#Japan #Hokkaido #Wagyu Beef #Starzen #AjiPro®-L

Starzen's Initiative for Sustainable Livestock Management

Starzen has embarked on an innovative journey to tackle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions arising from livestock, notably through its Wagyu beef offerings. This initiative not only aims to enhance the environmental sustainability of beef production but also seeks to convert these sustainability efforts into tangible value for local farms. By improving feed efficiency using AjiPro®-L during the fattening phase, Starzen aims to reduce GHG emissions effectively while contributing to the economic viability of farming operations.

Background of the Initiative

The challenge of climate change significantly impacts livestock rearing conditions. Starzen has recognized GHG reduction as a critical issue across its entire supply chain. Starting in October 2023, the company has been testing the use of AjiPro®-L in crossbred cattle at the Hamanaka Farm. Preliminary outcomes have shown an impressive 10% increase in average daily weight gain and an augment of about 23 kg in the carcass weight. Based on these conditions, the estimated annual GHG reduction effect for the entire farm is around 100 tons, assuming the feeding of 144 head per year. Building on these foundational successes, Starzen aims to extend this initiative focusing on high-value Wagyu beef production.

The Business Model Concept

Future Directions

Looking ahead, Starzen plans to continue the integration of AjiPro®-L into Wagyu fattening at Hamanaka Farm. This will involve comprehensive assessments across various axes, including productivity, meat quality, health status, and GHG reduction efficacy. Future prospects also encompass the development of environmentally conscious branded beef and leveraging additional value for overseas exports. With a commitment to minimizing environmental impact while enhancing production efficiency, Starzen aspires to establish a Wagyu brand that stands out in international markets.

Comments from Sustainability Officers

This initiative arose from a strong conviction that reducing environmental impacts and enhancing productivity can coexist. While livestock rearing faces scrutiny for GHG emissions, it is also a crucial industry supporting local economies and food cultures. Therefore, sustainable approaches to uphold and evolve livestock management practices are essential.

The adoption of AjiPro®-L represents a daring challenge to achieve both reduced fattening periods for enhanced production efficiency and lowered GHG emissions simultaneously. Furthermore, converting these reductions into J-Credits to benefit farms transforms environmental measures from mere costs into valuable assets. Starzen is committed to collaborating closely with Hamanaka Farm, accumulating validation as they strive to solidify a renowned and sustainable Wagyu beef brand.

About AjiPro®-L

AjiPro®-L is an amino acid lysine product for cattle sold by Ajinomoto Co., Inc. since 2011. Typically, lysine, an essential amino acid, is broken down in the rumen, making it challenging for cattle to utilize it nutritionally. However, Ajinomoto's proprietary manufacturing technology effectively delivers lysine to the small intestine for nutritional absorption. This product is utilized worldwide for enhancing feed efficiency and productivity in livestock, further demonstrating the potential of science in contributing to sustainable agriculture.