MilkyMist partners SIG, AnaBio Technologies to launch world’s first long-life probiotic buttermilk in aseptic carton packs

INDIA – MilkyMist, a prominent South Indian dairy brand, has partnered with SIG and AnaBio Technologies to unveil the world’s first long-life probiotic buttermilk in aseptic carton packs.

The innovation, presented at Gulfood Manufacturing 2024 in Dubai, marks a milestone in the global beverage sector, enabling the incorporation of live probiotics into shelf-stable drinks for the first time.

This breakthrough addresses a longstanding challenge in the industry. Traditional Ultra-High-Temperature (UHT) processing, used to extend shelf life, has typically destroyed the live probiotics crucial for gut health and immunity. 

However, AnaBio Technologies’ patented encapsulation technology and SIG’s aseptic filling technology have successfully preserved the viability of probiotics in long-life beverages.

MilkyMist’s CEO, Dr. K Rathnam, highlighted the significance of this innovation: “Our probiotic buttermilk combines health and convenience, reducing energy use and food waste. This product offers consumers a nutritious, long-lasting beverage without refrigeration, embodying our mission to bring the benefits of probiotics to a broader audience.”

The encapsulation technology developed by AnaBio protects probiotics with a protein coating that withstands UHT processing. 

Once consumed, digestive enzymes break down the coating, releasing live probiotics to support gut health. Meanwhile, SIG’s aseptic filling technology ensures an even distribution of probiotics in every pack.

SIG’s Chief Markets Officer, Christoph Wegener, emphasized the potential of this innovation: “We’ve expanded the product category with a solution that bridges health and convenience. Our aseptic cartons extend shelf life and remove refrigeration barriers, making probiotic drinks more accessible and sustainable.”

This product also signifies a significant advancement in sustainable packaging. The SIG XSlimBloc 200mL aseptic carton pack minimizes environmental impact by reducing energy use in storage and transportation. 

Vandana Tandan, Head of Market India & Bangladesh at SIG, described it as a transformative step in the Indian dairy sector, catering to the needs of health-conscious consumers.

AnaBio’s CEO, Dr. Aidan Fitzsimons, added, “This collaboration delivers a pioneering product that combines taste, convenience, and health benefits, pushing the boundaries of innovation in probiotic beverages.”

MilkyMist’s new offering not only introduces a healthier, shelf-stable alternative but also opens doors for a wide range of future probiotic products, revolutionizing how these beverages are produced, distributed, and consumed.

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