Yakult launches lo-cal probiotic beverage

Posted by Jenni Spinner, Senior Editor -- Packaging Digest

 

Yakult U.S.A. Inc. announces introduction of the probiotic drink Yakult Light to the U.S. market. Yakult Light will contain active probiotic bacteria called Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota, the strain exclusive to the Yakult brand. Yakult Light will be made with natural sweeteners and natural flavors, and will contain no preservatives, no gluten, and no high fructose corn syrup. With one-third fewer calories than regular Yakult, Yakult Light will have 30 calories per bottle, compared to 50 calories per bottle in regular Yakult. Furthermore, Yakult Light will have almost two-thirds less sugar than regular Yakult. Yakult Light will have the same great citrus taste as regular Yakult, but will be sweetened with the natural sweetener Reb A, extracted from the stevia leaf, and a small amount of sugar.

 

Yakult U.S.A. Inc. has recently launched new packaging for its regular Yakult probiotic drink, which is red and white. Yakult Light will be contrasted in blue and white packaging, with the red Yakult logo.

 

Yakult Light can be found on store shelves as early as mid-July, in the areas where regular Yakult is found. This includes most chain grocery stores in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and Utah, and Asian and Hispanic independent markets in these and several other states.

 

The active bacteria unique to Yakult is called Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota, named in honor of Dr. Minoru Shirota, who first cultured this strain in 1930. Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota is able to withstand strong gastric acids and reach the intestines alive. Around the world, years of research support the various health benefits of probiotics, including the suppression of harmful bacteria in the intestines, improved digestive function, and maintenance of overall health.

 

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