Japan’s First-Ever Foods with Functional Claims for Immune System Support
In a groundbreaking collaboration with Kirin Beverages, Kirin Holdings introduced a series of innovative food products in 2021 that are designed to support the immune system. These products contain the unique IMMUSE™ Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma (LC-Plasma) and have received the prestigious Foods with Function Claims status from Japan’s Consumer Affairs Agency (CAA).
The Only Functional Food Products Labeled for Immune Support
The concept of “Foods with Functional Claims” was established by the CAA in 2015 to provide consumers with more transparent information about the health benefits of products. To receive this designation, products must undergo rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure that their health claims are accurate and trustworthy.
Functional foods are products that go beyond basic nutrition by incorporating additional ingredients that offer specific health benefits. Japan has been a pioneer in the development of functional foods, and the country’s regulatory approval process is considered one of the most advanced in the world.
Kirin’s LC-Plasma, also known as IMMUSE™ in other markets, is backed by 29 published studies, including 14 human trials. This unique strain of lactic acid bacteria has been clinically proven to support the immune system by activating plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), which play a crucial role in the body’s defense system.
About the Functional Foods Ingredient LC-Plasma
LC-Plasma is a special strain of lactic acid bacteria that is not only used in the fermentation of dairy products like cheese and yogurt but has also been shown to stimulate pDCs, a rare subset of immune cells. By activating these cells, LC-Plasma helps to strengthen the immune response and support overall immune function.
Kirin Holdings, in collaboration with Koiwai Dairy and Kyowa Hakko Bio, has developed a range of products containing LC-Plasma to make it easier for consumers to incorporate immune-supporting ingredients into their daily diets. These products include yogurts, beverages, and chewable tablets, all of which are labeled with the “Foods with Functional Claims for Immune Health” designation.
The availability of products containing IMMUSE™ has expanded beyond Japan and into the U.S. and European markets, where it is quickly gaining popularity as a key ingredient in immune health formulations. Consumers can now easily find a variety of products containing IMMUSE™ that are designed to support immune function and overall well-being.
In conclusion, Japan’s first-ever foods with functional claims for immune system support represent a significant milestone in the development of products that go beyond basic nutrition to provide targeted health benefits. With the introduction of LC-Plasma and IMMUSE™-based products, consumers now have access to innovative solutions for supporting their immune health and overall wellness.