In an era where preventive healthcare is gaining precedence, consumers worldwide are increasingly turning to innovative products to bolster their immune systems. Recognizing this shift, Morinaga Milk Industry Co., Ltd. has emerged as a frontrunner in the development of immunity products, leveraging the potential of postbiotics to meet growing demand.

Postbiotics, as defined by the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP), are preparations of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confer health benefits on the host. These components have garnered attention for their ability to modulate the immune system, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, and enhance gut health.

Among the notable postbiotic ingredients is LAC-Shield™, developed by Morinaga Milk. What sets LAC-Shield™ apart is its unique ability to remain biologically active despite being heat-killed. This postbiotic ingredient stimulates the production of interleukin-12 (IL-12), a vital cytokine that activates both innate and adaptive immunity upon reaching the small intestine.

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of LAC-Shield™ in reducing the duration and severity of cold symptoms in adults, as well as supporting immune responsiveness to vaccinations, particularly in elderly individuals. These findings underscore the potential of LAC-Shield™ in fortifying immune health, especially among populations vulnerable to weakened immunity.

The versatility of LAC-Shield™ extends beyond its health benefits. Its robust stability, even under harsh manufacturing conditions, makes it suitable for a wide range of applications in food and beverage products. With a long shelf life and resistance to gastrointestinal transit, LAC-Shield™ opens avenues for innovation in the functional food sector.

Morinaga Milk envisions a future where LAC-Shield™ plays a pivotal role in creating immunity products that cater to diverse consumer preferences. Already, more than 500 companies in Japan have incorporated LAC-Shield™ into over 1,000 food and beverage products, signaling its widespread adoption within the industry.

Despite regulatory hurdles, Morinaga Milk remains committed to expanding the reach of LAC-Shield™ globally. The postbiotic ingredient is approved for use in key markets such as the US, EU, South Korea, China, and select countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Efforts to navigate regulatory frameworks in additional markets are underway, reflecting Morinaga Milk's dedication to advancing public health through scientific innovation.

In a statement, Saki Yamashita, Assistant Manager of International B2B Business Department at Morinaga Milk, expressed optimism about the role of LAC-Shield™ in driving innovation in the immunity products market. "The postbiotic LAC-Shield™ offers manufacturers a promising avenue for creating innovative immunity products," Yamashita remarked. "Morinaga Milk hopes to keep contributing to people's well-being through research."