Coca-Cola Japan and Kirin to develop health drinks – Nikkei Asia

Coca-Cola Japan is partnering with Kirin Holdings to develop a functional beverage that contains live bacteria, according to Nikkei Asia. 

Kirin’s LC-Plasma – or Lactococcus lactis strain plasma – is a patented bacteria that is currently used in the company’s health drinks. The Japanese beverage company claims that the bacteria helps to boost immunity in healthy consumers. 

Coca-Cola plans to use LC-Plasma in three of its brands, Georgia, Irohasu and Minute Maid. 

Kirin was given approval by Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency in 2020 to advertise its healthy beverage products that contain the strain.

The company has already sold its ingredient to Taisho Pharmaceutical Holdings, as well as companies such as Morinaga and Kanro.