Introduction:

An industrial visit to Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd., a renowned probiotic drink manufacturer, was organized for the B. Pharm. students of Lloyd Institute of Management and Technology (Pharm.) on 16th December 2024. The visit aimed to provide students with practical exposure to the pharmaceutical and food industry, particularly in the areas of probiotic production, quality control, and packaging processes.

Objective of the Visit

The primary objective of the visit was to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial practices. The visit allowed students to:

• Understand the manufacturing process of probiotic products.
• Gain insights into quality assurance and control measures.
• Observe state-of-the-art equipment and automated processes.
• Learn about the importance of probiotics in human health.

Company Overview

Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd. is a joint venture between Yakult Honsha, Japan, and Group Danone, France. The company specializes in the production of probiotic drinks that promote digestive health. The Yakult probiotic drink contains Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota, a beneficial bacteria that improves gut health and boosts immunity.

Visit Highlights

The visit included a detailed tour of the manufacturing facility and various departments, including:

4.1. Production Unit

• Students observed the fermentation process of the probiotic culture.
• They learned about the sterile and controlled environment required for probiotic production.
• The use of high-tech machinery and automated bottling was demonstrated.

4.2. Quality Control & Assurance

• Experts explained stringent quality checks performed at each stage of production.
• Microbiological testing and safety protocols were discussed.
• The importance of maintaining product consistency and efficacy was emphasized.

4.3. Packaging & Storage

• The automated filling, capping, and labeling of Yakult bottles were observed.
• Students learned about cold chain storage to maintain probiotic viability.

Interactive Session

A Q&A session was conducted with Yakult professionals, where students clarified doubts regarding:

• The health benefits of probiotics.
• Career opportunities in pharmaceutical and food industries.
• Research advancements in microbiology and probiotics.

Conclusion & Learning Outcomes

The visit provided students with first-hand experience of industrial practices, enhancing their understanding of probiotic production and quality control. It was an informative and enriching experience that complemented their academic curriculum.

The faculty and students expressed gratitude to Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd. for hosting the visit and offering valuable insights into the industry.

Acknowledgment

Organizing team of Lloyd Institute of Management and Technology (Pharm.) extend sincere thanks to Yakult Danone India Pvt. Ltd for making this visit a success.