#Japan #Düsseldorf #Mizkan #Kobayashi #Natto Tray

Innovating the Natto Tray

In a significant recognition of innovation and design, Mizkan Corporation and Kobayashi Co., Ltd. received the World Star Award from the World Packaging Organisation (WPO) at a ceremony held in Düsseldorf, Germany, on May 8, 2026. This award is prestigious in the packaging industry, highlighting Mizkan's revolutionary natto tray that was introduced in September 2025. The tray was developed to tackle several prevalent issues related to traditional natto packaging, such as difficulty holding and mixing the natto, as well as challenges surrounding cleanliness and environmental sustainability.

Unpacking the Challenges

Natto, a popular Japanese food made from fermented soybeans, has long been packaged in trays that presented several usability drawbacks. Consumers have reported issues like awkward shapes that are hard to grip, mixing difficulties, and sticky residues left behind after use, making these trays less than ideal for everyday enjoyment. Moreover, the recent focus on reducing plastic waste and minimizing environmental impact adds another layer of concern to traditional packaging solutions.

A New Design Philosophy

In response to these issues, Mizkan and Kobayashi collaborated to create a new natto tray featuring a flatter design with reduced ribbing. This innovative structure enhances the overall usability by improving grip comfort and facilitating easier mixing. The redesign also minimizes the risk of chopsticks breaking through the tray, addressing a common user concern. Furthermore, this improvement contributes to cleanliness by preventing sticky residues from lingering in the packaging, making it easier to wash and recycle.

The new tray not only addresses functionality but also prioritizes sustainability. By reducing the weight of the packaging and using fewer resources, it helps to lower plastic usage and decrease CO2 emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Recognition and Achievement

This award marks Mizkan and Kobayashi’s second major recognition, having previously won the Chairman’s Award at the 2025 Japan Packaging Contest organized by the Japan Packaging Technical Association. The World Star Award evaluates entries based on several criteria including protection and preservation of content, usability, sustainability, and innovativeness. The natto tray's unique features and commitment to eco-friendliness were instrumental in selecting it for this honor.

Mizkan’s team leader Masanori Shinohara expressed great pride in the recognition. He noted that the collaboration consisted of around 130 stakeholders working together over three and a half years to develop and refine the new tray, a clear departure from conventional designs. Shinohara emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and responding to consumer needs, which drove the innovative redesign.

Additionally, Kobayashi's team leader Masahito Oikawa acknowledged the joint effort as a significant achievement, highlighting its dual focus on lightweight design and enhanced usability. He expressed hope that this recognition would elevate the perception of Japanese food packaging technology on an international stage.

Looking Ahead

The World Star Award represents a leap forward for Mizkan and Kobayashi as they continue to redefine the norms in food packaging. In an era where sustainability and functionality are paramount, this innovative natto tray serves as a benchmark for future developments in the industry. As the food packaging landscape continues to evolve, consumers can expect more thoughtful designs that enhance their experience while also respecting environmental concerns.

To learn more about the World Star Award and its significance, visit the official WPO website here.