Yuhan brings DangQLac to Mexico in Latin America push

Yuhan, a South Korean health and wellness company, has introduced its blood sugar management probiotic DangQLac, sold locally in Mexico as Glucobiotic, to the country as part of its strategic expansion into the Latin American dietary supplement market. The move marks a key step in Yuhan’s efforts to establish itself in the region, leveraging the growing demand for functional foods amid rising diabetes prevalence. The product, which contains the probiotic strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HAC01, was approved by South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for its ability to lower blood sugar levels after meals. This strain, unique to Korea, is central to DangQLac’s efficacy. According to Yuhan, an eight-week human clinical trial demonstrated statistically significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and two-hour postprandial blood glucose measurements, supporting the product’s claims. Since its launch in South Korea in April 2023, DangQLac has achieved cumulative sales of 60 billion won ($41.5 million) within three years. The product has also garnered recognition, winning awards such as the Korea Patent Technology Award in 2023, the NutraIngredients Asia Ingredient Award in 2024, and the IR52 Jang Young-shil Award in 2025. These accolades underscore the product’s innovation and effectiveness in the health and wellness sector. To enter the Mexican market, Yuhan entered into a five-year supply agreement valued at around 13 billion won with a local partner in 2024. The partnership included completing the necessary product registration in Mexico in 2025. Both companies have outlined plans to expand distribution through both online and offline channels, backed by local clinical studies and a robust marketing strategy aimed at increasing consumer awareness and trust. Mexico is positioned as one of the largest dietary supplement markets in Latin America, according to Yuhan. The company cited 2024 data from the International Diabetes Federation, which indicated that approximately 16.4 percent of Mexican adults aged 20 to 79 suffer from diabetes, a rate among the highest globally. This statistic highlights the potential demand for products like DangQLac, which targets blood sugar management. Yuhan officials emphasized that the introduction of DangQLac to Mexico represents a strategic choice to leverage the product’s unique benefits in addressing a pressing public health issue. “By utilizing DangQLac’s differentiated blood sugar management capabilities, we aim to extend our presence among local consumers and use Mexico as a gateway for further expansion throughout Latin America,” stated a representative from the company. With the product already established in South Korea and now entering the Mexican market, Yuhan is positioning itself to capitalize on the growing interest in health-focused supplements. The company’s long-term goal includes expanding its footprint across Latin America, building on the success of its initial entry into Mexico. As the product gains traction, it could serve as a model for future ventures in other countries within the region.