#Japan #Nagano #Marukome #Kome Koji #Amazake

Exciting Product Launch: Marukome's Low-Sugar Koji Amazake

Marukome Co., Ltd., based in Nagano City, has recently unveiled an innovative addition to its Plus Koji koji amazake series. The new product, Plus Koji Koji Amazake LL with 30% Sugar Reduction, promises an exceptional taste experience while cutting down sugar content. Alongside this, the Koji Rich Grain variant has undergone a mini facelift, with updated packaging available from early March nationwide.

A Taste Without Compromise

Unlike many low-sugar alternatives that compromise on taste, the Plus Koji Koji Amazake LL strives to satisfy true amazake enthusiasts. Utilizing the traditional Oriza bacteria, this new formulation also incorporates Kawachi bacteria known for producing citric acid. This unique combination enables the product to achieve a delightful reduction in sugar content without sacrificing flavor or requiring dilution. Its refreshing sweetness makes it an ideal recovery drink before, during, and after exercise.

Enhanced Packaging for the Koji Rich Grain

Additionally, Marukome has upgraded the small-sized Koji Rich Grain from 130ml to 165ml, allowing for more generous servings without compromising the product’s quality. The revised package design enhances both grip and visibility on store shelves, catering to customers who prefer an unsalted koji amazake. Given that sales of the 1,000ml variant have skyrocketed by 216% over the past five years, this refresh of the smaller packaging is both timely and strategic.

User Feedback Through a Monitoring Survey

In collaboration with Snapdish, a leading Japanese cooking photo-sharing app, Marukome conducted a pre-launch testing phase for its Plus Koji Koji Amazake LL with a focus group comprising users who regularly consume amazake. The results were overwhelmingly positive, with 64% of respondents reporting that the new product tasted better or was equivalent in taste to their usual favorites.

Satisfaction Ratings and Preferred Drinking Scenarios

Satisfaction ratings highlighted the amazake’s refreshing taste, leading users to seek it in various situations beyond traditional consumption. Notably, many users indicated its effectiveness in combating summer fatigue and heatstroke, while others mentioned enjoying it post-bath or before bedtime. It has also emerged as a great snack substitute during dieting, and an energizing boost during work or study intervals.

Detailed Product Information

The Plus Koji Koji Amazake LL with 30% Sugar Reduction is packaged in a 165ml LL carton with a shelf life of 10 months, and will be available at an open price from early March 2026 across Japan. This product not only taps into the growing demand for reduced sugar options but also promises to deliver a uniquely enjoyable experience compared to standard amazake.

Furthermore, the Plus Koji Koji Amazake LL Koji Rich Grain offers a fortified version of amazake packed with 1.2 times the amount of rice koji compared to previous products, presenting a delightful unsalted variant. The enhanced flavors and updated design cater to modern wellness trends while ensuring an enjoyable drinking experience.

In summary, Marukome continues to innovate in the realm of traditional Japanese beverages, ensuring that taste and health can coexist beautifully. Keep an eye out for these exciting new products in your local stores this spring!