Innovative Business Contest Highlights Sustainability Solutions for a Healthier Future

Kuradashi Labo 2026: A Leap Towards Sustainable Solutions

On March 25, 2026, the prestigious 'Food Sustainability Research Society' hosted its 7th annual in-house new business contest named 'Kuradashi Labo 2026'. This event showcased a range of innovative ideas aimed at addressing pressing social issues such as vacant house problems and low feed self-sufficiency rates. Ultimately, the standout project, 'Tsurukame BCP', received the highest accolade for its commitment to balancing economic viability and public benefit.

The Winning Project: Tsurukame BCP

Proposer: Ippei Sekiguchi, Head of Brand Division, Food Business Company.

Project Overview: This initiative focuses on the aging of essential workers and the increasing risk of lifestyle-related diseases due to dependence on dining out. By combining medically supervised frozen meals and IoT freezers with a health management app, 'Tsurukame BCP' aims to develop a tailored health infrastructure specifically for frontline workers.

Winner's Remarks:

Sekiguchi expressed, "It is an honor to receive this award. The idea stemmed from a desire to leverage the knowledge we've gained from Dr. Tsurukame Kitchen to tackle urgent health issues facing workers who underpin our society. I’m delighted the judges recognized the feasibility of achieving both public and economic benefits. We are committed to initiating a feasibility study to realize this project as soon as possible, ensuring the health and well-being of our workforce."

Excellence Award: 'I Want to Make Feed'

Proposer: Miuka Ohmori, Long-term Intern at Kuradashi.
Project Overview: This concept addresses the issues of declining feed self-sufficiency and high feed costs burdening livestock management. It proposes establishing a circular economy platform that transforms food waste into feed while creating a network of recycling facilities to manufacture affordable domestically-produced feed. This initiative not only supports struggling livestock farmers but also connects the supply chain to sell meat raised on recycled feed through an in-house e-commerce platform.

Remarks from Miuka Ohmori:

"My goal was to raise awareness about the 'eco-feed' concept among manufacturers and employees, conveying its potential from both business and sustainability perspectives. I’m thrilled that many people resonated with my idea through this Labo. Moving forward, my aim is to realize this concept as a sustainable business."

Special Prize: 'Kuradashi Re:Birth'

Proposer: Tatsuya Yamaguchi, Director of Business Development, Green Infrastructure Company.
Project Overview: With approximately nine million vacant homes in Japan contributing to increased administrative costs and regional degradation, this project proposes converting vacant properties into satellite offices or training centers for companies. By collaborating with local governments to secure locations, it matches corporate expansion and recruitment needs, thereby adding value to neglected properties and creating a sustainable regional development model.

Remarks from Tatsuya Yamaguchi:

"I aimed high with the intention of winning the top prize, so I feel a strong sense of disappointment. I realized my lack of preparation and the need to deepen my skills in new business development. I vow to reflect on this experience for personal growth and to refine the business proposal for successful launch."

Insights from Judges

Takahisa Nawa: Professor at Hitotsubashi University Business School noted, "The strength of conviction displayed by participants was remarkable. The uniqueness of each idea reflected 'Kuradashi's' identity, while the ability to connect with potential collaborators was crucial for recognition."

Masataka Suzuki, COO of Borderless Japan, emphasized the importance of realism in proposals. He admired 'Tsurukame BCP' for its clarity and impact, urging all participants to focus on tangible outcomes that create enthusiasm among stakeholders.

Kanemoto Furuichi: An impact catalyst from the Social Change Promotion Foundation, praised the well-thought-out presentations while suggesting that future proposals might benefit from bolder, ambitious innovations for greater societal impact.

Conclusion

Ryuuya Sekito, Chairman of Kuradashi, expressed pride in collaborating with partners towards a shared vision of societal betterment and economic revitalization. He affirmed the persistent challenges in transforming social issues into profitable ventures, reiterating Kuradashi’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.

About Kuradashi

Established in July 2014, Kuradashi aims to bridge various social sustainability challenges, particularly focusing on reducing food waste. The company operates several initiatives, including the 'Kuradashi Fund', and is dedicated to fostering a sustainable food supply chain.

Understanding the vital importance of food security and sustainability, Kuradashi's contests exemplify a commitment to societal welfare through innovative solutions. As they pave the way for future endeavors, their focus remains steadfast on impactful growth and community support.