To celebrate our 30 year anniversary in Australia, Yakult is thrilled to announce an exciting competition with some unique prizes available to win!

To participate in the competition, decorate a Yakult bottle on the template provided. Artwork can be hand-drawn, digitally designed, or use your creativity to decorate it using a different technique.

The best 5 entries will receive a Yakult gift pack (which includes a Yakult pencil case, scrunchable bag, pen & a musical pen holder)!

Everyone is welcome to participate in this competition!

Visitors who attend a free factory tour can request a printed colouring sheet to take home, scan and email to us. Alternatively, the template can be accessed here for you to decorate digitally or print out and decorate at home!

Submissions must be emailed or scanned and emailed to info@yakult.com.au.

The competition will run from Monday July 29^th to Monday August 26^th.

Winners will be announced from 8^th September 2024. One winner will be posted on our social media each week for the 5 weeks leading up to our 30^th Anniversary celebrations in October.

Please ensure you include the participant’s email address, name, and age in your submission.

How to Enter:

• Create artwork celebrating Yakult’s 30th anniversary in Australia on the template provided online (or in person at a factory tour).
• Submit your artwork by emailing it to info@yakult.com.au.
• Include your/guardian’s email address, name, and age with your entry in the email to be eligible.

Eligibility:

• Open to all Australian residents living in Australia.
• Children must have parental consent.

Additional Rules:

• Multiple entries are allowed, but each person is only eligible for one prize.
• If a household has multiple children submitting winning designs, each child is eligible for a prize. However, a single person cannot win multiple prizes to encourage broader participation.
• Prizes can only be mailed to an Australian postal address.
• Full terms and conditions are available here.

In our first instalment, we explored the complexities when reading food names, brands and ingredient lists, unravelling the secrets behind what goes into our food.

In this second part, we turn our attention to the Nutrition Information Panel (NIP). This crucial section of the label holds the key to understanding the nutritional value of the foods we consume. Whether you’re aiming to boost your protein intake, keep an eye on sugar levels, or ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals, the NIP is your go-to guide.

Join us as we explain what each section means and how to interpret the data effectively, to ultimately empower you to make healthier choices for yourself and your loved ones.

Nutrition Information Panel (NIP)

The Nutrition Information Panel (NIP) is the table that is located on the packaging of most food and drink products. This provides us with vital information on the nutrient values within the product, although it can be confusing to understand.

A good tip is to look at the food as a whole, rather than focusing on one nutrient or ingredient as nutrients do not work in isolation. A balanced diet is full of a variety of nutrients to support digestion and feeling fuller for longer.

The NIP label always includes the servings per pack and the serving size. This can be used to understand the recommended serve size. Each nutrient value is also shown in “per serve” and “per 100g/100mL”.

TIP: When comparing similar products and brands, always read the “per 100g/100mL” column, as serving sizes may differ between products

The Nutrition Information Panel must always include:

• Energy (in Kilojoules (kJ))
• Protein
• Fat (Total and Saturated Fat)
• Carbohydrates (Total)
• Sugars
• Sodium

Figure 2: Nutrition Information Panel Label (NIP) Example

Some products may include additional information which is up to the manufacturer. Quality probiotic products, like Yakult, will include information on the quantity of the bacteria, reported until the use-by-date, displayed as Colony Forming Units (CFU). Fibre may also be stated on the food labels as it provides the benefit of assisting with digestion and helping our body feel fuller for longer.

A variety of nutrients is essential for a balanced diet, but there are important factors to consider when choosing products for you and your family.

• Energy is measured in kilojoules (kJ) or Calories (cal). This is the amount of energy that is found within a product. The energy required for each individual depends on several factors, including your age and level of physical activity.
• There are many sources of Protein including animal products such as meat, fish, dairy, eggs, as well as plant-based products such as legumes, beans, nuts, and seeds. Protein assists the body in growth and muscle maintenance.
• Fat can be found in many food sources including oil, butter, and cream to name a few. On a food label, there will always be “Total Fat” and “Saturated Fat” outlined.
• Total Fat refers to all fats including saturated, trans, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. We require fat within our diet to help our bodies absorb certain nutrients including Vitamins A, D, E and K.
• Saturated Fat however are considered fats that you want to limit. These are normally found in foods that are more processed (chips, biscuits, fried foods and baked goods) which may increase your risk of diet related diseases (e.g. diabetes, cardiovascular diseases).
• Carbohydrates are required in the body for energy and come from many sources. Sugars are an example of carbohydrates that can be in the form of natural sugars within fruits or added sugars.
• When understanding how much Sugar is within the product, it is important to understand the type of sugar. There are many common household ingredients which are examples of sugar including Raw Sugar, Honey, Golden Syrup and Dates. Additional names for sugars are often ingredients that end in ‘-tol’ or ‘-ose’.
• Sodium refers to the salt content within the product. This can be in many forms including table salt, flavour enhancer 621 (MSG) or meat/vegetable/yeast extracts. These should be limited within a balanced diet to maintain optimal health and avoid diet-related diseases (e.g. diabetes, cardiovascular diseases).

