Gen Z’s Obsession with Glycine: The TikTok Trend Taking Over

Gen Z has found a new fascination with an amino acid known as glycine, all thanks to a Chinese company making waves on TikTok with its innovative ads. The glycine industry, among other amino acids, is poised for significant growth by 2028.

The Rise of Glycine on TikTok

For those unfamiliar, glycine is a food additive that has caught the attention of Gen Z users on TikTok. Donghua Jinlong Chemical, a manufacturing company in China, has captivated audiences with its high-energy videos showcasing this seemingly mundane compound. Despite being a simple molecule commonly found in foods like tofu, the company's TikTok presence has sparked immense interest.

The Health Benefits of Glycine

Glycine is an amino acid naturally produced by the body and can be found in certain foods. It can also be synthetically created and added to food items and supplements. Studies published by the National Library of Medicine suggest that glycine may offer various health advantages, such as aiding in gastrointestinal problems and preventing liver damage.

The TikTok Phenomenon

The TikTok page linked to Donghua Jinlong has played a pivotal role in popularizing glycine, touting it as a versatile food-grade product with uses ranging from flavor enhancement to sweetening. This marketing strategy has resonated with Gen Z, turning glycine into a humorous trend within the community. Fans have even coined the term "glycine girlies" to celebrate their affinity for the product.

Industry Growth and Memes

A report by Research and Markets forecasts substantial growth in the amino acids industry, driven by their inclusion in functional foods, supplements, and pharmaceuticals. While it remains to be seen if the glycine trend will impact this growth, the industry is poised for expansion. Even established brands like Smarties have joined in on the meme, showcasing the cultural impact of this TikTok craze.

The Future of Glycine

As the amino acids industry continues to evolve, fueled by consumer demand for wellness products, glycine's popularity on TikTok could potentially shape the sector's trajectory. With Gen Z leading the charge, the future of glycine looks bright, promising a "Hot Glycine Girl summer" as long as the TikTok momentum persists.

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By: hgetahun@insider.com (Hannah Getahun)
Title: Gen Z’s Obsession with Glycine: The TikTok Trend Taking Over
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/donghua-jinlong-glycine-meme-tiktok-2024-4
Published Date: Tue, 09 Apr 2024 23:07:02 +0000