4 days ago
Gut health revolution: Yakult's 90-year legacy in probiotic innovation
As the world comes together to celebrate World Milk Day, it's an opportune moment to highlight the role of functional dairy beverages in advancing everyday wellness. Among the most trusted names globally in this space is Yakult, a pioneering probiotic drink with a remarkable 90-year legacy rooted in scientific innovation and public health.
Yakult was first developed in 1935 by Dr Minoru Shirota, a Japanese microbiologist who was driven by a simple yet powerful belief: that health begins in the gut. He succeeded in cultivating a unique strain of probiotics, Lactobacillus Casei Strain Shirota, which could reach the intestines alive and promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria. With this scientific breakthrough, he laid the foundation for Yakult, now enjoyed by 40 millions of people every day in more than 40 countries and regions.
While traditional dairy products are celebrated for their calcium and protein content, Yakult brings an added value — a concentrated source of live probiotics in a small 80ml fermented skim milk bottle. These probiotics play a vital role in supporting digestion, enhancing immunity, and contributing to overall well-being — making Yakult a unique and essential addition to the modern dairy conversation.
The legacy of Yakult extends beyond its probiotic content. Dr Shirota's vision was to make health accessible to everyone, and this philosophy continues to drive the company today. The iconic small bottle, recognisable worldwide, is a symbol of this commitment — a concentrated dose of beneficial bacteria designed for daily consumption. In 2025, Yakult proudly celebrates its 90th anniversary, marking nearly a century of commitment to science, education, and preventive health. This milestone reflects not only the success of a global brand but also the enduring relevance of its founding philosophy:
'A healthy intestine leads to a long life.'
Gut health importance
Over the decades, Yakult has invested heavily in research and public outreach, collaborating with health professionals, schools, and communities to spread awareness about the importance of gut health. In the Middle East, Yakult is not only expanding its market presence but also making a meaningful impact through educational outreach. One such initiative is the 'TeaTalks' programme — an engaging wellness series launched across the UAE aimed at raising awareness about gut health, probiotics, and preventive nutrition, particularly among women. Held in welcoming cafés and wellness spaces, TeaTalks seamlessly blend scientific knowledge with everyday lifestyle choices. These interactive sessions provide participants with the opportunity to connect directly with nutrition experts, gaining practical insights into how Yakult can play a role in supporting daily health and well-being.
These sessions have also created a platform for meaningful dialogue on digestion, immunity, and wellness, reinforcing Yakult's commitment to community engagement and awareness, beyond just being a product on the shelf.
On this World Milk Day, Yakult reminds us that dairy products can do more than nourish — they can heal, protect, and enhance quality of life. As global health trends shift toward prevention and holistic well-being, functional dairy beverages like Yakult are leading the way.
