Singapore creates the world?s first tofu wine

Researchers at the National University of Singapore have created the world’s first tofu wine through discarded tofu whey. This aligns with Mintel Trend ‘Hungry Planet’, which discusses how our throwaway culture is becoming a contentious issue, and both brands and consumers are looking for ways to conserve the planet’s resources.

The tofu wine, named Sachi, offers health benefits and comes at a lower alcohol level than traditional wine. The wine contains isoflavones which provide a range of benefits that women, in particular, stand to benefit from. Using discarded tofu whey, which is produced during the traditional tofu manufacturing process, also helps to reduce oxygen depletion in waterways due to the protein and soluble sugars in the whey.

For the healthier choice

Consumers around the world are opting for healthier alternatives and this desire is driving new product innovations in across consumer sectors. Brands are looking to offer natural alternatives, reduce negative ingredients, and help consumers make a healthier choice.

In Nairobi, upmarket restaurant Boho Eatery has swapped out most of its carnivorous menu for a range of wholesome meat-free specialties. In the alcoholic beverage sector, we’ve seen Tesco introduce a new range of low-alcohol wines, while natural wines and organic labels are seeing an uptake in Singapore.

According to the Singapore Health Promotion Board, in 2016, sales of food products with the healthier choice symbol growe 9% annually. In line with this, Mintel Trend ‘Bannedwagon’ highlights how consumers are focusing on labels, ingredients, and production methods. This gradual shift in awareness is leading to more consumers making a conscious effort to select healthier products.

Sustainable offerings could be the next step for brands looking to appeal to consumers who are considering more than price factors. Products which are environmentally sustainable may subconsciously appeal to health-focused consumers due to the noticeable connotations between the two themes.

Delon Wang is Trends Manager, Asia Pacific at Mintel. He oversees Trends content and Trends client servicing for the region.