#Japan #Nagoya #Kawabata Co. #Omakaset Trade #JFS-B Certification

Kawabata Co. Achieves Food Safety Milestone

In a significant achievement for the Japanese health supplement industry, Kawabata Co., based in Nagoya, has successfully obtained the JFS-B certification, a food safety standard developed by the Japan Food Safety Management Association. This certification recognizes their adherence to rigorous hygiene management systems, aligning with international food safety standards such as HACCP and GMP.

Kawabata Co. has been a longstanding player in the health supplement market since its founding in 1882, collaborating with local farmers to ensure the highest quality raw materials. The addition of JFS-B certification marks a strategic move towards international market expansion, further solidifying Kawabata's commitment to food safety.

The Role of Omakaset Trade

Kawabata's journey towards certification was facilitated by the Omakaset Trade service provided by STANDAGE, which was launched in 2022 to assist Japanese SMEs in broadening their overseas markets. Under the leadership of CEO Akira Adachi, STANDAGE offers a comprehensive range of support services including marketing, sales representation, and e-commerce management. This initiative has helped nearly 300 domestic companies enhance their international presence.

Recognizing the importance of obtaining internationally accepted food safety certifications, STANDAGE recommended the JFS-B certification to Kawabata. They provided extensive support throughout the application process, leading to the successful acquisition of the certification in May 2025. This strategic partnership underscores how alliances can drive success for SMEs navigating the complexities of global trade.

Validation of Product Quality

Simultaneously, Kawabata's flagship product, Pine Needle Extract, achieved a notable A rating from Labdoor, an independent American testing organization. Labdoor is renowned for its scientific assessment of supplement quality, independent from consumer reviews or advertisements. This achievement provides further validation of the quality and efficacy of Kawabata's products, aligning them with international standards.

The A rating serves as a powerful testament to the reliability and credibility of the Pine Needle Extract, reinforcing its market position both domestically and internationally. With Labdoor's evaluation, consumers can feel confident in choosing Kawabata's products, knowing they meet the highest standards of quality.

A Boost for Global Trade

The JFS-B certification represents a vital step towards enhancing Kawabata’s reputation and trustworthiness in the food industry, especially for transactions with foreign buyers. This certification will facilitate smoother and more reliable BtoB dealings within the global market, furthering Kawabata's ambitions to reach international customers.

Kawabata's long-standing tradition of excellence is fortified by this certification, which is becoming increasingly sought after by companies looking to establish credibility in international markets. As a testament to their ongoing commitment to quality, the company aims to expand its reach and influence in the health supplement space moving forward.

Future Prospects

As noted by the CEO of Kawabata, Yasushi Kawabata, international expansion poses numerous challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises, especially in the supplement industry. They face hurdles such as securing recognized certifications, developing overseas sales channels, and determining export methodologies. Omakaset Trade has proven instrumental in streamlining this process, allowing Kawabata to focus on their core business while ensuring compliance with international food safety standards.

The successful acquisition of JFS-B certification—a feat achieved by many leading companies—marks a pivotal moment for Kawabata Co. as they prepare to make significant strides in global markets.

About Kawabata Co.

Kawabata Co. specializes in health supplements made from red pine leaves, and has collaborated with Fujita Medical University in Nagoya on research projects. Their Pine Needle Extract boasts more than 1,000 times the polyphenol content found in typical red wine, highlighting its antioxidant properties. The extract contains 18 types of amino acids, along with key minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, as well as quercetin and terpenes—components that are highly beneficial for health. The product is crafted through traditional methods, ensuring that the vital nutrients from red pine leaves are maximized after careful extraction processes.

Company Details:

• - Name: Kawabata Co.
• - Address: Nagoya, Aichi
• - Founded: 1882
• - Website: www.ekisu.com
• - Main Products: Pine Needle Extract, Clam Extract, etc.

About STANDAGE

STANDAGE, established in March 2017, focuses on realizing global trade opportunities through innovative blockchain and stablecoin systems. With a mission to ensure equal access to goods and payments across countries, the company supports SMEs in expanding their international trade capabilities. Their initiatives encompass trade facilitation, logistics, and technological advancements in trade systems.

Company Details:

• - Name: STANDAGE
• - Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo
• - Website: www.standage.co.jp