Shirota strain in Yakult probiotics drink received new functional claim to support immune responses.
Shah Alam (September) – Yakult Malaysia today announced an important milestone in its scientific research and establishment journey in Malaysia following the approval of a new functional claim recognizing the role of the Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Shirota strain (formally known as Lactobacillus casei Shirota strain or better known as Shirota strain) in supporting immune responses. The newly approved claim, ‘Support Immune Responses’, further strengthens the scientific value of the Shirota strain and complements Yakult’s established focus on promoting gut function through daily consumption of probiotics.
For more than 90 years, the Shirota strain has been at the heart of Yakult’s scientific research and product development. Selected by Dr. Minoru Shirota for its ability to survive passage through the digestive system and reach the intestines alive, the Shirota strain has been extensively studied for its role in maintaining intestinal function. The gut plays an important role in the body’s overall health and is closely connected to immune function. With the newly approved claim, Yakult Malaysia aims to further educate consumers on the relationship between gut health and the body’s natural immune response.
In response to this announcement, Mr. Hiroki Yanase, Managing Director of Yakult Malaysia, said, “We are very pleased to receive approval for the new ‘Support Immune Responses’ functional claim for the Shirota strain. This approval allows us to further communicate the role of the Shirota strain in supporting immune response and help consumers better understand that the benefits of our probiotics extend beyond gut health and digestion. We hope this new functional claim will encourage more Malaysians to learn about the science behind probiotics and make informed choices as part of their daily health routine.”
Yakult Malaysia continues to encourage consumers to incorporate probiotics into a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Each bottle of Yakult contains more than 30 billion live Shirota strain, supporting the company’s long-standing commitment to maintaining gut health through daily probiotic intake.
In Malaysia, Yakult is manufactured at its facility in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan and is available in Yakult Ace and Yakult Ace Light, both of which are Halal-certified by JAKIM. Visit www.yakult.com.my for more information about Yakult products and services.



