China protein milk powder imports from Australia, New Zealand jump but questions over use as a supplement for infants
- Chinese demand for lactoferrin and whey products has increased dramatically since the coronavirus outbreak due to their immunity boosting qualities
- But while stand-alone powder products have been researched, they have not been properly produced or tested to higher infant food standards
The coronavirus outbreak has spurred a new demand in China for protein milk powder from Australia and New Zealand, but experts are concerned there is new danger in its use as a supplement for infants.
Chinese demand for lactoferrin and whey products has increased dramatically since the outbreak began, with consumers hoping the immunity boosting qualities can help both adults and children fight off the deadly virus.
Exploding demand and the claims of the “powers” of lactoferrin and whey protein on social media led to a fact-check by news agency Reuters in late March, which showed there was no evidence the products can prevent coronavirus infections.
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Before the coronavirus outbreak, Chinese imports of whey protein generally stood at around 200 tonnes to 400 tonnes a month. A breakdown of lactoferrin milk powder exports is not available.
