#Japan #Tokyo #Koji #ASTRA FOOD PLAN #Bioc

Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Food Production

In a bid to address food sustainability, Bioc Co., Ltd, led by President Sanzaemon Murai, is making waves in the startup scene with their upcoming presentation at the "2nd Aichi Prefecture Higashimikawa - Tokyo Startup Connect & Meet Up!" on February 3, 2026. This highly anticipated event, held in Tokyo’s Otemachi at the 3×3 Lab Future, underscores a collaborative project with Astra Food Plan, a startup focusing on innovative food processing technologies.

The Power of Koji

Koji, a mold essential in traditional Japanese fermentation processes, is made by cultivating specific fungi on steamed rice. While this fermentation method yields various beneficial components, the mediums used during koji production often end up as waste. Renowned for their potential, these byproducts have not been effectively utilized outside brewing, as food manufacturers view active koji mold as a contamination risk. This raises a significant challenge—how to repurpose these rich resources safely and effectively?

Upcycling Unused Resources

The collaboration between Bioc and Astra Food Plan seeks to tackle this problem head-on. Utilizing Astra's advanced superheated steam technology, the project aims to rapidly dry and sterilize koji production residue, transforming it into a powdered food product known as "Gururiko". This innovative approach highlights the effectiveness of upcycling processes in not just reducing waste but also creating functional food ingredients that can contribute to sustainability in food production.

Background of the Initiative

The roots of this project stretch back to the inaugural meet-up organized by Aichi Prefecture, which took place on November 20, 2025. It provided a platform for startups in the Higashimikawa region to showcase their projects and foster collaboration with businesses in the Tokyo area. By focusing on the intersectionality between agriculture and innovation, this initiative is paving the way for a new era of sustainable practices within the agricultural industry.

Event Details

If you’re interested in learning more about this transformative project, be sure to attend the meet-up on February 3, 2026. Not only will attendees be able to witness the advancements made by Bioc and Astra Food Plan, but they will also engage with various agricultural startups aiming to foster innovation in the region.

• - Event Name: 2nd Aichi Prefecture Higashimikawa x Tokyo Startup Connect & Meet Up!
• - Date: February 3, 2026 (Tuesday)
• - Time: 16:00 – 20:00 (Part 1 begins at 16:00, Part 2 at 18:10)
• - Location: 3×3 Lab Future, Otemachi Tower, Tokyo
• - Organizer: Aichi Prefecture
• - Event Details Link

Key Speakers

1. Sanzaemon Murai - President of Bioc Co., Ltd., and the 29th head of Kojiya Sanzaemon, has been instrumental in merging traditional manufacturing with innovative biological research. His focus on applying modern microbiology to longstanding production techniques showcases a commitment to sustainability and quality in food manufacturing.
2. Chihiro Kanno - President of Astra Food Plan, who holds an impressive career in the food industry, founded the company in 2020. With a focus on creating groundbreaking food processing technologies that reduce food waste, Kanno’s work has already started garnering attention for its innovative approach to food sustainability.

Company Overviews

Bioc Co., Ltd.

Established in the Muromachi era, Bioc is a leading koji manufacturer, specializing in the research and development of microorganisms, serving businesses across Japan. The company is dedicated to innovative product development, ensuring sustainability and quality within its offerings. Visit Bioc's Website

Astra Food Plan

This startup focuses on developing and selling food drying and sterilization technologies using superheated steam. Their flagship product, the upcycled "Gururiko," epitomizes their mission to tackle food waste and elevate sustainability in the food industry. Visit Astra Food Plan's Website