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When Dr. Minoru Shirota (1899-1982) began investigating Lactic Acid Bacteria, living standards in Japan were substandard due to malnutrition and poor sanitation, which resulted in a range of digestive disorders and general ill health. As he continued his research, Dr. Shirota became convinced that beneficial bacteria were the key to a long, healthy life and had the potential to improve health standards. His determination led to a breakthrough in 1930, when he successfully researched a unique lactic acid bacterium with the ability to survive the acidic conditions of the stomach. This enabled the bacterium to reach the intestines alive where it helps to make a positive contribution to the balance of intestinal flora. The bacterium was named the Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain in honour of his research. |
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Dr. Shirota developed a milk-based drink to deliver the Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain to the gut and named it ‘Yakult’, creating the world’s first commercial probiotic drink.
The three principles of Dr. Shirota referred to as Shirota-ism are:
It is important to prevent diseases rather than to simply treat diseases after we fall ill.
Strengthening the intestines, which absorb nutrients from foods, leads to good health and a long life.
We want to bring good health which is something everyone wishes for, to as many people as possible for a reasonable price.
Business commenced in 1935, and Yakult was produced and marketed all over Japan by a number of independent operators. In 1955, Dr Shirota founded Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd., which consolidated the business and took control of all operations. Since then, the Yakult group has continued to expand worldwide and today embraces nearly 200 companies in more than 32 countries and territories. The parent company, Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd. is involved in the manufacture of a variety of products containing beneficial bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. |
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Today, Yakult is consumed by more than 28 million people every day!
