Japan markets its agri products, regional cuisine

Japan was historically known as "the land of golden ears of rice".

And, the tradition of rice cultivation has been well protected by the Japanese Government.

Today, Wooke Co. Ltd., a sister concern of Shinmei Corporation, produces aseptic packaged rice in cooperation with Japan Agricultural Cooperatives.

It produces over 140 packets of rice per day and exports them to Europe, Australia, Russia and China.

The sterilizing, cooking and sealing process are managed by NASA Class 100 standard in order to produce complete germfree packed rice, without adding any chemicals or food addictives.

The packed rice products can be stored at room temperature for ten months.

Shigeru Matsuyama, General Manager, Wooke Co. Ltd., said: "We have got a very good response as it is very easy to make Sushi, the most famous Japanese dish, outside Japan. Our product is not only popular among Japanese living abroad, but also among other customers."

Shinmei, the parent company of Wooke, organized the Japan Rice Export Conference with Japan Agricultural Cooperatives three years ago to promote Japanese rice products and exports, worldwide.

Katsuji Hosoda, Union President, Japan Agricultural Cooperatives Minaho, said: "Japan exports 1200 tons of rice, which is still less. We aim to increase exports by effective marketing. Every year, we participate in international food exhibitions such as SAIL France and ANUGA in Germany. We aim to expand the reach of Japanese agricultural products across the world market, especially Asia, which is mainly a rice producing region."

Japanese food has a vast variety of regional specialties known as 'Kyodo Ryori'. They originate from dishes prepared using local ingredients and traditional recipes.

All Nippon Airlines (ANA), a Japanese airline company, has been promoting Japanese local food by adopting regional specialties from Kumato and Kyushu region for their in-flight meals.

It has started a new in-flight service from September on their newly designed airplane with the logo "Inspiration of Japan".

It is the only Japanese airline which has "Five Stars", the highest certificate by Skymark, the airline service research organization.

Osamu Shinobe, President and CEO, All Nippon Airways Co. Ltd., said: We are announcing "The Connoisseurs" campaign, inviting 24 celebrated chefs and professionals for our in-flight meals and drinks."

Koji Oka, Director, CS and Products Services, All Nippon Airways Co. Ltd.,:"For our new international in-flight services from September, we have created a brand new menu featuring regional specialties from Kumamoto prefecture in conjunction with a local producer. We aim to impress with the charms of Japan, especially centered on the Asia route."

ANA's in-flight meal is planned and developed by ANA Catering Service that has a number of chefs with experience in the hotel and restaurant business.

It offers high grade Japanese and Western meals.

Fukuzo Yoshikura, Director, Executive Chef, ANA Catering Service Co. Ltd., said: "I am introducing a part of our first-class menu. The main course includes Katsumo Wagyu beef from Kumamoto, grilled Sirloin. Katsumo Wagyu has a slightly different taste from the popular Japanese Black Kuroge Wagyu. Katsumo Wagyu has a rich taste with pleasant original beef flavour. I think this is extremely delightful."

So the next time you fly ANA, feast on regional food specialties from Japan.