On July 17, 2025, Lotte Co., Ltd. signed a cooperative agreement with Miyoshi Town, located in Saitama Prefecture, and the Miyoshi Dental Association. President Hideki Nakajima of Lotte represented the company, while Mayor Isao Hayashi led the town and President Manabu Shimizu represented the dental association. This partnership aims to improve the oral health of local residents, thereby extending their healthy life expectancy and enabling them to enjoy vibrant, smiling lives.
The signing ceremony took place at the Miyoshi Town Hall, where representatives from all three parties gathered to reinforce their commitment. The agreement outlines several key initiatives, such as promoting the importance of oral health, advocating for the significance of chewing, supporting healthy oral development in children, and providing disaster relief aid, including supplies for affected individuals.
Lotte plans to leverage its expertise and various resources accumulated since its establishment in 1948. With a focus on chewing, xylitol, and unique chewing gum, the company will contribute to enhancing the oral health of Miyoshi residents. The partnership reflects a strong commitment to community health improvement, framed around the idea of 'Sustainability' and emphasizing the role of oral care in overall well-being.
During the signing ceremony, Goro Omameuda, manager of the Saitama branch, expressed Lotte's intentions clearly. He stated that the goal of this partnership is to promote health not only among children but also across all age groups, thereby fostering a community filled with healthy, joyous smiles. This collaboration highlights the need to address oral frailty, which refers to minor declines in oral function that, if unattended, can lead to nutritional imbalances and further deterioration in health—recognized as an early sign of aging.
By incorporating oral health initiatives into public health campaigns, Lotte aims to raise awareness among adults and promote the prevention of dental diseases, especially focusing on the development of oral functions in early childhood. The company is particularly dedicated to using xylitol as a preventive measure against tooth decay, ensuring that children have a strong foundation for oral health.
Moreover, Lotte acknowledges the significance of disaster preparedness. Consequently, they plan to supply xylitol-infused gum and tablets during natural disasters to help maintain residents’ oral health and minimize health risks. This reflects a comprehensive approach that not only attends to immediate oral health issues but also promotes long-term wellness amidst potential emergencies.
By signing this cooperation agreement, all parties reaffirm their collective dedication to fostering a healthier community that prioritizes the dental and oral well-being of its residents. As a substantial part of its sustainability initiative—referred to as the “Lotte Mirai Challenge 2048”—Lotte seeks to promote the public understanding of health benefits derived from proper chewing practices. This initiative is designed to create a positive impact and encourage individuals to engage in healthier lifestyles.
Oral frailty, defined as subtle declines in oral function, is becoming increasingly recognized as a pivotal element in assessing overall health. Research indicates that individuals with oral frailty show a twofold increase in risks related to physical decline, such as frailty and sarcopenia, as well as a higher likelihood of requiring long-term care or even facing mortality within a few years.
In conclusion, Lotte's partnership with Miyoshi Town and the Miyoshi Dental Association is a transformative step towards creating an environment of comprehensive oral health and community well-being. By standing together, these organizations aim not just to enhance individual health outcomes but also to build a proactive, supportive community where every resident has the opportunity to thrive. Through education, proactive health measures, and community solidarity, the partnership aspires to light the way for a future filled with health and happiness in Miyoshi.