History of Activia
Activia is a brand of yogurt known for its probiotic content, marketed by the multinational food company Danone. Introduced in 1987 in France, Activia was developed by scientists at Danone to promote digestive health. The key selling point of Activia lies in its inclusion of live and active bacterial cultures, primarily Bifidobacterium animalis DN-173 010, which is purported to aid in digestion and regulate bowel movements.
The marketing of Activia has heavily emphasized its purported health benefits, particularly its ability to improve digestive regularity. Danone launched a significant advertising campaign worldwide, featuring celebrities like Jamie Lee Curtis in the United States, promoting the yogurt's digestive health benefits. Despite some controversy and legal challenges regarding the extent of these health claims, Activia has become a widely recognized brand in the yogurt market.
Over the years, Activia has expanded its product line to include various flavors and formulations, including low-fat and lactose-free options to cater to different dietary preferences and needs. Beyond its original focus on digestive health, the brand has also emphasized its nutritional value, positioning itself as a wholesome snack or breakfast option. Activia's success has made it a prominent player in the global yogurt market and a staple in many consumers' refrigerators seeking a combination of taste and health benefits in their dairy products.