#Japan #Sasebo #Tsukushi Island #Iriko #Masaru Foods

New Culinary Offering in Nagasaki

In a remarkable development for the culinary culture of Nagasaki, Redhorse Corporation has collaborated with local businesses to launch the 'Tsukushi Island Iriko' dashi packs, scheduled for release on March 1. This initiative is part of their commitment to regional revitalization and expanding local products.

Collaboration for Local Growth

Redhorse Corporation, based in Sumida, Tokyo, secured a project through the Sasebo Promotion Association to promote local specialties and develop new products in Sasebo City. Emphasizing the rich food culture of Sasebo, the company worked with the Tsukushi Island Fisheries Cooperative and Masaru Foods to introduce a product that truly embodies the essence of the region.

On February 12, the Mayor of Sasebo City, Daiken Miyajima, was informed about this new culinary venture, which is set to be sold across 42 Elena stores in the Nagasaki region. Additionally, it will be included in Sasebo City’s furusato-nouzei (hometown tax) reward program, highlighting its potential to enhance local pride and product visibility.

The Heart of Iriko Production

Sasebo City’s Kozasa Town is renowned for being one of Japan's leading producers of iriko (dried fish). It’s home to Tsukushi Island, a vibrant fishing ground rich in plankton that serves as perfect bait for small fish. The Tsukushi Island Fisheries Cooperative has been selling ‘Nishikyushu Food Products’ while continuously striving to promote local iriko further.

Masaru Foods has also been actively developing original products, leading to the kick-off of their '99 Iriko Project,' specifically focusing on showcasing the unique qualities of Tsukushi Island iriko.

The Sasebo Promotion Association has been pivotal in providing advisory support alongside regular consultations with the cooperative to facilitate product development based on the challenges faced by local businesses. They now bring forth a new lineup of products, aimed at increasing the distribution of iriko-based offerings from Masaru Foods.

Product Features: Convenience Meets Quality

The new dashi pack contains 95% iriko and is salt-free, utilizing the natural flavors of the fish. With the modern rise of dual-income households, the convenience of creating dashi at home has become paramount. Recognizing this need, this innovative dashi pack caters to various family structures, including singles and couples, by providing a manageable 6g size. Those hosting larger gatherings can easily use multiple packs as needed.

Originally, families needed to simmer iriko directly in water, often leading to a cumbersome cooking process. The new dashi pack not only simplifies this task, but also enhances the cooking experience by delivering the extraordinary umami taste and aroma of Tsukushi Island iriko—truly showcasing the flavor that this regional product can bring to food.

The product is thoughtfully designed for both easy display in stores and as a potentially appealing souvenir, ensuring it resonates with various consumers. The strong demand from the cooperative led to incorporating an impressive 95% of iriko, ensuring every pack is rich and flavorful.

Product Details

• - Product Name: Tsukushi Island Iriko
• - Contents: 6g x 10 bags
• - Distributor: Masaru Foods
• - Sales Channels: All Elena stores, Sasebo City’s furusato-nouzei rewards, among others
• - Price: ¥861 (tax included)
• - Release Date: March 1, 2026

A Promise of Support from the Mayor

During the report to Mayor Miyajima, he expressed his gratitude towards the efforts to elevate Sasebo's food culture, stating that while locals cherish the taste of iriko dashi, it remains relatively unknown nationwide. He assured that the city will actively support this product's journey.

The rollout will not only occur in Nagasaki but aims to expand to high-quality supermarkets and specialized restaurants in metropolitan areas, further transmitting Sasebo's food culture across Japan.

Driving Regional Revitalization

By leveraging local resources and collaborating closely with community stakeholders, Redhorse Corporation continues to develop products that not only aim for commercial success but also contribute to the vibrancy of local culture. Currently, they are involved in over 50 municipalities across Japan, having launched more than 100 products, all while supporting local brand development and distribution.

This new product launch isn’t just about a new item on the shelves; it’s about storytelling through food that fosters local pride, stimulates local economies, and protects culinary traditions. Through such endeavors, Redhorse Corporation aims to invigorate towns and contribute meaningfully to regional economies while ensuring that the unique flavors of places like Sasebo are celebrated and shared.

About Our Partners

Tsukushi Island Fisheries Cooperative

A key player in the region, sourcing fresh fish directly from local waters, they are committed to delivering the highest quality seafood nationwide.

Masaru Foods

Promoting Nagasaki's delicious seafood, they are dedicated to making these flavors easily accessible for everyday meals.

Sasebo Promotion Association

This organization plays a critical role in showcasing the region's products and expanding market access, fostering collaboration across various industries to enhance local economic growth.