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Is petai the next big flavour?

Could petai — the pungent, bitter bean native to Southeast Asia — emerge as the next bold flavour trend to rival the coriander craze sweeping through China and Taiwan?

Coriander has seen a surge in popularity across China and, more recently, Taiwan, as consumers embrace bold flavours and explore unexpected culinary applications in both food and drinks.

Petai offers more than just bold flavour — its firm texture and fiery kick, often enhanced by spicy condiments, make it a standout ingredient. With its unmistakable pungency and polarizing appeal, this bean is primed to spark conversation and turn heads at the table.

The onus is now on brands to transform petai into something truly exceptional and captivating.

Suntory Thailand adds apple flavour to BRAND’S bird’s nest drink line

Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) has broadened its selection of convenient BRAND’S Bird’s Nest Drinks in Thailand with the introduction of a refreshing new apple variant. This latest addition joins the existing lineup of Coconut, Summer Delight and Golden Honey flavors.

The Apple-flavoured BRAND’S Bird’s Nest Drink is sugar-free and enriched with vitamins B3 and B6, which support the healthy functioning of the nervous system.

The easy-to-drink approach such as having a fruity, refreshing taste help to boost consumer interest and engagement with functional beverages.

QL Foods launches SuperQ chicken range to tap value-added poultry

Image credit: Minimeinsights.com

QL Foods, Malaysia’s pioneering vertically integrated producer of surimi and fish-based products, has introduced SuperQ, a fresh line of processed chicken meat offerings. The SuperQ range, unveiled at the recent Food and Hospitality Malaysia (FHM) 2025, comprises halal-certified chicken sausages including Chicken Sausage, Cheesy Chicken Sausage, Chicken Jumbo Sausage and Cheesy Chicken Jumbo Sausage.

QL Foods is rapidly growing its egg business, delivering eggs from chickens raised on natural feed and maintained under stringent veterinary care and food safety standards. Riding the momentum, the company is now embracing value-added poultry as a new wave of growth with products like chicken sausages and chicken balls enhancing its protein portfolio and reinforcing its commitment to quality and innovation.

Figo’s latest Seaweed Nugget Bites are crunchy and packed with protein

Figo by Malaysia’s QL Foods has expanded its lineup with the introduction of Figo’s Seaweed Nugget Bites, a crunchy, protein-rich snack designed especially for kids. Free from trans fats, each box offers 12 tasty pieces perfect for little hands and growing appetites.

Mama OK taps into fandom power with Ink Waruntorn 10th anniversary pack

Thai President Foods, the company behind Thailand’s iconic Mama instant noodles, has unveiled a special edition Mama OK pack to celebrate Ink Waruntorn’s 10th anniversary. The commemorative release features the Red Pork flavour, co-designed with inspiration drawn from Ink’s musical journey—and perhaps even her signature pink keyboard.

Earlier, the company distributed limited-edition Mama OK Oriental Kitchen cup noodles to fans at Ink Waruntorn’s milestone concert in August 2025—a tasty tribute to the beloved Thai singer and actress.

Instant noodle brands are harnessing the power of passionate fan communities, much like how international brands have engaged with Swifties, the devoted fans of American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift.

As the younger demographic for instant noodles continues to decline, fan-driven marketing will play an increasingly vital role in sustaining brand engagement and growth.

Premium Thai fusion Mamee Chef Wagyu Boat Noodle debuts

Mamee Chef has introduced its newest instant noodle flavor in Malaysia: Wagyu Boat Noodle. This unique combination brings together the premium taste of wagyu beef with the bold, aromatic profile of Thai boat noodles, a dish celebrated for its intensely flavorful broth and traditionally small servings. The result is a distinctive fusion that elevates everyday indulgence.

Mamee Chef Wagyu Boat Noodle is available in a 4x93G pack and in instant cup. The instant cup is exclusively available at 7-Eleven.

Gong Cha Singapore shuts down but will return

Taiwanese milk tea chain Gong Cha has closed down in Singapore as it seeks to relaunch in the market with “new local franchisees” under a global revamp, reported Channel News Asia.

“We have seen fantastic results in Japan and South Korea, with customer wait times significantly reduced, higher repeat visits, and overall customer satisfaction levels up. Next year, we’ll bring this concept to Singapore and relaunch our ambitious plans to scale in the market alongside new franchisees”, said Gong Cha global CEO Paul Reynish.

Gong Cha Singapore, formerly the master franchisee in Singapore under the leadership of Mr. Kang Puay Seng, no longer holds the franchise rights.

The growing presence of Chinese beverage chains has undeniably affected Gong Cha’s competitive edge, not only in Singapore but also in other regional markets.

Vitmaker reinvents instant noodles with konjac-powered Korean flavours for guilt-free experience

Vitmaker, the Indonesian wellness brand recognized for its fibre + collagen drinks, protein powders, and cereal bars, is now bringing konjac into the instant noodle category. Its latest innovation, the Mie Porang Korea series, is crafted to support weight management while delivering a satisfying, guilt-free indulgence.

