#Japan #Hyogo #Kenmin Foods #Tajima Pepper #Tajima

Join the "Eat and Support" Project for Tajima Peppers

The JA Tajima Pepper Association, operated by JA Zennoh Hyogo, is excited to announce the continuation of its supportive initiative, the "Eat and Support" project, starting from July 17, 2026. This year, Kenmin Foods has joined as a sponsor, providing special noodle products to encourage the purchase of the popular Tajima peppers from the region.

About Tajima Peppers

Tajima peppers are a well-known brand grown in the Tajima region of northern Hyogo Prefecture, one of the largest pepper producing areas in the Kansai region. Known for their thick and crispy texture with a minimal bitter taste, these peppers are cultivated with care by local farmers. However, due to recent extreme heat, the amount of water required for cultivation has doubled, significantly increasing the burden on the farmers. Each plant needs about 5 to 8 liters of water daily, making irrigation automation essential for their production.

Helping Farmers with Irrigation Systems

To support their farmers and maintain the quality and yield of Tajima peppers, the JA Tajima plans to introduce subsidies for the installation of irrigation systems, particularly targeting new farmers and those looking to expand their cultivation. For every vegetable box purchased that includes these peppers from the JA Town shop "Atsumete, Hyogo," the JA Tajima Pepper Association will contribute 100 yen toward the installation of these vital irrigation systems.

Supporting with Your Purchases

When you buy a box of Tajima peppers or related products, you become part of this community initiative. The project runs from July 17 until the end of October, with several products specifically aiming to raise support:

• - Small Vegetable Box: Packed with plenty of Tajima peppers for 2,500 yen.
• - Large Vegetable Box: Generously filled with Tajima peppers for 3,420 yen.
• - Tajima Peppers: Available at approximately 1.5 kg for 1,600 yen (the first 100 orders will have no shipping costs).

You can find more details at the JA Town Special Page.

Understanding Irrigation Systems

One of the key innovations in this project is the automated irrigation system that takes advantage of solar energy. This system utilizes solar panels to regulate watering based on sunlight exposure. A motor connected to the solar panel pumps water from a reservoir, and sensors automatically control the watering process through drip tubes, supplying approximately 10 liters of water per minute.

Who is the Tajima Pepper Association?

The Tajima Pepper Association consists of local farmers who grow these peppers. They work together to promote the production and sales of this beloved local crop. Currently, around 178 farmers are cultivating an estimated 110,504 pepper plants across 12.2 hectares.

Messages from the Farmers

Farmers emphasize that Tajima peppers are not only thick and crispy, making them enjoyable for everyone, including children, but they are also delivered fresh to the consumers. They hope many people will enjoy these unique peppers and support the local agriculture of Tajima.

Previous Project Achievements

The "Eat and Support" project launched in the fiscal year 2024 has seen remarkable participation and support:

• - In 2024: Total orders for supportive products reached 412, contributing 41,200 yen toward irrigation system purchases.
• - In 2025: Total orders dropped slightly to 288, with 28,800 yen earmarked for future funding for irrigation systems.

Thank you to everyone who participated in previous years. We look forward to your continued support this year as well.