Following the first-ever dairy-free festival in Jakarta, Indonesia-based Green Rebel Foods has launched into the plant-based dairy category.

Green Rebel is a leading producer of plant-based protein across Southeast Asia. Its new category launch, dubbed Creamy Crew, which includes cheese, sauces, and dressings, builds on its continuing innovation in the plant-based sector.

The new range is available now through the company’s website and select partners, and the company says it will begin shipping across other Asian markets early next year. The inaugural products in the dairy-free range include egg-free mayonnaise, a caesar-style dressing, and cheddar-style block cheese.

Plant-based alternatives for Asian communities

“While dairy and dairy products are not a traditional part of Asian cuisine, it is not uncommon for these products to be found and eaten in many Asian households due to globalisation and global trade,” Max Mandias, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Green Rebel Foods, said in a statement. “We at Green Rebel Foods have a vision of creating plant-based alternatives that suit Asian communities around the world, and this category, Creamy Crew, is a continuation of that promise.”

The demand for dairy-free options in Asia is increasing as the prevalence of lactose intolerance is extremely high; more than 90 percent of Asian populations can’t tolerate dairy. A recent survey from Rakuten Insight found that plant-based milk is the leading plant-based category in Indonesia.

Dairy 2.0

Unlike other parts of the world where younger generations are embracing the alternatives, Indonesia’s largest demographic is the 40-54-year-old segment, driven in large part by concerns over diabetes as well as lactose intolerance.

Like meat, conventional dairy is also a key contributor to climate change, with livestock responsible for about 60 percent of agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.

Green Rebel says its new dairy-free products contain less fat than the conventional and lower in calories.

“Through Creamy Crew, we continue to innovate to introduce plant-based products that are healthy and delicious,” Mandias said, helping consumers to enjoy their favorite variety of dishes even without milk and eggs.”