At SIAL Shanghai 2026, held at the Shanghai New International Expo Center from May 18–20, two standout themes were low GI and clean label.
Innovation around low‑GI claims is rising rapidly in China, as consumers increasingly seek foods that deliver steady energy, support weight management, and reduce risks of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This demand is being fueled by government health initiatives and growing health awareness, though challenges remain in consumer education and perceptions around price.
China currently has the highest number of adults with diabetes in the world — about 148 million people (11.9% prevalence as of 2024), according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).
At SIAL Shanghai 2026, Beiqi Li, Deputy Director of the R&D Centre at Want Want Group, highlighted several important insights. Social media interest in low‑GI foods has soared, with interaction volumes rising by 200% year‑on‑year. The consumer base is diverse, spanning individuals managing diabetes or pre‑diabetes, those focused on weight management, and fitness enthusiasts. However, misconceptions remain, as many consumers mistakenly equate low‑GI foods with weight‑loss or low‑calorie options, or assume they can be consumed without limit.
In China, clean label is increasingly valued by both consumers and retailers as a marker of safety and health. While concerns about food safety have eased somewhat, strong certification and a short, transparent ingredient list free from ‘nasties’ continue to resonate with certain consumer groups.
