Asahi Group Japan has introduced Like Milk, a yeast-based beverage with milk-like characteristics that represents the first product of its kind in Japan, using flexible aseptic carton packaging and filling technology from SIG. Like Milk is packaged in SIG SmallBloc aseptic cartons and filled using the SIG Small 12 Aseptic filling machine, a high-output, flexible filling solution from SIG.

The product is currently in test sales in selected Japanese supermarkets and through e-commerce channels, and the company plans to expand distribution by 2026. The launch marks a first step in a partnership between Asahi Group Japan and SIG.

According to the company, Like Milk is yeast-based and developed using proprietary yeast technology. It is described as having levels of protein and calcium comparable to cow’s milk while being free from milk components and the 28 specified allergenic ingredients, making it suitable for health-conscious consumers and people with dietary restrictions.

Filled by co-packer Mori Milk, the debut of Like Milk is Asahi’s first commercial product in partnership with SIG. In a statement included in the announcement, Tomohiro Hata, senior manager, Future Creation headquarters department at Asahi Group Japan, said, “Through LIKE MILK, we aim to help realize a society that embraces food diversity, where everyone can freely enjoy food regardless of physical conditions such as allergies, ethical beliefs, or preferences for non-dairy or health-conscious choices.”

Asahi Group Japan and SIG have stated that the launch demonstrates agile, purpose-driven beverage development and leverages SIG’s filling technology to bring the product to market with high quality and responsiveness to consumer trends.

Like Milk’s packaging and processing technology allow support for multiple aseptic carton formats and variants, and the filling equipment used has an output capability of up to 12,000 packs per hour, enabling quick adaptation to market demands.