#Japan #Matsusaka #Nagatanien #Ochazuke #Gyu-tora

A Fun-Filled Summer Experience at Nagatanien

On July 29th, a special summer event, a factory tour and ochazuke making experience, was held at the Nagatanien Foods Okutos Factory in Matsusaka, Mie Prefecture. This collaboration took place thanks to the efforts of Nagatanien Co., Ltd. (President: Hiroshi Kakeya, Tokyo) and Gyu-tora Supermarket (President: Hidetaka Shimizu, Ise, Mie Prefecture).

This engaging program was offered as a prize from a campaign conducted in June by Gyu-tora Supermarket, drawing interest from local families. Eleven local elementary school students, accompanied by their parents, participated in this educational yet enjoyable event.

The day began with a tour of the factory where the children had the opportunity to see firsthand how their favorite products were made. They learned about the manufacturing processes of ochazuke seaweed, gaining insights into the care that goes into its production. This aspect of the event was not only interesting but also educational for the young participants, sparking their curiosity about food science.

After the factory tour, the children attended a workshop where they were taught how to make their own original ochazuke. They experimented with various ingredients such as flavored egg, rice crackers, and seaweed, mixing them to create a unique blend tailored to their tastes. The joy and excitement of crafting something original were evident on the children’s faces, making for heartwarming memories.

Additionally, the beloved mascot from Gyu-tora, Torai-kun, also made a surprise appearance at the event, taking pictures with the children and adding to the lively atmosphere. The kids were thrilled to meet the cuddly character, making it a fantastic photo opportunity for families.

Feedback from Participants

The participants expressed their enjoyment and learning from the experience. Here are some comments from the children:

• - “It was fun to see how the furikake is made.”
• - “Making ochazuke was enjoyable! I want to come again!”

Parents also shared positive feedback on the event:

• - “The manufacturing process was explained clearly, and my child had a great time. I understand now the measures taken to prevent foreign materials from contaminating the food, so I can confidently buy these products at the supermarket.”

Events like these serve as a wonderful reminder of the importance of hands-on experiences in learning about food production. It not only enriches children's knowledge but also deepens their appreciation for the food they eat every day. As families left, they not only took home their unique ochazuke creations but also cherished memories and newfound understanding of food safety practices.

Overall, the factory visit and ochazuke making experience was a successful initiative, highlighting local business efforts to engage with the community and foster a love for healthy eating among children.