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Lotte Empowers Young Women in STEM

Lotte Co., Ltd., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has once again participated in the 'Girls Meet STEM' program, a unique tour designed to inspire high school girls to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This program, organized in collaboration with the Shintaro Yamada D&I Foundation, took place on August 27, 2026, at the Lotte Central Research Institute located in Saitama City, Japan.

About 'Girls Meet STEM'

The 'Girls Meet STEM' initiative allows young women to explore various STEM fields by visiting companies and universities while engaging with female professionals and students. Lotte joined this program in 2025, aligning with government plans to boost the participation of women in STEM fields and facilitate their career choices. The company aims to contribute to societal challenges through its business activities.

On the day of the event, Lotte hosted 35 high school girls at the Central Research Institute. Participants engaged in several activities, including chocolate aroma analysis, a behind-the-scenes look at ice cream development, and sensory evaluations of their favorite treats. The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how insightful it was to learn about the development processes of products they enjoy daily.

Engaging Activities

Fundamental Research

During the fundamental research segment, the focus was on the scientific analysis of taste, particularly the role of aroma. Participants learned about the different types of aromas—those experienced through the nose and those that pass from the mouth to the nose while eating—and how these affect our perception of flavor. They had the chance to taste Ghana milk chocolate while comparing their aromatic experiences with analysis results.

Development Research

The development section provided a glimpse into the process of creating delicious ice cream that pleases consumers. Students were able to observe the differences between ice cream mixes before and after freezing, learning about how recipes are tailored to match various textures and flavors suitable for different ice cream forms.

Sensory Research

In the sensory research portion, an exciting experience awaited as the girls compared two versions of the ice cream, 'Coolish', assessing standard versus seasonal qualities. They discovered the technique of manipulating the size of tiny ice crystals to achieve flavors that resonate with different seasons.

Discussion Sessions

The tour also featured a lively discussion session where Lotte's female employees answered questions from high school girls. They shared their personal experiences, offering insights on topics such as study methods for becoming a food researcher, the reasons for joining Lotte, and the challenges and rewards of their jobs. It was a valuable exchange that encouraged active participation from the students.

Facilitator's Insights

Hana Tokunaga, from Lotte's Future Value Research Department of Sensory Research, commented on the importance of showcasing the work methods of female employees to inspire young women. She hopes that participants came away with a sense of the diverse opportunities available in food science and research. By turning what may seem like a difficult STEM field into a more accessible and exciting career option, she encourages students to think about their futures with optimism.

Lotte’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Lotte is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as part of building a sustainable society, which includes focusing on the empowerment of individuals. In January 2023, Lotte signed the United Nations' 'WEPs' (Women's Empowerment Principles), reinforcing its commitment to gender equality. The company aims to contribute to creating an environment where diverse talent can thrive, not only through internal initiatives but also through programs like this tour, aimed at supporting the next generation of female leaders.

More on 'Girls Meet STEM'

The 'Girls Meet STEM' program is sponsored by the Shintaro Yamada D&I Foundation in collaboration with various universities, colleges, companies, and research institutions. It provides a unique opportunity for high school girls to explore STEM careers and expand their academic and professional horizons through first-hand experience in real STEM environments and interactions with role models in related fields. For more information, visit their official website: Girls Meet STEM.

Conclusion

As Lotte continues to pave the way for young women in STEM, their dedication to empowering the next generation is clear. Initiatives like the 'Girls Meet STEM' program not only inspire young minds but also provide essential knowledge and support, ensuring a brighter future in science and technology for all.