As a part of the New Frontiers in Food Fast Forward (NF4) Innovation Tour to China, the delegation visited DSM and its Innovation Center in Shanghai, Yinlu Foods Group in Xiamen and the Shanghai Jiao Tong University. During these visits the delegation learned about the innovation activities, trends in the Chinese market and opportunities for European companies.

At the Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, DSM welcomed the NF4-delegation on the 16th of May in Pudong, Shanghai. Aside from a tour through the lab, DSM presented their current innovation focus, for example sugar reduction, taste experience, health and wellbeing, biopreservation and food chain efficiency. According to the presentation and market research of Mintel, these innovations are in line with the innovation trends in China. On behalf of the Dutch Innovation consul, Bart van Hezewijk provided information about the differences between the innovation landscape in China and Europe, the differences between the Chinese and European market and how to overcome the challenges. These presentations together gave a good perspective on how to approach the Chinese market and what (strategic) decisions should be made before entering the Chinese market. To get a better understanding of the R&D activities in China in the field of nutrition at the knowledge institutes, the delegation also visited the Shanghai Jiao Tong University. This university is well known and is involved in R&D activities in the field of nutrition, packaging and food safety. To end, Kitty You from CCIC explained about the import regulations and certificates needed to export to China.

By these visits and interaction with both the R&D of Yinlu and DSM and the universities R&D activities, the delegation got a better understanding of the innovation landscape and future developements in food in China.

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