Calpis

About

Calpis, also known as Calpico outside Japan, is a renowned Japanese soft drink with a distinctive milky texture and a slightly sour taste. It is produced by Calpis Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Asahi Breweries. The drink's unique flavor profile is reminiscent of yogurt or buttermilk, making it a refreshing choice for many consumers. Calpis is typically sold as a concentrate that needs to be diluted with water or milk before consumption, although pre-diluted versions like Calpis Water are also available. Calpis was first introduced in 1919 by Kaiun Mishima, who was inspired by a traditional Mongolian fermented milk drink called airag. The drink's creation involved lactic acid fermentation, which gives it its characteristic tanginess. Over the years, Calpis has become a beloved beverage in Japan, enjoyed by people of all ages. It is often used in desserts like kakigōri and as a mixer for cocktails. The drink's popularity extends beyond Japan, with various flavors available worldwide, including carbonated versions like Calpis Soda.