It is with great pleasure and a profound sense of purpose that I welcome all colleagues to the Second Yakult Symposium, to be held on 02th and 03th September 2027 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This gathering represents far more than a scientific meeting; it is a celebration of nearly a century of progress inspired by the pioneering vision of Dr. Minoru Shirota, whose belief in the power of beneficial microbes to improve human health laid the foundation for an entire field. His conviction that science must serve society continues to guide us today, shaping our research, our collaborations, and our shared mission for a better and harmonious world.

In this second edition of the symposium, we come together to explore the expanding universe of applied microbial science, from probiotics and postbiotics to emerging categories of beneficial microorganisms that support the well-being of humans and animals. The amazing evolution of this field reflects both scientific creativity and a growing global recognition that microbial solutions can meaningfully enhance quality of life. Our event and discussions will highlight not only the biological mechanisms and technological innovations behind these advances, but also their real world impact on health, nutrition, and sustainable living.

As President of the Scientific Committee, I am honored to invite researchers, clinicians, industry partners, students and anyone fascinated by microbiology to join us in this dynamic exchange of ideas. Your contributions, whether through groundbreaking research, thoughtful debate, or collaborative initiatives, are essential to shaping the next chapter of this scientific journey.

Together, we will honor the legacy of Dr. Shirota while looking boldly toward the future. I warmly welcome you to participate, to share, and to be inspired as we continue building a scientific community dedicated to improving lives through the power of beneficial microbes.

Svetoslav Todorov