#Japan #Awards #Kobe #UCC #Ice Coffee

UCC's Ice Coffee Series Triumphs at Two Taste Awards

UCC Ueshima Coffee Co., based in Kobe, Japan, is proud to announce that its flagship products, the "UCC Gold Special Ice Coffee Unsweetened 1000ml" and "UCC Gold Special Premium Nut Beat Unsweetened 1000ml," have been honored with top accolades at two renowned taste evaluation awards: the "FOOD PROFESSIONAL AWARD" and the "International Taste Institute". Both products received a prestigious three stars from the FOOD PROFESSIONAL AWARD and were recognized for their outstanding taste at the International Taste Institute.

Award Details

FOOD PROFESSIONAL AWARD

The FOOD PROFESSIONAL AWARD is a distinguished evaluation event judged by experts who hold national qualifications related to food. With a pass rate of only 5% for their unique taste tests, they assess the quality of various food and beverage products, including restaurant menus. The judging criteria encompass taste, appearance, cost performance, and originality, with a rigorous scoring system. According to the standards, only about 16% of all evaluated products can achieve the top score of three stars (90 points or above), confirming the excellence recognized by food professionals.

In the recent evaluations for the first half of 2025, both the "UCC Gold Special Ice Coffee Unsweetened 1000ml" and the "UCC Gold Special Premium Nut Beat Unsweetened 1000ml" earned this top distinction. This accomplishment reflects the high quality and flavor profile of the products.

International Taste Institute

The International Taste Institute, headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, evaluates the flavors and quality of food and drink products annually. Since its establishment in 2005, the Institute has garnered acclaim for its rigorous tastings, conducted by over 200 eminent chefs and sommeliers, members of culinary and sommelier associations across Europe. Products receiving this award must meet or exceed the expectations set by its panel of judges, based on sensory attributes including initial impressions, visual appeal, aroma, mouthfeel, and taste. Only products scoring 70% or higher can earn this recognition, validating their well-crafted balance and flavor.

During the 2025 Spring evaluations, the "UCC Gold Special Ice Coffee Unsweetened 1000ml" scored an impressive 81.7%, earning two stars, while the "UCC Gold Special Premium Nut Beat Unsweetened 1000ml" achieved a score of 71.1%, securing one star in this prestigious competition.

Comments from UCC Representatives

Upon receiving these dual awards, UCC representatives expressed their gratitude, stating, "We are thrilled that our two ice coffee products have been so highly regarded by food professionals. We hope that this recognition will encourage more customers to enjoy UCC's 1000ml Ice Coffee series, especially during the scorching summer months!"

About the Award-Winning Products

UCC Gold Special Ice Coffee Unsweetened 1000ml

• - Features: Offers an aromatic and rich flavor, perfect for enjoying black or mixed with milk.
• - Retail Price: 318 yen (excluding tax)
• - Calories: 0 kcal per 100ml
• - Availability: Available at major retailers and online stores.

UCC Gold Special Premium Nut Beat Unsweetened 1000ml

• - Features: Delivers a unique flavor profile with rich aromas, reminiscent of freshly roasted nuts.
• - Retail Price: 368 yen (excluding tax)
• - Calories: 0 kcal per 100ml
• - Availability: Available at major retailers and online stores.

Both products utilize at least 50% sustainable coffee beans, meeting UCC's strict sustainability standards.

For further information, please visit the UCC official website and explore their sustainability efforts at UCC Sustainability.