#Japan #Tokyo #Food Tech #IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT #ASTRA FOOD PLAN

In a Remarkable Showcase of Innovation

On October 14, 2025, ASTRA FOOD PLAN, a food tech startup based in Fujimi City, Saitama Prefecture, celebrated a significant achievement at the IMPACT STARTUP SUMMIT 2025 held in Tokyo. The company was honored with the prestigious 'IMPACT STARTUP PITCH GRAND PRIZE,' as well as two other commendations, the 'AUDIENCE AWARD' and the 'NOMURA AWARD.' The event was organized by the Impact Startup Association (ISA), which aims to promote sustainable growth through impactful startups.

The 'IMPACT STARTUP PITCH' program featured ten early-phase impact startups, each presenting their visions and business models aimed at solving social issues. Teams of judges, composed of ISA's member companies, evaluated the presentations, leading to the awarding of a total of ten different prizes, including the GRAND PRIZE and the AUDIENCE AWARD.

ASTRA FOOD PLAN's CEO, Chihiro Kano, presented a unique approach to combat the hidden food waste problem using their proprietary drying technology. The significant potential of this strategy earned the startup one of the top honors.

ASTRA FOOD PLAN's Vision Alligned with ISA's Mission

Established on October 14, 2022, the ISA is dedicated to addressing social challenges and creating an ecosystem where impactful startups can flourish. With four key pillars—sharing, forming, proposing, and disseminating—the organization promotes collaboration among various sectors to foster sustainable social growth. ASTRA FOOD PLAN became a full member of ISA in 2024, joining over 250 member companies committed to social impact and sustainable development.

In a statement reflecting on their achievement, CEO Chihiro Kano emphasized the challenges faced in balancing social problem-solving with business growth since the company’s inception in 2020, when the term "upcycling" was not widely recognized. He expressed gratitude for the honors received and praised the other participants’ impressive presentations, highlighting the camaraderie among companies united in their efforts to tackle social issues.

Commitment to a Sustainable Circular Food Economy

ASTRA FOOD PLAN is not just about their technology; they aim to provide solutions to the hidden food waste crisis. They focus on building a new upcycling supply chain where discarded food items are transformed into high-quality food products that consumers will enjoy, rather than being wasted. This innovative approach supports the creation of a sustainable food circular economy.

Their core technology, the 'Superheated Steaming Machine,' dries and sterilizes food in just 10 seconds, allowing currently unused agricultural by-products to be upcycled into valuable food powders. This technology helps businesses struggling with food waste by not only providing the machinery but also selling the new food ingredients produced, known as 'Gururiko®.'

Opportunities at ASTRA FOOD PLAN

ASTRA FOOD PLAN is seeking passionate individuals to join their team as they continue to grow and innovate. Casual interviews are available for those interested in learning more about opportunities. More information can be found on their career page.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: ASTRA FOOD PLAN, Inc.
• - Website: ASTRA FOOD PLAN
• - Headquarters: 1-10-26 Tsurusehigashi, Fujimi City, Saitama Prefecture
• - CEO: Chihiro Kano
• - Founded: August 2020

ASTRA FOOD PLAN continues to lead the charge in sustainable food technology and looks forward to contributing positively to society through innovative solutions.