New Zealand Fresh Produce Presentation Event Highlights Quality and Safety

Promoting Quality and Safety: New Zealand's Fresh Produce Presentation Event

On May 12th, the New Zealand Embassy in Japan hosted an engaging presentation event titled "Made with Care," specifically designed for media and influencers. The event, organized by the New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), focused on highlighting the taste, safety, and exceptional quality of New Zealand's fresh produce. Attendees were not only treated to insightful presentations but also had the unique opportunity to sample a variety of products firsthand.

This event is part of NZTE's global campaign, "Made with Care," aimed at promoting New Zealand's high-quality products across key markets including Japan, Australia, China, the U.S., and the U.K. The campaign emphasizes the ethical values underpinning New Zealand's production practices, which prioritize taste, safety, nutritional value, and respect for people, society, and the environment.

To enrich the program, renowned culinary expert and registered dietitian, Megumi Fujii, shared her knowledge by proposing delicious lunchbox recipes that leverage New Zealand's fresh ingredients. Participants also engaged in a hands-on activity to create their custom "Made with Care BENTO," blending the culinary traditions of New Zealand and Japan.

The event began with refreshing smoothies made from New Zealand produce, complemented by a captivating performance of the traditional Maori haka. Lucy Duncan, the New Zealand Ambassador to Japan, warmly welcomed the guests, stating, "New Zealand and Japan have built a significant relationship over many years based on mutual respect and trust, as well as a commitment to quality. We take pride in delivering high-quality New Zealand products to the Japanese market and contributing to the high standards the consumers demand."

Following her opening remarks, Peter Crisp, CEO of NZTE, further elaborated on the "Made with Care" philosophy. He explained, "It's not just about the quality of New Zealand's fresh produce, but the thoughtful approach behind it. 'Made with Care' signifies care for the land, the people, and every step of the supply chain, influenced strongly by Maori values. This includes 'Kaitiakitanga,' the responsibility to protect and nurture the land for future generations, and 'Manaakitanga,' which represents respect and care for customers, partners, and consumers. These values are crucial in agriculture, as consistent quality in fresh produce results from meticulous attention throughout all processes."

Following the speeches, various New Zealand export companies conducted detailed presentations about the unique features of their fresh produce. New Zealand's favorable climate and fertile soils contribute to a robust agriculture industry committed to sustainable practices, earning it global recognition as a safe and reliable supplier of food.

Key features of New Zealand's fresh produce include:

- High Quality and Safety: Strict production standards and sustainable farming practices.
- Nutritional Richness: Fresh and nutrient-dense products.
- Compatibility with Japanese Cuisine: Seamlessly fits into traditional Japanese meals, especially lunchboxes.

Six New Zealand companies participated in the event, sharing the allure of their locally grown fresh produce:

- The Fresh Fruit Company of New Zealand Freshco
- Freshmax NZ Freshmax
- MG Group Exports MG Group
- Mr. Apple / AOZORA Mr. Apple | AOZORA
- NZ Avocado Group NZ Avocado Group
- Zespri Zespri

As a special guest, Megumi Fujii engaged in a talk session to share her recommendations on incorporating New Zealand produce into Japanese meals. She mentioned, "I've always put thought into making bento for my family, and I believe the bento you take from home is the most reassuring food. New Zealand's ingredients are truly rich in flavor and nutritious. Due to New Zealand's position in the southern hemisphere, we can enjoy seasonal ingredients all year round, which is a fantastic advantage."

Fujii provided tips for utilizing specific fruits in lunch preparation, suggesting that kiwifruit can tenderize meat when marinated before cooking, while apples could be lightly pickled to add texture to bento boxes. She encouraged attendees to think of creative ways to integrate New Zealand produce into their daily meals.

The event also featured a display of Bento recipes showcased by Fujii, along with hands-on opportunities for participants to prepare their own bentos. It was a delightful occasion for attendees to experience the rich flavors of New Zealand's fresh produce in the heart of Japan's culinary culture.

About New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and the New Zealand Embassy Business Section

NZTE and the New Zealand Embassy's Business Section work to enhance the recognition and import of New Zealand products in the Japanese market. Through collaboration with distributors, retailers, importers, and media in Japan, they aim to promote the appeal of New Zealand's high-quality goods and support the creation of market opportunities.

Official Made with Care Website: Made with Care

Follow Us:
- Facebook
- Instagram
- X