Thursday, August 03, 2006

Yakult Probiotic Beverage Review


Not really an Asian snack so much as an everywhere in the world BUT the United States snack, Yakult is a probiotic drink that's especially popular throughout Asia, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.

  • Texture: A very nice palate cleansing tartness, not creamy or filmy like other milk products. Rating: 10 out of 10.

  • Flavor: Nice and tart with a fragrant flavor that tastes like a tart creamsicle. Rating: 8 out of 10.

  • Packaging: These come in little plastic 'milk bottles' that are about 3 inches tall. The peach colored body and red foil lid of the jar is a classic design that's common to all forms of Yakult, no matter what region they happen to come from. However, similar drinks made in China, Taiwan, and Korea mimic the Yakult packaging to trick unsuspecting buyers. Don't be duped! Rating: 8 out of 10.

  • Availability: I rarely find Yakult in the U.S., even at grocery stores. Most of the time I find Chinese/Korean/Taiwan knockoffs at Asian grocery stores. I have found Yakult (manufactured in Mexico) in some Japanese markets. Rating: 3 out of 10.

  • Origins: Depends on where you're located. If you're in the U.S., chances are that your Yakult will be from Mexico. If you're in Europe, it'll probably be from the U.K. If you're in Japan, it'll be made in Japan and if you're in China, it'll probably be made in China. Check your packaging! Rating: 0 out of 10.


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