One Drink, Two Names: The Calpis and Calpico Identity
For many fans of Japanese cuisine and culture, the creamy, tangy taste of Calpis is a familiar treat. However, for those in North America, the same beloved drink is known as Calpico. This difference is not a case of recipe variation, but rather a marketing decision based purely on language. The single, crucial difference between Calpis and Calpico is the name, a strategic change made by the manufacturer, Asahi, to prevent a phonetic misunderstanding in English-speaking regions. This article delves into the origins of this popular beverage, the reasoning behind the dual naming, and explores the delicious similarities that unite fans of both brands.
The Story Behind the Name
The story of Calpis begins with its founder, Kaiun Mishima, who traveled to Inner Mongolia in 1908. There, he experienced a traditional fermented milk drink that restored his health after a long journey. Inspired by its restorative properties, Mishima returned to Japan and spent years developing a similar product. The result was Calpis, released on July 7, 1919.
He derived the name from a combination of words. The 'Cal' comes from calcium, an important nutrient lacking in the Japanese diet at the time, which he added to the formula. The 'pis' comes from the Sanskrit word 'sarpis,' referring to one of the five tastes in Buddhist teachings and symbolizing clarified butter or ghee. The combination was intended to highlight the drink's healthy ingredients and flavorful heritage.
However, when the company sought to expand into English-speaking markets, they faced an unforeseen challenge. The name 'Calpis,' when pronounced, sounded unpleasantly similar to "cow piss" to American consumers. To ensure a more appealing brand image and avoid misinterpretation, the name was changed to Calpico for North American distribution.
A Tale of Two Products: Concentrates and Ready-to-Drink
While the names are different, the products are essentially identical in flavor profile and production method. In Japan, Calpis is famously sold as a concentrate, which consumers mix with water or milk to their preferred strength. This concentrated form requires no refrigeration before opening, a feature that contributed to its early popularity. The original blue and white polka dot design was inspired by the Milky Way in celebration of the Tanabata festival, the drink's release date.
In contrast, Calpico products most often found in the U.S. and other English markets are the pre-diluted, ready-to-drink versions, labeled as 'Calpico Water'. These are sold in cans, bottles, and cartons, making them convenient for on-the-go consumption. Both Calpis and Calpico are also available in carbonated ('Calpis Soda'/'Calpico Soda') and flavored variations, including popular options like strawberry, lychee, and mango.
A Shared Taste for All
Regardless of the name on the bottle, the signature taste of this cultured milk drink remains the same. It is a sweet, tangy, and slightly milky flavor, often compared to a lighter, more refined version of yogurt or Yakult. The flavor is derived from a two-stage fermentation process using lactic acid bacteria and yeast. This creates a drink that is both refreshing and comforting. The versatility of the concentrate is also a point of commonality, allowing users to create custom cocktails, desserts, and smoothies.
Calpis vs. Calpico Comparison Table
| Feature | Calpis | Calpico |
|---|---|---|
| Market | Primarily Japan | North America and other English-speaking regions |
| Naming Reason | Blend of 'Calcium' and Sanskrit word 'sarpis' | A marketing change to avoid negative English associations |
| Typical Form | Concentrate (diluted by consumer) | Ready-to-drink ('Calpico Water') |
| Taste Profile | Sweet, tangy, yogurt-like | Sweet, tangy, yogurt-like |
| Flavored Versions | Available in flavors like grape, peach, mango | Available in flavors like strawberry, lychee, mango |
The Enduring Popularity of a Cultured Classic
Despite the different names, the core product remains a beloved staple for its unique flavor and history. Whether you encounter it as Calpis in Japan or Calpico abroad, you are enjoying the same cultured, fermented milk drink with a rich heritage. The brand's ability to adapt its identity for different markets while preserving the product's essence is a testament to its enduring appeal. So next time you see that cloudy white beverage, remember that its name simply depends on where you are in the world, not on what is inside.
For more information on the history and products, visit the Asahi Beverages corporate site: History of CALPICO® Concentrate.
Conclusion
In summary, the distinction between Calpis and Calpico is merely a matter of geography and marketing strategy. Both are the same cultured milk beverage, produced by Asahi, with a signature sweet and tangy flavor created through a unique fermentation process. The name 'Calpico' was adopted for English-speaking markets to avoid the unfortunate and off-putting phonetic similarity to 'cow piss'. The primary difference a consumer might notice is the product's form—often a concentrate in Japan and pre-diluted overseas—but the fundamental taste and character are identical. This classic Japanese drink continues to delight fans worldwide under its two distinct names.
