#Japan #Hiroshima #SDGs #Murakami Farm #Tofu Sprouts

Grow Together This Summer with Tofu Sprouts!

Murakami Farm, a leading producer of sprouted vegetables in Japan, is set to launch its very first Tofu Sprout Research Contest for elementary school children starting from July 28. This initiative seeks to engage young minds in hands-on research projects focusing on the unique qualities of Tofu Sprouts, nurturing curiosity about nature and food through experiences of growing, observing, and cooking.

The special site for the contest, titled ‘Murakami Farm Research Club’, has also been revamped to provide enthusiasts with a plethora of resources including videos showcasing state-of-the-art plant factories.

Importance of Research During Summer Vacations

Each summer, the freedom research project can be a source of anxiety for many elementary school students and their parents. Recognizing this challenge, Murakami Farm is encouraging children to utilize the remarkable regenerative growth characteristic of Tofu Sprouts. By enabling them to “grow, observe, and eat,” the initiative hopes to spark a deeper interest in both natural and dietary sciences. The new site offers an online platform where children can explore plant growth and learn about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through engaging video content.

Visit the ‘Murakami Farm Research Club’ here!

What are Tofu Sprouts?

Tofu Sprouts, derived from young pea shoots, are characterized by their mild aroma and crunchy texture, making them a nutritious addition to various dishes. Rich in proteins, B vitamins, as well as beta-carotene and Vitamin C, Tofu Sprouts offer an excellent balance of nutrients. Being cultivated in plant factories ensures that they are available year-round at stable prices, making them a perfect cost-effective staple vegetable.

Why Choose Tofu Sprouts for Research?

Here are three reasons why Tofu Sprouts are an ideal subject for this contest:

1. Minimal Supplies Required:
Only two items are necessary to grow Tofu Sprouts—water (tap water is acceptable) and a container (such as plastic or a PET bottle). This simplicity allows students to easily initiate their research projects at home without the need for elaborate preparations.

2. Rapid Growth Potential:
With the discarded roots placed in water, new shoots can appear in as little as one week. This property makes Tofu Sprouts an excellent example of “Reborn Vegetables” (or ReVive Veggies), allowing children to witness the growth process quickly. It is an ideal choice for those eager to experiment under different conditions or those pressed for time.

3. Hands-On Learning Experience:
Students can grow, cook, and enjoy Tofu Sprouts, effectively blending education with enjoyment. They can explore a variety of cooking styles, as Tofu Sprouts can be enjoyed raw, stir-fried, or added to soups. They can even create their own recipes, fostering creativity in the kitchen. Additionally, preparation requires minimal tools, making it accessible even for young children.

Contest Overview

The Tofu Sprout Research Contest invites submissions based on a range of themes, including cultivation experiments, surveys, recipe development, and crafts—all centered around the theme of Tofu Sprouts. The aim is to shape the imaginative discoveries and ideas of young participants into tangible submissions. A panel of judges from Murakami Farm will assess all entries, with results set to be announced on the special site by late September.

Submission Details

• - Eligibility: Open to elementary school students (1st to 6th grade).
• - Submission Period: July 28, 2025 - September 7, 2025 (must arrive by this date).
• - Theme: Any freedom research project that involves Tofu Sprouts is allowed.
• - Format: Submissions can be handwritten or typed; creative freedom is encouraged, including varying report formats.

How to Apply

To apply, please include your name (with furigana), grade, contact number, and email address, and send it by mail or email:

• - By Mail:

Send the original or a copy of your work to:
Murakami Farm Research Club, 1-8-4, Shibakoen, Minato-Ku, Tokyo, 105-0011, Japan.

• - By Email:

Email your completed work in digital format or a scanned image of handwritten entries to [email protected]

Judging and Awards

Submissions will be judged by the members of the Murakami Farm Research Division (employees of Murakami Farm). Award-winning entries will be publicly announced on the website, and winners will be notified via email. Prizes include:

• - Inclusion on the Murakami Farm Research Club page.
• - Certificates of achievement.
• - Tofu Sprouts from Murakami Farm.
• - Original Murakami Farm merchandise.

Participation Prize: Every participant will receive a Murakami Farm original clear file as a token of thanks.

About Murakami Farm

Founded in January 1978 by CEO Kiyotaka Murakami, Murakami Farm specializes in the production and sale of nutrient-dense vegetables including broccoli, super sprouts, and Tofu Sprouts. With sales reaching ¥11.37 billion for the year ending December 2024, the company operates multiple centers across Japan and is committed to contributing to sustainable agriculture.