NINZIA Receives Runner-up Award at Knowledge Innovation Awards 2025

NINZIA Wins Runner-Up at Knowledge Innovation Awards 2025

Kobe-based NINZIA, led by CEO Masahiro Yoritama, reclaimed the spotlight on March 20, 2026, at the 13th Knowledge Innovation Awards, held at the Grand Front Osaka Knowledge Theater. The company received the runner-up award for its groundbreaking disaster food initiative, NINZIA BOSAI, marking its second recognition since winning the grand prize in 2023.

The Knowledge Innovation Awards aim to honor innovative technologies, businesses, and research that contribute to solving social challenges. Projects selected are evaluated based on their excellence from perspectives including industry impact, research, and social implementation.

Celebrating Innovation in Food Technology

This year’s award, prominently featuring NINZIA BOSAI, emphasizes a game-changing approach to disaster food, transcending conventional norms with its European-style curry that is both visually appealing and flavorful. The recognition reflects NINZIA's continuous pursuit of knowledge and innovation in the food tech sector, particularly within disaster preparedness.

Evaluation Criteria for the Awards

The Knowledge Innovation Awards, organized by the Knowledge Capital's general incorporated association, assesses submissions across multiple dimensions:

- Innovation and social significance
- Feasibility for business implementation and sustainability
- Potential for social impact

The awards attracted numerous entries from various fields, including businesses, universities, research institutions, and individuals. After a rigorous screening process, finalists were selected for public presentations, culminating in the awards announcement.

Continuing Commitment to Innovation

NINZIA's recent award is a testament to its ongoing commitment since winning the grand prize three years ago. The company has successfully transitioned from research development to implementing its innovative technologies in the marketplace, demonstrating a blend of unique material technology and food-tech expertise.

NINZIA's efforts include:

- Advancing food tech research based on its proprietary Ninzia Paste and textural engineering techniques
- Tackling various social issues, from health to disaster preparedness
- Expanding its business operations from proof of concept to practical application
- Increasing social impact and exploring future expansions both domestically and internationally

The runner-up award showcases NINZIA's achievements in ensuring the ongoing relevance and depth of their initiatives. It reflects their strategy for sustained innovation and societal contribution.

Looking Forward

NINZIA is committed to its mission of making eating experiences more accessible. By leveraging konjac-derived materials, NINZIA is poised to accelerate its research and development in food tech further, aiming to address social issues related to health, disaster preparedness, and well-being. As a pioneer in Japanese food tech, the company is set to expand its reach both nationally and internationally.

About NINZIA

NINZIA operates at the intersection of traditional Japanese cuisine and cutting-edge food technology. The firm focuses on developing next-generation food products that can benefit individuals with dietary restrictions caused by health conditions such as diabetes and allergies. By utilizing konjac as a foundation, NINZIA empowers people to enjoy food without limitations and elevate their well-being.

With its unique texture engineering technology, which does not rely on sugar, fats, or animal-derived ingredients, NINZIA is not only addressing Japan's health challenges but also contributing to global solutions in food technology.