A New Era of Flavors: Introducing 'Umami Spicy Ethnic Spice' from Gururiko

On January 7, 2026, Astra Food Plan Co., Ltd., a food tech startup from Fujimi City, Saitama Prefecture, is set to launch the latest flavor in its innovative 'Gururiko' condiment line - the 'Umami Spicy Ethnic Spice'. This new addition embodies the company's mission of transforming food waste into delicious solutions by utilizing upcycled onion flakes made from leftover onion trimmings.

Unique Flavor Profile

The 'Umami Spicy Ethnic Spice' is based on a rich blend of over ten authentic spices, including coriander, cumin, and kasuri methi, combined with the deep umami and aroma of the Gururiko onion flakes. Carefully crafted, this spice mixture strikes an ideal balance of flavor—not excessively hot, but rather offering a depth of taste through the inclusion of fried garlic, dried scallops, and shiitake mushrooms. The resulting texture is crunchy, making it a versatile addition to an array of dishes.

Perfect Pairings

This newly launched spice can elevate various meals, ranging from chicken dishes like fried chicken and pork chops to enhancing traditional noodle soups like udon and soba. A sprinkle is all it takes to transform everyday meals into exotic treats, bringing an authentic ethnic flair to your table.

Exciting Launch Campaign

To celebrate the launch of the 'Umami Spicy Ethnic Spice', Astra Food Plan is also hosting a New Year campaign from January 7 to January 31, 2026. Participants can enter a draw to win 'Gururiko Enjoyment Sets', offering exciting products including the new flavor and the popular revamped 'Gourmet Soy Sauce'.

How to Enter

To partake in this special campaign, follow Astra Food Plan's official Instagram (@astra_fp_) and like the relevant post. To increase the chances of winning, simply comment with the hashtag #GururikoUmakara.

Revamped Gourmet Soy Sauce

In addition to introducing the new spice, Astra Food Plan has improved its longstanding 'Gourmet Soy Sauce'. This product has been meticulously reformulated to enhance the richness of its flavor, ensuring a superior culinary experience. Customers who have previously enjoyed the product are encouraged to rediscover its deeper and fuller taste profile.

Fighting Food Waste

The 'Gururiko' range utilizes onions that might otherwise go to waste, sourced from vegetable processing centers. By implementing advanced steam roasting technology, these overlooked parts are converted into aromatic flakes that boast 135 times the fragrance compared to standard dried onion powders available on the market.

Commitment to Ethical Practices

Astra Food Plan is committed to reducing hidden food waste within the agricultural and food production sectors. The vision of 'turning waste into flavor' not only emphasizes sustainability but also enhances the overall culinary experience through the 'flavors you can eat'.

About the Innovative Steam Roasting Machine

The proprietary steam roasting technology prevents nutrient loss and flavor degradation while simultaneously drying and sterilizing. This device can upcycle various otherwise wasted ingredients, including vegetable scraps and byproducts from fruit and beverage production, into high-value food powders.

Exceptional Benefits

1. Protecting Flavor and Nutrients: Using high-temperature steam, flavor degradation is minimized, and the nutritional quality of the ingredients is preserved, often enhancing umami content.
2. Cost-Effective Production: The system achieves high energy efficiency and production rates while reducing costs compared to traditional drying methods.
3. Rapid Sterilization and Drying: The quick heating process, taking only 5-10 seconds, allows safe processing of ingredients while preventing spoilage.

About Astra Food Plan

Founded in 2020, Astra Food Plan is dedicated to building a circular food cycle by developing technology that effectively reduces food wastage. The company aims to create added-value products from food byproducts through innovative means. Discover more about their mission, products, and opportunities to join their team through their official website.

Explore the 'Gururiko' range and join the movement towards a more sustainable future while enjoying great flavors. More details on purchasing the 'Umami Spicy Ethnic Spice' and participating in the campaign can be found at Gururiko Official Site.