#House Foods #Hajimete Cooking #Future Smiles

Celebrating 30 Years of 'Hajimete Cooking' Classes

The 'Hajimete Cooking' classes, initiated by House Foods Group, is an inspiring program designed to support children in their first curry-making experience. As the program celebrates its 30th anniversary, it highlights the joy and learning that come from cooking.

Launched in 1996, the 'Hajimete Cooking' initiative has been instrumental in introducing kids to the world of culinary arts, focusing on the importance of experiencing food preparation firsthand. This program has not only been about cooking but also about nurturing a sense of curiosity, gratitude, and learning among children. The classes enable kids to discover the joy of cooking through the experience of making curry together with their peers.

In conjunction with this special milestone, a new corporate commercial titled "Creating Future Smiles" will begin airing nationwide starting June 12, 2026. This commercial encapsulates the essence of the 'Hajimete Cooking' program, showcasing the rich experiences that children accumulate during the course of their culinary journey.

The cooking sessions allow children to truly engage with the ingredients: they chop vegetables, sauté meats, and stir in curry roux, transforming raw ingredients into a delicious curry dish. This hands-on experience fosters not only skills in the kitchen but also important life lessons such as teamwork, responsibility, and appreciation for food and those who produce it.

According to feedback from participating schools, the program successfully encompasses key educational points by allowing children to engage in preparation and cooking. It cultivates not only their interest and knowledge related to food but also develops critical thinking and self-confidence—traits necessary for their growth as individuals.

Since its inception, more than 11.35 million children have participated in 'Hajimete Cooking' classes across Japan. The program aims for one in ten preschoolers nationwide to experience these cooking classes by the time it celebrates its next milestone.

The Message Behind the Commercial

The narrative within the new commercial showcases a touching generational connection: a mother who once participated in the 'Hajimete Cooking' class shares her experience with her own daughter as they engage in the activity together. This beautifully illustrates how the lessons learned through the program are passed down through generations, creating a unique bond through shared experiences in the kitchen.

The program is more than just about making curry; it is about enriching lives with valuable experiences surrounding food. Through the alignment with the campaign slogan,