Meiji expands with first winter-exclusive Dear Milk ice cream

JAPAN – Meiji has announced the launch of the first winter-season product in its Meiji Dear Milk line up with the debut of Meiji Dear Milk Tokuno, rolling out nationwide on 1 December.

The new product builds on the brand’s positioning as Japan’s first ice cream made solely from dairy ingredients, while dialling up richness to colder weather consumption.

The limited-edition winter variant features an elevated milk fat content of 19.5% compared with 17% in the core product.

The formula incorporates fresh cream sourced from Hokkaido’s Tokachi region, an area known for high-quality dairy production, resulting in a deeper, fuller milk flavour and a lingering, indulgent finish.

The Dear Milk series is designed to highlight the inherent sweetness, aroma, and richness of milk.

Using its proprietary Tokachi condensed milk, Meiji concentrates its ingredients using the freezing-point concentration method – a technique that intensifies milk’s natural character without relying on non-dairy additives.

Positioned as a ‘winter ice cream’ that complements seasonal preferences for richer flavours, Meiji Dear Milk Tokuno aims to expand usage occasions during the colder months when ice cream consumption typically decreases.

Meiji launches Bulgaria Drinkable Yoghurt Salt Lemon

Additionally, the company launched new Bulgaria Drinkable Yoghurt Salt Lemon to meet the growing consumer demand for refreshing and hydrating drink options.

According to the company, the new product, inspired by Bulgaria’s traditional yoghurt beverage ‘Ayran, is designed to offer a unique combination of flavour and functionality.

It is particularly effective at absorbing moisture, outperforming typical dairy drinks like milk, positioning the product as an ideal choice for consumers looking for hydration alternatives, especially in warmer weather.

The milk protein in the yogurt retains moisture more effectively than regular sports drinks, providing a longer-lasting hydration solution. With a salted lemon flavour, the drink combines refreshing sweetness with a hint of saltiness, reminiscent of traditional Bulgarian consumption practices.

Meiji’s new offering taps into the cultural heritage of yoghurt consumption in Bulgaria, where Ayran is commonly enjoyed as a refreshing accompaniment to meals.

By incorporating this cultural element, Meiji aims to attract health-conscious consumers who appreciate both authenticity and innovation in food products.

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