For more information regarding recommended nutrient intake amounts and serves, please visit the Australian Dietary Guidelines.

With a better understanding of the Nutrition Information Panel, you are now better equipped to make informed decisions about the foods you consume. Keep an eye out for the final part of our series, where we will dive into understanding use-by dates, storage conditions, and the importance of knowing the country of origin. These details are essential for ensuring food safety and feeling confident in making healthy decisions when shopping.

Written by Jemma Kilmartin (Nutritionist)

In today’s fast-paced world, making informed choices about what we eat has never been more crucial. With the supermarket aisles brimming with an overwhelming array of products, understanding food and nutrition labels has become a vital skill. Food provides us with essential nutrients and understanding these can help us better our health.

This three-part blog series aims to make understanding food labels easy, to help you navigate your next grocery trip with confidence and clarity.  It will delve into how to read and understand Ingredient lists, Nutrition Information, as well as outlining some key tips when comparing products to make healthy choices for us and our families.

Name and Brand

The product name and brand are among the first things noticed on a label. This helps differentiate products from competitors and similar items. Different brands may produce similar products with varying nutrient content and price points. These factors, among others, play a role in choosing which products to buy.

TIP: When selecting food products, consider both the brand name and product name as indicators of quality and consistency. Established brands often have a reputation to uphold, which can provide an added level of assurance regarding the product’s quality and safety.

Ingredients List

One of the first things on the back of food labels is the ingredients list. Ingredients are listed in descending order, where the first ingredient to appear is the one of largest weight within that product. There may also include percentages, which can help us understand how much of the product is made up of that one ingredient.

Food companies are required to highlight the allergens within a product. The ingredients list is a great first depiction to help make your decision on whether the product is suitable for your needs.

Figure 1: Example of an Ingredients List

TIP: Any ingredient that is bolded indicates an allergen. These can help consumers avoid foods   that they may be allergic or intolerant to.

Understanding food labels is key to making informed dietary choices. By examining product names and ingredient lists, you can begin to understand the basis of what a product is and contains. Stay tuned as we explore nutrition information closely, country of origin, and more in the next parts, helping you confidently navigate food labels for better health.

Written by Jemma Kilmartin (Nutritionist)

Ever strolled down the grocery aisles and noticed those interesting star labels on your favourite foods and beverages? They are more than just decorations – they are the Health Star Rating! You are probably wondering, what are those and what do they mean?  

The Health Star Rating, or HSR for short, offers a quick summary into the nutritional value of the food you consume. They are used as a guide, helping you make informed choices when choosing food and beverages. In this blog post, we will learn about the HSR.  

What is the Health Star Rating? 

The HSR rates the overall nutritional profile of food and beverages. Foods are labelled with a rating from ½ a star to 5 stars, showcased on the front of the packaged foods. It is created to be an easy-to-use system, focusing on four nutritional elements linked to chronic diseases: energy, saturated fat, sodium, and total sugars. Foods can improve their star ratings scores based on the fruit, vegetable, protein, and dietary fibre content.¹  

The purpose of the stars is to only compare products in the same category. For example, we use the starts to compare between a breakfast cereal and another, but not between yoghurt and pasta sauce.² This system allows consumers to compare similar packaged foods in a quick and easy way, helping them to make healthier choices.³ 

Figure 1. The Health Star Rating slogan.⁴ 

Why do we need the Health Star Rating?  

Have you ever thought about how the Health Star Rating could make a difference for you? Here in Australia, we’re grappling with a growing obesity rate, which ranks among the highest globally!⁵ But this isn’t just about numbers – it’s about our individual health journeys. These trends are directly connected to serious health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Your choices at the grocery store matter so much; they can truly impact what you bring home from the supermarkets, the snacks you bring to school or work, and what you pack for your kids. They can shape a healthier, happier future for yourself and your loved ones in meaningful ways. The Health Star Rating can guide you toward healthier choices that resonate throughout your daily life, making a positive impact on your overall wellbeing. 

What is the latest update?  

