#Japan #Pal System #Tochigi #Kagome #Tomato Juice

Exploring Kagome's Nasu Plant

On August 4, the Pal System Federation, led by President Atsuyuki Shibusawa, organized a visit to Kagome Co., Ltd.'s Nasu plant located in Tochigi Prefecture. This event aimed to deepen the understanding of users about Kagome’s original product, the "Seasonal Japanese Tomato Juice (No Salt Added)," which is scheduled for release in September. A total of 24 participants, including 17 users and officials, came together to witness the production process of this unique juice.

Experience with Tomato Harvesting

The tour included a visit to the fields managed by Kagome’s contracted farmers, who grow processing tomatoes. Participants were welcomed and guided by the company’s field personnel, who explained the unique characteristics of the processing tomatoes used for the juice. These specially cultivated tomatoes possess approximately three times the lycopene content compared to table tomatoes and have a thicker skin, ideal for transport and factory cleaning. Participants were amazed as they personally harvested the tomatoes under the scorching sun, expressing deep gratitude to the producers for their hard work.

A Comprehensive Quality Control Overview

After the harvesting experience, attendees watched an insightful video that detailed Kagome’s history and provided an overview of the Nasu facility. Over the course of about 90 minutes, they toured the sprawling grounds — equivalent to three Tokyo Dome stadiums in area — observing the entire production process from fresh tomatoes entering the production line to the final juicing and packaging stages. The meticulous quality control measures and efficiency enhancements implemented within the factory were evidently impressive.

Following the tour, participants had the opportunity to taste-test two variations of tomato juice: the conventional "Kagome Tomato Juice (No Salt Added)" and the upcoming straight juice variation of the "Seasonal Japanese Tomato Juice (No Salt Added)" set to launch in September. Feedback from the users highlighted how the new product retained the natural flavors of tomatoes, praised for its delightful tartness and refreshing qualities perfect for the summer.

Focus on Domestic Ingredients

Starting from August 25, pre-orders for the new product will be accepted. Pal System commits to continuously leveraging domestic ingredients in product development and improvement initiatives, thereby supporting local producers and contributing to the enhancement of Japan’s self-sufficiency rate.

Pal System Living Cooperative Federation

• - Location: 2-2-6 Okubo, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
• - Chairman: Atsuyuki Shibusawa
• - Total Revenue: 260.42 billion yen (as of March 2025)
• - Total Membership: 1.762 million

As we approach 2025, which is designated the International Year of Cooperatives, Pal System looks forward to creating a sustainable future through collaboration and community engagement.