Yakult Danone India, the joint venture between Japan’s Yakult Honsha and France-based Groupe Danone, has appointed Bollywood actor Taapsee Pannu as its new brand ambassador. The move is aimed at strengthening the company’s mission to raise awareness about gut health and expand its footprint in the Indian market.
“I’m really happy to be part of Yakult’s journey in promoting good gut health. My family has been enjoying Yakult for years, especially my mom. I’ve seen firsthand how small, consistent habits can make a big difference. I truly believe that good health starts in the gut, and Yakult is such an easy, tasty way to include that in our daily routine,” Pannu said.
Eiji Amano, Managing Director, Yakult Danone India, highlighted India’s growing importance for the brand: “From a nascent category in 2008 to a rapidly expanding market today, Yakult has continuously won consumer trust. Our next milestone of achieving double-digit growth every year until 2030 reflects the growing demand for probiotics and our confidence in the Indian market.”
Yakult’s unique probiotic formulation continues to be its differentiator. Neerja Hajela, CSO – science and regulatory affairs, explained, “Only Yakult contains the unique Shirota strain, clinically proven to increase good bacteria in the gut, thereby boosting absorption and digestion. Yakult ensures effective delivery and consistent health benefits.”
Emphasizing consumer engagement, Taku Otsuka, Director – Sales, PR & Marketing, added, “Our mission goes beyond just selling products. We want to spark a conversation about gut health and make it part of everyday life for people across the country. Through innovative marketing and on-ground initiatives, Yakult aims to make probiotics a simple daily habit for every Indian household.”
With Pannu on board, Yakult Danone India aims to build a deeper emotional connect with consumers while reinforcing the idea that good health begins in the gut—a message in step with India’s growing health and wellness movement.
