Meiji to launch yogurt products for blood sugar control

JAPAN – Meiji, a dairy manufacturer, has announced its plan to launch a new line of functional yoghurt products designed to address blood sugar management.

This product introduction marks a significant advancement in the functional food sector, as it features MI-2 lactic acid bacteria, which have been linked to lowering elevated haemoglobin A1c levels in healthy individuals.

The yogurt products come in convenient 112g portions and are positioned as a daily dietary supplement that can be easily incorporated into consumers’ routines without the concern of added sugars.

Each serving retails at 161 yen (approx. $1.05), making them accessible to a broad audience.

Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a critical biomarker for blood sugar control, providing insights into average blood glucose levels over a period of one to two months.

The launch of these products responds to an increasing consumer focus on health and wellness, particularly in the areas of diabetes management and overall metabolic health.

As the prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetic conditions rises globally, Meiji aims to capture a segment of health-conscious consumers seeking functional foods that contribute to better health outcomes.

Research supporting the efficacy of MI-2 lactic acid bacteria suggests its potential role in managing HbA1c levels among individuals with high-normal blood glucose levels.

The company emphasises that while the products are designed to support blood sugar control, they are not classified as medicines and have not undergone government evaluation for their health claims.

Meiji introduces functional milk beverage to enhance vision, sleep quality

Recently, the company unveiled a milk beverage, Meiji Eye and Sleep W, set to support eye accommodation and enhance sleep quality through its innovative formulation.

According to the company, the product contains 7.5mg of crocetin, a functional ingredient derived from gardenia fruit and saffron, renowned for its ability to promote eye health and improve sleep patterns.

Targeting individuals experiencing vision-related issues and sleep disturbances, Meiji noted that the new product is designed to alleviate the strain induced by prolonged screen time and enhance the depth of sleep.

Additionally, the firm noted that the beverage boasts a fat-free composition, containing less than 0.5mg of fat per 100ml, in accordance with food labeling standards.

With the launch of Meiji Eye and Sleep W Support, the company aims to address prevalent health concerns among Japanese consumers, particularly the young to middle-aged population.

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