Yogurt Day (Yōguruto no Hi)

What Is Yogurt Day?

May 15 is "Yogurt Day," established by Meiji Dairies (now Meiji Co., Ltd.), maker of "Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt," to mark the birthday of Élie Metchnikoff (May 15, 1845), the Russian microbiologist who studied yogurt and introduced its health benefits to the world. The day is registered with the Japan Anniversary Association.

The Background of Yogurt Day

Metchnikoff noted that many long-lived Bulgarians consumed yogurt regularly, and proposed that lactic acid bacteria have a beneficial effect on the gut. His ideas spread worldwide and helped bring global attention to yogurt. Metchnikoff also received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1908 for his work on immunity.

Characteristics of Yogurt

• Contains lactic acid bacteria and bifidobacteria: Yogurt is milk fermented by these bacteria and is considered helpful for maintaining a healthy gut environment.
• Nutrient-rich: An easy way to get the protein and calcium found in milk.
• Lactose is partially broken down: Fermentation breaks down some of the lactose, so some people who have trouble digesting milk find yogurt easier to eat.
• Each culture has its own character: Different bacterial strains produce different levels of acidity, textures, and aromas.

Fun Facts About Yogurt

• Fermented milk products have a very long history and are thought to have been eaten by nomadic peoples and others for thousands of years.
• Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt was inspired by the plain yogurt that Meiji staff tasted at the Bulgarian pavilion of Expo '70 in Osaka.
• It went on sale in 1971 as "Meiji Plain Yogurt" and was renamed "Meiji Bulgaria Yogurt" in 1973, after negotiations in which the Bulgarian government approved the use of the country's name (some sources date the approval to 1972).
• Plain yogurt spread into Japanese households from the 1970s onward.

Ideas for Enjoying Yogurt Day

• Enjoy your favorite yogurt
• Add fruit or honey for a tasty twist
• Use it in cooking, such as marinating meat or seasoning curry
• Learn more about lactic acid bacteria and fermented foods

May 15: A Day to Rediscover Fermented Foods

Yogurt Day is a chance to rediscover the appeal of this classic fermented food. It can be eaten as is, or used in cooking and desserts. On May 15, why not try enjoying yogurt in a new way?