The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

*Yakult USA Inc, the North American business of probiotics pioneer, Yakult Honsha Co Ltd, has announced it will broadcast an educational segment entitled 'Friendly bacteria improve health' via the National Medical Report on US public television. * The four-minute educational programme informs viewers of the benefits of probiotic bacteria, and provides a historical background and testimony from scientists in the field.

The probiotic drink Yakult was launched in the US last year on the back of a major campaign aiming to convey the benefits of 'friendly bacteria', as recent surveys showed a lack of awareness of the bacteria.

The current public television broadcast is intended to reach 40 million households and help educate Americans who may not know about the health benefits of probiotics.

The National Medical Report segment will air for the duration of next year on more than 150 public television stations in 200 regions across the US.

In addition, more than 200 cities abroad will have the opportunity to watch Yakult’s special segment via Voice of America/WorldNet networks in 2009, potentially reaching an additional 96 million viewers.