Oisix's Initiative to Combat Food Waste with White Eggplant
As a part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, Oisix, a food subscription service provider based in Tokyo, has launched an emergency initiative named "Otasuke Oisix". This program addresses the unexpected surplus of non-standard white eggplants due to the recent extreme heat, which has severely affected local agriculture. Starting from July 3, 2025, Oisix will offer these excess eggplants in large quantity sales to food enthusiasts and conscientious consumers alike.
The Challenge of Excess White Eggplant
White eggplants are prized for their fine texture and abundant moisture, providing an exceptionally smooth taste. Unlike traditional purple varieties, their skin does not transfer color during cooking, making them a favorite in high-end restaurants. They are ideal for fried dishes or stews, particularly in hot summer recipes that pair perfectly with rich sauces and noodles. However, the recent drastic increase in temperature since mid-June has led to an unexpected surge in growth, causing many eggplants to become oversized or develop discoloration. These aesthetic issues have left farmers with no buyers, resulting in a significant risk of food waste at the peak of their harvest season.
Oisix's Response to Food Insecurity
Oisix's "Otasuke Oisix" program, initiated in August 2022, aims to alleviate food waste caused by unfavorable weather conditions and product irregularities. By notifying its members about these surplus products, Oisix has previously sold items like deformed bell peppers and split turnips, which might not typically find a place in conventional markets. Customers have responded positively, appreciating the opportunity to enjoy quality vegetables while supporting farmers facing harsh climatic conditions.
To further amplify their efforts, Oisix has partnered with Agrigate Co., a subsidiary operating the Shunpachi vegetable store, as well as Shidax Contract Food Service Co., both based in Tokyo. Starting July 9, 2025, they will offer bagged sales of the eggplants at physical stores, as well as incorporating them into lunch menus at workplace cafeterias like "Ameharo Shokudo", located at Gate City Osaki.
Product Details
2-pack of 400g White Eggplant (Gunma Prefecture)
- - Price: 454 yen (tax included)
- - Start Date: July 3, 2025, 10:00 AM
Bagged White Eggplant (Gunma Prefecture)
- - Price: 429 yen (tax included)
- - Sales Period: July 9-11, 2025
- - Location: Shunpachi Seika store, Tennozu
- - Access: 3 minutes from Tennozu Isle Station via Tokyo Monorail
Lunch Menu Featuring White Eggplant Salad at Ameharo Shokudo
- - Price: 1,200 yen
- - Sales Period: Starting July 9, 2025, until supplies last
- - Operating Hours: 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM
About Oisix
Founded in 2000, Oisix’s mission is to deliver food items grown and handled with care to ensure safety and quality. Known for organic and specially cultivated produce without additives, Oisix has amassed a membership of over 350,000 by the end of March 2025. Their meal kit, 'Kit Oisix', launched in July 2013, has reached over 200 million shipments by August 2024, exemplifying their innovative approach to meal preparation.
Oisix's Broader Commitment
Oisix, along with its affiliated brands like Radish Boya and Daichi wo Mamoru Kai, continues to expand its reach in providing meals while addressing social issues related to food. Their sustainable retail initiatives aim to reduce food waste throughout the supply chain, enhancing food security and promoting responsible consumption. With increasingly unpredictable weather patterns impacting food production, initiatives like "Otasuke Oisix" play a vital role in connecting consumers with fresh produce that might otherwise go to waste.
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Oisix White Eggplant