Yamamori Inc., a comprehensive food manufacturer based in Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, participated in the "Tokowaka Food and Health Fair" held on November 23 at the Ion Mall Tsunan. During this exciting event, the company introduced its popular salt-reduced product, "Deliciousness As It Is: Salt-Reduced Soy Sauce," and organized an interactive quiz titled "Which is the salt-reduced soy sauce?" This engaging activity aimed to educate participants about the importance of healthy eating habits without sacrificing flavor.
Overview of the Fair
The Tokowaka Food and Health Fair took place on November 23rd from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at the first-floor gathering area of Ion Mall Tsunan, located at Takachaya Komorimachi, Tsu City, Mie. The event was free for all visitors and featured a variety of activities, including:
- - Taste Checks
- - Vegetable Intake Measurement
- - Workshops for Children
- - Booth presentations by participants in the "Mie Tokowaka Food Environment Initiative."
The "Deliciousness As It Is: Salt-Reduced Soy Sauce" Quiz
At the fair, Yamamori promoted its salt-reduced soy sauce as a tasty option for healthier eating habits. Participants had the opportunity to compare the flavors of the regular premium soy sauce with the salt-reduced version.
Quiz Details:
- - Participants: 271 attendees (mainly middle school students and older)
- - Method: Participants tasted two types of soy sauces using spoons: the regular premium soy sauce (Soy Sauce A) and the salt-reduced soy sauce (Soy Sauce B). They were asked to identify which was the salt-reduced version by placing a sticker on their choice.
Results
Surprisingly, only 32.8% of participants were able to correctly identify the salt-reduced soy sauce (Soy Sauce B). Most attendees enjoyed the flavor of the "Deliciousness As It Is: Salt-Reduced Soy Sauce" without realizing it was a lower-sodium option. Many expressed astonishment, saying things like, "I can't detect much difference in saltiness" and "This makes it easy to incorporate reduced salt into my diet."
Product Information
Yamamori's "Deliciousness As It Is: Salt-Reduced Soy Sauce" maintains the flavor integrity while cutting sodium content by 40%. This unique product offers a rich umami experience with nitrogen and amino acids, making it a suitable alternative to standard soy sauces.
Key Features:
- - Sodium Reduction: 40% cut in sodium levels compared to regular soy sauce.
- - Flavor Integrity: The full umami taste remains perfect for regular culinary use.
- - Availability: Launched on August 28, 2013, this soy sauce is available nationwide in supermarkets, drugstores, convenience stores, and online.
Health Initiatives in Mie Prefecture
Mie Prefecture has set nutritional goals as part of its "Third Basic Plan for Health Promotion (Healthy People Mie 21)," targeting an average daily salt intake of 7g for residents aged 20 and above. However, according to the 2022 Mie Prefectural Health and Nutrition Survey, actual intake levels are alarmingly high at 12.2g for men and 10.1g for women, far exceeding the set target.
Mie Tokowaka Food Environment Initiative
The "Mie Tokowaka Food Environment Initiative" is a collaborative project between industry, academia, and government that aims to foster a health-conscious food environment for residents. This initiative seeks to promote a sustainable and active lifestyle among the citizens of Mie, encouraging healthy eating habits without leaving anyone behind.
In response to the health survey results, the prefecture is prioritizing issues like excessive salt intake, insufficient vegetable consumption, and obesity. Alarmingly, over 60% of Mie residents have reported thinking little about improving their dietary habits.
As a leading food manufacturer based in Mie, Yamamori supports the goals of this initiative and proudly participates as a prime member.
Through its commitment to public health education and promotion of nutritious food options, Yamamori aims to continue providing value to the residents of Mie, creating more joy and smiles through its products.