The 2021 NutraIngredients-Asia Awards recently crowned Kirin Holdings Company Limited’s iMUSE brand as the Product of the Year for Immune Support, amidst a competitive field of new immune health products launched in 2020. This prestigious accolade recognizes iMUSE for its scientifically substantiated and successful health claims, making it a trailblazer in the realm of immune support products.
iMUSE, the brand of the finished product, is a creation of Kirin group companies. IMMUSE™, known internationally, is the brand name of LC-Plasma, the dietary supplement and food ingredient that has garnered widespread acclaim for its immune-boosting properties. The award, presented by William Reed Business Media (WRBM), a renowned publisher in the food, beverage, and nutrition industries, expanded this year to include the Product of the Year for Immune Support category, with iMUSE emerging as the inaugural winner.
The recognition bestowed upon iMUSE at the NutraIngredients-Asia Awards is a testament to its scientific research validating its effects on the immune system, its success in achieving labeled health claims, and its impressive commercial growth. The judges commended the product for its commitment to scientific rigor, health claim substantiation, and market expansion.
One of the standout features of iMUSE is its status as Japan’s first Food with Functional Claims (FFCs) product for immunity, necessitating rigorous scientific substantiation of its immune health claims. The primary ingredient in iMUSE products, Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma (LC-Plasma), was discovered and cultivated by Kirin Holdings over a decade ago for its unique mechanism of action that delivers comprehensive immune support at the cellular level. Backed by 29 published studies, including 14 human clinical trials, LC-Plasma continues to undergo further research to enhance its efficacy.
Dr. Daisuke Fujiwara, General Manager of the Health Science Department at Kirin Holdings, expressed his pride in the recognition received for LC-Plasma, emphasizing the years of dedicated research that culminated in this achievement. He reiterated the company’s commitment to advancing research in the field of immune health to benefit a broader population.
In terms of commercial growth, iMUSE has made significant strides in the Japanese health market since its introduction in 2012, with a diverse range of products featuring LC-Plasma. The recent launch of new products in 2021 has expanded the lineup to 22 offerings, developed in collaboration with external partners in Japan. Furthermore, international distribution through KYOWA HAKKO BIO CO., LTD has enabled the entry of IMMUSE™ into the U.S. market in 2020, followed by a European launch in the subsequent year.
As consumers seek reliable and effective immune support solutions, products like iMUSE stand out for their commitment to scientific excellence, health claim substantiation, and market accessibility. With a focus on continuous research and innovation, Kirin Holdings is poised to make a lasting impact on global health and wellness through its groundbreaking immune health offerings.