Why Shenyang’s Nescafé Gold Is Mostly Made in Japan

In April 2024, British media reported rising acrylamide levels in popular foods, including some Nestlé products like crisps and instant coffee. Among those flagged was Nestlé Gold, raising concerns for regular coffee drinkers. The report followed testing by the UK Food Standards Agency on over 100 food samples, spotlighting carcinogenic compounds in everyday items.

The short answer: In Shenyang, nearly all Nestlé Gold Instant Coffee on shelves is imported from Japan. During a market check on April 24, reporters found Japanese-made Nescafé Gold at multiple major supermarkets and import-focused department stores—while UK-sourced versions, if present, were not identified.

What Shenyang Supermarkets Stock: Japanese Nescafé Gold

At a global chain supermarket on Shenyang’s Qingnian Street, the only Nestlé Gold Instant Coffee available came in a distinctive 100g all-gold glass bottle. Its packaging clearly stated “Product of Japan,” with Shanghai-based Nestlé Product Services Co., Ltd. (located in Jinqiao Export Processing Zone, Pudong) listed as the distributor. The price was 72 RMB. At another large domestic chain on the same street, identical packaging was also found, with production dates mostly from July 2011. These premium gold-labelled products sit above Nestlé’s standard lines—such as Original, Milk Flavour, Extra Strong, and Premium Enjoy—which are manufactured in Dongguan, China, and are priced lower.

Imported Japanese Coffee in Speciality Stores

At a Japanese-owned department store’s food section on Taiyuan Street, imported Nestlé instant coffees included SKINNY, IRISH CREAM, and MOCHA—but no “GOLD” variant. Meanwhile, in a Hong Kong-owned mall’s international supermarket on Qingnian Street, fully Japanese-packaged Nescafé Gold coffee powder was offered, distributed by two Dalian-based trading firms. When approached for stocking details, one distributor claimed not to recall the brand, while another explicitly confirmed they do not carry the Nescafé Gold line.

The Acrylamide Concern & Nestlé’s Explanation

According to UK media, the Food Standards Agency detected elevated acrylamide—a potential carcinogen—in certain Nestlé products, specifically citing “Nestlé Gold Flavour Freeze-Dried Low Caffeine Instant Coffee” and “Nestlé Gold Flavour Freeze-Dried Instant Coffee.” In response, a Nestlé representative clarified that “the Nestlé Gold coffee sold domestically is imported from Japan, while the UK version is likely produced locally.” This distinction suggests that the product tested in the UK may not be the same as what’s found on Shenyang shelves.

Consumer Reactions & Brand Perception

When questioned, several shoppers expressed concern. One regular coffee drinker noted they frequently consume coffee and feel uneasy knowing that a trusted brand like Nestlé is involved in a health scare—even if the specific product they buy is from Japan. The premium positioning of the gold-labelled series adds to consumer expectations around quality and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Nestlé Gold Instant Coffee in Shenyang made in Japan?

Yes. Field reports from April 24 confirm that nearly all Nestlé Gold Instant Coffee available in Shenyang supermarkets is imported from Japan. These are sold in 100g all-gold glass bottles, distributed by Shanghai Nestlé Product Services, and clearly marked “Product of Japan.”

Are there any UK-made Nestlé Gold products in Shenyang?

No. Reporters did not find any UK-produced Nestlé Gold Instant Coffee during their store visits. The UK version, if available elsewhere, was not present in the Shenyang supermarkets or speciality import stores checked.

What Nestlé coffee products are made in Dongguan, China?

Nestlé’s standard lines—including Original, Milk Flavour, Extra Strong, and Premium Enjoy—are manufactured in Dongguan, China. These are generally priced lower than the imported Japanese Gold series.

Has the UK Food Standards Agency found acrylamide in Nestlé Gold?

Yes. UK media reported that the Food Standards Agency detected elevated acrylamide in certain Nestlé products, including Gold-flavour freeze-dried instant coffee. However, Nestlé stated that the UK version is likely locally produced, different from the Japan-imported product sold in Shenyang.

Why is Nestlé Gold more expensive than other Nestlé coffees?

Nestlé Gold is positioned as a premium product within the Nestlé range. In Shenyang, it is sold in 100g glass bottles at 72 RMB, noticeably higher than the standard flavours produced in Dongguan, which are sold at lower prices.

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