#Japan #TONICHI #Kawaguchi #Sainokikurage #Mushrooms

Sainokikurage: A Novel Mushroom Offering from Saitama

In a groundbreaking initiative, TONICHI Co., Ltd., headquartered in Koto City, Tokyo, has launched "Sainokikurage" on the Rakuten marketplace T-BOX. This unique product comes from a newspaper printing facility based in Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture. Under stringent hygiene conditions, the Sainokikurage mushrooms are cultivated with utmost care, resulting in thick, bouncy, and naturally flavorful mushrooms that are delivered to customers through reliable cool delivery services.

"Sainokikurage" is an innovative agricultural product aimed at enhancing Saitama's regional specialties. Initiated by TONICHI's group firm, the Mainichi Newspaper Metropolitan Center, this project began in February as an endeavor to promote local agricultural products that emphasize safety and quality. The name itself encapsulates the vision of "three colors of vibrancy" which signifies: local aesthetics, technical excellence, and a health-oriented approach.

The initial color denotes the "aesthetic of the region," focusing on mushroom cultivation conducted in Saitama with high safety standards. The second color reflects the "aesthetic of technology," emphasizing the high-quality cultivation possible thanks to the skills of trained employees and a 24-hour management system rooted in the expertise gained from newspaper printing. Lastly, the third color embodies the "aesthetic of health," as these nutrient-rich mushrooms, often dubbed "food that supports health," add a vibrant touch to daily meals.

Purchasing Information

Sample prices for Sainokikurage are:

• - Dried Mushrooms: 50g for ¥2,000, 100g for ¥3,270, and 200g for ¥5,700.
• - Fresh Mushrooms: 1kg for ¥3,560, and 2kg for ¥6,000, delivered via cool delivery.

For more details and to purchase: Rakuten T-BOX Sainokikurage

Insights on Sainokikurage

The production of mushrooms like kikurage (wood ear mushrooms) is limited in Japan, with a staggering 90% of the consumption depending on imported dried varieties from China. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries' statistics, the local cultivation of kikurage is minimal. In this context, Sainokikurage stands out distinctly, as it is nurtured thoughtfully within a clean environment inside a modern newspaper printing factory. This facility utilizes cutting-edge cultivation technology capable of accommodating up to 5,600 mushroom cultivation beds, managed by employees with various qualifications.

Post-harvest, each mushroom undergoes meticulous washing, and the stems are carefully trimmed. The fresh Sainokikurage boasts premium appearance and texture, ensuring that they are preserved with optimal freshness through refrigerated delivery systems. On the other hand, the dried variants are swiftly processed post-harvest to lock in nutrients and flavor, providing excellent shelf life suitable for both daily cooking and long-term storage.

Since its inception, the surprising concept of mushroom cultivation within a printing factory has captured significant media attention, being featured on TBS’s morning information program "THE TIME," along with several newspapers. The inquiries about purchasing have been numerous, prompting the group to launch availability on T-BOX; a direct response to the growing demand.

While kikurage may not usually be the star of a dish, it excels as an integral ingredient in a spectrum of recipes, including stir-fries, soups, and salads, blending seamlessly into various culinary traditions. Perfect for everyday use or as a thoughtful gift, Sainokikurage promises to enhance your meal experience with a touch of luxury and health. Indulging in this exciting product is highly recommended for a delightful culinary journey.