#Japan #Tokyo #Food Waste #Kuradashi #Lost Osechi

Kuradashi's Initiative to Combat Food Waste

As the New Year approaches, Kuradashi is back at it, launching their 'Lost Osechi' to address the significant issue of food waste during the festive season. Operating under the auspices of Kuradashi Co., Ltd., a socially responsible market located in Shinagawa, Tokyo, they aim to provide both delicious and economical options for family gatherings this year while rescuing excess osechi from becoming waste.

The Challenge of Osechi

Traditionally a New Year's dish in Japan, osechi is a beautifully arranged collection of foods that symbolize prosperity and happiness in the coming year. However, the seasonal nature of this dish often leads to a significant amount of food waste post-holiday. According to statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, demand for seasonal products peaks quickly, making it challenging to manage leftover stock after traditional celebrations end.

In recent years, changes in consumer habits, influenced by rising travel demands and shifting preferences, have resulted in reduced advance orders for osechi. For instance, a study by Fuji Economic Research concluded that pre-orders for the 2025 osechi market fell, causing many businesses to scale back their production. The drastic drop in demand in the weeks following Black Friday led to widespread surplus inventory that couldn't be sold in time. This imbalance has made osechi especially prone to becoming unsold and wasted.

Kuradashi's 'Lost Osechi' Sales

Since its inception in 2021, Kuradashi has dedicated itself to selling 'Lost Osechi' and significantly contributing to reducing food waste. Last year alone, the company's efforts harvested approximately 7,300 osechi, which would have otherwise been wasted, and the cumulative sales since the program began have surpassed 23,000 units. This growing recognition highlights society's shifting attitude towards sustainable consumption.

A survey conducted by Kuradashi in October revealed that about 70% of respondents hope to spend less than 15,000 yen on osechi, indicating that affordability remains a key factor in purchasing decisions, alongside the desire for quality and variety. These insights reflect a broader trend where consumers are looking for value-for-money options amidst rising living costs.

The Importance of Awareness

As part of the broader initiative, the sales of 'Lost Osechi' aim not only to provide families with delicious festive meals but also to raise awareness about the importance of reducing food waste during the holiday season. With effective communication and promotional support, Kuradashi encourages consumers to make informed choices that contribute to less waste and more positive environmental impacts.

The 'Lost Osechi' will be available for purchase until late December 2025 through a dedicated website page, allowing individuals and families to join in the mission of rescuing potentially wasted food while enjoying festive traditions.

Sustainable Shopping with Kuradashi

Kuradashi is not just about selling food items; it embodies the concept of a 'social good market'. The platform not only provides discounted access to products that would otherwise be discarded but also directs a portion of proceeds to various charitable organizations focusing on environmental conservation and disaster relief efforts, thereby offering a multifaceted approach to community support.

In conclusion, as Kuradashi embarks on another festive season, they invite everyone to embrace the spirit of sustainability through enjoyable shopping experiences that benefit both the consumer and society at large. Together, we can make significant strides in reducing food waste while celebrating cherished traditions like osechi.

Learn More

To become part of this meaningful initiative, check out the special sales page for 'Lost Osechi' at Kuradashi.

About Kuradashi

Founded in July 2014 by CEO Kohei Kawamura, Kuradashi is based in Tokyo and strives to create a positive impact through ethical consumerism. Their diverse offerings extend from food products to supporting various social causes. For further details, visit Kuradashi's official website.