#Japan #Osaka #Health Foods #Glico #BifiX Yogurt

Glico Introduces BifiX Yogurt α Family-Sized Version

In a bid to support healthier lifestyles, Ezaki Glico Co., Ltd. is launching a new family-sized version of its functional food product, BifiX Yogurt α, on May 25, 2026. Aimed at individuals with higher Body Mass Index (BMI), this yogurt brand features the unique TanSA® (short-chain fatty acids) formula.

The new family sizes will be available in two delightful flavors: Slightly Sweet & Fat-Free and Plain with No Sugar & Low Fat. The Slightly Sweet & Fat-Free variant boasts a gentle sweetness and smooth texture, perfect for consumption as is. The Plain with No Sugar & Low Fat option, while free from sugar, features a mild tanginess and creamy texture, making it a versatile base for toppings like fruits or granola. Each 400g container is designed for up to four servings, making it ideal for individual stockpiling or family sharing.

BifiX Yogurt α is Japan’s first functional food designed to enhance resting energy expenditure and reduce body fat among individuals with higher BMI. Launched earlier on March 2, 2026, in various supermarkets and convenience stores across the country, it initially included three drinkable varieties and two individual servings. Customers have praised the product, with many noting its taste and ease of daily consumption, seamlessly fitting into their lifestyles.

The effectiveness of BifiX Yogurt α lies in its unique formulation, which combines bifidobacteria BifiX (B. lactis GCL2505) and inulin (a type of dietary fiber) to boost the population of beneficial gut bacteria and short-chain fatty acids. This process has been shown to help enhance the resting energy expenditure and decrease body fat in users.

Twin Benefits of BifiX Yogurt α

1. Enhancing Resting Energy Expenditure

Resting energy expenditure refers to the energy consumed while at rest, which accounts for approximately 60% of total daily energy expenditure. It's revealed that as we age, resting energy expenditure declines, making it crucial for individuals aiming to maintain a healthy weight to find ways to enhance this aspect of metabolism. In a study involving healthy adults with a BMI between 25 and 30, participants who consumed 10 billion BifiX bacteria and 5g of inulin for four weeks experienced an increase in resting energy expenditure compared to those who received a placebo. When equated to exercise, the improved energy expenditure translates to approximately 84.4 to 101.8 kcal daily, equivalent to a 18 to 33-minute walk.

2. Reducing Body Fat

Another significant study examined adults with a BMI ranging from 23 to 30. Participants who ingested 10 billion BifiX bacteria and 2g of inulin over a 12-week period witnessed a decline in abdominal visceral and total body fat compared to the placebo group after eight weeks. These findings highlight the dual benefits of BifiX Yogurt α in promoting a healthier body composition.

Developer Insights

Chika Kuwata from Glico's Dairy Product Marketing Department expressed excitement about the launch, emphasizing the company's commitment to innovative research on BifiX bacteria and TanSA® fatty acids.