Research presented by the US Dairy Export Council (USDEC) showed that value for money was the top factor influencing food and beverage purchases.
The consumption tracker found that 75 percent of Filipino consumers prioritize value for money when buying food and beverages, while 58 percent seek high-quality nutritional ingredients.
The findings suggest that food companies need to deliver on their nutritional promises without putting additional strain on consumers’ budgets.
Dairy trade seen filling nutrition gaps
USDEC said during a trade seminar on Aug. 13 that dairy can help fill that nutritional gap, as milk, skim milk powder, whey and milk proteins provide high-quality protein and a wide range of essential nutrients. Dairy also provides all nine essential amino acids, along with vitamins and minerals.
“There is a common perception that nutritious foods are expensive,” Dr. Sylvia Chungchunlam, research officer of the Riddet Institute in New Zealand, said during the seminar.
“Rather than solely focusing on price, it's important to view foods through a nutritional lens. Good choices, like dairy, deliver high nutritional value for the amount spent,” she added.
USDEC Southeast Asia regional director Dali Ghazalay said the Philippines is its largest export market in Southeast Asia and one of its most important globally.
Improving the quality of Filipino diets
Speakers during the seminar also pointed out that protein quality is also a relevant issue as the country works to address child stunting. This also affects older adults who have specific nutrient deficiencies that may contribute to conditions such as vision loss and mobility issues.
Janice Giddens, USDEC vice president for sustainable nutrition, said limited access to essential nutrients contributes to malnutrition as well as undernutrition. Expanding access to US dairy through trade can help bring these nutrients into the food system, she said.
“No one country can produce every single thing that it needs for itself all the time … So trade is a critical and vital component of a food system and improving healthier diets,” she added.
Trending opportunities for local manufacturers
USDEC also cited a Euromonitor report research showing that 81 percent of Filipinos were concerned about rising costs, while 64 percent still prioritized healthy ingredients and 42 percent planned to increase spending on health and wellness.
“Value today is no longer defined by price alone,” said Anoo Pothen, USDEC vice president for strategic insights. “Consumers define value for money as nutritious products that are also affordable, convenient and tasty.”
USDEC sees trending opportunities for local manufacturers to formulate beverages, yogurt, bakery products, snacks and ready-to-eat meals using US dairy ingredients.
USDEC country manager Mac Macatangay said educating consumers and manufacturers about the uses and benefits of dairy products remains a priority.
He added that the council continues to work with bakery, coffee shop and milk tea shop owners to show how a wide range of affordable dairy ingredients can add protein and improve the nutritional value of their products.
Dr. Cecilia Acuin, associate professor at the Institute of Human Nutrition and Food, said food companies can expand consumer choices by using small amounts of dairy ingredients to improve nutrition and taste without significantly raising costs.
In some formulations, she added, dairy may also provide enough flavor to reduce the need for added sugar. —-Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
Content Producer
