desserts. The Asia-Pacific region boasts a rich culinary heritage that varies from country to country, making it an exciting melting pot for the development of plant-based dessert recipes. These desserts not only cater to the growing demand for healthier and more sustainable food options but also incorporate the region's unique flavors and ingredients. The vegan trend in the Asia-Pacific region has gained significant momentum in recent years. While traditionally meat and seafood-centric, many countries in the Asia-Pacific region have seen a surge in interest in plant-based diets and veganism. With the rising concerns about lifestyle-related diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, there's a growing interest in healthier eating habits. Many people are turning to veganism as a way to reduce the consumption of saturated fats and cholesterol found in animal products. As awareness of climate change and environmental degradation has increased, individuals in the Asia-Pacific region are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Plant-based diets are often seen as a more sustainable choice as they typically have a lower environmental impact compared to meat-heavy diets. The global reach of social media and platforms like Netflix has exposed people in the Asia-Pacific region to international food trends, including veganism. They see celebrities, chefs, and influencers adopting plant-based diets and trying vegan recipes, making it more accessible and appealing. The availability of vegan products, from plant-based milks to meat alternatives, has increased across the region. Large supermarket chains, health food stores, and even traditional markets now offer a wider selection of vegan products. The rise of vegan restaurants, cafes, and food trucks offering diverse and delicious plant-based options has made it more convenient for people to try vegan food. According to the research report, “Asia-Pacific Plant-based desserts Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to add over USD 120 Million market size from 2023 to 2028. A significant portion of the population leads to sedentary lifestyles that develop health issues such as heart disease and obesity which affect various individuals. As consumers become increasingly aware of the food industry's impact on animals and the cruelty associated with it, the demand for plant-based products is expected to grow in the coming years. Plant-based desserts offer a range of nutritional advantages such as lower saturated fat and cholesterol as a result, that are particularly appealing to individuals who prioritize their health. These desserts are made entirely from plant-derived ingredients by avoiding the use of animal products such as dairy, eggs, and gelatin. These alternatives are designed to cater to individuals who follow a plant-based or vegan lifestyle as well as those seeking healthier and more environmentally friendly dessert options. According to the data published by the National Institutes of Health, plant-based ice cream alternatives offer nutritional value, majorly in terms of protein and amino acid balance. Younger generations, especially members of Generation Z and Millennial are increasingly concerned about their health and actively look for products that take sustainability and ethical issues into account. This increase in customer interest has prompted food producers and merchants to spend money on plant-based product development, research, and marketing, which is fueling the market's growth.

Based on the countries, Japan is renowned for its matcha (green tea) culture, and it's no surprise that this vibrant green powder has found its way into a myriad of plant-based desserts. From matcha ice cream to matcha-flavored mochi and matcha-infused cakes, this ingredient adds a subtle bitterness and earthiness to sweets while providing the numerous health benefits associated with green tea. Thailand's coconut-rich cuisine has inspired a range of dairy-free desserts. Coconut milk and cream are used to create creamy and luscious puddings, sticky rice desserts, and refreshing coconut ice cream. These desserts are not only vegan-friendly but also capture the tropical essence of Thailand. India's diverse culinary landscape offers a plethora of vegan dessert options. From vegan versions of traditional sweets like gulab jamun and jalebi made with almond or cashew milk to innovative creations like vegan mango lassi ice cream, Indian desserts have embraced plant-based alternatives with open arms. Taro, a starchy root vegetable, serves as the star ingredient in various desserts. Taro ice cream and taro bubble tea are popular options. Hawai'i, with its significant Asian influence, has introduced taro-based desserts like haupia (coconut and taro pudding) and taro mochi, adding a unique local twist. Vietnamese cuisine has a wide array of vegan desserts that showcase the beauty of simplicity. Coconut agar jelly (che banh lot) and sweet mung bean soup (che dau xanh) are two delightful examples. These desserts are not only vegan but also gluten-free, catering to a diverse range of dietary preferences. Jackfruit, often called the "vegetable meat," has gained popularity as a meat substitute, but it's also making waves in the world of plant-based desserts. Jackfruit is used to create vegan-friendly versions of classic dishes like halo-halo (Philippines) and es campur (Indonesia), adding a unique texture and natural sweetness. The sweet and juicy mango reigns supreme in the world of tropical fruits. Southeast Asia celebrates this delicious fruit by incorporating it into vegan desserts like mango sticky rice, mango sorbet, and vegan mango cheesecake. In Asia-Pacific, plant-based desserts have gained popularity across various categories, including cakes and pastries, custards and puddings, and other innovative dessert offerings. Plant-based cakes and pastries have seen substantial growth in the Asia-Pacific region. Traditional recipes have been adapted to exclude dairy and eggs while incorporating plant-based alternatives. Many consumers are seeking healthier dessert options, and plant-based cakes and pastries are often perceived as a better choice due to their lower saturated fat and cholesterol content. As more home bakers and professional pastry chefs experiment with plant-based ingredients, the variety and quality of vegan cakes and pastries have improved, making them more appealing to a broader audience. The Asia-Pacific region offers a rich diversity of flavors and ingredients that can be incorporated into vegan cakes and pastries. For example, matcha (green tea) and tropical fruits like mango and coconut are commonly used in plant-based desserts. On the other hand, plant-based custards and puddings have gained popularity as creamy and comforting desserts. Custards and puddings can be flavored with a wide range of plant-based ingredients, including coconut milk, almond milk, and various fruit purees, allowing for diverse flavor profiles. Manufacturers are introducing innovative plant-based custard and pudding products with unique flavors and textures to cater to changing consumer preferences. Besides cakes, pastries, custards, and puddings, the Asia-Pacific region has seen the emergence of a wide range of other innovative plant-based desserts. For instance, refreshing sorbets made from tropical fruits like lychee, passion fruit, and durian are popular in the region. Silken tofu is used in various desserts, such as tofu fa (douhua) with ginger syrup or almond tofu with fruit toppings. Agar-agar, a plant-based gelling agent, is used to create a variety of vegan jellies and puddings with unique textures and flavors. The Asia-Pacific plant-based desserts market distribution channels have evolved to meet the increasing demand for these products. The distribution of plant-based desserts in the region involves various channels that connect producers and manufacturers with consumers. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are major players in the distribution of plant-based desserts in the Asia-Pacific region. They offer a wide range of plant-based dessert products, including cakes, pastries, custards, puddings, and more. These large retail outlets often have dedicated sections for health foods and vegan products, making it convenient for consumers to find plant-based desserts. Supermarkets and hypermarkets provide a one-stop shopping experience, allowing consumers to explore various brands and product options. They often carry both mainstream and niche plant-based dessert brands. Health food and specialty stores provide a more specialized shopping experience, making it easier for consumers to find vegan and plant-based options. They may also offer personalized recommendations and expert guidance. On the other hand, e-commerce platforms have played a significant role in the distribution of plant-based desserts across the Asia-Pacific region. Online retailers offer a wide variety of plant-based dessert products through their websites and apps, allowing consumers to browse, compare, and purchase products from the comfort of their homes. E-commerce offers convenience and accessibility, especially in regions with limited physical stores dedicated to plant-based products. It also allows consumers to access a broader range of products from both local and international brands.

