Transforming the Image of Green Juice: A FANCL Event in Japan

In a significant effort to elevate the reputation of green juice, FANCL recently organized a seminar entitled "From Unpalatable to Desirable Green Juice" at the Gainan University, a community-centric learning platform located in Nomura Town, Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture. This event underscores FANCL's commitment to promoting health through innovative educational programs.

Held in the symbolic Ogata Warehouse, which has emerged as a beacon of hope following the devastating July 2018 western Japan floods, the seminar attracted an impressive turnout of 55 participants, including local residents and students from Ehime University, Osaka University, and Fukuyama City University. This participation marks the highest number of attendees since the university’s inception, highlighting the community's enthusiasm for health education.

FANCL's kale green juice, produced locally in Seiyo City, served as a focal point for discussions aimed at strengthening initiatives that promote health among residents. The seminar featured two engaging segments: informative talks and interactive tastings, allowing participants to explore the nutritional benefits of kale and discover new ways to enjoy green juice.

Segment One: Redefining Green Juice

The first segment addressed the common stereotype of green juice as unpalatable. With quizzes and interactive activities, participants explored the nutritional value of kale, often referred to as the "king of vegetables," and learned about the meticulous production processes followed by FANCL. This dynamic approach helped attendees appreciate the quality and health benefits of green juice, encouraging a shift in their mindset.

Segment Two: Green Juice Creation Workshop

The second segment of the seminar transformed participants into green juice mixologists. Under the theme, "Let’s Create Various Kale Drinks," an interactive tasting workshop was held. Participants experimented with different ingredient combinations to make the green juice more appealing and flavorful. The room echoed with excitement and surprises as attendees exclaimed, “This completely changed my perception of green juice!” and “I can definitely enjoy this daily!” This hands-on experience not only showcased the versatility of green juice but also deepened the appreciation for the local kale produced in Nomura Town.

Comments from Participants and Officials

Local officials voiced their gratitude and excitement following the event. The head of Nomura City’s branch, Fumito Doi, expressed appreciation for FANCL’s involvement, noting that introducing green juice as a practical solution to increase vegetable intake among residents has been significant. Doi emphasized the importance of incorporating healthful options into daily life and acknowledged the engaging approach of the seminar.

Further, city officials remarked on the workshop’s ability to captivate participants across generations. They pledged to promote FANCL’s kale green juice more widely, ensuring its availability and encouraging its consumption. Local residents and students echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm to experiment with various recipes and integrate green juice into their daily routines.

About Gainan University and Ogata Warehouse

Gainan University, named from the local dialect for "amazing" and the "Nanyo region," was established in 2021 as part of the recovery from the western Japan floods. The primary venue, Ogata Warehouse, was repurposed from the damaged Ogata Sake Brewery, which halted production due to the disaster. Today, it serves as a community hub facilitating lectures and fieldwork across various disciplines, becoming a symbol of regional revitalization.

Gainan University is managed by the general incorporated association NEO Nomura, which focuses on town development, the revival of the renowned Ogata Koan sake, and the promotion of learning initiatives like Gainan University.

For more information, you can visit their official website: Gainan University.