The HSR system was updated in October 2023. Previously confined to the front packaging of foods, this system has now evolved. Here is the exciting news: food companies are now granted the green light to proudly showcase their ratings digitally on their websites. Now with this labelling, you can discover the nutritional stars behind your favourite snacks and meals with just a few clicks. It is very quick and efficient, which is helpful especially when you are grocery shopping online! This update marks a shift towards greater transparency, empowering you to make well-informed choices effortlessly.⁶ 

A drawback of the Health Star Rating  

However, as the HSR is intended to be an easy and quick system, it focuses only on energy, saturated fat, sodium, and total sugars. Hence, it is important to note that while the HSR is effective in highlighting the nutritional elements linked to chronic health diseases, it does not acknowledge other health components present in food products, such as essential vitamins and the potential probiotic benefits they might offer.  

While the HSR provides a good snapshot, it is based on only a limited number of nutrients, to calculate the star rating. This means the HSR is not able to include other positive nutrients in the food such as vitamins, minerals and beneficial bacteria. This is important to consider as foods contain a wider variety of nutrients vital to our overall health.  

What is Yakult’s Health Star Rating? 

Yakult Original currently holds a 3-star rating, while Yakult LIGHT holds 4-stars. The LcS strain form the essence of Yakult, delivering the health benefits that Yakult offers. The LcS strain survive strong stomach acids, reaching the intestines alive. They positively alter and increase the number of beneficial bacteria to improve stool consistency.  

Ultimately, although the HSR is helpful and offers a good starting point in making healthy choices, understanding Yakult’s full benefits goes beyond these ratings. To make truly informed and health-driven choices, it’s essential to consider the wealth of research-backed health advantages alongside the HSR! 

References  

1. Health AGD of. Guide for Industry. www.healthstarrating.gov.au. Published March 2023. http://www.healthstarrating.gov.au/internet/healthstarrating/publishing.nsf/Content/E380CCCA07E1E42FCA257DA500196044/
2. Health Star Rating System. How to use Health Star Ratings. Healthstarrating.gov.au. Published 2019. http://www.healthstarrating.gov.au/internet/healthstarrating/publishing.nsf/Content/How-to-use-health-stars
3. Health Star Rating System. About Health Star Ratings. Healthstarrating.gov.au. Published 2019. http://www.healthstarrating.gov.au/internet/healthstarrating/publishing.nsf/Content/About-health-stars 
4. Australian Government. Health Star Rating. Healthstarrating.gov.au. Published 2011. http://www.healthstarrating.gov.au/internet/healthstarrating/publishing.nsf/content/home 
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The health effects of overweight and obesity . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published September 24, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/effects/index.html 
6. Guide for Industry. www.healthstarrating.gov.au. Published March 2023. http://www.healthstarrating.gov.au/internet/healthstarrating/publishing.nsf/Content/E380CCCA07E1E42FCA257DA500196044/ 

Lunar New Year is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new. It is one of the most important holidays in China, one also widely celebrated in Vietnam, South Korea, and countries with a significant overseas Chinese population. This year we usher in the Year of the wood Dragon based on the Chinese zodiac calendar.

At Yakult, we celebrated the Lunar New Year at our facility with dragon-themed event in Dandenong, Victoria. In addition to a Mandarin-guided tour of our factory, we provided a dragon handcraft activity for all child attendees while learning about the benefits of Yakult. Our mascot Yakult Man joined us for photographs and gifted everyone Yakult customised red envelopes (lucky packets) in the tradition of Lunar New Year.

We wish you a happy Lunar New Year and all the best in the Year of Dragon!

At Yakult, our fermentable milk drink contains the unique bacteria called ‘Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Shirota’. Yakult has shown to benefit for your intestinal health and digestive system including, improved bowel regularity and consistency. How do you check the health of your digestive system by looking in the toilet?

Firstly, what is a healthy bowel motion?

Let’s get real about your bathroom buddy – poop! What makes for a healthy bowel motion, you ask? Picture this: a smooth, sausage-like stool that’s easy to pass, with a light to dark brown colour. If your bowel motions are more on the watery side, you might be experiencing diarrhoea. And if it’s dry, unformed-separate nuggets and hard-to-pass side you could be going through constipation.

Why tracking your bowel motions (poop) can be helpful?

Tracking is a way for you to understand the frequency and consistency of your bowels and the healthiness of your intestines.
This is where we would like to introduce a new poop diary. It’s like having a personal diary for your digestive health. The diary is a fun and engaging way to encourage not only adults, but also children in understanding their bowel motions.

What is included?