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Manmayi Raval

Research Consultant

The Asia-Pacific region boasts an incredibly diverse culinary heritage, with each country offering a wide array of unique flavors, ingredients, and preparation methods. Plant-based desserts in this region often incorporate traditional ingredients and cooking techniques that are distinct from those found in other parts of the world. The region is home to a vast range of unique plant-based ingredients, including tropical fruits like mango, lychee, and durian; exotic herbs and spices like pandan, cardamom, and turmeric; and plant-based staples such as coconut, rice, and tofu. These ingredients play a significant role in shaping the flavors and textures of plant-based desserts in the Asia-Pacific. The Asia-Pacific region is renowned for its vibrant street food culture, and plant-based desserts are often an integral part of this culinary scene. Street vendors and food stalls offer a wide range of vegan-friendly sweet treats, providing accessibility and affordability to a broad audience. Many traditional Asian sweets have been adapted into plant-based versions. For example, mochi (rice cakes), red bean paste-filled buns, and sweet rice puddings have all been made vegan by using ingredients like glutinous rice flour, sweet potato, and coconut milk. The Asia-Pacific region is known for its unique dessert styles, such as shaved ice desserts (e.g., patbingsu in South Korea), sticky rice-based sweets (e.g., mango sticky rice in Thailand), and agar-based jellies and puddings (e.g., agar-agar desserts in Indonesia). These distinctive dessert styles offer a different experience compared to Western-style plant-based desserts. The Asia-Pacific region is vast and diverse, comprising countries with varying climates, agricultural practices, and culinary traditions. As a result, plant-based desserts in each country within the region often have their own regional variations, showcasing local flavors and preferences. In recent years, the Asia-Pacific region has witnessed significant innovation in vegan cuisine, including desserts. Chefs and food entrepreneurs in the region are pushing the boundaries of plant-based cooking, creating unique and appealing desserts that cater to both local and international tastes. Key Developments: • Nestlé has launched a number of new plant-based dessert products in Asia-Pacific, including plant-based ice cream, yogurt, and pudding. • Unilever has also launched a number of new plant-based dessert products in the region, including plant-based ice cream, yogurt, and cakes. • Danone has acquired a plant-based yogurt company in China, and is planning to launch new plant-based dessert products in the region in the coming months. • Oatly has expanded its distribution in Asia-Pacific, and is now available in over 20,000 stores in the region. • A2 Milk has launched a new plant-based milk brand in China, called "YoyiC." Considered in this report • Geography: Asia-Pacific • Historic year: 2017 • Base year: 2022 • Estimated year: 2023 • Forecast year: 2028

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Aspects covered in this report • Asia-Pacific Plant-based Desserts with its value and forecast along with its segments • Country-wise Plant-based Desserts market analysis • Various drivers and challenges • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendation Countries covered in the report • China • Japan • India • Australia • South Korea By Product Type • Cakes and Pastries • Custards & Puddings • Others By Distribution Channel • Hypermarkets and Supermarkets • Convenience Stores • E-Commerce • Others The approach of the report: This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organizations related to the Plant-based desserts industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.