New Upcycled Product 'Oku-Ise Yuzuppi (Peel)' Unveiled at the Oda Festival

Revitalizing Oku-Ise Yuzu with New Upcycled Snack

In a creative initiative to repurpose agricultural waste, Red Horse Corporation has launched its latest product, 'Oku-Ise Yuzuppi (Peel)', created from the discarded peels of the unique Oku-Ise Yuzu fruit in Ōda Town, Mie Prefecture. This innovative snack was showcased at the ‘Dontonko Oda Festival’ on November 16, aiming to breathe new life into a regional specialty and promote local culture through sustainable practices.

Emphasizing Regional Resources

The development of 'Oku-Ise Yuzuppi (Peel)' is part of an ongoing effort by Red Horse Corporation to innovate local products by tapping into underutilized resources. The company, headquartered in Sumida, Tokyo, emphasizes its commitment to regional revitalization. This snack utilizes the often-discarded peels of Oku-Ise Yuzu, transforming potential waste into a delightful treat.

The taste experience of Oku-Ise Yuzuppi highlights the characteristic zesty flavor and refreshing acidity of the yuzu. The peels are treated with sugar and dried without any artificial flavors or colors, maintaining the fruit’s natural essence. When the package is opened, it emits a delightful aroma that instantly invigorates the senses, making it perfect for snacking or as an additive to yogurt and baked goods.

Student-Designed Packaging

Adding a charming touch to the product, the packaging features a character called 'Yuzushikakun,' designed by local students from the Mie Prefectural Subaru Academy of Arts during their time at school. This character, inspired by both the yuzu fruit and the deer which are familiar to the residents, has been embraced by the community and even adapted as shutter art by the Oda Town Chamber of Commerce. The aim is to create a product that resonates with both locals and tourists alike.

Feedback from the Community

At the festival, visitors enthusiastically sampled the new product and provided positive feedback, praising its balanced flavor that delivers a hit of natural acidity. Some even expressed a desire to recommend it to others, underlining its potential to become a beloved local delicacy. The product is available at various local retail points, including 'Michi no Eki Oku-Ise Oda,' and expansion plans are underway to reach additional outlets across Mie Prefecture.

A Sustainable Future

The inspiration behind this upcycled product stems from an estimated annual waste of approximately 25 tons of yuzu peels generated during the juice extraction process at the local processing facility. By addressing this issue, Red Horse Corporation aims to demonstrate the value that can be extracted from agricultural byproducts, thereby encouraging sustainable practices within the region.

In August of this year, the company launched its first upcycled item, the 'Edible Oku-Ise Yuzu Pepper,' which has seen positive sales and reception. 'Oku-Ise Yuzuppi (Peel)' is a continuation of this commitment to innovative products that support local economies. Red Horse Corporation is dedicated to working closely with local producers like Miyagawa Bussan to enrich the variety of Oku-Ise Yuzu-based offerings.

Conclusion

Red Horse Corporation sees this initiative as more than just a product launch; it’s a movement toward revitalizing communities through sustainable practices, enhancing local branding, and creating compelling narratives that reflect the region’s unique identity. The collaboration with local artists, producers, and schools aims not only to create superior products but also to foster a deeper connection within the community. The employees at Red Horse take great pride in their work, striving to portray stories that celebrate local culture and ensure the preservation of culinary traditions.

As they look ahead, continued partnership with Ōda Town and other stakeholders will play a significant role in developing unique regional products while promoting local agriculture and traditions.

Company Information
Red Horse Corporation
Address: 2F Kokugikan Front Building, 1-10-5 Yokozome, Sumida, Tokyo 130-0015
Established: March 1964
CEO: Kensuke Yamada, Executive Officer
Business Focus: Regional Industry Support and Revitalization, Consumer Business
Website: Red Horse Corporation