The Origins of a Probiotic Pioneer
In the 1920s, microbiologist Dr. Minoru Shirota aimed to prevent infectious diseases through preventive medicine. At Kyoto Imperial University in 1930, he isolated and cultured a unique lactic acid bacteria strain that could survive the digestive tract and reach the intestines alive. This strain was named Lactobacillus casei Shirota, later reclassified as Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS). To make this health benefit widely accessible, Dr. Shirota and his team developed a fermented milk drink. The first bottles of this product, named Yakult (derived from the Esperanto word for yogurt, jahurto), were sold in Japan in 1935, establishing the first commercial probiotic beverage. Yakult Honsha was founded in 1955 to manage its growth.
Key Ingredients and Unique Fermentation
The original Yakult's formula is simple, containing water, skimmed milk powder, glucose, and sugar. Its distinction comes from the controlled fermentation process.
The Unique Yakult Production Process
- Preparation: Skim milk powder is mixed with hot water.
- Sterilization: The mixture is heated to remove unwanted bacteria, then cooled.
- Inoculation: The Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota is added.
- Fermentation: The inoculated mixture ferments for several days, allowing the bacteria to grow.
- Sweetening and Bottling: Syrup is added for the signature sweet and tangy flavor, balancing the fermentation's sourness. The drink is then bottled.
The Science Behind the Shirota Strain
The LcS strain's ability to survive digestion and reach the intestines alive is crucial for its effectiveness in promoting a healthier gut.
Benefits of the LcS Strain
- Increases Good Bacteria: It boosts beneficial bacteria like lactobacilli and bifidobacteria in the gut.
- Reduces Harmful Bacteria: It helps suppress the growth of harmful bacteria.
- Aids Digestion: It can improve the intestinal environment, potentially regulating bowel movements.
- Supports Immunity: A healthy gut environment, supported by LcS, can contribute to a stronger immune system.
- Relieves Stress-related Symptoms: Some studies suggest daily LcS consumption may help alleviate stress-related abdominal issues.
The Original Yakult vs. Modern Varieties
While different Yakult variations exist globally to meet diverse needs, the LcS strain is consistently present in core products.
| Feature | Yakult Original | Yakult Light / Balance |
|---|---|---|
| Probiotic Strain | Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS) | Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota (LcS) |
| Live Bacteria Count | Same as Yakult Light/Balance (e.g., 6.5+ billion CFU per bottle) | Same as Yakult Original (e.g., 6.5+ billion CFU per bottle) |
| Sugar Content | Higher sugar content | Reduced sugar content (up to 75% less in some regions) |
| Sweeteners | Sugar, glucose, glucose-fructose syrup | Sugar, stevia extract (Reb A) or maltitol syrup |
| Calories | Higher calorie count (around 50-70 kcal/bottle depending on region) | Lower calorie count (around 25 kcal/bottle) |
| Vitamins | None added | Fortified with vitamins D and E in some markets |
| Best for... | Consumers who prefer the original taste and don't mind the sugar content. | Health-conscious consumers, diabetics (consult a doctor), or those monitoring calorie intake. |
The Legacy of the Original Yakult
Dr. Shirota's vision of preventive medicine through probiotics evolved into the global brand Yakult, known for its distinct taste and health benefits. The original Yakult's journey highlights the founder's goal and the science behind its probiotic strain. The original formula remains fundamental to the brand's success, even with modern variants like Yakult Light.
The legacy continues with ongoing research at the Yakult Central Institute for Microbiological Research. Dr. Shirota's philosophy, “a healthy intestinal tract leads to a long life,” still guides the company. The small bottle symbolizes the health benefits of a daily probiotic boost, as conceived nearly a century ago. More details on the company's history can be found on the official Yakult History page.
