New User-Inspired Product Launch by Pal System in Japan: Curry and Gratin

Pal System to Release New User-Created Products

On May 26, 2023, Pal System Union, based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, will begin accepting orders for eight innovative products developed with direct input from users through surveys and feedback sessions. These new offerings emphasize the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a quality that reflects the needs and desires of the consumers they serve. Over the years, user involvement has led to the creation of 159 products, showcasing the organization's commitment to collaborative product development.

A Yearlong Effort with Users’ Endorsement

The development of these eight products was a year-long journey that included active participation from users grouped according to regional themes. Regular meetings, held either online or in person, allowed users to engage in discussions about target settings and product vision alongside Pal System staff. As the envisioned products progressed, partner suppliers joined in to propose prototypes, which prompted discussions about usability and flavor adjustments. This back-and-forth exchange of ideas and sample iterations culminated in a selection of eight promising products that passed through Pal System's product selection committee before their official launch.

Highlights of the New Products

1. Vegetables with Sweet Soy Pork Loin - This dish features sliced pork loin and onions seasoned with a rich glaze made from brown sugar and soy sauce. It is ideal for cooking with cabbage and bean sprouts, resembling a delicious Genghis Khan-style meal.
- Size: 270g | Price: ¥598 (tax included ¥646) | Shelf Life: 180 days | Delivery Temperature: Frozen

2. Caramel Apple Bread Made from Directly Sourced Flour - A fluffy bread using locally sourced wheat, it is baked with dried apples immersed in caramel flavor.
- Size: 1 unit | Price: ¥298 (tax included ¥322) | Shelf Life: 3 days from the delivery date | Delivery Temperature: Room Temperature

3. Curry with Six Kinds of Vegetables - This curry contains fresh domestic vegetables such as onions and carrots, as well as ground domestic chicken, bringing a comforting flavor.
- Size: 170g | Price: ¥298 (tax included ¥322) | Shelf Life: 731 days | Delivery Temperature: Room Temperature

4. Binchōtō Tuna Bowl - Featuring mildly sweetened binchōtō tuna, it's a simple and convenient way to enjoy a tuna donburi.
- Size: 60g x 3 | Price: ¥448 (tax included ¥484) | Shelf Life: 30 days | Delivery Temperature: Frozen

5. Soy Sauce Ramen with Chicken Broth - Using thick noodles made from locally sourced wheat, this ramen comes with a rich soy sauce-flavored chicken broth.
- Size: 508g (100g x 4) | Price: ¥338 (tax included ¥365) | Shelf Life: 20 days | Delivery Temperature: Refrigerated

6. Creamy Gratin with Locally Sourced Chicken and Vegetables - Featuring chicken, spinach, and freshly sourced vegetables, this gratin is enhanced with cream from Miyagi's Zao, providing an extra creamy taste thanks to additional butter and cheese.
- Size: 210g x 2 | Price: ¥448 (tax included ¥484) | Shelf Life: 366 days | Delivery Temperature: Frozen

7. Hario Heat-Resistant Cooking Glass Container - This versatile container is designed for easy microwave and oven use, negating the need for additional dishes when serving.
- Color: Pale Gray, Smoky Green, Smoky Pink | Size: 16.7cm dia, 7.8cm depth, 1.2L capacity | Material: Heat-resistant glass, lid made of polypropylene | Price: ¥980 (tax included ¥1,078)

8. Laundry Powder Soap - Made with environmentally friendly recycled fats, this soap works effectively at room temperature and is suitable for soaking and delicate cycles.
- Size Options: 500g / 1.2kg | Price: ¥438 (tax included ¥482) / ¥968 (tax included ¥1,065)

Final Words

Pal System remains committed to creating products that resonate with the users' perspectives, collaborating closely with producers to deliver high-quality offerings. With the 2025 International Year of Cooperatives on the horizon, Pal System continues to exemplify the spirit of cooperation and community involvement.