China Drinkable Yogurt Market Overview, 2031

The drinkable yogurt market in China has experienced significant transformation in recent years, driven by the rapid shift in consumer preferences toward health-conscious, functional, and convenient beverage options. Traditionally, yogurt consumption in China was limited, but the past decade has seen a surge in interest, particularly among younger, urban populations who are more inclined to explore dairy-based and probiotic products. Drinkable yogurt, with its convenience and perceived health benefits, has become a staple in many Chinese households, particularly as a snack or a quick breakfast. In response to this trend, companies like Mengniu and Yili have introduced innovative yogurt products featuring added to improve taste, texture, and overall appeal. These ranging from fruit-flavored toppings to crunchy layers serve as an attractive option for consumers seeking more indulgent yet nutritious alternatives. As China’s dairy market continues to expand, the introduction of yogurt has capitalized on local tastes, integrating familiar flavors like lychee, longan, and matcha. This development aligns with China’s growing focus on health and wellness, where probiotics and gut health have become key selling points. The market has also seen the emergence of plant-based yogurt drinks with, catering to China’s expanding vegan and lactose-intolerant population. Brands like Oatly and Alpro have begun offering plant-based drinkable yogurts that incorporate almond or coconut milk, appealing to the demand for dairy-free options. The growth of the drinkable yogurt segment reflects China's broader appetite for innovation in food products that offer convenience, health benefits, and enjoyable flavors.

According to the research report, "China Drinkable Yogurt Market Overview, 2031," published by Bonafide Research, the China Drinkable Yogurt market is anticipated to grow at more than 5.97% CAGR from 2026 to 2031. The Chinese drinkable yogurt market has witnessed substantial growth, driven by both traditional dairy brands and new entrants who focus on innovative flavors and functional benefits. Companies such as Mengniu and Yili, the two giants in the Chinese dairy sector, have led the charge by integrating yogurt into their drinkable yogurt offerings. Mengniu’s Delight drinkable yogurt, for example, has introduced a layer of fruit-flavored coating that enhances the overall experience, catering to Chinese consumers’ growing preference for products that combine convenience and taste. The rise of health-consciousness in China has further propelled this market, with yogurt that promise added probiotic benefits becoming increasingly popular. Brands like Danone and Nestlé have leveraged probiotics in their yogurt, emphasizing digestive health, which resonates strongly with Chinese consumers looking for functional, immunity-boosting foods. Additionally, the popularity of clean-label products in China has encouraged manufacturers to create yogurt made from natural ingredients, without the use of artificial sweeteners or colors, responding to the increasing demand for transparency and authenticity in food products. The increasing adoption of plant-based diets in China has also contributed to the market’s growth, with Alpro and Oatly entering the market with their plant-based drinkable yogurts featuring made from alternative milk sources such as almond and coconut. The demand for sustainability has driven brands to embrace eco-friendly packaging for their drinkable yogurt, such as recyclable PET bottles and cartons. With online retail channels becoming a primary shopping method, platforms like JD.com and Tmall have made it easier for consumers to access these innovative products, helping to expand the reach of drinkable yogurt to a wider audience.

In China, the drinkable yogurt market is experiencing significant growth, driven by a combination of traditional dairy preferences and an increasing demand for non-dairy or vegan alternatives. Dairy-based drinkable yogurts, often flavored with fruits like strawberry, peach, and lychee, are highly popular among urban consumers, particularly in larger cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Well-established brands like Mengniu and Yili are major players in the market, offering a variety of drinkable yogurts that emphasize probiotics for digestive health. These products are often marketed as both a convenient snack and a functional food with health benefits. However, the rise of lactose intolerance in China, combined with changing dietary habits, has led to an increased demand for non-dairy or vegan drinkable yogurt. Plant-based alternatives made from soy, almond, and coconut are becoming more widely available, catering to consumers who avoid dairy due to allergies or ethical considerations. Brands like Alpro and Oatly have begun offering these plant-based options in China, responding to the growing number of young, health-conscious consumers who are adopting plant-based diets. These vegan drinkable yogurts are often flavored with fruits or coconut milk and marketed as healthier and more sustainable alternatives to traditional dairy.

