#Japan #Tokyo #Lotte #Coolish #Ergonomics

Lotte's Coolish: A Milestone in Food Innovation

In a groundbreaking development for the food industry, Lotte Co., Ltd., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has made headlines with its beverage-style ice cream, Coolish. On February 27, 2026, this innovative product earned the coveted Human Ergonomics Certification from the Human Ergonomics Research Center. This marks a significant milestone as Coolish is the first food product to ever receive this certification.

Understanding Human Ergonomics Certification

The Human Ergonomics Certification system is designed to assess and certify products based on their ergonomic features. It evaluates how the product affects human interactions and whether its development process meets scientifically established ergonomic criteria. One of the program's main goals is to ensure users encounter comfort and usability, as these aspects can often be overlooked in visual assessments alone.

The certification helps demonstrate objective evidence of these functionalities backed by scientific validation, significantly boosting consumer confidence in the product.

Features Certified

The Coolish packaging received certification for three primary ergonomic features:

• - User-Friendly Cap: Designed to allow easy gripping, making it accessible for all users.
• - Optimized Straw Design: The straw facilitates easy drinking, enhancing the overall experience of enjoying ice cream.
• - Reduced Cold Sensation: The packaging minimizes the cold sensation on the hand, making it convenient for consumption in various settings.

For those interested, further specifics about the certification can be found here.

Insights from the Packaging Design Team

According to Hiroshi Kato and Yuichi Ikeda from Lotte’s Central Research Institute, the unique design of Coolish, which features a spout-equipped pouch, offers unmatched convenience for enjoying ice cream anywhere. Since its launch in 2003, Lotte has continually refined the product's design to enhance user experience.

Kato and Ikeda noted, “We are thrilled to have scientifically validated the functionality we have pursued through the design of our container and to be the first food product to achieve this certification. Our aim is to spread the unique charm of Coolish to a broader audience.” They reiterated their commitment to leveraging ergonomics knowledge to ensure everyone can enjoy a 'gulp of happiness' with every sip.

About the Human Ergonomics Research Center (HQL)

The Human Ergonomics Research Center (HQL) plays a crucial role in analyzing and utilizing human characteristics and life qualities scientifically. It collaborates across academia, industry, and government to support the design of safe, comfortable, and user-friendly products and services.

Lotte has been a member of HQL since 2025, working collaboratively to enhance product development and service provisions based on ergonomic insights. This partnership represents a strong commitment to innovation in product usability and consumer satisfaction.

For more information about Lotte’s initiatives and products, visit Lotte's official website.