Yamagata Pig Farmers Share Insights at National Exchange Event

On December 19, 2025, the Saitama Pal System Cooperative is set to hold a significant exchange event titled "Direct Connection with Yamagata Pig Producers" from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the activity facility "Pal Terrace" located in Urawa, Saitama. This initiative is part of an ongoing series, the "Direct Connection Continuous Lecture," which invites producers from five regions across the country.

The upcoming event will feature 25 participants who will have the unique opportunity to taste local delicacies such as roast ham and pork sausages, as well as try the raw pork loin itself. The event promises insights into the dedication and efforts that go into the production and manufacturing processes, with three producers sharing their stories.

Notable participants include Takeshi Tsuchiya from the Yamagata Coop Pig Direct Committee, Kazuki Sato from Yamagata Meat Public Corporation, and Kazuhi Honda from Pal Meat’s product department.

Significant Challenges Faced by Producers

The summer of 2025 brought unprecedented heatwaves that severely affected pig weights and birth rates, leading to major disruptions in production. Additionally, rising prices of rice, traditionally used as livestock feed for sustainable agricultural practices, have added to the challenges faced by the livestock sector. By discussing these pressing issues directly with producers, participants will gain valuable insights into the agricultural practices that deliver food from farms to households.

The Yamagata Coop Pig Direct Committee demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices, such as recycling organic waste back into local farmlands. Operating within a small scale, the three-member producer group is diligent about maintaining pig health and environmental quality, ensuring stress-free rearing. As the oldest pork-producing area within the Pal System network, they supply raw meat for original products such as the "My Choice" series ham and sausages produced at the Pal Meat Yamagata factory.

Quality and Taste Delivered

Pal Meat has gained acclaim for its ham and sausages made from Japanese domestic pork, utilizing a salt-free curing process without color enhancers. Consumers appreciate the robust flavor and natural colors, complimenting the pleasant smokiness while being able to purchase these nitrate-free products at affordable prices.

Event Details: Third Session of the Direct Connection Continuous Lecture

- Date: December 19, 2025
- Time: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
- Venue: Pal Terrace, Saitama, Urawa, Higashinamacho 10-7
- Access: 3-minute walk from JR Urawa Station East Exit

For more information, visit Pal System Saitama.

Expanding Understanding of Local Production

The "Direct Connection Continuous Lecture" series aims to foster deeper connections between consumers and producers. Past exchanges include discussions on fruits from Kanagawa and eggs from Chiba. The first session held in August featured two citrus producers from Joy Farm Odawara, where they introduced organic farming practices. Attendees learned about the significant impacts of climate change on fruit growth and innovative strategies employed in the production process.

In October, the second session focused on The Nanohana Egg, with Masakazu Umehara sharing insights on egg farming practices. Due to the structure of the co-op's delivery system which ensures eggs reach participants five days a week, surplus eggs often enter the market without added value. Participants were able to sample unique products created from these surplus eggs, highlighting the quality and flavor of carefully produced eggs.

Upcoming sessions will feature discussions with Shonai Cooperative Farm regarding organic rice and Terashima Farm from Chiba about the cultivation of organic hijiki seaweed.

As the Saitama Pal System Cooperative continues to facilitate these connections between consumers and producers, they remain committed to promoting sustainable production and consumption practices.

About the Saitama Pal System Cooperative

Located in Warabi City, Saitama, the Saitama Pal System Cooperative, with 220,000 members and registered capital of 9.44 billion yen, strives to enhance food quality and consumer understanding of agricultural practices. Their overarching goal is to support a sustainable and safe food ecosystem.

For more information:
Pal System Saitama Website
Parent Organization:
Pal System Cooperative Federation, headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
As 2025 marks the International Year of Cooperatives, it highlights the importance of community-focused food production and consumption.