Join the Online Cooking Event for Sustainable Seafood Awareness on March 6th

On March 6th, the Pal System Cooperative Federation will host an online event titled "Gifts from the Sea for Your Mind and Body" starting at 10 a.m. This special cooking event features culinary expert Mariko Kida and Masaki Matsumoto, the president of the Okuchou Fishermen's Cooperative from Okayama Prefecture.

Exciting Seafood Cooking Demonstration

During this event, participants will have the chance to watch a live kitchen demonstration where Mariko Kida will present easy-to-follow recipes for fish dishes, designed to break the monotony of everyday cooking. She will also introduce creative ways to prepare the "Okuchou Fishermen's Steamed Oysters." A passionate supporter of local seafood, Kida is an advisor to the Okuchou Fishermen's Cooperative and has fallen in love with their oysters.

Special Talk Featuring Fisherman's Perspective

In a special talk segment, Masaki Matsumoto will share insights into the challenges facing fisheries, including recent issues such as the mass mortality of oysters in the Seto Inland Sea this winter. This important conversation will emphasize the crucial bond between the seafood industry and the community, shedding light on the real circumstances that fishermen are experiencing today.

Pal System is committed to the sustainable action initiative, "Moving Beyond for a Better Tomorrow," and regularly hosts events like this to share valuable information and address social issues. This online event aims to not only enlighten Pal System users but also reach a wider audience to promote better living practices.

Event Details - Gifts from the Sea for Your Mind and Body

- Date & Time: March 6, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (tentative)
- Format: Online via Zoom
- Speakers: Mariko Kida (Culinary Expert, Okuchou Fishermen's Cooperative Kitchen Advisor) & Masaki Matsumoto (President of Okuchou Fishermen's Cooperative)
- Capacity: Limited to 1,000 participants
- Participation Fee: Free
- Registration Deadline: By February 22, 2026
- Event Link: Registration Form

About the Presenters

Mariko Kida

Mariko Kida is a culinary expert and kitchen advisor for the Okuchou Fishermen's Cooperative. She hails from Hyogo Prefecture, where she studied nutrition, became a certified dietician, and operated a cooking class since 2015. Additionally, Kida has collaborated with local producers and government bodies to develop recipes and promote regional food culture.

Masaki Matsumoto

Masaki Matsumoto, originally from Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture, shifted from a corporate career in general merchandise to running a family business in oyster farming in 1999. As the part-time president of the cooperative since 2018, he took a significant step in 2020 to focus solely on the organization, which achieved MSC certification for its oyster farming practices in 2019. Matsumoto promotes sustainable fisheries and environmental conservation activities.

Join us on this exciting culinary journey to explore sustainable seafood and support the local fishing community!

For more information, visit the Pal System's official website: Pal System Website.