Functional coffee innovation: UCC Expands “UCC &Healthy” Series with New Product: Supporting Health with Coffee-Derived Ingredients

UCC Ueshima Coffee Co., Ltd. has expanded its “UCC &Healthy” series of functional foods made solely from coffee, launching the new “Special Blend” (4-pack drip coffee) on September 2, 2024.

Features of the New Product

The “Special Blend” focuses on trigonelline, a component abundant in raw coffee beans. This is the first product in Japan to use trigonelline to support resting energy expenditure (REE) for individuals with a higher BMI (23≦BMI＜30), as verified through research.

Innovations in Development

Trigonelline levels are higher in lightly roasted coffee, but lighter roasting tends to result in a more acidic taste. UCC tackled this challenge by utilizing its proprietary roasting and blending technologies, preserving trigonelline’s functionality while achieving a rich, sweet aroma and well-balanced flavor.

Packaging Design

The packaging prominently highlights the health benefit, stating that it “supports resting energy expenditure for individuals with a higher BMI.” This clear messaging emphasizes the product’s functionality.

Product Lineup

The “UCC &Healthy” series includes the following items:

• “Mild Taste”: Designed for those concerned about post-meal blood sugar spikes (4-pack drip coffee).
• “Mild”: Targeted at individuals with high post-meal blood triglycerides (180g SAP).

With the addition of the new “Special Blend,” the lineup now addresses three key health functions: blood sugar, blood triglycerides, and energy expenditure, all achieved using coffee-derived ingredients.

UCC continues to blend the health benefits of coffee with its rich taste, aiming to provide products that fit seamlessly into modern lifestyles.

Source: UCC Pressrelease