– The seven types of bowel motions, from loose to formed to hard consistency. Aim for type 3 or 4 (healthy bowel motion)*
– Tracking boxes for a seven-day week (Sunday to Saturday) across four weeks.
– Two important questions after you have completed all four weeks:
• How many times is each stool type marked in the calendar?
• How many days have I drank Yakult?
– A colouring in page, is a fun way to tick off the completion of the weeks as they go by.

*If your bowel motions are on the loose or harder end of the spectrum, we encourage you to seek a health professional i.e. dietitian that can assist in making positive change in your diet.

We hope you enjoy the use of this diary as much as we did creating it.

When we hear the word “probiotics,” we usually think of intestinal health. But did you know that these friendly bacteria can work wonders for your skin too? In this blogpost, we will explore how probiotics can contribute to a healthier complexion!

First, what are probiotics?

According to the World Health Organisation, probiotics are “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host.” ¹ While they are renowned for their positive effects on gut health, recent research has unveiled their remarkable potential for skin health.

What is the definition of skin?

The skin is like your body’s protective shield. It’s the outer covering that wraps around you, keeping everything inside safe. It’s like a barrier that keeps out harmful things and helps to keep your body temperature just right – not too hot, not too cold, and not too wet or dry. Your skin also lets you feel things, like touch, heat, cold, and pain. Hence, it is important to take care of our skin as it plays a significant role in maintaining our overall health and wellbeing.

Figure 1. Anatomy of the skin. ²

Like our intestine, the skin harbors many, different kinds of microorganisms, including both beneficial and potentially harmful bacteria. The beneficial microorganisms in our skin microflora play a crucial role in maintaining skin health by preventing the potentially harmful bacteria from causing problems and by keeping everything in balance. However, imbalances in this microbial community can lead to skin issues such as acne, rosacea, and dermatitis. ³ Probiotics can help by supporting the beneficial bacteria and preventing the overgrowth of harmful ones, ultimately promoting skin health. ⁴

How do probiotics help the skin?

Now, let’s dive into some of the ways probiotics can help you achieve and maintain radiant skin!

1. Probiotics helps with acne

Acne is a common skin condition that affects a significant percentage of the population. It is primarily caused by the presence of P. acne bacteria, a potentially harmful bacteria, on the skin. Studies have shown that probiotics can play a significant role in managing acne when consumed or applied to the skin. ⁵ Here’s how they work:

• Inhibiting bacterial growth: Probiotics help prevent the growth of P. acne and other harmful bacteria that can lead to acne breakouts. They do this by releasing antibacterial proteins and inhibitory substances. By creating a less favourable environment for these bacteria to grow, probiotics contribute to clearer skin. ⁶
• Anti-inflammatory effects: In addition to controlling bacterial growth, probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties. They reduce redness and inflammation, helping to combat the telltale signs of acne. ⁵

2. Probiotics keeps your skin youthful

The aging process is complex and influenced by various factors, including genetics and environmental factors. However, probiotics, in both oral and topical form, ⁷ have been found to have anti-aging properties, promoting a more youthful appearance ⁸:

• Improved skin gloss: Probiotics enhance the gloss of your skin, giving it a healthier and more radiant look.
• Moisture retention: They help maintain optimal moisture levels in your skin, preventing dryness and flakiness.
• Reduction in wrinkle depth: Probiotics can reduce the depth of skin wrinkles, making your skin look more elastic and youthful.

3. Probiotics maintain the skin barrier integrity

The skin acts as a barrier to guard our bodies from various external threats, ranging from harmful microbes to environmental stresses. Maintaining its integrity is essential for healthy skin. Probiotics are known to amplify and activate skin barrier proteins, thus restoring and strengthening the skin’s natural defence and mechanism. ⁹

Yakult’s role in skin health

Yakult is a probiotic drink known for its distinct taste and its unique probiotic strain, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Shirota (LcS). This strain sets Yakult apart from other probiotic products and has been a staple in digestive health for decades. While the Yakult Original and Yakult LIGHT we have here in Australia are intended for consumption, fun fact, Yakult Japan has their own cosmetic research department and skin care range!

Figure 2. Yakult cosmetic products sold in Japan. ¹⁰

Back in the 1950s, Yakult was packaged in glass bottles. The women in the factory who cleaned these bottles for reuse had remarkably soft, beautiful hands due to their contact with the lactic acid probiotic extracts. Using the extracts from the fermentation of carefully selected lactic acid bacteria, Yakult Japan then developed the Shirota Essence, which moisturises, protects, and keep your skin healthy. While we often associate Yakult with a tasty beverage, it’s fascinating to know that Yakult Japan has a dedicated cosmetic research department, highlighting the versatility of probiotics in skincare!

