Yakult Original

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Increases Friendly Bacteria in the Gut

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Scientific Expertise

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Great Taste

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Scientifically Proven to Reach the Gut Alive

Yakult Original is a delicious, fermented skimmed milk drink developed over 85 years ago. Every little bottle is packed full of science – 20 billion L. casei Shirota bacteria in fact. These clever and unique friendly bacteria are scientifically proven to reach the gut alive and increase the bacteria in the gut*. It’s no wonder that millions of people around the world enjoy a Yakult Original as part of their daily routine. Bottoms up!

Yakult Original bottle with a milk splash

Great Flavour

Trust us, your taste buds will enjoy Yakult Original as much as your gut. It’s a unique blend of silky citrus and vanilla flavours. Try it, and soon every day will start with a little hit of happy from Yakult Original.

Happiness is reaching the gut alive!

How does drinking Yakult increase bacteria in the gut?

Drinking Yakult doesn’t just add billions of these unique L. casei Shirota bacteria to the gut; it boosts the growth of other bacteria too!* Get sipping and let the gut party begin!

What is L. casei Shirota bacteria?

On a mission for over 85 years

In 1935,  L. casei Shirota bacteria were first used to create our iconic milk drink. Fast forward 85 years and these unique bacteria are still on their joyful mission to reach the gut alive. Millions of people around the world enjoy a little bottle of Yakult every single day.

How do we make Yakult?

With lots of love and care. Did you know that it takes nearly a week of fermentation to make a bottle of Yakult?

What’s in a bottle?

Yakult Original, fermented skimmed milk drink with L. casei Shirota bacteria. Ingredients: water, skimmed milk (reconstituted), glucose-fructose syrup, sugar, maltodextrin, flavourings. Contains L. casei Shirota. Yakult contains 30 billion L. casei Shirota per 100ml when refrigerated (20 billion per bottle).

per bottle
per 100ml
182 kJ / 43 kcal
0 g
0 g
10.0 g
8.8 g
0.8 g
0.03 g

*Yakult’s bacteria L. casei Shirota, increase both the lactobacilli and bifidobacterial in the gut

You're never far from a little hit of happy

Available nationwide in Ireland:

Common Questions

Where can I buy Yakult?

You can find Yakult (usually in the yoghurt aisle) in all major supermarkets. In the UK, try your local Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Waitrose, Ocado or local independent supermarket. You can also have Yakult delivered straight to your door by your milkman! Ireland: Yakult is available nationwide in Tesco, Dunnes, and Super Valu, The Joyce Shops, Galway and Nolans Vernon Avenue in Dublin.

What is the difference between Yakult Original, Yakult Balance and Yakult Plus?

Yakult Original (red top), Yakult Balance (blue top) and Yakult Plus (green top). They all contain the same number of our unique bacteria; however, Yakult Balance is enriched with vitamins D & E, Yakult Plus is rich in vitamin C and contains fibre - both contain less sugar and fewer calories.

How often should I drink Yakult?

We suggest one bottle a day, however it's perfectly ok to drink more than one a day. Many people have theirs at breakfast time as part of their daily routine, but it's really up to you!

Is Yakult suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Yakult is suitable for vegetarians.

Is Yakult suitable for people who are allergic to milk?

No, Yakult contains skimmed milk and therefore is not suitable for those with milk allergies or intolorances.

Is Yakult suitable for people who are lactose-intolerant?

Yakult contains very little lactose (approximately 1g per bottle), so may be suitable for some lactose-intolerant individuals. You should ask your GP or healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Is Yakult suitable for people who are gluten intolerant?

Yes, Yakult Original, Yakult Balance and Yakult Plus are all gluten-free.

What's in a bottle of Yakult original?

Yakult Original contains: water, skimmed milk (reconstituted), glucose-fructose syrup, sugar, maltodextrin, flavourings and L. casei Shirota.  

Does Yakult contain any artificial colourings?

No. Yakult's colouring comes from the natural caramelisation of milk which occurs when it's heated during the production process.

Does Yakult contain any sweeteners or flavourings?

Yakult Original doesn't contain any sweeteners. Yakult Balance and Yakult Plus contains maltitol syrup and steviol glycosides, extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant. The flavours used in Yakult Original, Yakult Balance and Yakult Plus are citrus and vanilla. Yakult Balance and Yakult Plus also contains a yoghurt flavouring.

How many calories are there in Yakult Original, Yakult Balance and Yakult Plus?

Yakult Original contains 43kcals per serving, Yakult Balance contains 27kcals per serving and Yakult Plus contains 30kcals per serving.