Yili's Remarkable Achievement at the Global Dairy Congress 2025
On June 18th and 19th, 2025, Amsterdam hosted the 18th Global Dairy Congress, a landmark event in the dairy industry, where innovation and sustainability took center stage. During the congress, Yili Group, a prominent player in the dairy sector, made headlines by securing an impressive four World Dairy Innovation Awards amidst stiff competition from industry leaders.
Dr. Ignatius Szeto, the Deputy President of Yili Group, delivered a keynote speech titled “Innovations for a Sustainable Future.” His address emphasized Yili's recent breakthroughs in dairy technology and their commitment to enhancing consumer health through innovative dairy products.
The recognition awarded to Yili included noteworthy accolades for some of their flagship offerings. The event's organizers praised Yili for being a consistent innovator in the dairy industry. Remarkably, this marks the sixth consecutive year that Yili has received the prestigious World Dairy Innovation Award, underscoring its relentless pursuit of excellence.
During a panel discussion, Dr. Carolien van Loo, Head of Yili Innovation Center Europe, shared insights into maternal and infant nutrition, spotlighting their leading infant formula brand, Pro-Kido. Several flagship products from Pro-Kido were featured as key highlights of the congress, showcasing Yili's dedication to addressing nutritional needs at critical stages of development.
At the Industry Leadership Forum, Dr. Szeto elaborated on Yili's global practices in product innovation, modern milk processing, and sustainable development. He remarked, “Innovation is the driving force behind the sustainable and successful development of the dairy industry.” This statement reflects Yili's philosophy of being consumer-centric and its commitment to lifelong nutritional and health research.
The forum presented a vibrant discussion involving esteemed experts such as Jean-Christophe Kremer, Secretary General of the International Special Dietary Foods Industries, and Richard Hall, Chairman of FoodBev Media. Topics revolved around advancements in maternal and infant health and the significance of ongoing research on human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). Dr. van Loo noted that collaborations with institutions like Wageningen University and the Donders Institute are paving the way for groundbreaking research that underlines the health benefits of HMOs, which include boosting immunity and cognitive development.
At the awards ceremony, Yili's achievements were highlighted with the Best Artisan Product award for Zhenlao Light Cream by Yijiahao Cheese, the Best Ice Cream award for Joyday Crunchy Choco Lava, the Best Intolerance-Friendly Innovation recognition for the patented multi-enzymatic Lactose-to-GOS technology applied in Qinghuo Milk Powder for Adults, and the award for Best CSR/Sustainability Initiative received by Satine Carbon-Reduced Organic Milk.
Echoing its motto, “No Innovation, No Future,” Yili continues to expand its investment in research and development to deliver comprehensive nutritional solutions across the lifespan. Currently, Yili has established 15 innovation centers throughout Asia, Europe, and Oceania, fostering advancements in the dairy sector.
Looking ahead, Yili aims to align its strategies with consumer needs, propel growth through technological innovation, and foster global partnerships that offer enhanced health value to consumers worldwide. This vision not only supports the company's growth but also aims to promote enduring success in the dairy industry, ensuring a healthier future for all.