Japan News Update #58 (March 2024)

Food certification and its fears in Japan

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical, a Japanese drugmaker, said that three more deaths are linked to its supplements containing red yeast rice, called “beni koji”, bringing the total to five. The health scare has shaken Japan's food market to the core, fueled by labeling regulations of “kinosei hyoji shokuhin”, or “foods labeled functional.” Functional foods, introduced in 2015, are booming in Japan, surpassing the market of the “tokuho”, or “foods with special health qualities.”

Source: Japan deaths linked to red yeast rice supplements raise food safety fears

Food tech in alternative protein and conversion to electricity

Plant-based alternative foods are gaining traction in Japan with local and international companies. Eclipse Foods, a US startup, is set to launch its non-dairy ice creams in major convenience store chains, using plant-derived ingredients. Meanwhile, Japanese startup Daiz has developed soy-based meat and fish substitutes, boasting nutritional value comparable to real meat and fish.

Source: Tech progress fuels competition in Japan's alternative food market

Japanese agricultural equipment manufacturer Kubota is mulling over producing batteries in-house for its electric farm machinery, anticipating increased demand. The company aims to launch electric tractors, mowers, and carriers in the US and Europe by 2030, aligning with diesel and emissions regulations.

Source: Kubota weighs making own batteries for electric farm equipment

Movements toward sustainability

Japanese beverage giants are intensifying sustainability efforts, embracing initiatives like water source conservation and winery tours. While sustainability awareness in Japan is less pervasive than in Europe or the US, companies are eyeing Generation Z as a pivotal market, recognizing their strong environmental concerns.

Source: Major Japanese beverage groups focusing more on sustainability