#Japan #Nagoya #Pokka Sapporo #Kireo Lemon #Lemon Drink

Discover the Refreshing Taste of Kireo Lemon PuLemon

Sapporo Holdings, through its subsidiary POKKA Sapporo Food & Beverage, is set to launch a new unsweetened lemon drink named Kireo Lemon PuLemon beginning September 1, 2025. With the increasing popularity of unsweetened carbonated beverages, Kireo Lemon PuLemon aims to offer a unique taste experience without the added sugars.

A New Value in Lemon Flavor

This new offering, Kireo Lemon PuLemon, combines two key ingredients: Sweet Lemon Peel Extract and Reduced-Acidity Lemon Juice. The sweet lemon peel extract is derived meticulously from the peel of lemons, providing a refreshing hint of sweetness, while the reduced-acidity lemon juice brings a milder tartness. This careful blend allows consumers to enjoy a delicious drink with subtle sweetness, redefining how we perceive lemon beverages.

The unsweetened category in the carbonated drink sector has shown steady growth, even as juice-based carbonated drinks have seen a decline. Notably, lemon-flavored drinks have remained resilient and are projected to grow by approximately 20% in 2024 compared to 2020 figures, signaling a thriving market for lemon beverages.

Continued Success of Kireo Lemon Brand

Since its inception in 2001, the Kireo Lemon brand has evolved, continuously adapting to various consumer needs and occasions. In 2024, the brand experienced a record high in shipments, increasing by 10% from the previous year. A standout segment of the Kireo Lemon line is the Kireo Lemon Citric Acid 2700, a functional drink that includes 2700 mg of citric acid, which is beneficial for reducing fatigue during everyday activities and post-exercise recovery. This particular line has also seen double-digit growth, contributing significantly to the overall success of the brand.

Celebrating Citric Acid Day

September 3 is recognized as Citric Acid Day in Japan, a date established in 2006 to promote awareness around citric acid and its health benefits, especially during the hot summer months when fatigue tends to accumulate. This date has been commemorated due to its phonetic play with numbers—9 for “ku” (ク) and 3 for “en” (エン), meaning 'citric acid' in Japanese. The aim of celebrating this day is to educate the public about the health benefits of citric acid-rich fruits like lemons.

POKKA Sapporo will launch a range of initiatives on this day to enhance consumer interest in lemons. One notable event is an SNS campaign named #クエン酸でおつかレさまです, or ‘Thank You with Citric Acid.’ The company will encourage participation by promoting various lemon-based recipes and drinks.

Special Menu at YEBISU GARDEN CAFE

Additionally, on September 3, the renowned YEBISU GARDEN CAFE, operated by LEOC, will offer a limited edition menu utilizing POKKA’s lemon juice. Only 50 servings will be available for this exclusive dish, consisting of Steamed Pork and Vegetables with Lemon served alongside ume shirasu rice and miso soup with komatsuna and green onions.

Enjoy this refreshing and health-conscious dish that perfectly complements the lingering summer heat.

Product Information Overview

• - Product Name: Kireo Lemon PuLemon
• - Container Size: 490ml PET
• - Retail Price: 200 yen (excl. tax)
• - Calories: 0 kcal (per 100ml)
• - Launch Date: September 1, 2025
• - Sales Region: Nationwide
• - Unique Selling Points: Offers a refreshing and mild sweetness derived from a blend of sweet lemon peel extract and reduced-acidity lemon juice, creating a new experience in lemon-flavored beverages.

This proactive approach by POKKA Sapporo not only introduces a flavorful drink to the market but also increases awareness about the health benefits associated with lemons, reinforcing the brand's commitment to support consumers' well-being and zest for life.