Lucky to Buy! Gluten-Free Additive-Free Bento Now on Sale

Yotsuya's 'Well-Being Cafeteria', managed by Addness Inc., an innovative educational firm in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has announced the launch of its gluten-free, additive-free bento boxes priced at just 500 yen (including tax). This initiative aims to introduce more people to the cafeteria as well as to improve community well-being through healthy eating options. To celebrate, the cafeteria will also provide tasting samples to invite media representatives to experience these nutritious meals firsthand.

What is Well-Being Cafeteria?

The Well-Being Cafeteria is an open dining space created by Addness Inc. in Yotsuya to promote both mental and physical wellness. Originally established to boost staff health, it has evolved to offer organic, gluten-free, and fermented food-based bento boxes to the general public, featuring a new menu every day at an affordable price.

Every bento is designed with health in mind, utilizing ingredients such as pesticide-free veggies and traditional fermented foods, ensuring high protein content without using any wheat or refined sugar. This culinary approach aims to prevent blood sugar spikes, which can lead to fatigue and decreased focus in the afternoon, thereby boosting productivity among workers.

Background for General Sales Launch

Addness Inc. committed to enhancing societal well-being, aims to sustain its business while doing so. By selling to the public, they can stabilize ingredient procurement for their meals and manage costs more effectively, keeping the price low at 500 yen. Additionally, by providing gluten-free, high-protein options, they tackle health issues common among local residents and office workers stemming from the high-calorie meals prevalent in the area.

Gluten-Free: From Trend to Mainstay

According to Mordor Intelligence, the gluten-free food and beverage market in Japan is projected to grow at an average of 4.7% annually from 2025 to 2030. This shift has led to a rapid expansion of gluten-free offerings within corporate health strategies as well.

Research indicates a direct correlation between nutrition and productivity. For instance, a study from 2025 revealed that office workers who maintained a balanced diet were able to accomplish tasks with 34-45% greater efficiency. Conversely, issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) have been shown to reduce productivity by 21% among bank employees, further emphasizing the importance of healthy eating.

Example Menu of Gluten-Free Additive-Free Bento at 500 Yen

- Chinjao Rosu-style
- Daikon with meat sauce
- Blanched greens
- Napa cabbage miso soup

Seven Innovations of Well-Being Cafeteria’s Menu as a ‘Food Prescription’

The cafeteria’s approach incorporates various strategies to ensure a balanced diet. These innovations include:
1. Gluten-free (no wheat flour): Helps improve dopamine regulation for better work efficiency.
2. No refined sugar: Averts excess adrenaline secretion for maintained focus and cognitive function.
3. Brown rice as the main grain: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals while promoting serotonin production through increased chewing.
4. Pesticide-free and reduced-chemical vegetables and rice: Sourced directly from Gifu farmers, delivering fresh ingredients at low costs.
5. Proactive use of fermented foods: Ingredients like miso, salted koji, vinegar, and kimchi support digestive health.
6. High-protein options: Regular inclusion of eggs and meat contributes to muscle and physical strength maintenance.
7. Affordable pricing: Offers a continuous access point for healthy eating with a price cap at 500 yen.

Note: Some items may contain gluten.

The atmosphere within the cafeteria is designed not only to provide meals but also to foster interaction among dining staff and visitors, bridging gaps between departments and creating a more integrated work environment. The cafeteria aims to develop into a community space, potentially extending to initiatives such as a children’s cafeteria, meal delivery services, or disaster relief programs.

Invitation for Media Engagement

The Well-Being Cafeteria welcomes media inquiries and offers the following opportunities for coverage:

- Tasting samples of gluten-free additive-free bento.
- Interviews with the cafeteria operations manager, Ruka Iwaki.
- Insights from the CEO of Addness, Kota Mikami.
- Interviews with Addness staff or local users (upon request).
- Flexible photography opportunities.

For tasting sample requests, visit Tasting Sample Application Form.

About Addness Inc.

With a mission to 'PLAY YOUR LIFE', Addness Inc. strives to create a society where individuals learn, work, and live authentically. Their signature service, 'Skill Plus', uses patent-pending AI 'Success Learning®' to visualize and optimize the learning process, supporting diverse growth phases from personal career development to corporate talent training.