#Japan #Hiroshima #Murakami Farm #Edible Pea Shoot #Research Contest

Announcing the Winners of the Edible Pea Shoot Research Contest

Murakami Farm, a leading producer of edible pea shoots in Japan, recently announced the winners of its inaugural Edible Pea Shoot Research Contest. Held from July 28 to September 7, 2025, the contest invited elementary school students to explore the fascinating world of pea shoots through their creative research projects. Winners were revealed on the special website dedicated to the research department of Murakami Farm, where a variety of innovative submissions showcased both curiosity and imagination.

Murakami Farm has taken the initiative to foster an interest in gardening and nutrition among children, using the unique characteristics of pea shoots, which can be regrown after being harvested. This initiative allows children to engage in a hands-on learning experience that includes cultivating, observing, and ultimately eating their home-grown produce. The intention is not just to produce vegetables but to cultivate a deeper understanding of nature and food in young minds.

Contest Guidelines

• - Eligibility: Students from grades 1 to 6
• - Submission Period: July 28 to September 7, 2025
• - Theme: Any research based on pea shoots is welcome

Examples of Winner Projects

• - SDGs Award Winner: Rinka

Rinka's project titled “How Different Drinks Affect Pea Shoot Growth” explores the relationship between the nutrients in beverages and the growth rates of pea shoots. Through her research, she raises essential questions about sustainability and our food choices.

• - Uniqueness Award Winner: Yusei

Yusei's fascinating project “How Harsh and Kind Words Affect Pea Shoot Growth” investigates whether verbal communication can impact plant growth. This creative approach not only demonstrated Yusei's gentle curiosity but also encouraged him to think critically about the effects of human interaction on living things.

Expert Commentary

Akatsuki Sugi, a food culture expert, commented on the importance of using food as a theme for independent research projects. This platform provides students with excellent opportunities to develop their discovery skills, thinking capabilities, and expression techniques. She believes that exploring the unique characteristics of a single vegetable like pea shoots can allow children to leverage their own individuality and creativity. This endeavor not only enhances their research style as they grow older but also contributes to nurturing their resilience for a bright future.

Why Choose Pea Shoots for Research?

Pea shoots offer a complete experience from planting to consumption, making them an ideal option for diverse research endeavors:
1. Simple Preparation: Only two items are needed to grow pea shoots: water and a container. This convenience makes it easy for families to start their research at home.
2. Quick Growth: Within just one week, roots submerged in water yield fresh sprouts, making pea shoots ideal for rapid experimentation and learning.
3. Hands-On Learning: Students can grow, prepare, and eat their pea shoots, perfectly combining gardening with nutrition education. Cooking is made easy, requiring nothing more than kitchen scissors and a microwave, thus making it accessible for even the youngest chefs in training.

About Murakami Farm

Founded in January 1978 and headquartered in Hiroshima, Murakami Farm specializes in producing high-nutrient vegetables, including broccoli super sprouts and edible pea shoots. With a robust annual revenue projected at over ¥11.3 billion for the fiscal year ending December 2024, the company operates production centers across Japan, contributing significantly to local agriculture. Murakami Farm remains committed to fostering research, education, and sustainable practices in agriculture.
Learn more at Murakami Farm’s official website.