Packed with fiber and protein, the Mie Porang Korea lineup includes ramyun at just 60 calories per serving and the spicy Goreng Pedas Korea at only 150 calories per serving.

While konjac-based instant noodles are already available in Indonesia, some with Korean-inspired flavours, Vitmaker’s new launch stands out by offering its loyal customers a low-calorie meal alternative and attracting new health-conscious consumers to the brand.

Din Tai Fung Indonesia unveils Matcha Lava Xiao Long Bao – a bold twist on tradition

Din Tai Fung Indonesia is pushing culinary boundaries with its newest creation: the Matcha Lava Xiao Long Bao. Riding the wave of matcha’s enduring popularity, brands are tapping into its appeal to spark fresh innovation. While offerings like this are often limited-time specials, they play a key role in generating buzz and keeping the brand top of mind.

For the ultimate experience, pair the Matcha Lava Xiao Long Bao with the indulgent Sea Salt Cream Cheese Dip.

NESCAFÉ PAYS TRIBUTE TO MALAYSIANS’ THRIVING SPIRIT THROUGH THEIR EVERYDAY STORIES

(L–R) Dr. Madhu, Black Hanifah, Juan Aranols (Chief Executive Officer Nestlé Malaysia), Norkhayati Mohamed Hashini (Business Executive Officer of Ready-to-Drink, Nestlé Malaysia) and Kak Dell coming together to roll out NESCAFÉ's “Ngopi Dulu Kekal Kental Bersama” aspirational movement, celebrating Malaysians' resilience and inspiring the nation to move forward.

NESCAFÉ’s “Kental Bersama” song by Black Hanifah presented as an anthem to celebrate resilience and strength

Kuala Lumpur, 1st Oct 2025 – With the “Ngopi Dulu & Kekal Kental Bersama” (“Have a Coffee First & Move Forward Together”), NESCAFÉ rolls out an aspirational movement to share, celebrate and recognize Malaysians’ everyday stories as a tribute to the resilience and strength that inspire the nation to keep moving forward.

Indeed, every Malaysian has a purpose – whether it’s providing for their family, supporting the community or pursuing a personal dream. One thing that unites us all is the spirit to stay strong, to Kekal Kental and to navigate through life’s daily hustles with tenacity, confidence and determination. To celebrate and inspire, NESCAFÉ pays tribute with the debut of “Kental Bersama” song by Black Hanifah, an anthem that celebrates Malaysians’ unwavering determination, honoring the perseverance, family and community values that bind the nation through adversity.

“NESCAFÉ has always been more than just coffee. It has stood alongside Malaysians through both challenges and triumphs. The value embedded in this initiative, our “Ngopi Dulu & Kekal Kental Bersama” acknowledges the unwavering resilience and passion that drive our journey as a nation. We invite everyone to join us in this collective journey of strength, unity and hope as we uplift each other and continue to move forward together,” said Juan Aranols, Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Malaysia.

Three Malaysians whose life journeys embody the spirit to stay strong, or “kekal kental”are featured in this intiative. Dr. Madhu, the beloved figure who epitomises compassion and care, also known as “Dr. Teddy Bear”, has dedicated his evenings to providing healthcare to the homeless in Kuala Lumpur. Kak Dell, a Grab driver and tuition teacher, continues to pursue her dream of becoming a writer, showing that ambition never rests. Black Hanifah, who headlined the anthem, draws from his humble beginnings and his devotion to family as the source of his music and purpose. Together, they were featured alongside Black Hanifah in the “Kental Bersama” music video, reflecting the different purposes that drive Malaysians, bound by the same unbreakable spirit of resilience.

“The song “Kental Bersama” was composed with all Malaysians in mind,” said Black Hanifah. “Its lyrics capture the hustle and hopes we all share whether striving for our families, working for our communities or chasing our own dreams. I am honoured to be part of a movement that uses music to unite everyone, reminding us that we are stronger when we stay kental together. This is a proof that music and NESCAFÉ can bring people together in a meaningful way.”

“Through “Ngopi Dulu & Kekal Kental Bersama”, NESCAFÉ will continue to celebrate Malaysians’ unwavering spirit to stay strong and keep moving forward every day. Being part of Malaysians’ life journey for a brand like NESCAFÉ also means evolving its offerings to meet their demands. Hence, we are proud to introduce NESCAFÉ Triple Shot – our boldest coffee innovation yet, crafted to deliver a strong coffee flavor and boost. We have also seen an increase in the demand for stimulating coffee, reflecting Malaysians’ growing preference for robust brews. This launch reflects our commitment to stand alongside Malaysians in their journey, offering more than just coffee but a source of strength and togetherness,” said Norkhayati Mohamed Hashini, Business Executive Officer of Ready-to-Drink Nestlé Malaysia.

For more information, please visit www.nescafe.com.my, Facebook at NESCAFÉ Malaysia (facebook.com/Nescafe.MY) and Instagram at @nescafe_my.

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