#Japan #Tokyo #Food Waste #SDGs #Meiji

Promoting Sustainable Practices Through Haikus

In a unique initiative aimed at fostering awareness of food waste reduction, Meiji Co., Ltd., under the leadership of CEO Bunjiro Yao, is leveraging creativity from the community. The company is showcasing winning entries from this year's 'Aim for Zero Food Waste' haiku contest on the packaging of some of their well-known products, such as Meiji Bulgarian Yogurt LB81 Plain and Meiji Probio Yogurt R-1 Drink type. This effort, which began in October, aligns with the ongoing campaign to reduce food waste awareness during the month designated to this cause.

Since 2015, when the United Nations adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reducing food waste has emerged as a critical global objective, aiming for a fifty percent reduction by the year 2030. In Japan, every October has been officially recognized as the Food Waste Reduction Month to enhance public interest in this pressing issue.

Meiji has committed to this cause for the fourth consecutive year. By incorporating the award-winning haikus into product packaging, the company not only celebrates creativity but also aligns its brand mission with impactful social responsibility. These haikus articulate the importance of mindful consumption, resonating with consumers in everyday contexts. The initiative underscores the sentiment that close-to-home products, such as milk and yogurt, can proactively engage in making a difference toward sustainability and waste reduction.

In addition to the haiku contest, Meiji's ongoing efforts are part of a broader sustainability vision for 2026. The company aims to create a circular economy and tackle surplus stock through improved demand and supply practices. Some practical measures include changes to date labeling on perishables, extending their shelf life while maintaining product quality, and consistent efforts to reduce waste.

Featured Products and Contest Contributions

Here’s a list of products featuring the haikus:


Through these collaborative efforts, Meiji continues to address food waste while contributing to the realization of a sustainable society and solving critical social issues. It aims not just to promote their products but to set a precedent for corporate responsibility towards environmental sustainability, encouraging consumers to be more conscious of food consumption habits and the impact their choices have on our planet.