Kirin unveils hot drink with immune-boosting LC Plasma to meet functional demand

Kirin has launched its first hot beverage featuring Lactococcus lactis Plasma (LC Plasma) as we enter the cooler seasons. The company says its proprietary ingredient supports and helps maintain immune function. It is added to Kirin Honey Lemon Scented Hot Ginger, which is available in Japan.

Nutrition Insight speaks with a spokesperson from Kirin’s Marketing Department to learn about the functional beverage market and how immune care is central to the company’s health and nutrition focus.

Kirin explains that the demand for hot beverages has shrunk as winters have become warmer than in previous years. However, consumer need for functional beverages has risen, which indicates the growing awareness of holistic health. 

Winters drive functional drink demand

Kirin notes that consumers are becoming more conscious of their health as temperatures drop. Its research shows that 50% of people are concerned about their health during cold winters, which reveals a strong demand for hot drinks that also offer health benefits.

“Among the various consumer needs for hot beverages, the segment focused on ‘balancing mind and body’ has consistently grown over the years,” says the spokesperson, citing Kirin research. “Consumers are increasingly choosing products that feel natural, are gentle on the body, and help maintain wellness.”

Kirin Honey Lemon Scented Hot Ginger.“We believe there’s a strong opportunity to meet these needs with immune care hot drinks made from natural, body-friendly ingredients like LC-Plasma and ginger.”

Consumer awareness of LC Plasma    

Kirin explains that awareness of LC Plasma has steadily risen. Each winter, customers have been requesting hot beverages containing the ingredient, which is why it launched Kirin Honey Lemon Scented Hot Ginger.

“As of August 2025, awareness of LC-Plasma has reached 75.1%, showing steady penetration among consumers. Understanding of the ingredient’s function and trust in the Kirin brand contribute to this growing awareness,” notes the spokesperson.

According to Kirin, the drink contains 100 billion LC Plasma, ginger extract, and the aroma of honey and lemon, making it easy and comforting. Its format also makes it convenient for people to support their immune health.

“We’ve been actively educating consumers that immune care supports overall wellness — not just during winter when people typically worry about their health,” adds the spokesperson. 

“For example, this summer, several experts highlighted the need for immune care alongside hydration due to extreme heat. We also launched initiatives to showcase how urban communities are proactively using immune care for local wellness, sharing these stories nationwide.”

Immune health year-round

The spokesperson details that LC Plasma has been reported to activate plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), known as the “command centers of the immune system,” and help maintain immune function in healthy individuals. 

“Once activated, these cells not only direct other immune cells but also act directly against external threats. This mechanism — targeting the immune command center — is a unique feature of LC-Plasma, setting it apart from typical lactic acid bacteria.”

This activation sends instructions to Natural Killer (NK) cells, T cells, and B cells to attack viruses, Kirin explains. Conversely, it says common lactic acid bacteria only target NK cells, having limited attack against viruses.

The company has also confirmed in human studies that consuming LC Plasma activates pDCs at a high level.

“Immune care has the potential to be a year-round health solution. Based on its broader benefits, we will continue promoting immune care as part of everyday wellness throughout the year,” concludes the spokesperson.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer demand for immune support has become a year-round lifestyle priority. Nutrition Insight recently spoke to experts from Novonesis, Synergy Flavours, and Tirlán to learn about gut-focused solutions, multifunctional ingredients, and taste-driven products that merge science, convenience, and holistic well-being.