Kirin Beverage Co., Ltd. (President: Kazuhiro Inoue) is launching a new series under the "iMUSE" functional food brand, which contains Kirin's proprietary ingredient "Plasma Lactic Acid bacteria" and "supports maintaining healthy immune function." Two new products, "Kirin iMUSE Fruit Refresh Grapefruit Mix" and "Kirin iMUSE Fruit Refresh Apple Mix," will be released nationwide on April 14th, 2026 (Tuesday).
Since its 2020 launch as Japan's first functional food product with immune function claims, the "iMUSE" series has seen steady sales growth as a beverage that makes "immune care" easily accessible.
Growing Demand for Health-Conscious Beverages
In recent years, awareness of health management and nutritional supplementation has increased across all age groups, with growing demand for easily incorporating health into daily life. According to Kirin's research (June 2024, n=10,000), "taste" and "thirst-quenching satisfaction" are important factors when purchasing bottled beverages. Additionally, health expectations have increased for dairy beverages, vitamin drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices.
Against this background, the "iMUSE" brand is introducing these new functional foods that balance "taste" and "thirst-quenching satisfaction" while being easy to drink and refreshing.
Kirin iMUSE Fruit Refresh Grapefruit Mix
Product Features
The beverage contains 100 billion Plasma Lactic Acid bacteria and a full day's worth of vitamins B6 and C, with a refreshing sweet-and-sour taste combining grapefruit, grape, and lemon (less than 10% fruit juice). The design conveys the delicious fruit flavor that makes you want to drink it as daily hydration, along with a refreshing feeling that lifts your spirits.
Kirin iMUSE Fruit Refresh Apple Mix
Product Features
The beverage contains 100 billion Plasma Lactic Acid bacteria, a full day's worth of vitamin C, and iron, with a refreshing sweet-and-sour taste combining apple, acerola, and peach (less than 10% fruit juice). Like the Grapefruit Mix, the design emphasizes the appealing fruit flavor for daily hydration and a positive, refreshing feeling.
Functional Food Information
Both products are functional foods containing Plasma Lactic Acid bacteria (L. lactis strain Plasma).
Functional Claim: This product contains Plasma Lactic Acid bacteria (L. lactis strain Plasma). Plasma Lactic Acid bacteria works on pDC (plasmacytoid dendritic cells) and has been reported to help maintain immune function in healthy individuals.
Important Notes:
- A balanced diet based on staple foods, main dishes, and side dishes is fundamental to a healthy lifestyle.
- This product differs from Foods for Specified Health Uses and has not been evaluated by the national government for its functionality and safety. Information on the scientific evidence submitted can be found on the Consumer Affairs Agency website.
- This is not a medicine.
Product Details
Products and Packaging:
- "Kirin iMUSE Grapefruit Mix" 500ml PET bottle
- "Kirin iMUSE Grapefruit Mix" 500ml PET bottle 6-pack
- "Kirin iMUSE Apple Mix" 500ml PET bottle
- "Kirin iMUSE Apple Mix" 500ml PET bottle 6-pack
Release Region: Nationwide
Release Date: April 14th, 2026 (Tuesday)
Suggested Retail Price (excluding tax):
- Individual bottles (1, 3): ¥203
- 6-packs (2, 4): ¥1,218
Notification Numbers:
- Grapefruit Mix (1, 2): K350
- Apple Mix (3, 4): K349
Through the sale of "iMUSE" series and other beverages containing "Plasma Lactic Acid bacteria," Kirin Group supports the new habit of "immune care" and delivers delicious health to customers' daily lives. Note: Regular lifestyle habits including a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and moderate exercise are fundamental to health.
