SIAL China 2018 has been a huge hit, according to the event’s organisers, with more than 3400 exhibitors attending from 21 different food sectors.
Occupying no fewer than 13 exhibition halls and a whopping 162,000sqm, this year’s event showed again that meat, dairy, wine and beverages remain the top food industry growth sectors in China. The Region of Honour was the European Union, represented by 18 of the 28 EU countries.
A popular area at the event was the Australian Pavilion. Featuring seafood, snacks, beverages, olive oil, pasta, honey and dairy, this year’s exhibit was coordinated by Food South Australia.
“We worked with other states and companies to put everyone under the same Australia banner, which was very effective,” Food South Australia CEO Catherine Sayer told Retail World. “Exhibitor attendance from Australia has doubled over the past two years and this year we had a prime position at the front of the event. Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Steven Ciobo came through when he visited the show.”
As well as showcasing world trends, the event provided key insights into where the Chinese food market is heading. Cold chain logistics remains one of the sectors with the highest growth potential, with research showing fresh food e-commerce and on-demand trends as the forces
behind the drive in popularity.
For the visitors and exhibitors at SIAL China 2018, themed events were a key attraction. Attendees were able to experience cooking demonstrations at La Cuisine and Seafood Fest, learn from winemakers and renowned sommeliers at the Wine Innovation Forum, watch a live dessert demonstration at Chocolate World, and explore the essence of tea at the China National Specialty Tea Brewers Cup.
SIAL Innovation Awards
The SIAL Innovation Awards, held in partnership with XTC World Innovation, is an international contest with entrants from all over the world.
The jury of food-industry experts named 10 finalists and handed out gold, silver and bronze awards. The winners not only received a prize, but also gained the chance to display their products around the world in the dedicated World Champions Tour area at all the SIAL network shows. From the 10 finalists, the awards went to:
Gold Winner: Safe Catch – Elite Wild Seasoned Tuna – US
Tuna from sustainable fishing with the lowest mercury level on the market. The products are dolphin safe, GMO free and handpacked to retain nutrients and omega 3.
Silver Winner: Chengdu Mayaland Trading Co Ltd – Mexico Avocado Honey – China
Avocado honey, selected for its recipe originality.
Bronze Winner: Tea Venture/Noveltea – The Tale of Tangier and The Tale of Earl Grey – UK
Cold-brewed tea and spirit drinks, 11 per cent alcohol by volume, gluten free and vegan, selected for the innovative recipe of coldbrew tea and spirit blend.