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Watami's Food Recycling Initiative: A Game-Changer in Sustainable Dining

In a remarkable commitment to sustainability, Watami Inc., headquartered in Ota City, Tokyo, has successfully acquired government certification for its food recycling business plan. This initiative is part of Watami's broader strategy aimed at fostering a society that minimizes food waste. Beginning on April 13, 2026, 25 selected locations will participate in the food recycling loop, channeling food waste from its restaurants back into the food production cycle.

The essence of the food recycling loop entails repurposing food waste generated in Watami’s restaurants into chicken feed. This feed, produced by a specialized recycling operator, will then be utilized to raise chickens that produce eggs — specifically branded as Re-eggs. These eggs will subsequently be sold in-store, effectively closing the loop and ensuring that food waste is transformed into a valuable resource rather than being disposed of as general waste.

A Closer Look at the Food Recycling Loop

The food recycling loop operates under the framework of Japan's food recycling law, and is designed to create a sustainable cycle between food businesses and agricultural suppliers. Watami aims to leverage its partnerships with companies such as Alfou Co., Ltd., which will convert food scraps into feed, and Feed One Co., Ltd., which specializes in compound feed production. This collaboration extends further to Takamura Co., Ltd., a poultry farmer, who will use the feed to raise chickens. Finally, the eggs produced will be supplied through Yachiyo Poultry Co., Ltd. back to Watami's restaurants, ensuring a complete loop.

By obtaining this certification, Watami is now eligible for specific exemptions under waste management laws, which will facilitate the large-scale movement and recycling of food waste as a resource. This aligns with the company's goal of promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impacts from normal waste disposal practices.

Community Engagement and Food Waste Reduction Efforts

Aside from the recycling initiative, Watami is also engaging directly with its customers to promote responsible consumption. The company encourages patrons to finish their meals and offers take-home options for leftovers, increasingly aiming to cut down on food waste. When leftovers are unavoidable, the staff will measure and analyze where wastage occurs, seeking to address these issues at the source.

This initiative also allows Watami to directly contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focusing on responsible consumption and production (SDG 12). Their efforts include halving per capita food waste and promoting a sustainable lifestyle that harmonizes with environmental conservation.

Targeted Menu Items and Participating Locations

The food recycling loop will begin with select menu items featuring eggs, such as egg rolls and tsukune, enhancing the connection between food production and environmental stewardship. The participating restaurants include various branches across the Kanto region, with popular locations such as the JR Shin-Okubo storefront, Ginza, and Ikebukuro.

About Watami Inc.

Founded in May 1986, Watami has grown substantially, operating a range of businesses including restaurants domestically and internationally, as well as engaging in agricultural and human resource services. Under the leadership of CEO Mikio Watanabe, the company is committed to balancing business success with sustainability.

For more details about Watami and their initiatives, you can visit their official website.

Watami's innovative approach to waste management not only sets a new standard in the food service industry but also showcases how businesses can play a pivotal role in addressing environmental challenges actively. This initiative is just the beginning of broader collaboration with other companies to expand the sustainable movement and foster a future where food waste is dramatically reduced.