Exciting Results from the 2nd National Local Freezing Food Awards 2025-2026

Celebrating the Best of Japan's Local Frozen Foods

The prestigious Grand Prix of the 2nd National Local Freezing Food Awards 2025-2026 has been awarded to Akita Prefecture's local frozen delicacy, 'Akita to Torimeshi' from Hanazen Co., Ltd. This award ceremony, organized by the Japan Association for a Future Dining Table, took place on January 22, 2025. This year’s event saw an incredible increase in participation, with 115 products entered, a significant rise from last year’s entries, demonstrating the growing interest in Japan's frozen food sector.

The Rise of Local Freezing Foods

The Local Freezing Food Awards aim to showcase the culinary delights that every Japanese region offers, and this year marks an extraordinary achievement—187 local products from all 47 prefectures have participated over two competitions. The first round saw 112 products pass through rigorous document screening, leading to a taste-testing phase where all items were evaluated to select the finest offerings.

In the second round, six judges conducted a meticulous assessment, culminating in the announcement of the winners: five highest excellence awards, 27 golds, 20 silvers, and 46 bronzes. From these top-tier products, the Grand Prix was chosen, further highlighting the remarkable talent present in Japan's frozen food industry.

A Moment of Triumph

At the awards ceremony, after presentations and tastings from the five highest excellence products (from four companies), a decisive vote led to the crowning of the Grand Prix. Akita Prefecture’s 'Akita to Torimeshi' emerged victorious. Yagihashi, the representative of Hanazen Co., expressed great joy, stating, "Winning the Grand Prix in our second attempt is truly an amazing feeling. But this is not the end; we aim for back-to-back victories!" He also encouraged everyone to visit Odate in Akita to experience its outstanding local offerings firsthand.

Judges Comments

Judge Takemura Dai remarked that the compelling final presentation was pivotal in casting his vote for 'Akita to Torimeshi.' He appreciated how the presentation highlighted that local specialties should strive for excellence while preserving their historical significance. He underscored that 'Akita to Torimeshi' embodies this spirit perfectly.

Yamada Masaru, the head of the organizing body, expressed gratitude to all participants, emphasizing the growth in the number of submissions compared to the previous year. He welcomed the enthusiasm shown by new manufacturers that turned to frozen foods during the pandemic, signaling a promising future for this market.

Honorable Mentions

The awards also acknowledged other remarkable final contenders that embodied the essence of local frozen food through taste, storytelling, packaging, and innovation. Among the top-quality products recognized were:

- Uwajima Tai Meshi from Ehime (Kadoya Co., Ltd.)
- Kawara Soba from Yamaguchi (Hashimoto Shoten Co.)
- Niigata Plane Cream Cheese Cake (Dessert Cafe Martoshikaku)
- Sanuki Colorful Vegetables and Chicken Curry Udon from Kagawa (Yamada Ya Logistics)
- Kitasawa's Rich Ingredients Cup Kirin-Tanpo from Akita (Misawa Co., Ltd.)
- Flavored Fried Chicken Wings from Aichi (Tonkatsu Miwa)
- Kagoshima Black Pork Gyoza from Kagoshima (Big Five Co.)
- Ikashiumai Oomaru from Saga (Manbo Co.)
- Sanin Tottori Crab Rice from Tottori (Abe Tottorido)

These exceptional products will be available for purchase starting January 23, 2025, at Matsuzakaya Ginza's 'Ginza Frozen Gourmet' until February 14, and also on Rakuten’s online store from January 25.

Looking Ahead

The next event cycle for the National Local Freezing Food Awards opens on September 9, 2025, and runs until November 30, with the final judging taking place in December and the award ceremony scheduled for January 22, 2026. This event not only champions local flavors but also strengthens the frozen food market across Japan, proving that even in challenging times, creativity and quality thrive in food production.