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PIZZA-LA and Niigata Prefecture's Edamame Pizza Initiative

On August 26, 2026, at the Niigata Prefectural Office, PIZZA-LA, a leading delivery pizza company managed by Four Seeds, introduced exciting new pizzas celebrating the local produce, specifically Niigata's edamame. This initiative aims to enhance the brand recognition and consumption of edamame cultivated in Niigata, a region known for having the largest area of edamame cultivation in Japan. At a press conference, attendees were treated to sample tastings and learned more about this unique collaboration.

As part of this initiative, PIZZA-LA will offer special pizzas featuring edamame at various local events and festivals in Niigata. The two standout pizzas, namely the "Chewy Mentaiko Cream Pizza with Abundant Edamame" and the "Teriyaki Pizza with Edamame as the Star" will be introduced to patrons, showcasing the delightful flavors that arise from local ingredients.

The Roots of the Collaboration

The drive to create local specialty pizzas began with the desire of PIZZA-LA staff to harness local ingredients creatively. Their journey began with discussions with the Nagaoka City Hall, who connected them with JA Echigo Nakauonuma to develop two unique pizzas featuring locally sourced edamame. This partnership was first unveiled when they were sold at the "Edamame Marche" event held at Aore Nagaoka on July 11, 2026.

PIZZA-LA plans to expand this collaboration further with Niigata Prefecture, promoting the two pizzas that prominently feature edamame in local sales, thus not only enhancing the product's brand recognition but also boosting its consumption.

Celebrating Edamame in Niigata

Recognized as a top producer of edamame in the nation, Niigata Prefecture ranks first in cultivation area but relatively lower in shipment volume, emphasizing local consumption. This signifies the deep-rooted appreciation for edamame within the culture of Niigata residents. Focusing on this unique local culinary tradition, PIZZA-LA's project aims to present a delicious new way to enjoy Niigata's pride – edamame through local-focused pizzas.

Savory Offerings: New Edamame Pizzas

1. Chewy Mentaiko Cream Pizza with Abundant Edamame

This mouthwatering dish features a base of Mentaiko creamy sauce combined with mascarpone cheese, showcasing an inviting blend of flavors. The pizza is topped generously with Niigata edamame and chewy rice cakes, providing a delightful contrast between the natural sweetness of the edamame and the rich, creamy taste of mentaiko. The vibrant color of the edamame adds a visual appeal to this harmoniously crafted pizza that bridges both Japanese and Western flavors.

2. Teriyaki Pizza with Edamame as the Star

The Teriyaki pizza combines a rich and flavorful caramelized onion soy sauce as the base, layered with juicy teriyaki chicken, and topped off with a generous helping of Niigata edamame. The contrasting textures and flavors of the naturally sweet and crunchy edamame weave seamlessly with the umami flavor of teriyaki chicken and the delightful umami of roasted nori, creating a uniquely appealing Japanese-inspired pizza.

Details of the Press Conference and Sampling Event

• - Date: August 26, 2026
• - Press Conference: 11:15 AM - 11:45 AM
• - Sales: 11:45 AM - approximately 1:30 PM
• - Venue: Front Entrance of Niigata Prefectural Office
• - Content: Overview from Four Seeds and Niigata Prefecture, sample tastings, and the release of the locally sourced pizzas.

Additionally, the PIZZA-LA × Edamame Prefecture collaboration kitchen truck will be stationed to provide these delightful pizzas to participants.

Upcoming Events Featuring Edamame Pizzas

After the launch event at the Niigata Prefectural Office, the kitchen truck or booth will participate in various local events, including:

• - August 30, 2026: 24-hour TV Charity Event in Nagaoka (booth)
• - September 4-6, 2026: The Beer Expo in Nagaoka (booth)
• - October 17-18, 2026: Nagaoka Cuore Festival (booth)
• - West Mountain Craft Beer Festival: (kitchen truck)

The PIZZA-LA Local Procurement Project

The PIZZA-LA brand, under the motto of bringing "Deliciousness, Fun, and Excitement to Everyone,” is dedicated to enhancing local food consumption and contributing to regional revitalization. Through partnerships with local governments, agricultural organizations, producers, educational institutions, and media, the project focuses on selecting unique regional ingredients and developing products that resonate with local culture.

By bringing locally inspired pizza to life, PIZZA-LA is committed to ensuring that the taste and flavor of Niigata's edamame reach more consumers, offering a delicious culinary experience that celebrates local producers and the uniqueness of the region.

For more information on the PIZZA-LA Local Procurement Project, you can visit the special website here. The site's contents will be regularly updated to showcase ongoing efforts, and inquiries from local governments and organizations are welcomed too.