New Joint Research Center Between Bulgarian and Japanese Firms to Enhance Probiotic Discoveries

A New Era for Probiotic Research in Bulgaria and Japan

In an exciting development for the health and wellness sector, the Japanese company Meiji Co., Ltd. and Bulgaria's state-owned LB BulgariCam company are collaborating to establish a new joint research center. This facility is set to be completed by the end of December 2026 in Sofia, Bulgaria, with the goal of furthering research into lactic acid bacteria and gut microbiota.

The partnership is rooted in a long-standing collaboration that began with the introduction of Meiji Bulgarian Yogurt, which emerged during the Osaka World Expo in 1970. Over the past five decades, this yogurt has gained immense popularity and has been recognized for its unique connection to Bulgaria, being the only yogurt in Japan allowed to carry the Bulgarian name.

Both companies have accumulated invaluable knowledge in the field of lactic acid bacteria research, capitalizing on Bulgaria's rich resources. The ongoing exchange and cooperation between researchers from both nations have previously resulted in innovative discoveries and advancements in yogurt technology. In October 2024, Meiji and LB BulgariCam entered into a decade-long joint research contract to solidify their commitment to the new collaborative research center, selecting cutting-edge equipment and relevant research themes essential for this venture.

The upcoming research center will leverage the latest physicochemical analysis instruments and genetic sequencing technology, focusing on two primary areas: lactic acid bacteria research and gut microbiota studies. By combining Bulgaria's diverse microbial resources with the research expertise of both firms, they aim to unlock new possibilities concerning specific strains of lactic acid bacteria and generate innovative values through specific combinations.

Moreover, the insights gained from this research will contribute to the creation of new health-associated products, ultimately enhancing customer well-being. Notably, the recent meeting to discuss the establishment of the research center included significant political and business leaders from both countries, demonstrating the importance of this collaboration on an international scale.

Key Attendees of the Meeting

Among the notable attendees were Bulgaria's Prime Minister Rumen Radev, Minister of Economy and Industry Aleksandar Plef, and Japan’s ambassador to Bulgaria, Takashi Ueno. Additionally, Meiji's CEO Munjiro Yao and various executive officers were present, emphasizing their commitment to this strategic partnership.

Comments from Key Leaders

Rumen Radev, Bulgarian Prime Minister:
"The partnership between LB BulgariCam and Meiji serves as a sustainable bridge between our two countries. We aim to develop the existing strong relationships further and push for the expansion of scientific knowledge and functional foods through our joint research. This center will greatly benefit technological cooperation and economic partnerships."

Munjiro Yao, CEO of Meiji Co., Ltd.:
"Meiji Bulgarian Yogurt has been a cherished product for over 50 years since its launch in 1973. This new collaborative research facility will harness our combined expertise and knowledge to innovate and create new health values through advanced research into lactic acid and gut microbiota."

Future Research Directions

The primary focus areas for the new research collaboration will include:
1. Establishment of a cutting-edge research hub in Sofia featuring state-of-the-art instruments.
2. Long-term stays for Meiji researchers in Bulgaria to conduct studies in taste, health, and quality of dairy products.
3. Collection of new microorganisms from Bulgaria to expand research resources.
4. Development of new yogurt starter cultures with superior flavor and quality.
5. Research on health longevity through gut microbiota studies.

This partnership signifies a commitment to advancing the fields of probiotics and gut health, ultimately striving to enhance global health outcomes via innovative dairy solutions. The combined efforts of Meiji and LB BulgariCam are expected to yield groundbreaking products that will benefit consumers around the world.