Yakult Gold Makes Middle East Debut

Yakult Middle East has unveiled a new ‘gold’ version of its iconic probiotic drink, which will go on sale in selected retailers across the UAE today.

Called Yakult Gold, each bottle of this premium fermented milk drink contains 30 Billion Lactobacillus Casei strain Shirota (approx. 4 times the number of good bacteria found in Yakult Original & Light) and is packed with added nutrients such as Vitamin D, B12, B6, Niacin and Calcium.

This active bacteria unique to Yakult and named in honor of Dr. Minoru Shirota, who first cultured this strain in 1930, is able to withstand strong gastric acids and reach the intestines alive.

“Around the world, years of research support the multiple health benefits of probiotics, including the suppression of harmful bacteria in the intestines, improved digestive function, strong immunity and maintenance of overall health,” said Koji Tanaka, Managing Director, Yakult Middle East.

Yakult remains a frontrunner in the probiotic category globally, with 40+ million bottles of Yakult consumed daily in 40 countries and regions across the world.

“The launch of Yakult Gold here in the region underscores our commitment to ensuring the health and wellbeing of our broad consumer base with a tried and tested product that helps improve digestion and build immunity when consumed regularly. The health benefits of Yakult are tangible and this new addition to our product portfolio combined with a robust plan of consumer engagement initiatives at the ground-level, are certain to ensure that Yakult continues to remain at the forefront of the functional food revolution.”

Yakult Gold will be available across all major supermarkets and hypermarkets across the UAE with a pack of 5 retailing for about AED 20.

“The beauty of Yakult Gold is that it’s beneficial for all. The youth and elderly will appreciate the immunity boost and even pregnant women can enjoy a healthier pregnancy with a shot of Yakult Gold. Not to mention the fact that people of all ages can enjoy the added boost of Vitamin D, B6, B12, Niacin and Calcium,” said Eiji Amano: Director of Sales & Marketing, Yakult Middle East.

“We anticipate that this new addition to the portfolio will be incredibly well-received especially bearing in mind the fact that Vitamin D deficiency is a common concern in the Middle East. By adding a bottle of Yakult Gold to one’s daily routine one can improve overall health with the added nutrients whilst building immunity,” he concluded.

Lama Alnaeli, a certified Health and wellbeing consultant and clinical dietician based in Dubai was also at the launch to share her insight and expertise. According to her, “Overall health and diseases have been linked to balance or imbalance in the growth of bacteria in the digestive system as studies have shown for the past few years. Good bacteria stimulate healthy and balance of gut microorganisms, which promotes a wide range of health benefits. Research has been promising for these friendly critters. Some of their benefits are universal no matter of age or gender: supporting gut health, healthy skin, weight management and well-being.”

She also reiterated the positive and significant effect a product like Yakult can have.

“Studies show that low level of good bacteria and high level of bad bacteria will be harmful to the health. Therefore, it is advisable to take probiotic to improve wellness. We should always keep in mind that prevention is better than cure. So let us build wellness rather than treat disease.”