Research has highlighted the benefits of probiotics for the skin. Experience the benefits of incorporating probiotic skincare into your daily routine and witness the difference it can make! Start your journey to radiant, healthy skin today!

References

1. Hill C, Guarner F, Reid G, et al. Expert consensus document. The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics consensus statement on the scope and appropriate use of the term probiotic. Nature reviews Gastroenterology & hepatology. 2014;11(8):506-514. doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2014.66
2. 4,900+ Skin Diagram Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images – iStock. www.istockphoto.com. https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/skin-diagram
3. Zhu W, Hamblin MR, Wen X. Role of the skin microbiota and intestinal microbiome in rosacea. Frontiers in Microbiology. 2023;14. doi: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1108661
4. Kober MM. Commentary on “The Effects of Probiotics on Immune Regulation, Acne and Photoaging.” Dermatology and Dermatitis. 2018;3(1):01-01. doi: https://doi.org/10.31579/2578-8949/040
5. Goodarzi A, Mozafarpoor S, Bodaghabadi M, Mohamadi M. The potential of probiotics for treating acne vulgaris: A review of literature on acne and microbiota. Dermatologic Therapy. 2020;33(3). doi: https://doi.org/10.1111/dth.13279
6. Teng Y, Huang Y, Danfeng X, Tao X, Fan Y. The Role of Probiotics in Skin Photoaging and Related Mechanisms: A Review. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology. 2022;Volume 15:2455-2464. doi: https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s388954
7. Sivamaruthi BS, Kesika P, Chaiyasut C. A REVIEW ON ANTI-AGING PROPERTIES OF PROBIOTICS. International Journal of Applied Pharmaceutics. 2018;10(5):23. doi: https://doi.org/10.22159/ijap.2018v10i5.28249
8. Jung YO, Jeong H, Cho Y, et al. Lysates of a Probiotic, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Can Improve Skin Barrier Function in a Reconstructed Human Epidermis Model. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2019;20(17):4289. doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20174289
9. COMPANY PROFILE.; 2021. https://www.yakult.co.jp/english/pdf/profile2021-2022_en.pdf

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According to Coeliac Australia, on average approximately 1 in 70 Australian’s are affected by coeliac disease and a large proportion of Australians remain undiagnosed at 80%. ¹ Coeliac disease is not an allergy, instead it is an autoimmune disorder. ² Affected individuals have an adverse reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and oats products, and their derivatives. ³ Through the release of autoantibodies, the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages its own lining of the small intestine. ⁴ This damage can lead to various gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal symptoms including bowel irregularity, iron deficiency anaemia, osteoporosis and weight loss. ³ Symptoms and the severity experienced are individualised, which can make diagnosis difficult.

Who and how does someone get coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease does not discriminate between male or female and can be developed at any age. If individuals carry a genetic predisposition of two particular genes, they have an increase chance of developing coeliac disease.

If you experience symptoms in line with coeliac disease, seek out medical evaluation and diagnosis from a health professional; a general practitioner and a gastroenterologist. Diagnosis may include a blood test and a biopsy through a gastroscopy. ³ Try to avoid self-diagnosis as this may lead to unnecessary food restrictions.

Four tips for management:

1. A strict gluten free diet: Coeliac disease requires lifelong management, an accredited practising dietitian will be a helpful resource in providing advice and guidance on a gluten free diet whilst minimising complications.
2. Cross contamination: Have specific gluten free kitchen equipment e.g. chopping knives and boards at home. Call ahead to restaurants and cafes to alert them of your dietary requirement to limit cross contamination with gluten containing foods.
3. Food labelling:
   • Gluten free certified products have no gluten detected and will be listed on the packaging.
   • Be careful of wheat free products as they may still contain gluten.
4. Aim for a well-balanced, healthy eating diet and lifestyle.

Yakult is gluten free. Probiotics like Yakult have been shown to assist in strengthening the gut wall, supportive of a gluten free diet and in reducing digestive symptoms (such as bloating, diarrhoea) often experienced with coeliac disease.

References:

1. Coeliac Australia. Coeliac Disease. Coeliac.org.au. Published 2021. https://www.coeliac.org.au/s/coeliac-disease
2. Allergy and intolerance. NSW Food Authority. https://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/consumer/life-events-and-food/allergy-and-intolerance
3. Better Health Channel. Coeliac disease and gluten sensitivity. Vic.gov.au. Published 2012. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/coeliac-disease-and-gluten-sensitivity
4. Yu X, Uhde M, Green P, Alaedini A. Autoantibodies in the Extraintestinal Manifestations of Celiac Disease. Nutrients. 2018;10(8):1123. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10081123