In China, flavored drinkable yogurts are the dominant segment, appealing to consumers who prefer sweet, fruity beverages. Flavors such as strawberry, mango, and passion fruit are among the most popular, and these products are commonly seen in both convenience stores and supermarkets. Flavored drinkable yogurts are often positioned as indulgent yet healthy alternatives to sugary drinks, with added probiotics and functional ingredients like vitamins or fiber. Brands like Yili’s "Chobani" line and Mengniu’s "Ambrosial" are examples of products that offer both local and international flavors, making them attractive to a wide range of consumers. On the other hand, plain drinkable yogurts are gaining traction among more health-conscious consumers who are looking for a simpler, less processed option. These products are often marketed for their high protein content and fewer additives, appealing to fitness enthusiasts or those seeking natural, minimally processed foods. While plain drinkable yogurt is not as widespread as flavored varieties, it is steadily growing in popularity, particularly in urban areas where health trends are more pronounced. Consumers who prefer plain drinkable yogurt often mix it with fresh fruits, nuts, or honey for added flavor.

In China, drinkable yogurt is available in various packaging types that cater to different consumer needs. Bottles are the most common form of packaging for drinkable yogurts, especially for single-serve products. These bottles are typically made from plastic and are designed for convenience, offering a portable option for consumers on the go. Brands like Yili and Mengniu offer their drinkable yogurt in these convenient bottles, often with resealable tops for easy consumption throughout the day. Tetra packs are also popular in China, particularly for family-sized portions. These lightweight cartons are easy to store and are often chosen for their practicality and better preservation of the product’s freshness. Tetra packs are also seen as more environmentally friendly compared to plastic bottles, appealing to an increasingly eco-conscious consumer base. Cups are another common format, especially for smaller serving sizes and premium products. These are often used for yogurt that is intended for direct consumption at home or in cafes. Finally, pouches, while less common in the drinkable yogurt category, are slowly gaining popularity, particularly for children’s yogurt drinks or on-the-go consumption. Pouches are seen as a convenient and mess-free option, offering a portable alternative for busy parents or active individuals.



In China, the distribution channels for drinkable yogurts are diverse, with several key players driving the market. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the largest and most important channels, offering a wide variety of drinkable yogurts from both domestic and international brands. Retailers like Walmart, Carrefour, and RT-Mart dominate the landscape, providing an extensive selection of drinkable yogurt products in multiple formats. These stores also offer promotions and discounts, making them a popular shopping destination for middle-class families. Convenience stores are an important channel for on-the-go consumers, especially in urban centers where busy professionals and students are seeking quick snacks. Chains like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart are widespread, offering a limited but important selection of drinkable yogurts, particularly in high-traffic areas like train stations and office buildings. Specialty stores, including organic food retailers and health stores, also contribute to the market by providing premium, organic, or plant-based drinkable yogurt options. These stores, such as Green Common, focus on catering to niche markets of health-conscious and vegan consumers. Online retail has become increasingly important in China, with platforms like Tmall, JD.com, and Alibaba offering home delivery options for a wide variety of drinkable yogurt products. Online shopping allows consumers to easily access both local and international brands, and the convenience of home delivery has fueled this growth. Lastly, vending machines are emerging as a more unconventional distribution channel, particularly in high-density areas like office buildings, schools, and airports, where quick access to refreshing snacks is in demand. These machines typically offer single-serving bottles or pouches of drinkable yogurt, capitalizing on the convenience factor.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2020
• Base year: 2025
• Estimated year: 2026
• Forecast year: 2031

Aspects covered in this report
• Drinkable Yogurt Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Category
• Dairy - Based Yogurt
• Non - Dairy Based / Vegan Yogurt

By Type
• Flavoured
• Plain

By Packaging
• Cup
• Bottles
• Tetra Pack
• Pouches

By Distribution Channel
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Online Stores
• Others